China releases images of Martian dust taken by Tianwen-1 orbiter Xinhua) 15:01, March 24, 2022 BEIJING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- China's Tianwen-1 orbiter has beamed back high-resolution images of Mars, showing dust storms on the surface of the planet. Released by the China National Space Administration on Thursday, the new pictures with a resolution of 0.5 meters were captured by a camera on the probe, which has been operating in orbit for 609 days at a distance of 277 million km from Earth. Track marks left by Mars rover Zhurong can be seen in the pictures. With its 306 Martian days of service, the rover has traveled a total of 1,784 meters on the planet. Zhurong also snapped selfies from Mars. Compared with the images taken shortly after it landed on the planet, the new photos showed a layer of dust accumulated on its surface. Dust can reduce rovers' power supply. Chinese scientists have specially designed the rover's solar wing to offset the efficiency decline caused by dust coverage. The rover now has sufficient energy to continue its exploration on Mars, the Chinese space administration said in a statement. The Tianwen-1 orbiter has monitored dust activities in the northern hemisphere of Mars since late January and sent back pictures of regional dust storms in February. No obvious dusty weather has been observed in the Zhurong rover's inspection area, according to the administration. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Resistance Movement rally ends: Citizens remain on France Square Erdogan and Macron discuss Turkey-France relations and Ukraine CNBC: Elon Musk to become interim CEO of Twitter Saghatelyan: Tomorrow from 12:00 we will completely paralyze Yerevan from four directions Resistance Movement marchers return to France Square NEWS.am digest: Large scale protests continue in Yerevan, people forcibly arrested Resistance Movement rally starts in central Yerevan US Embassy in Havana resumes issuing visas to Cubans Bloomberg: UK and Japan will help Asian countries reduce dependence on Russian oil Dollar, euro gain considerable value in Armenia FLYONE ARMENIA cancels Yerevan flights to, from Lyon, Paris until June 10 Annual inflation in Turkey reaches 69.97% in April Armenia population as of January 1 announced Poland builds 50 kilometers of fence on border with Belarus Azerbaijan promises Europe gas in the hope of loyalty to Baku's crimes Australia allocates $1.4 billion to modernize its Navy Peskov says events unrolling in Armenia are countrys internal affair Grigoryan: Discussions on setting up Armenia-Azerbaijan commission may be completed in near future Red Cross: No Azerbaijani detainees in Armenia Armenia official: Peace agreement with Azerbaijan also means solution to Karabakh issue Armen Grigoryan: There is need to get answers to questions in order to organize Armenia, Azerbaijan leaders meeting Security Council chief: Baku's statements on Armenia territories belonging to Azerbaijan do not contribute to peace Armenia official comments on Azerbaijan president's words about 'Zangezur corridor' Armen Grigoryan: Armenia and Azerbaijan could exchange enclaves FT: Erdogan used mediation between Russia and Ukraine Person dies after being hospitalized from one of tents at France Square in Yerevan Armenia to get 22.6M loan from International Bank for Reconstruction and Development Armenia ruling force MP: Oppositions goal is not saving Karabakh but changing of power President says Artsakh continues to maintain its vision for future, toward independence Oppositions uncrowded marches show lack of public support, says Armenia ruling force lawmaker Trade in Armenia increased by about $80 million, PM says Scuffle breaks out during civil disobedience march in Yerevan, police attempt to apprehend opposition MP Pashinyan to Bennett: I am hopeful that Armenian-Israeli relations will flourish in near future Armenia ruling power legislator: This opposition has always run away from truth Civil disobedience motorcade being held in Yerevan EU to ban Russians from buying European real estate US defense industry facing problems due to supply of weapons to Ukraine Armenia FM holds discussion at Atlantic Council, speaks about process of normalization of relations with Turkey Newspaper: Armenia opposition MPs to lose their parliamentary mandates? Newspaper: Artsakh President says we would not have had so many casualties if war had started half year later Civil disobedience march kicks off in downtown Yerevan Civil disobedience actions resume in Yerevan Blinken tests positive for Covid Denmark, Finland support European Commission proposal on Russian oil sanctions Bulgaria to seek exemption from EU proposed Russian oil embargo Biden says he is ready for additional sanctions against Russia Switzerland braces for serious power shortage Uruguay freezes ambassador appointment to Ankara after Cavusoglu's gesture Czech Republic to seek exemption from proposed EU embargo on Russian oil imports Charles Michel on the likelihood of Moldova's EU membership Resistance Movement actions to resume tomorrow early morning Elon Musk is invited to UK Parliament for buying Twitter Disobedience march reaches France Square, rally starts US crude oil shipments to Europe hit highest level in April NEWS.am digest: Large-scale protests being held in Armenia to demand PMs resignation Armenia Defense Minister meets with Georgian PM UK bans imposes sanctions on 63 individuals and organizations in Russia EU plan to completely ban Russian crude oil threatens Hungary's energy security EU interested in expanding energy cooperation with Azerbaijan Germany: Gradual EU ban on Russian oil imports could lead to 'supply disruptions' Opposition demonstration reaches government residences Aliyev insists so-called Zangezur corridor 'is already a reality' Slovakia seeks exemption from EU oil embargo for three years Defense Ministers of Armenia and Georgia sign cooperation program for 2022 Romanian President approves entry of Stryker Brigade and US fighter squadron into country Dollar goes up, euro also rises in Armenia EU studying possibility of providing military assistance to Moldova Public demand for Nikol Pashinyan's resignation Opposition supporters move toward Armenian parliament building EU envoys can not agree on Russian oil Armenia Security Council chief briefs Georgia PM on Karabakh conflict settlement process Armenia deputy police chief says law enforcement has right detain MPs Large-scale opposition rally starts in central Yerevan Many teenagers in New Zealand are illiterate AFP: EU proposes to impose sanctions on Patriarch Kirill Arestovich says Israel could supply Ukraine with weapons Azerbaijan used in Karabakh war Parliament speaker threatens Armenian opposition, clergy Armenia opposition MP: Ex-President Serzh Sargsyan will not hold office in new government Beijing closes over 60 subway stations due to COVID-19 outbreak Bayramov, Roquefeuil discuss Azerbaijan-Armenia relations normalization process Armenia FM meets with US National Democratic Institute president Armenia ruling force MP: Opposition will not achieve its goal Armenia 2nd president Robert Kocharyans son blocking road with citizens in Yerevan Oklahoma bans almost all abortions Number of children in Japan falls to record low Karabakh President meets with of Free Homeland-UCA parliamentary faction members Armenian judge waves Artsakh flag at Ironman Triathlon (PHOTOS) There is still lot to do in 'October 27' case, says Armenia Prosecutor General Ambassador Wiktorin to finance minister: EU ready to continue providing assistance to Armenia government Armenia Prosecutor General admits there are difficulties in investigation of 'March 1' criminal case Copper price is stable 3 COVID-19 new cases confirmed in Armenia American Armenian youth hold protest rally outside Armenia embassy in Washington Japan protests against North Korean missile Gold is getting cheaper U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue issues joint statement Newspaper: Armenia Patrol Guard Service head to be summoned to Investigative Committee to give explanation Armenia parliament regular sittings continue Newspaper: Armenia opposition members falling into National Security Service trap by opening links Civil disobedience protests resume in Yerevan Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia on Friday sent a congratulatory message to Charles Michel on his re-election as President of the European Council. The PM's message reads as follows, in particular: "The two and a half years of your tenure coincided with a period of unprecedented challenges facing humanity. During this period, the European Union and Armenia have worked together to fight the spread of the pandemic, worked together to eliminate the consequences of the war and to establish lasting peace. Despite all these challenges, we have managed to advance our multi-layered cooperation agenda, which was marked by the entry into force of the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, as well as the Roadmap for the implementation of the latter, the signing of a number of agreements between Armenia and the European Union, agreeing on guideline programs within the framework of the Eastern Partnership. In this regard, I remember our meetings, comprehensive discussions and exchange of ideas with warmth. I am confident that in the coming years we will maintain the dynamics of our contacts and cooperation for the benefit of deepening the partnership between the Republic of Armenia and the European Union and jointly overcoming the problems we all face. I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm Armenia's commitment to the common fundamental values, as well as to convey to you my best wishes for new success." The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has reacted to the escalation of the situation on the line of contact with Nagorno-Karabakh, blaming Armenia. In response to a statement of the Armenian Foreign Ministry Baku claims that Yerevan is trying to "mislead the international community." Nevertheless, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry did not dare to deny the provocative actions of its own army. "According to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense, the positions and deployment points in the region are being specified," the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry repeated. As for the gas supply interrupted since March 8, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry explained it by "technical problems" caused by "difficult weather conditions," and again accused Armenia of seeking to "use the situation as an instrument of political manipulation." It turns out that two and a half weeks is not enough for Azerbaijan to fix the pipeline, especially considering that no one asked it to be fixed, it was enough to let the Armenian repair team do it. In conclusion, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry states that "for the moment the only way to ensure peace and stability in the region is the full implementation of the provisions of the signed joint statements, including the complete withdrawal of the remnants of the Armenian illegal formations from the region and the normalization of relations on the basis of international legal principles." There is not and never was an Armenian army in Nagorno-Karabakh, and the maximum we can speak about is the Defense Army, in which Artsakh residents serve. By demanding the withdrawal of "Armenian illegal formations," Azerbaijan confirms its policy of ethnic cleansing. At the same time, Azerbaijan constantly grossly violates the first provision of the trilateral statement, to which it constantly refers itself - the parties stop at the positions they occupy. Armenian News - NEWS.am presents the daily digest of top news as of 25.03.22: Tensions are rising again in Nagorno-Karabakh [Artsakh] as Azerbaijani forces crossed Thursday noon the line of contact set after a conflict in 2020. And on Thursday night, there were provocations from the Azerbaijani side. Azerbaijan took control of the village of Parukh in the Askeran region and nearby positions, and then attempted to advance along the eastern boundary of Artsakh. And since Friday afternoon, the units of the Azerbaijani armed forces continued their gross violations of the ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh and, in addition to firearms, were using combat UAVs, including the Bayraktar TB2s. Five Armenian soldiers have been wounded and two have been killed in the clashes and five Azerbaijani soldiers have been killed as well. As of Friday noon, the Artsakh Info Center noted that the Russian peacekeeping force deployed in Artsakh managed only to stop the advance of the Azerbaijani armed forces in the Parukh community of Askeran region at this stage. The Artsakh authorities, however, hope that due to the decisive efforts of the Russian side, the Azerbaijani troops will return to their starting positions, and the civilian population of Artsakh will be able to return to their homes. Some experts noted that Azerbaijan is aimed to reach Karaglukh as it is the strategically vital object for them. However, the security guarantees given to the civilian population in Artsakh will be in serious doubt. Artsakh MFA has issued a statement noting that, Azerbaijan's geopolitical goals are obvious: to intimidate the people of Artsakh, to strike at the Russian peacekeeping mission, to make the South Caucasus a platform of pan-Turkism and extremism for the implementation of far-fetching programs in the future. Armenian MFA, in turn, said that Azerbaijan continues its infiltration into the area of responsibility of the peacekeeping contingent of the Russian Federation in Parukh village of Askeran region of Nagorno-Karabakh. And the US is deeply concerned about the natural gas disruptions and Azerbaijans troop movements in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs of the US Department of State tweeted. Armenia and Azerbaijan need to use direct communications channels to immediately deescalate, it added. However, Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Commission on Foreign Relations Eduard Aghajanyan, noted that if, hypothetically, we consider the possibility of holding talks in a bilateral format, this will definitely lead the parties to a dead end. After all, Baku has repeatedly stated that it considers the conflict resolved, and that there is practically no need for negotiations. The Armenian side claims the opposite, Aghajanyan explained. Russian Defense Minister and Army General Sergey Shoigu has also already discussed the situation in Artsakh with his Armenian counterpart Suren Papikyan. On Friday, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan received the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk. The sides also highlighted the need for the return of Azerbaijani units to their original positions as of March 23. Ukraine's Defense Ministry said Russian forces have managed to partially create a land corridor to Crimea from part of Ukraine's Donetsk region. "The enemy was partially successful in creating a land corridor between the temporarily occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea and part of Donetsk region," it said in an online post. The head of the UN human rights team in Ukraine says monitors are receiving increasing information pointing to mass graves in the encircled city of Mariupol, including one that appeared to hold 200 bodies. "We have got increasing information on mass graves that are there," Matilda Bogner said, saying some of the evidence came from satellite images. Speaking via video link from Ukraine, Ms Bogner said that civilian deaths in Ukraine exceeded 1,035. The UN's refugee agency said more than 3.7 million Ukrainians have now left the country since Russia began its invasion on February 24. To date 2.2 million Ukrainians have traveled to Poland, while more than 570,000 have fled to Romania. Another 330,000 people have arrived in Moldova, and 263,000 have sought refuge in Slovakia. In the meantime, more than half a million Ukrainians have fled to Romania since Russia's operation began. After arriving at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing in Romania, Ukrainians wait in tents before boarding buses to their next destination. Finland's national railway operator will suspend services between Helsinki and St Petersburg in Russia on Monday, closing one of the last public transport routes to the European Union for Russians. Referring to the sanctions imposed against Russia, Topi Simola, head of the passenger transportation department of the state-owned VR company, said that the people who wanted to leave Russia had enough time to leave. The international community continues to punish Russia over its military operation in Ukraine. The United States on Thursday announced a fresh wave of sanctions against Russian lawmakers, oligarchs and defense companies in response to the invasion of Ukraine, the White House said. The measures, which involve freezing U.S.-held assets, single out 328 members of Russia's lower house State Duma, and 48 defense companies "that fuel (President Vladimir) Putin's war machine," according to a statement released as U.S. President Joe Biden attended summits in Brussels focused on the war. Buffalo, WY (82834) Today Sun and clouds mixed. High near 70F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 52F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Armenian Human Rights Defender Kristine Grigoryan received a delegation headed by UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia Natia Natsvlishvili on Friday, the message posted on the Facebook page of the Ombudswoman of Armenia informs. Welcoming the international partners at the Office of the Human Rights Defender, the Defender praised the high level of cooperation between the UN Development Programme and the Office of the Defender, highlighting, at the same time, the urgency to deepen the cooperation due to priorities which have arisen as a result of new challenges. In turn, Natia Natsvlishvili congratulated Kristinne Grigoryan on assuming the mission of the Human Rights Defender, noting that they see a great opportunity in relation to the institutional strengthening of human rights protection in Armenia. The Human Rights Defender Ms. Grigoryan presented to Ms. Natia Natsvlishvili the current situation in Artsakh in connection with the provocations initiated by the Azerbaijani side, as a result of which the Armenian side has deaths and injured. Ms. Kristinne Grigoryan stressed that human rights are universal. The Defender, presenting the chronology of the criminal acts of the Azerbaijani side, which are motivated by ethnic hatred, underlined that a population of more than 100.000 ethnic Armenians are in fact deprived of all international guarantees of human rights protection, which in turn gives an impetus for Azerbaijan to commit even more brutal and inhumane acts. Ms. Natia Natsvlishvili thanked the Defender for the detailed information and noted that the concerns and issues raised would be reported to the UN Headquarters. Concluding the meeting, the parties agreed to continue the implementation of the current joint programs, and to outline new directions of cooperation, the statement reads. President of the Artsakh Republic Arayik Harutyunyan called an expanded session of the Security Council on Friday, the press service of the Artsakh President informed NEWS.am. Harutyunyan noted that recent events in the country dictate the need to form a new agenda, as the Azerbaijani side, through a clear provocation, destabilizes the situation. "The Russian-Ukrainian conflict assumed that the Azerbaijani side will use the opportunity and resort to various provocations in Karabakh. Both the gas supply disruptions, the invasion of the village of Parukh of Askeran and neighboring territories, and separate military operations showed that the Azerbaijani authorities do not respect either the trilateral statement signed in November 2020, or the political commitments they made in the same period. Nevertheless, I would like to urge our people to remain calm, because despite the difficulties and obstacles, we continue to work with the Russian peacekeeping forces in Karabakh to stabilize the situation," the Artsakh president said. Araik Harutyunyan expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims on behalf of the Security Council and the authorities of the republic. He wished the wounded speedy recovery. In his turn, Defense Minister Kamo Vardanyan presented a report on the situation on the line of contact. A number of issues related to overcoming the existing challenges were discussed. In the two months since Maryland filed suit against Baltimore City over sewage treatment failures at its two wastewater plants, problems have worsened at the Back River site prompting state environmental officials to issue an order demanding the facility be brought into compliance within 48 hours. If the conditions of my order are not met, I will not hesitate to take further appropriate actions, Maryland Secretary of the Environment Ben Grumbles said in a statement Thursday. Advertisement The city-run Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dundalk, which is the largest such facility in the state, is supposed to discharge up to 180 million gallons a day of treated wastewater into Back River. But when problems arise, and sewage is only partially treated, the water flowing into the river is contaminated with harmful bacteria and nutrients. The city-run Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant in Dundalk, which is the states largest such facility, is supposed to discharge up to 180 million gallons a day of treated wastewater into Back River. But when problems arise, and sewage is only partially treated, the water flowing into the river is filled with dangerous bacteria and nutrients. (Jerry Jackson/Baltimore Sun) Excess amounts of those very nutrients, such as phosphorous and nitrogen, have imperiled efforts to clean up the Chesapeake Bay for decades, stimulating the growth of damaging algae blooms, contributing to the formation of dead zones and potentially sickening those who come in contact with contaminated water. Advertisement A Maryland Department of the Environment inspector who visited the facility this week documented numerous maintenance issues at the site, including unacceptable algae and other vegetation growth on various outdoor equipment meant to treat sewage, clogged filters and inoperable storage tanks. The decline in the proper maintenance and operation of the Plant risks catastrophic failures at the Plant that may result in environmental harm as well as adverse public health and comfort effects, Grumbles wrote in his order. The scathing inspection report released Thursday shocked Doug Myers, the Maryland senior scientist for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. It was the worst inspection report hes seen in all of his nine years at the foundation, he said. It made him wonder how the state did not issue an order demanding fixes sooner. It doesnt look like anybody works there, he said. Its just such backlogged maintenance. And its not just at one portion of the plant. Its throughout the entire treatment process. When the problems at both of the citys wastewater treatment plants came to light last summer, experts worried that the releases of partially untreated sewage could be derailing the bay cleanup campaign, which has a 2025 deadline attached. They said Thursdays news was another twist of the knife. interactive_content We have been assured by Baltimore City up to this point that conditions are improving at the treatment plants, said Alice Volpitta, Baltimore Harbor Waterkeeper for advocacy group Blue Water Baltimore. Now, we find out through this new inspection report that not only are things not getting better theyre actually getting worse. Blue Water Baltimore filed suit against the city in December over the pollutants flowing from the two treatment plants, and has been in talks with the state and the city to develop a consent decree a legally binding agreement that would bring the two plants into compliance, Volpitta said. The City is disappointed to learn of MDEs order today, given the collaborative efforts to improve performance over the past several months. However, once the order is served, the City will respond accordingly, the citys Department of Public Works said in a statement. Advertisement On Tuesday, an inspector found that just two out of 11 settling tanks for sewage were operating at the Back River plant, and one of those required maintenance. Staff members at the facility said theyd need four of those tanks functioning in order to adequately handle the sewage coming into the facility. Those tanks are meant to separate out the solids in wastewater, so that the liquid can be treated to remove nutrients and bacteria. Not having enough functioning tanks means solids will spill into the next steps of the process, clogging equipment and causing a domino effect. At various places throughout the facility, according to the inspection report, scum had built up, obstructing equipment. The nutrients in the water also stimulated the growth of reed grasses and other vegetation within collection pools. During an inspection of the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant on March 22, 2022, a secondary clarifier filled with algae, reed grasses and other vegetation was noted. (Screengrab) (Maryland Department of the Environment) The pictures show its like a wetland, Volpitta said. While inspecting filters in the plant, the inspector noticed a strong odor of hydrogen sulfide gas, a corrosive gas that can cause human health problems, according to the report. The inspector also noticed visible scum in the final product released by the facility into the Back River. Advertisement It should be as clear as drinking water, Myers said. Local boater Raymond Vrablic III, who grew up on the waters of Back River, said the waterway hasnt appeared healthy in his lifetime. But lately, it might be sinking to a new low. While out on his boat near the plant Friday evening, Vrabic, whos known among friends as Rockfish Ray, saw dead fish peppering the waterway at least one fish every 20 feet. There were yellow perch, carp and shad dead floating on the surface of the water, he said. And there were it looked like turds, tampon applicators, peoples bowel movements. At least 250 gizzard shad were found dead, Maryland Department of the Environment spokesman Jay Apperson said in an email. During an inspection of the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant on March 22, 2022, solids buildup with growing vegetation in biological reactor was noted. (Screengrab) (Maryland Department of the Environment) The cause is listed as unknown, however the hypothesis is that the fish kill occurred when a school of gizzard shad became trapped and disoriented in a body of hypoxic or anoxic water that migrated into the shallows, he said. Advertisement Apperson said inspectors determined there was also floating mats of filamentous algae, in Back River. When excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous fill a body of water, and algae growth is stimulated, oxygen is depleted, creating perilous conditions for marine life known as dead zones. It was all a sad sight for Vrablic, who fishes in the bays waters 52 weeks a year. His 7-year-old son loves to set out from Coxs Point aboard their boat and cast his line, but they only use the fish they catch for bait, because of their safety fears, Vrablic said. Thats not to mention the potential dangers for recreational swimmers associated with the plants discharges of partially treated sewage, Vrablic said. When that water goes down the river, there are bars down there that my son plays in the water, he said. At the mouth of Back River, theres Hart-Miller Island, where thousands of people are swimming with their kids. Desiree Greaver visits the waters alongside the wastewater plant every Thursday to collect samples for Blue Water Baltimore. But after seeing video of dark and bubbling water near the plant, Greaver went out Tuesday to see for herself. What she found, she said, was like nothing Ive ever seen before. During an inspection of the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant on March 22, 2022, inactive PST due to solids buildup was noted. (Screengrab) (Maryland Department of the Environment) It was almost like a volcano under the water, but a volcano of what looked like feces, said Greaver, a Rosedale resident who is project manager with the Back River Restoration Committee, a group that works to clean up the river. Advertisement The water appeared black and thick, with vigorous bubbles rising from a pipe that flows out of the plant, she said. Though the discharge looked like a sewage overflow, tests on the samples showed bacteria levels were in a safe range. OK, this is algae. This is not sewage, Volpitta said. However, why were those big mats of algae laying at the bottom of the river? Its because this facility has been discharging excessive amounts of nutrients into the waterway for more than a year. Greaver said she hopes the states actions Thursday bring attention to the river and help make it cleaner. Its frustrating to know the plant is continuing to operate in disrepair while were working so hard to get the river the way it once was, she said. Baltimore Sun reporter Scott Dance contributed to this article. Kennesaw State professors examine invasion of Ukraine in Political Futures podcast KENNESAW, Ga. (Mar 25, 2022) Political Futures, a podcast hosted by Kennesaw State University political scientist Kerwin Swint, has begun a new season. The podcast will largely focus on major 2022 elections in the U.S., including primary races, midterms in November and the high-profile gubernatorial race in Georgia. Kerwin Swint But in its latest installment, Swint discusses the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the implications for Europe, the U.S. and the rest of the world, with experts from the Kennesaw State faculty. Swint discusses the conflict with Jack Moran, professor of political science and international affairs and a specialist on Russia and international policy. Also joining the first podcast of the new season is Thomas Rotnem, expert and researcher of Russian domestic and foreign policy, as well as professor of international affairs. Swint provides a non-partisan perspective on current events on Political Futures. An expert in federal elections, Swint is the director of the School of Government and International Affairs at Kennesaw State. Related Stories A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its nearly 43,000 students. With 11 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses, Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu. US sanctions alleged arms dealers for Myanmar junta Tay Za, here pictured in 2014, is among those sanctioned by the US. File photo: AFP The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on alleged arms dealers and companies it said were involved in procuring weapons for Myanmar's junta. Coordinating with similar actions from Canada and Britain, the US measures target three alleged arms dealers and two companies linked to them, as well as a conglomerate operating in the defense sector owned by alleged dealer Tay Za, the US Treasury said. Tay Za was already under US sanctions. Washington has imposed sanctions on 27 entities and 70 individuals since a February 2021 coup plunged Myanmar into chaos, and would continue to "impose costs" on the junta, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. "We have taken these actions today in response to the regimes escalating violence, to show our strong support for the people of Burma, and to promote accountability in connection with the coup and the violence perpetrated by the regime," Blinken said. The US also imposed sanctions on the Myanmar military's 66th Light Infantry Division, which the Treasury said is accused of massacring civilians in the towns of Pyay and Hpruso, and two military commanders. Washington on Monday said it had determined that Myanmar's army committed genocide and crimes against humanity in violence against the Rohingya minority. Myanmar's foreign ministry rejected the US determination of genocide, saying it was based on false information and was an attempt to interfere in its domestic affairs. (Reuters) Follow-up share buyback program expected to begin in April 2022 and run until 2023 Annual General Meeting. Buyback to exceed remaining $1.2 billion from Power Grids divestment ZURICH -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- ABB has completed its share buyback program that was launched in April 2021 as part of the companys commitment to return to shareholders cash proceeds from the Power Grids divestment of $7.8 billion. Through this buyback program, ABB repurchased a total of 90,066,100 shares equivalent to 4.15 percent of its issued share capital at launch of the buyback program for a total amount of approximately $3.1 billion over the past 12 months. In total, since July 2020, ABB repurchased 218,686,689 shares under its Power Grids capital return program for a total amount of approximately $6.6 billion. At todays Annual General Meeting (AGM), as separately announced, ABB shareholders approved the cancellation of 88,403,189 shares: 74,782,600 shares purchased under the 2021-2022 program and 13,620,589 shares purchased under the initial Power Grids capital return program that had not been proposed for cancellation at ABBs 2021 AGM. Consistent with ABBs capital allocation principles and its capital structure optimization program targeting to maintain a strong investment grade rating, ABBs Board of Directors today approved a new share buyback program of up to $3 billion. As part of this program, the company intends to return to its shareholders the remaining $1.2 billion of the $7.8 billion of cash proceeds from the Power Grids divestment. The new program is expected to be launched in April 2022. It will be executed on a second trading line on the SIX Swiss Exchange and is planned to run until the companys 2023 AGM. ABB CFO Timo Ihamuotila said: ABB targets to have a strong and efficient balance sheet. We are pleased to be in a position to announce this new share buyback program, fully aligned with ABBs consistent capital allocation principles. ABB intends to request shareholders to approve the cancellation of the remaining shares purchased under the 2021-2022 program as well as those purchased under this new program at its 2023 AGM. In addition, ABB intends to purchase up to 15 million shares until the 2023 AGM mainly for use in connection with its employee share plans. ABB currently owns approximately 140 million treasury shares including the 88 million shares approved for cancellation at todays AGM. ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABBs success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com Important notice about forward-looking information This press release includes forward-looking information and statements concerning the share buyback program. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the factors that may affect our future performance, and are generally identifiable by statements containing words such as intends, expects, plans, or similar expressions. However, there are many risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, that could affect our ability to achieve any or all of our stated targets. Factors that could cause such differences include, among others, business risks associated with the volatile global economic environment and political conditions, changes in governmental regulations and currency exchange rates and such other factors as may be discussed from time to time in ABB Ltds filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Reports on Form 20-F. Although ABB Ltd believes that its expectations reflected in any such forward-looking statement are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that those expectations will be achieved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220324005644/en/ CONTACT: ABB Ltd Affolternstrasse 44 8050 Zurich Switzerland Media Relations Phone: +41 43 317 71 11 Email: media.relations@ch.abb.com Investor Relations Phone: +41 43 317 71 11 Email: investor.relations@ch.abb.com Prominent Hindu community leader from Balochistan, Santosh Kumar Bugti, is all praise for former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif "for his efforts to empower the religious minority communities of Pakistan", Daily Pakistan reported. Bugti, who has served as minority member of the provincial Balochistan Assembly, was speaking to Pakistani media after holding talks with the former Prime Minister at his son Hasan Nawaz Sharif's office near Hyde Park. Bugti, who is in London to meet Nawaz Sharif and former Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, said he discussed the latest situation of the country with the former premier and conveyed the best wishes of the minority Hindu community to Nawaz Sharif. Under Nawaz Sharif's government, he said, not only Pakistan had seen a lot of economic progress, but there was also significant improvement in the lives of minority communities who were empowered in terms of human rights, employment and equal opportunities. Kumar said that in 2014, the Election Commission of Pakistan revoked his membership as Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) minority member of Provincial Assembly after a reference against him was filed by then PML-N Balochistan chief Sardar Sanaullah Zehri, but Nawaz Sharif came to his help when he became aware of the situation. Kumar later won the case at the Supreme Court of Pakistan and got reinstated, Daily Pakistan reported. The former MPA said he congratulated Nawaz Sharif on the apology given to him by Kaveh Moussavi, the CEO of assets recovery firm Broadsheet, over the false allegations of corruption levelled against Sharif for over two decades. --IANS san/arm ( 268 Words) 2022-03-25-20:50:03 (IANS) The financial impact of climate-related risks to Indian companies responding to global non-profit environmental disclosure system CDP was estimated at Rs 3,285 billion, with climate-related opportunities cited at Rs 3,000 billion. CDP India launched its 2021 Annual Disclosure report on Thursday at a virtual event. The report, Disclosure Imperative for a Sustainable India, details the climate action disclosed by 88 Indian companies responding to CDP's climate, water and forests questionnaire in 2021. CDP's new 2025 strategy, Accelerating the Rate of Change, recognises the urgent need for such climate commitments to be translated into swift, effective action, with increased accountability and transparent climate plans from companies, cities, states and regions alike. It sets out how CDP will respond to the interlinked crises of catastrophic climate change and an irreversible loss of nature and habitats. Indeed, this rate of change seems to be accelerating in the Indian market. In 2021, 85 Indian companies disclosed to CDP's Climate Change questionnaire in response to a request to do so from investors, representing a 27 per cent growth since 2020 when 67 companies responded. It is evident that Indian companies are becoming increasingly climate conscious, with 64 Indian companies joining the Science-Based Targets initiative in 2021, making India the leader among emerging economies when it comes to committing to making science-based targets for the transition towards a low carbon economy. The report also showed that 72 companies, representing 85 per cent of all Indian companies responding to CDP, engaged with suppliers at different levels across their value chain on climate related issues, an essential step in addressing Scope 3 emissions. Tech giant Wipro has also become the first Indian company to join CDP's Supply Chain Program as of 2022, representing an exemplary step forward in corporate climate action within the market. These many achievements by Indian companies responding to CDP in 2021 will be celebrated at the annual event, which will feature exclusive sessions engaging corporates on key areas of the transition to a sustainable India. Prarthana Borah, Director, CDP India, at the report launch said, "This report captures a landmark year for India's climate ambition trajectory, as the regulatory board SEBI introduced mandatory sustainability reporting for the top 1,000 listed companies by market capitalization and Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced at COP26 the country's commitment to reach net-zero by 2070." The companies demonstrated impressive climate action and environmental leadership across water security and forest protection, and included ACC, Infosys, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tech Mahindra, WIPRO in climate change; Mahindra & Mahindra, Tech Mahindra and Ambuja Cement in water. --IANS vg/pgh ( 440 Words) 2022-03-24-23:06:02 (IANS) New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): The Bharat EdTech Initiative has successfully onboarded 117,000 students from underprivileged families on their EdTech platform as part of their mission to bridge the learning loss. Through effective, equitable access to EdTech, the initiative is supporting students with the necessary tools to bridge the learning losses of the last two years as they go back to school in April 2022. These results have been achieved across ten states within five months of initiating on-ground efforts. Students have the flexibility to learn anytime and anywhere in a language of their choice (9 languages). As per World Bank, 70 per cent of children are living in learning poverty globally post the COVID pandemic. The prolonged school closures and poor results in learning have largely contributed to this rise. Bharat EdTech initiative (BEI) aims to bridge these learning losses by making digital learning accessible to all students across India through proven EdTech solutions. This nationwide initiative is steered by four organisations that offer strategic guidance on the overall management and execution of the Initiative. Sattva Consulting is the lead anchor of the initiative. The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and British Asian Trust are lead donors, while GiveIndia supports with donor relationships and fund management. Speaking about the achievement of this milestone, Rathish Balakrishnan, Co-founder & Managing Partner, Sattva Consulting, said, "Our efforts towards improving learning outcomes for students in India have made significant progress over the last couple of months. And, we are delighted to be able to reach this milestone in such a short period. Through proven EdTech solutions, we aim to continue working towards bridging the digital learning divide and unlock the potential of every student." BEI is focusing on bridging the learning losses for students aged 9-17 (Grade 1-12) from low-income households with monthly incomes up to INR 25,000. Through various initiatives like the HardWare Pilot that provides dedicated learning devices to students, BEI is ensuring students have the tools to improve learning levels. Speaking about BEI's impact, Prachi Jain Windlass, Director, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation India, said, "BEI's intends to provide a platform to learn anytime and anywhere beyond and in addition to school-based learning. Our EdTech partners have been selected based on their track record and suitability to the target population. We believe that as the world enters a unique phase of blended learning, resilience and reflection can help EdTech become a catalyst for high-quality, universal education." BEI's approach to bridging the digital divide is uniquely positioned to impact results at scale across India. The approach uses a unique blend of access, engagement, measurement, and learning. "Bharat EdTech Initiative functions with an innovative, outcome-based funding model, working with the three pillars: community, capital, and proven products. Utilising these three pillars, we aim to improve learning outcomes through collective action and efforts. We are positive that the initiative will be a resounding success going by how Phase 1 has fared. Beyond Phase I, Bharat EdTech Initiative aims to build an ecosystem of enabling capabilities that would continue engagement on the platform beyond school reopening through these pillars," added Abha Thorat Shah, Executive Director, Social Finance at British Asian Trust. The initiative is a collaborative of 36 partner organisations across philanthropy, social impact, EdTech, finance, and monitoring & evaluation. These organisations support the Bharat EdTech Initiative (BEI) in several capacities and categories, such as fundraising, educational technologies, nonprofit organisations, monitoring and evaluation, financial management, marketing communications, and program management. "An innovative, outcome-based funding model is used by the Bharat EdTech Initiative to drive social impact. By using innovative finance in conjunction with community engagement, BEI aims to enhance learning outcomes for students across India," says Sumit Tayal, COO, GiveIndia. Follow the Bharat EdTech Initiative Website: bharatedtechinitiative.org Instagram: @BharatEdTechInitiative Twitter: @EdtechBharat Facebook: @bharatedtechinitiative LinkedIn: @BharatEdtechInitiative Bharat Edtech Initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in education in India. The initiative is focused on improving learning outcomes for children from low-income households by leveraging the power of EdTech. By 2025, BEI aspires to enable digital access to 1 million, first-generation digital learners in India and demonstrate improved learning outcomes. BEI plans to do this by ensuring equitable access to effective EdTech solutions at scale. BEI's objective is to complement classroom teaching with at-home learning, making it a permanent feature of education among the economically underprivileged. We are working with partners working across various industries, such as philanthropy, social impact, EdTech, finance, and analytics who support us in bridging the learning loss and providing effective EdTech solutions. BEI Partners EdTech: Byju's, ConveGenius, EI, Toppr, Vedantu, Barefoot Education, Claylab, Dream School Foundation Non-profit: Barefoot Education, Claylab, Dream School Foundation, GVT Light of Life Trust, Makkala Jagrithi, Masoom Foundation, Milaan Foundation, People for Action - Transform for Schools Measurement & Evaluation: ConveGenius Insights, Ei Detailed Assessments, Trivium Donors: Altassian, Aramco, Barclays, Benevity, British Asian Trust, Cipla Danaher Foundation, Deutsche Telekom, Games 24X7, Goldman Sachs Gives, Google, Intuit, Matta New York, Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, PLT Health Solutions, Punch Foundation Marketing communication: Gnothi Seauton Fundraising and Fund Management: GiveIndia Programme Management: Sattva This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): EVRE, India's leading integrated charging infratech company today announced that it has raised investment in a pre-series funding round led by ACKO Technology and Services Pvt Ltd and CreedCap Asia Advisors, an advisory and investment management firm. This investment comes at a time when the EV infrastructure segment is witnessing immense interest from the public and private sector to supplement the fast-growing EV adoption. With technology at its core, EVRE conceptualizes, designs, manufactures, establishes, operates and maintains EV charging infrastructure. It operates over 700 EV chargers across over 50 EV charging hubs in 12 cities in the country. With an aim to satiate the increasing demand for EV charging infrastructure, EVRE is aggressively ramping up production and expanding its bouquet of products and services to democratize access to EV charging stations across the country, contributing to the 'Make-in-India initiative'. Apart from the EV charging hubs, EVRE is enabling leading realty players with EV readiness to develop the country's largest residential and commercial EV-ready townships. EVRE is continuously investing in the research and development of technologically-advanced products to enhance consumer experience. With its cloud-based, the EV charging stations are capable of dynamic load management, unified dashboard through EVRE app among others. Providing seamless experience to its EV fleet operations, the company offers telematics for real-time monitoring, smart keys management, automated systems for security & safety of the EVs. Speaking at the occasion, Ruchi Deepak, Co-founder ACKO, said, "Electric Vehicles are no longer the thing of the future. The world is shifting towards sustainable forms of energy, and EVs are making their way into the mainstream. We firmly believe that a robust EV charging infrastructure is fundamental to increasing the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles in the country. Our investment in Amplify Cleantech Solutions, the parent company of EVRE, will help us address the critical need for EV charging infrastructure, making the EV experience easy for customers. We are confident that EVRE, backed by its technology and expertise in design, manufacturing, and operating charging stations, is well-positioned to emerge as a leading player in the EV infrastructure space." Commenting on the announcement, Krishna K Jasti and Chandresh Sethia, Co-founders at EVRE said, "The newly announced investment will significantly expand our base and contribute to building the national charging infrastructure. The funding will be used to boost manufacturing capacity, accelerate new offerings and development, and expand charging hubs into different geographies. Our main focus will be to power the EV demand of Tier-I and Tier-II cities EV Fleets and also address the range anxiety issue as well. EVRE is working towards building EV-enabled communities and plans to associate with top EV fleet owners and realty firms to the provide them with an efficient and technology-driven charging ecosystem for a frictionless EV experience." ACKO Technology and Services Private Limited ("Acko'') is the parent company of ACKO General Insurance. ACKO, founded in 2016 is a digital-first direct-to-consumer company that builds and operates technology and services platforms. Driven by a relentless focus on superlative customer experience and with its transformative technology, ACKO helps create superior customer value propositions and more engaging experiences. CreedCap is an integrated investment and advisory firm that works with Entrepreneurs in the consumer, software, Healthtech and transportation segment. Some of its investments include Bounce, Jiffy.ai, Nium, HattiKaapi, EQL Fintech, DrinkPrime, VRO Hospitality among others, founded in 2010, that provides start-ups and SME's with financial advisory services such as Capital Syndication, Business Restructuring and Strategic Advisory with a focus on Healthcare, Consumer, Information Technology, Real Estate and Industrial related businesses. For more details, please visit www.creedcapasia.com. EVRE is India's leading integrated charging infratech company that follows EAAS (Energy-as-a-Service) model, offering public and fleet charging infrastructure in over 12 cities. At present, the company operates over 700 charging stations in these cities with over 50 hubs while continuously expanding its operations with the country's leading EV players like EDEL by Mahindra Logistics, Zyngo, LetsTransport, MoEVing, 3ECO, Meru and amongst others to support their fleets with countrywide EV charging infrastructure. The company also has been granted patent for ComputerVision Technology for vehicle number plate recognition and parking space reservation. EVRE is investing in development and operations to enhance the experience of EV users with its world-class smart hardware in order to establish a robust charging infrastructure across the country. The fastest growing infratech has also partnered with Hiranandani, Mahindra Lifespace Developer and other RWAs/societies to mobilize the initiative of creating India's largest EV-enabled residential and commercial townships at pan-India level. For more details, please visit: www.evre.in. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) Bengaluru (Karnataka) [ndia], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): Chief Minister of Karnataka, Basavaraj Bommai, inaugurated the Grama Digi Vikasana program at the Vidhana Soudha, in the city. Grama Digi Vikasana an initiative by Sikshana Foundation, a Bengaluru based NGO in association with Rural Development & Panchayat Raj Department (RDPR), Government of Karnataka, and with support from Dell Technologies, is a program wherein the Gram Panchayat (GP) libraries will be upgraded with digital devices aimed at providing shared digital access to the rural population. Under Grama Digi Vikasana each library will be equipped with four mobile devices, an Android TV, and an internet connection. In addition to this, the program will also train the youth on the necessary Digital Life Skills, provide vocational training, educate them on various career choices and 75 selected youths from GPs across the state will be provided with special training for engineering and medical competitive examinations. Inaugurating the Grama Digi Vikasana Program, Basavaraj Bommai, said, "It is important that we give opportunities to every human being to develop their fullest potential. We need to make sure that we embraced all the available technologies to the fullest to achieve this goal. I am sure that each and everyone in the gram panchayats across Karnataka will fully utilize the facilities provided by Sikshana Foundation and Dell in these gram panchayat libraries." Prashanth Prakash, Chairperson, Sikshana Foundation said, "Digi Vikasana aims to make engaging learning models and knowledge services accessible through digital means for all rural youth, irrespective of their location and financial background. In addition, this digital infrastructure would help significantly reduce the digital divide between urban and rural Karnataka." Alok Ohrie Managing Director, Dell Technologies, India said, "Technology has become integral part of our life and it is very important that every child has access to Digital information. Dell as a technology company is happy to be part of Grama Digi Vikasana which will create digital spaces in gram panchayat libraries." Currently, 399 GPs have been set up with the necessary digital infrastructure and courses have been launched with help of CSR funds provided by Dell Technologies. The devices will be maintained by the RDPR librarians. The project also involves working with rural government schools to ensure that the student benefits from these devices and digital skills course which is based on the Skills Department recommended curriculum. Sikshana Foundation is a registered, Non-Government Development organization started in 2003 by a group of professionals of diverse backgrounds with a goal of improving the state of public services delivery systems in the country. The intent from day one was to develop scalable, sustainable, and replicable models which can be handed over to the government. In order to achieve this, the foundation started working in rural government primary schools and to address the various challenges came out with a model Prerana, with motivation at the core of the intervention. This model has now been scaled to all 48,000 govt. schools across the state by the Education Department. During the pandemic, the foundation started working with GPs and started providing the necessary digital devices and digital skills training for the youth. This project has now been expanded to cover 399 GPs across the state with CSR support from Dell Technologies and plans to cover 1200 GPs by the end of the year with support from various CSRs. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): SBI General, one of India's leading General Insurance companies associated with Yashlok Welfare Foundation, NGO dedicated to alleviating social inequalities, to support the Highway 'Mrityunjay Doot' scheme implemented by the State Highway Police Department. Through this association, SBI General Insurance donates two fully equipped High Impact Ambulances and 800 Stretchers to Maharashtra Highway Police, which will further provide medical help to accident victims on Mumbai - Pune Highway and on Nashik highway and take them safely to the hospitals during the 'Golden Hour' and help them get timely treatment. It has been observed that the injured during a road accident are more likely to die due to improper handling while taking them to the hospital. On 1st March 2021, with the objective of reducing the number of deaths in road accidents, Traffic and Highway police had launched 'Mrityunjay Doot' scheme. As part of this scheme, the Highway police have created groups of four to five people which is made up of local villagers, employees of Dhabas and petrol pumps, doctors around National and State highways and have trained them as 'Mrityunjay Doot'. This trained manpower is provided with stretchers and first-aid kits and they immediately provide medical aid to the accident victims. PC Kandpal, MD and CEO, SBI General Insurance, said, "Road safety has been one of the focus areas under our CSR projects. It's certainly disheartening to witness the number of deaths increasing day-by-day in road accidents due to lack of immediate medical assistance. Being a responsible corporate, in order to act on this issue, we have collaborated with Maharashtra Highway Police to support in creating the necessary medical infrastructure for the Mrityunjay Doot scheme. With this contribution, together with Maharashtra Highway Police we aim to ensure Suraksha aur Bharosa on road journeys." Apart from this initiative, underlining the space of road safety, SBI General also supports the Indian Head Injury Foundation (IHIF) where accident trauma patients are provided with required therapy support. SBI General is one of the fastest-growing private general insurance companies, with the strong parentage of SBI, we, at SBI General Insurance, are committed to carry forward the legacy of trust and security; and have a vision is to become the most trusted general insurer for a transforming India. Ever since our establishment in 2009, from 17 branches in 2011, we have expanded our presence to over 137 branches pan-India. Till date, we have served around 8.7 crore customers. We follow a robust multi-distribution model encompassing Bancassurance, Agency, Broking and Retail Direct Channels. On the distribution network front, we have strong distribution partners adding up our reach to every nook and corner of India, with SBI's over 22000 branch network, Agents, other financial, OEM and digital partners. We currently serve three key customer segments viz. - Retail Segment (catering to Individual & Families), Corporate Segment (catering mid to large size companies) and SME Segment; and are future-ready to serve the growing needs of Indians with new age-processes and services at affordable prices. SBI General Insurance closed the financial year 2020-21 with a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs 8312 crore with a growth of 22 per cent and net profit of the Company grew by 32 per cent. The company has shown steady growth for the past 4 years, while maintaining positive track record of underwriting. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) A rock wall separates Monty Lewis home from the Isle of Wight Bay in West Ocean City. Lewis has lived here since the 70s and has seen the shoreline recede about 150-yards over that time. He built the wall, much of it by hand, that is currently protecting his house and the end of the road. (Jerry Jackson/Baltimore Sun) The first of a trio of deluges to hit historic Ellicott City since 2011 was enough to make Vince Saulsbury buy flood insurance for his 122-year-old rowhouse atop Main Street. So when devastating surges of stormwater roared down the old mill towns steep hillsides in 2016 and 2018, the insurance paid Saulsbury more than $30,000. He used the money to clean out muck, replace insulation, water heaters and furnaces, and line the dirt floor of his basement with concrete. He has done whatever he can, like storing boxes and tools high on shelves, to cut his losses the next time the Tiber Branch overflows in his backyard. Advertisement I lost tons of stuff over three floods, he said. Ive learned to just not put anything down there. But he knows even his best efforts wont stop the next flood. And that predicament highlights a problem spread across Maryland as climate change makes coastal waters rise and storms intensify. Advertisement Vince Saulsbury at his home, which has experienced flooding three times. He lives on Frederick Road, just outside historic Ellicott City's business district. (Karl Merton Ferron/The Baltimore Sun) High waters have caused repeated damage to more than 1,300 flood-insured homes, businesses and government buildings in the state in recent decades, according to data obtained by The Baltimore Sun. But only about one in every eight has been improved in ways likely to prevent significant future flood losses and those are costs that taxpayers eventually could shoulder. Preparing more of those homes and buildings to withstand floods is necessary to protect lives and properties from disasters, with as much as $19 billion worth of flood damage expected in Maryland by 2050. It is difficult for a number of reasons, starting with that high cost. The locations of the properties are often unclear. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, citing privacy concerns, holds information on federally backed flood insurance claims so tightly that even local government officials often cannot get the addresses. The full toll of floods is hard to gauge because many flood-prone properties dont carry flood insurance. That means they dont file claims that can be tracked. One estimate suggests the number of repetitively flooded properties those that have received multiple payments of $1,000 or more under a federal flood insurance program is three times higher than FEMA data reflects. The challenge is so expansive and daunting that there is no guiding plan or budget to help residents avoid enduring flood losses, though a recent report card on climate change resiliency gave Maryland failing grades for its handling of repetitively flooded properties. A new state loan program is on the way that aims to draw more federal investment for resilient infrastructure, but other policies are still being developed and considered. The slow action frustrates residents like Saulsbury. He wishes more could be done to rein in development and reduce the runoff that comes like an avalanche down Ellicott Citys rocky slopes, sending the Tiber and Hudson branches of the Patapsco River overflowing onto Main Street. Meanwhile, his National Flood Insurance Program premium has grown from $680 a year to more than $2,500, although that doesnt begin to cover what he has collected in claims from the federal insurer. Its still a net loss for them, he said. Its still a net loss for everybody. Vince Saulsbury stands March 2, 2022, on the cement floor in his basement at his home, which has experienced flooding three times, just outside historic Ellicott City's business district. (Karl Merton Ferron/The Baltimore Sun) For most residents whose homes face any amount of flood risk, the federal flood insurance program is the only way to protect against losses when disaster hits. It was established within FEMA in 1968 as a backstop insurer after many private companies dropped flood zone coverage because it was too costly. But because its a government program, rather than a business, even the most flood-prone properties can file claims again and again. Historically, repetitively flooded properties have accounted for 1% of flood insurance policies, while estimates of their share of the claims paid range from about a fifth to a third. As climate change makes floods more frequent and storms more potent, the insurance programs proponents and critics agree its broken. Its losses have mounted so much that in 2017, after hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, Congress had to step in to cover $16 billion of its debt. And yet, FEMA still owed the U.S. Treasury for more than $20 billion in flood insurance claims as of March 2020. Advertisement In Maryland, the situation is as unsustainable as anywhere. As of November 2020, there were 1,342 repetitively flooded properties. Meanwhile, only 173, about 13%, have made improvements to prevent losses. Such improvements often include raising a building several feet off the ground, installing flood vents in foundations, or elevating water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning units. In states such as Louisiana and Texas, each with more than 30,000 properties with multiple large claims, the low rate of improvements is comparable to that of Maryland. In other states, including Florida, as few as 5% had been improved as of 2019. Another prevention against repeated losses is using government money to buy flood-prone properties and tear them down. But thats a strategy that, in even the most flood-weary parts of Maryland, many consider too extreme. A rock wall separates Monty Lewis home from Isle of Wight Bay in West Ocean City. Lewis has lived there since the 1970s and has seen the shoreline recede about 150 yards over that time. (Jerry Jackson/Baltimore Sun) Maryland leaders acknowledge more action is needed. They said they hope the recent Coastal Adaptation Report Card, which the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science released earlier this year, will help spur it. The report card gave the state a B-minus overall for its planning and preparations around coastal flooding. But the state received failing grades for two categories measuring risks to repetitively flooded properties and to critical facilities, including police and fire stations and hospitals. I hope itll mean even greater investments in smart coastal management and investing in infrastructure that ... is not going to be under water imminently, state Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles said when the evaluation was released. More of those investments could come as FEMA and the state seek to better communicate flood risk and the importance of flood insurance to property owners in places that previously might not have been considered at risk. Advertisement To improve the federal flood insurance programs finances, new rates are set to take effect next month that better reflect current risk. That means about 3% of the 65,000 policyholders in Maryland will pay at least $120 more per year in premiums, according to FEMA. Instead of simply basing premiums on a structures location in a flood zone, FEMA will begin taking into account variables including the type of foundation and the elevation of its lowest level. Those reforms give property owners an incentive to take a more proactive approach, potentially reducing their insurance bills by raising their homes or flood-proofing their basements. Maryland, meanwhile, soon could afford to do more large projects to prevent floods. The state was the first in the country to establish a loan program tied to a new $500 million federal initiative on climate change resiliency. The General Assembly approved the Resilient Maryland Revolving Loan Fund last year with $25 million for such projects. That amount is designed to help secure investment from the federal initiative, created through the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Act, or STORM Act. Sen. Katie Fry Hester, a Howard County Democrat whose district includes Ellicott City, said she hopes there is more beyond that. Projects funded through the Resilient Maryland fund and STORM Act could compete for a separate federal infrastructure program through which Baltimore soon could receive $32 million to prevent flooding. That would mean the states initial $25 million investment could translate into hundreds of millions of dollars more in federally funded resiliency work. Hester also is sponsoring legislation in the current General Assembly session to establish a state chief resilience officer. A new office within the Maryland Department of Emergency Management would oversee disparate efforts to prepare for climate change. Advertisement We need to take a whole-state approach to dealing with these problems so the next floods not as bad as the last, Hester said. The scope of the problem remains unclear. The Flood Mitigation Industry Association, a trade group representing the contractors who raise houses and perform other work to prevent damage, estimates that the number of properties damaged and repeatedly repaired is two or three times larger than the amount FEMA reports. Roderick Scott, the groups chairman, said the skyrocketing cost of flood insurance over the past decade means many owners choose to forgo it, even if their mortgage requires they maintain a policy. Anna Weber, who studies flood insurance as a policy analyst with the Natural Resources Defense Council, said that without more information about where repetitive flooding occurs, its difficult to draw attention to the problem and better inform the residents it affects. How can you plan to address the situation when you dont even know the full scope of it? she asked. Advertisement Monty Lewis sits on a bench at the end of Selsey Road, looking out on Isle of Wight Bay and the Ocean City high rises. (JERRY JACKSON/Baltimore Sun) That is true even in some places at greatest risk. Take Selsey Road in West Ocean City, for example. The low-lying, dead-end street with sweeping views of Isle of Wight Bay and Ocean City high-rises has at least two homes that have flooded multiple times. Worcester County data shows they have combined to account for six flood insurance claims worth more than $37,000. But many residents there who spoke with The Baltimore Sun said they had never had water rise into their homes, and didnt expect it to anytime soon. There are frequent signs of its threat, when the bay surges past a beach that runs along the north side of the street, said Monty Lewis, who has lived at the end of the street since 1977. Lewis said it happens at least once a month. He expects it will get worse if something isnt done to hold the water back. The 80-year-old said hes skeptical of a county plan to shore up the beach and a marsh that has all but vanished nearby. Both used to extend much farther out, into what is now open water. He knows many of his neighbors, who werent around for Superstorm Sandy or earlier historic storms, dont share his concerns. But Lewis has seen so much change in his lifetime growing up around Ocean City. Hes raised the height of his concrete dock three times over the past few decades. Advertisement Im aware of it, he said. People that arent have got their head in the sand. He knows that so far, he has been lucky to stay above the waters that surround his home. While other houses have flooded, his is protected by a wall of stone and asphalt he built decades ago. We havent had a storm yet thats breached it, Lewis said. But we probably will. Climate Change: Ready or Not is an occasional series examining Marylands readiness and adaptations to climate change by Baltimore Sun reporter Scott Dance, funded in part by the Abrams Nieman Fellowship for Local Investigative Journalism at Harvard University. New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI/ATK): ImmigToronto has been providing assistance to thousands of individuals to immigrate to Canada. Every year, the company receives numerous immigration inquiries and it provides the best immigration solutions based on an individual's requirement. Canada is loved by many people across the world for its beautiful geographical location, career opportunities, political stability, and several other interesting factors. If you have plans to move to Canada but you do not know how to get started and what are the requirements, you can always turn to ImmigToronto. It is there to offer its best services. ImmigToronto has been working dedicatedly to help people achieve their immigration dream for decades. It is committed to providing the best consultation for Canadian immigration. It has an expert immigration team of RCIC and Canada Immigration Lawyer that can make the immigration process easier and hassle-free for you. ImmigToronto provides every single detail regarding the immigration process and ensures that the whole immigration process goes smoothly, it helps you in every step -- from filling the immigration forms to applying for visas. People want to live in Canada for many different reasons. Some people want to get PR to settle in Canada, others want to get a good job in the province, or someone wants to complete his or her higher education in Canada. ImmigToronto provides assistance for all kinds of immigration visas. It has been guiding students, start-ups, skilled workers, and individuals willing to migrate with families. You can rely on ImmigToronto for your Canadian immigration According to Canadian immigration law, an immigration consultant must have an ICCRC license or be a member of a Canadian law society. The firm has policies to regulate Canadian immigration consultants as well Immigration lawyers. That is why they can provide you with the best reliable assistance for your Canadian immigration process. ImmigToronto has been one of the best-trusted firms assisting individuals from Asia, Latin, and Gulf countries for long with its three offices in Florida, Toronto, and Stockholm. ImmigToronto ensures that a candidate's data is safe and secure. It has a transparent fee structure and uses an encrypted transaction process. In addition to this, if an applicant fails to qualify for an immigration program, the company refunds the full evaluation fee back to the applicant. So, you need not be apprehensive about the wastage of your money. You can visit the official website to see reviews for ImmigToronto and get more details. Dream big and fly high with ImmigToronto to fulfill your Canadian fantasy. This story is provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/ATK) Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 25 (ANI/PR Newswire): TATA Projects Limited, one of India's fastest-growing and most admired infrastructure companies, today signed an approximately Rs 500 crore contract agreement for the development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal region, Gujarat. To be completed in 24-months, the NMHC will be dedicated to the maritime heritage of India and shall showcase the nation's rich and diverse maritime glory. The project has been awarded by the Ministry of Shipping (MoS), Government of India (GoI) through Indian Port Rail & Rope Way Corporation Limited (IPRCL) and involves construction, testing and commissioning of National Maritime Heritage Complex (Phase- IA) on EPC basis. It includes museum building, artificial water body & jetty, prototype of ancient Lothal town and its rich heritage, museum galleries to establish a timeline of the known facts about India's maritime history and parking facilities. NMHC shall house National Maritime Museum; Maritime Heritage based Theme Park, Maritime Research Institute, Nature Conservation Park, Resorts and Hotels, etc. NMHC shall remain under the ownership of MoS and IPRCL shall be the custodian of the assets created. NHMC will consolidate all diverse and vibrant artefacts from ancient to modern times and provide access to the public - while spreading awareness and inspiring public about maritime heritage. Sandeep Navlakhe, Executive Vice President & BU Head - Buildings, Factories & Airports, Tata Projects Ltd, said, "As a company, we have always worked towards creating infrastructure that improves people's lives and enhancing national development. We are therefore proud to sign the contract for the development of National Maritime Heritage Complex since this project will enhance the nation's stature on the international stage by showcasing its rich maritime heritage. We are certain that upon completion it will stand at par with renowned international maritime museums." The location - 'Lothal' is significant since it is one of the prominent cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization dating to 2400 BC, located 76-kms from Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Archaeological excavations have discovered the oldest man-made dockyard, over 5000 years old, in Lothal. Through themed galleries, interactive and immersive exhibits and digital experiences, the completed project will invite visitors to embark on an exciting exploration of India's past and present maritime prowess. The exhibited maritime history along with India's vibrant coastal tradition will help towards uplifting the nation's image on the global arena. TATA Projects is one of the fastest-growing and most admired infrastructure companies in India. It has expertise in executing large and complex urban and industrial infrastructure projects. The company provides turnkey end-to-end solutions to set up fully integrated rail & metro lines, commercial buildings and townships, data centres & airports, power generation plants, power transmission & distribution systems, oil & gas refineries, chemical process plants, water and wastewater management solutions, complete mining and metal purification systems. It is currently executing some of the most marquee projects across India such as New Parliament Building, Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link, Multiple Stretches of Dedicated Freight Corridors, and Metro Rail Lines across multiple cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Lucknow, Ahmedabad and Chennai. The company is driven to deliver projects on-time, using world-class project management techniques and has uncompromising standards for safety and sustainability. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1773872/Tata_Projects.jpgPhoto: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1773871/Tata_Projects.jpg This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PR Newswire) New Delhi [India], March 25 (ANI/BusinessWire India): Hindware, a leader in complete bathroom solutions today announced a new brand identity to reinforce its connect with customers and supplement its position in the sanitaryware industry. As part of the exercise, the company introduced a revamped logo, launched a new range of coloured faucets, 'Hues' and roped in leading female actor, Tamanna Bhatia as the Brand Endorser to build a stronger connect with consumers in southern markets and across India. Hindware has been at the forefront of industry-first designs and innovations for decades, as the company grows to new heights it aims to build a deeper connect with the audience for a new tomorrow. At an event, Hindware unveiled its new brand logo in Black & White colour echoing supremacy and suavity. Additionally, the company revealed the new logo for Hindware Italian Collection, in White, Gold and Black colour, representing luxury, triumph and success, while 'Italian' written in artistic calligraphy font to signify elegance. The essence of the new logo for Hindware Italian Collection further relates with confidence, boldness and power, and hints of the legacy brand logo - Hindware, can be observed denoting a balanced premium tone with a promise of quality and performance. This approach helps Italian Collection to establish credentials and enter the consideration set of the consumer who are seeking products that are stylish, contemporary, innovative, and importantly dependable. With the overall rebranding exercise, the company intends to position Hindware Italian Collection as a premium brand with strong legacy and trust of its proverbial brand, Hindware. Along with the new premium brand logo, Hindware Italian Collection have attached yet another feather to their caps by announcing the product launch of "Hues by Hindware Italian Collection". 'Hues' by Hindware Italian Collection pursues to connect with audiences seeking to design bathrooms with colour and pristine finish in metro and mini-metro cities. The new bathroom range entails a complete portfolio of faucets called Edge, Element and Avior available in stunning colours - Gold, Rose-Gold and Chrome Black. The product range has a sharp and edgy design to match basins and water closets of every bath space. Each colour palette connoting beauty, and elegance in the most impactful way, capable of instantly elevating the look of any bath space. Exclusively, the collection is designed to be aesthetically appealing and built with the most durable finish available today. Leading female actor, Tamanna Bhatia has also been signed in as the brand endorser for the launch of 'Hues' faucets by Hindware Italian Collection. As part of the association, Tamanna will be supporting Hindware's brand value and further strengthening its position in the premium offerings by Hindware Italian Collection. Commenting on the announcement, Sudhanshu Pokhriyal, Chief Executive Officer, Bath & Tiles, Brilloca, said, "Our marketing strategies are at the core of evolving industry dynamics and therefore, keeping in mind the market sentiments and audience appeal, we have taken a conscious call to introduce a new identity for Hindware and Hindware Italian Collection. With this, we reflect the modern outlook and our rich legacy; the goal of this rebranding is to enhance the connect with customers in the present times. Aligned to the new brand identity, we are pleased to launch a vibrant and stylish range of luxurious facets, 'Hues' by Hindware Italian Collection. The coloured faucets have a stunning, long-lasting finish that will light up your bathroom and give it an aesthetic look." He further added "We are excited to have Tamanna Bhatia as our brand endorser, she personifies the elegance and style proposition of our products. Alongside her, we are certain to strengthen the brand's connection with consumers, especially in southern India." Commenting on the association, Tamanna Bhatia said, "I am extremely happy to be associated with India's leading bathware solutions brand, Hindware. I am someone who is obsessed with beautiful bathroom settings. That's why I resonate with the company's vision. Much to my taste, their collection is inspired by confidence and rich designs. 'Hues' by Hindware Italian Collection looks tremendously exquisite, and the colour tones will definitely add a touch of luxury to bathroom settings. I truly relate to the brand and look forward to a long fulfilling association ahead." Link to the video message from Tamanna Bhatia On the announcement, Charu Malhotra Bhatia, Vice-President, Marketing, Brilloca Limited said, "We are happy to have actor Tamanna Bhatia on board as our brand endorser; I am certain the association will help us enhance our consumer connect in the southern markets. Hindware has always celebrated and championed the amalgamation of thoughtful features and beautiful designs and Tamanna accurately brings alive the extravagance of the brand with her attitude of 'nothing but the best'. We welcome her to the Hindware family." This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India) Gurugram (Haryana) [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): BML Munjal University (BMU), a Hero Group initiative, today announced the appointment of Prof Shyam Menon as their new Executive Vice President. In his new role at BMU, Prof Menon will be involved in working closely with faculty and developing and implementing the overall strategy for the University. Professor Menon is a renowned educationist and has over 40 years of experience as a teacher educator, educational administrator and university leader. Prior to joining BMU, he was a Professor at the University of Delhi for almost three decades where he also served as the Dean, Faculty of Education. He was also the founding Vice-Chancellor of Dr BR Ambedkar University Delhi. He is currently the Chairman of the Commission for Reforms in Higher Education constituted by the Government of Kerala. Welcoming Prof Menon, Akshay Munjal, President, BML Munjal University, said, "We at BMU are committed to providing transformative education by creating a unique innovation-led, teaching, learning and research environment. Prof. Menon will play a crucial role in ensuring that our vision is in line with our nation's aspirations for a more evolved education system that is able to cater to the needs of the 21st century. Being the Chairman of the Commission for Reforms in Higher Education in Kerala, Prof. Menon's proficiency will be critical for our journey. I wish him all the best for a successful innings." On the new appointment, Prof Manoj K Arora, Vice-Chancellor, BML Munjal University, said, "We are pleased to welcome Prof. Shyam Menon as Executive Vice President of BMU. We strongly believe his invaluable experience in the Education domain and his years of expertise will be crucial in taking the helm of the university to a new direction." On joining BMU, Prof (Dr) Shyam Menon said, "Having spent years as a practitioner of institutional development in universities, I have witnessed how higher education institutions are increasingly called upon to renew themselves at a steady and consistent pace to keep discharging their role as thought leaders in development and social transformation. BMU has been a front runner when it comes to their multidisciplinary, entrepreneurial and research propelled programmes and courses, and I am excited to embark on this journey along with a highly motivated team." Named after the late Founder Chairman of the Hero Group, BML Munjal University (BMU) is a state-private university founded by the promoters of the Hero Group. BMU is mentored by Imperial College London and is engaged in creating, preserving, and imparting internationally benchmarked knowledge and skills. The University seeks to transform higher education in India by creating world-class innovative teaching, learning, and research environment across Schools spanning the disciplines of law, management, economics, commerce, and engineering. The School of Management at BML Munjal University has been ranked 41st among all management institutions All India in the NIRF Rankings 2021. The University offers undergraduate to doctoral programmes comprising BA (Hons) in Economics, BBA, BCom (Hons), BA LLB (Hons), BBA LLB (Hons), BBA, Integrated BBA-MBA at the undergraduate level and MBA, LLB (Hons) and PhD at the post-graduate level. For more information, log in to www.bmu.edu.in. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) Delhi NCR [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): Blossoms Aruma is a perfume manufacturing brand designing purely French yet truly Indian fragrances. The brand was incepted in 2006, with an urge to change the societal impression of the daily perfume and elaborated on the idea of fragrances having a back story. Talking about fragrances, people find the scent of babies extremely calming, as it reminds them of their own childhood and a mother's soothing embrace. From the moment we are born, to the moment we let go of our lives on this planet, our existence is marked by a myriad of smells, some pleasant and some unpleasant. Take a look at your own day, waking up to the scintillating aroma of tea or freshly brewed coffee is something we have always enjoyed. Add to it the scent of breakfast and you know your day will go well. In fact, each and every scent in our life stands out for a reason - for instance, the aroma of freshly cooked food whets our appetite and makes our mouths water. According to Sumann Sharrma, Director, Blossoms Aruma, "There is no denying the fact that, from the start to the end of life, fragrance is a part and parcel of our days, at every touch point we cross. And, if you have noticed, smell is a major part of our memories too. Many a times, a particular smell or fragrance could create deja vu, a feeling of going back in time. Truly, our life's journeys can be filtered through the lens of fragrance. From the day we are born, with that soothing whiff of baby scent, to the day we die, we are surrounding by scents that shape our life and the way we look at things." A very recent instance - during the pandemic, many of us felt depressed or anxious because of the unforeseen situations and the lack of clarity about our lives. While the sales of perfumes dropped somewhat as people were not stepping out, as time passed, there was a conspicuous shift in people's relationship with fragrance. "Several of us started looking at scents and fragrances as a way to uplift moods and create a pleasant ambience at home and essential oils and diffusers played a major part here. Each area of the home began to boast a different scent - with soothing fragrances like lavender for the bedroom, energetic and citrusy scents for the home office and the living room, to mellow rose petal for the bathrooms - scents defined how we experienced our own homes. That is the power of smell and the reason why you should harness it in your own daily lives, for nothing captures our imagination as intangibly yet as powerfully as fragrance," Sumann explains. Many of us have a signature fragrance that defines our personality and style. Or we may be trying on different scents, waiting for the one that captures our quintessence as well as our personalities in an unparalleled manner. Whatever be the case, the importance of fragrance can never be belittled. Smelling good is a must in today's world, and while we all love being neat and tidy, nothing can uplift our auras as beautifully and meaningfully as a scent which embodies who we actually are. A signature scent is like a calling card, it leaves a trace wherever you go, making people aware of your presence. Given this fact, it is imperative that you choose a fragrance which makes you feel confident and uniquely yourself, as it becomes a part of your identity. Even as you go to the mall and pick a scent to adorn yourself with, have you wondered about the origin of the perfume? Arising from the Latin word 'Perfumus', which means 'through smoke', perfumes are as poetic as they are evocative. Indeed, perfumes and human civilizations have an ancient bonding, as old as Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt. The desire to smell good is not something millennial, it is as old as humanity itself and the proof can be found in the ancient Indus Civilization where we have found shreds of incense being burned in temples as an offering to the gods. Elaborating on the concept, Sumann mentions, "Even today, a visit to the temple, or a puja at home, would not be complete without the burning of fragrant incense sticks or chandan, as these create a holy and pious atmosphere while helping us overcome negative vibes." Fragrance is an indelible part of our lives and it is up to us to utilise this gift in the best possible way. Given the enormous role it plays in our lives, it is high time people understand their preferences and choose a signature scent to mark their presence. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin who is on a four-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) met its Minister for Economy, Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, and Minister for Foreign Trade Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zequodi at the Dubai International Financial Centre on Friday, an official statement said. The Tamil Nadu government, according to the statement, is for entering into a tie-up with the MSME sector of the UAE for improving the industrial climate and the prospects for Tamil Nadu and the UAE in agriculture, food processing, textiles, jewelry and gems, electric vehicles, and renewable energy sectors. According to the statement, the Chief Minister elaborated on the prevailing conditions in Tamil Nadu that were favourable for business and invited both the ministers to the state. A member of the Chief Minister's delegation told IANS that "food processing industries, logistic parks, and investment into major infrastructure projects in Tamil Nadu were discussed between Stalin and the UAE ministers. This is other than the discussions held regarding MSME sector". The member also said that Chennai and Coimbatore were the major destinations promoted by the Chief Minister in UAE. Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sanjay Sudhir, Consul General of India in Dubai, Aman Puri, and Ambassador of UAE to India, Ahmad Albana and senior officials were present in the meeting between Stalin and the UAE ministers. --IANS aal/vd ( 241 Words) 2022-03-25-19:38:05 (IANS) Ansari will be pulling multiple duties for 'Being Mortal'. Apart from directing the movie, he will also feature in it. He also wrote the script and is producing it with Youree Henley, reported Variety. The upcoming film is based on Atul Gawande's non-fiction book 'Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End'. Principal photography will commence this April, with Searchlight Pictures set to release the film theatrically in 2023. Taylor Friedman and Cameron Chidsey are overseeing the project for Searchlight Pictures. While Ansari and Rogen have worked together on several projects over the years, this will mark the first feature film teaming Rogen and Murray, which is sure to leave movie buffs excited. Apart from 'Being Mortal', Rogen will next be seen in Steven Spielberg's 'The Fabelmans' alongside Michelle Williams and Paul Dano for Universal Pictures. The actor can currently be seen in Hulu's 'Pam & Tommy' starring Lily James and Sebastian Stan. He had recently featured in HBO Max's 'An American Pickle' and in 'Long Shot' alongside Charlize Theron. (ANI) Emmy-nominated actor Cameron Britton and 'Trainwreck' star Mike Birbiglia have joined the cast of 'A Man Called Otto', featuring Tom Hanks in the lead role. Britton and Birbiglia have joined previously announced cast members including Mariana Trevino, Rachel Keller and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, reported Deadline. The upcoming film will be directed by Marc Forster with two-time Oscar nominee David Magee adapting the screenplay from Fredrik Backman's novel 'A Man Called Ove' - with the titular character being renamed to reflect the shift to an American setting. Fredrik Wikstrom Nicastro of SF Studios is producing the film with Rita Wilson and Hanks and his Playtone partner Gary Goetzman. Forster and Renee Wolfe will serve as executive producers via their production company 2DUX2. SF Studios is also fully financing the project. Magee is also executive producing. 'A Man Called Otto' will tell the story of Otto Anderson (Hanks), a grumpy widower whose only joy comes from criticising and judging his exasperated neighbours. When a lively young family moves in next door, he meets his match in quick-witted and very pregnant Marisol, leading to an unexpected friendship that will turn his world upside down. The novel, 'A Man Called Ove', has been translated into over 40 languages. SF Studios then successfully adapted the book into a Swedish film, written and directed by Hannes Holm, which was the highest-grossing foreign-language film in the US in 2016, and went on to be nominated for two Oscars and won Best Comedy at the European Film Awards. Sony Pictures will release the film in theatres on December 25, 2022. Coming back to Britton, he is best known for his Emmy-nominated work on Netflix's 'Mindhunter'. The actor most recently wrapped the Gloria Sanchez Productions/Netflix limited series 'The Woman in the House', opposite Kristen Bell and starred in Hulu's 'Shrill' opposite Aidy Bryant. His other credits include Spectrum/Lionsgate Television's 'Manhunt: Deadly Games', Netflix's 'The Umbrella Academy', and Fede Alvarez's 'The Girl in the Spider's Web'. Talking about Birbiglia, he has appeared in 'Trainwreck', 'The Fault in Our Stars', 'Orange is the New Black' and 'Billions'. He is also the writer, director and star of 'Sleepwalk With Me' and 'Don't Think Twice'. He has written and performed a series of award-winning solo plays including 'The New One', which went to Broadway and was filmed for Netflix. (ANI) German film score composer Hans Zimmer recently halted a concert at London's O2 Arena to highlight a moment of beauty amid the ongoing terror on the streets of Ukraine. During the 'Hans Zimmer Live' European tour, it was Zimmer's presentation of 'Time' from 'Inception' that stood out. He showed the audience a video posted earlier this week of a musician from Lviv named Alex who refused to stop when the air raid sirens began wailing and kept playing 'Time' on his piano for a crowd on the street. Photographer John Stanmeyer had captured the moment who described the experience on social media by writing, "When bomb sirens began, police asked everyone to move inside the railway station. Alex @alexpian_official wouldn't stop, playing his piano louder against the air raid warning. His friend joined with the most calming pink nails. A simple, overwhelming one-minute passion against fear, against war...He went on and on, never letting go." The tour has been a dynamic presentation of the composer's award-winning scores from films such as 'No Time to Die', 'Sherlock Holmes and Dune', for which he received an Oscar nomination this year. This wasn't Zimmer's only acknowledgement of Ukraine and its musicians during the long-aborning show. The composer got emotional when he introduced the Ukrainian members of his ensemble. "When Covid stopped us from coming here 885 days ago, we booked our orchestra from Ukraine, from Odessa, and we only managed to get 10 people out...So just welcome them," he said. As per Deadline, the audience, bathed in yellow and blue lights reflecting those of Ukraine's flag, erupted in a standing ovation. (ANI) Superstar Shah Rukh Khan and actor Deepika Padukone will soon bid adieu to Spain with the conclusion of an international shooting schedule of 'Pathaan'. According to a source, the actors will conclude the Spain schedule of 'Pathaan' on March 27. "Pathaan is the first film to be shot in Mallorca, Spain. It's expensive, exquisite and luxurious setting makes it one of the best tourist destinations of the world and Siddharth Anand and YRF definitely wanted to film Pathaan over here to achieve a level of scale that hasn't been seen before in Hindi cinema! After Mallorca, Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone will head to Cadiz and Jerez for an action schedule that is simply unreal. They will be pushing their bodies to the hilt and filming some death-defying stunts," the source said. The source added, "Pathaan team is aiming to wrap the Spain schedule on March 27th. Sid Anand wanted a big international schedule to wow audiences and he has managed to somehow achieve his vision with YRF. From what we have seen in the leaked images, SRK and Deepika are looking absolutely drool-worthy and looks like Sid wants them to scorch the big screen. SRK and DP's pairing has delivered historic blockbusters and there is a definite intent by the makers to make Pathaan their biggest film to date." Helmed by Siddharth Anand, 'Pathaan' also features John Abraham. It will hit theatres on January 25, 2023. (ANI) GREENBELT A Hanover man has pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon after using a ghost gun to shoot at Secret Service security guards, federal prosecutors said Thursday. Jeremiah Peter Watson, 24, drove to the entrance of a U.S. Secret Service facility and positioned his vehicle to block the driveway in February 2021, the U.S. attorneys office said in a news release. Advertisement Watson became combative with security officers when they asked him to move. An officer who thought he was armed sprayed pepper spray at Watson after he reached into his pocket. Watson then retreated and drove away. Watson returned, however, and officers saw a flash of a gunshot come from the driver-side window toward them. Watson fired at least four additional shots before he drove away, authorities said. Advertisement When police identified his home from his license plate, they searched his residence and found a privately made handgun without a serial number, also known as a ghost gun. Watson will be sentenced to 10 years in federal prison under a plea agreement, if a federal judge approves, the U.S. attorneys office said. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis has scheduled sentencing for July 5. Pakistani pharmaceutical importers are holding back payments of $430,000 to Indian Exporters for pharmaceutical products exported to Pakistan from April-December 2021, the government told Parliament on Thursday. "As per available records, India has exported $203.68 million worth of pharmaceutical products to Pakistan from April 2021-December 2021. Some instances of non-payment of dues to Indian exporters of pharmaceutical products by Pakistani importers have been brought to our notice. As per the data available, the total amount of dues unpaid to Indian exporters is around $430,000," External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply. Responding to the query of BJP member Subramanian Swamy who had had asked whether some pharmaceutical companies and suppliers supplied pharmaceutical items to Pakistan and if they have not been paid for the goods exported to Pakistan, he said that the matter of unpaid dues has been taken up with the relevant authorities in Pakistan through the High Commission of India in Islamabad but the Pakistani side are yet to revert on the issue. --IANS ams/vd ( 189 Words) 2022-03-24-23:08:01 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth University to regularise the service of a guest lecturer, who was engaged by its Sanskrit department to teach 'Karm Kand' to the students. A bench of Justices Hemant Gupta and V. Ramasubramanian said: "It is time for the University to put an end to this 'Yuddh Kand' and allow the appellant to move from 'Karm Kand' to 'Karm Phal Kand'." Noting that Dinesh Chandra Shukla has been teaching the very same subject for the past nearly 16 years, it said: "The original Selection Committee which found him eligible for appointment, comprised of Professors from the Department of Sanskrit of which the diploma course in 'Karm Kand' was a part, a direction is issued to the 5th respondent- the University to regularise the services of the appellant (Shukla)." Shukla moved the top court challenging the dismissal of his plea by the high court seeking to quash an order of the Chancellor of the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth University, rejecting his request to be appointed as lecturer (Karm Kand). The bench noted that under Section 25(1)(c) of the U.P. University Act, the Academic Council is empowered to advise the Executive Council in connection with the qualifications required to be possessed by persons imparting instructions on particular subjects. "Therefore, the minutes of the meetings of the Academic Council dated August 22, 2013 has clinched the issue in favour of the appellant," it said. The bench said if only the high court had looked into the minutes of the meetings of the Academic Council, it could have easily appreciated that the appellant was entitled to succeed. In the case, on one hand, no candidate was available with a postgraduate degree in 'Karm Kand' and the selection committee which consisted of a representative of the Department of Sanskrit found the appellant to possess a master's degree in the relevant subject. "The entire controversy appears to have arisen as a result of the tug of war in the year 2006 between the then Chancellor and the then Vice Chancellor, making the appellant a victim in the line of fire. Unfortunately, the High Court omitted to take note of all this," noted the bench. In 2006, an advertisement was issued by the university inviting applications for appointment to one post of lecturer in Karm Kand. In the case of the appellant, the selection committee had recommended his candidature for appointment to the post. But the Executive Council disagreed with the selection committee on the ground that the Vice Chancellor failed to request the Chancellor to nominate subject experts in the selection committee. Shukla had challenged the Chancellor's order passed in 2012, rejecting recommendation made by the selection committee for his appointment. The division bench of the Allahabad High Court in 2015 dismissed the writ petition of the appellant on the ground that after the order of remand, the Chancellor had consulted a few experts and found that the subject of 'Karm Kand' is altogether different from the subject Sanskrit and that therefore, with the qualifications that the appellant possessed, he could not have been selected for the post. --IANS ss/vd ( 541 Words) 2022-03-24-20:56:03 (IANS) In Tamil Nadu there are single-teacher schools in many tribal settlements but the situation of these schools are poor mainly due to the lethargic attitude of the teachers. The single-teacher schools in Tamil Nadu were formulated as part of the central government policy of 'Ekal Vidyalaya' and is supported by the government of India through the concerned state governments. While teachers are not paid a princely sum as salary and they have to trek to distant places to reach the tribal settlements, there are cases in which teachers are doing yeoman services. However of late many teachers are not properly visiting the schools and not providing proper noon meals to the students of the tribal colonies. In the tribal settlement of Krishnagiri district, there are complaints against the concerned teacher that he does not visit the school regularly and instead appears once a week. The Irular tribes who inhabit here have complained to the District education officer, Krishnagiri district against the callous attitude of the teacher and that mid day meals have not been served in the school and if at all it is served, the quality was very poor. On receiving a complaint, the health department and education department officials conducted a surprise inspection at the school premises and found that the teacher was not present. The inspection team also found that the mid day meals served at the Panchayat Union School at Bettamugilalam in Krishnagiri district was of poor quality and not edible. Egg was also not served substantiating the complaint raised by the Irular community. In the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu also, the Kattunaikar community has complained against the ill functioning of a tribal school in their settlement. Similar to the complaint at Krishnagiri district, in a single teacher school, an inspection team found poor quality and inedible midday meals and the teacher was absent for the past five days. An education department official of Nilgiris district told IANS, "The single teacher school where we went inside was found serving poor quality food and egg was not served at all. In fact the meal was served by a local person and teacher was nowhere to be seen. Children and community members told us that the teacher pays a visit to the school once in four or five days and does not teach anything." While the central government and state governments have commenced the single teacher schools in good intention, it is to be seen whether the schools are in fact delivering what was intended. Tamil Nadu School Education Minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi told IANS, "I will have to check with the facts regarding this and will speak to our department heads and get a clear picture on what is happening and then will take appropriate action if the teachers are found to be irresponsible as reported." Social workers among the tribal communities said that in almost all the districts of Tamil Nadu, situation is similar in tribal hamlets. M. Kannan, a tribal leader from Coimbatore told IANS, "The situation is similar in several single teacher schools in tribal areas and unless the government conducts proper monitoring and checking, nothing is going to change. We have been petitioning several times to authorities and the inspections conducted were part of the regular complaints we were filing against this injustice conducted in the name of development of tribal schools. At least this has turned into an eye-opener." --IANS aal/skp/ ( 583 Words) 2022-03-24-21:00:03 (IANS) In a clear indication of his stance on trifurcation of the state capital following the recent setback in the High Court, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday reiterated his commitment to decentralised development. "Decision on capitals is our right and responsibility while policy making is the domain of legislature," Reddy said during the discussion on legislative competence in the Assembly. The Chief Minister stated that the courts cannot pre-empt or direct not to make a policy with presumptions and lay down impossible conditions setting timelines which cannot be met. "The recent verdict of Andhra Pradesh High Court appears to be a trespass into the legislative terrain though our Constitution has laid down the frame work of the three pillars of executive, legislature and judiciary. We felt that the limits were crossed and hence, had taken up the discussion in the House," Reddy stated in the House. "The laws we are making stand for public scrutiny every five years, which is the very reason why the previous dispensation was rejected and people gave us a thumping mandate with 151 of the 175 seats in the House and courts should not be getting into our domain of making laws and this I am saying with utmost respect towards judiciary and to set the record straight for future generations to come." Pointing out that it is impossible to implement the High Court verdict which has ordered that Amaravati be developed as the state capital within six months, Reddy said that the government is studying the legalities. He reminded the House that the Supreme Court has told High Courts not to issue orders that cannot be implemented. "The impossible timeline set by the courts like setting up basic amenities within one month and other infrastructure in the region within six months is impossible. The 29 villages form a minor fraction of the total state. We are exploring legal options on the issue," he said. Even as he declared his commitment for decentralised development, Reddy assured to safeguard the interests of the famers of the region who gave land for the state capital. --IANS pvn/pgh ( 368 Words) 2022-03-24-21:04:04 (IANS) Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai on Thursday said that the Assam Rifles has shown exemplary performance in the fight against insurgency in the northeast region and in preventing drug smuggling along the India-Myanmar border. Addressing the 187th Raising Day celebrations of the Assam Rifles in Shillong as Chief Guest, the minister said that the Assam Rifles during its glorious history has contributed significantly to the maintenance of peace and harmony in the insurgency affected areas of the northeast and Jammu and Kashmir, and has performed exemplary work in preventing drug trafficking. Keeping this in mind, the government has given the Assam Rifles the powers under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. "Assam Rifles is an all-rounder force, it has two battalions stationed in Jammu and Kashmir and one NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) battalion, which is playing its active role in case of natural calamities," he said. Rai said that the Home Ministry has given in-principle approval to the formation of five additional battalions so that after field postings, jawans can get an opportunity to live with their families in a friendly environment. The Union Minister said Assam Rifles has made concerted efforts for gender equality and women's empowerment which has resulted in the induction of 1,187 women into the force. The number of women soldiers in the force would increase further, he added. The para-military force has planted about 31 lakh trees which is the highest among all the forces under the Home Ministry. Assam Rifles has the unique distinction of being conferred with the most number of gallantry awards among all paramilitary forces during its long history, he pointed out. The Minister recalled the supreme sacrifices made by Col Viplav Tripathi and four bravehearts in the Manipur encounter with insurgents in November last year in which the wife and child of Col Tripathi were also killed. The MoS Home said that the Assam Rifles was established in 1835 as the "Cachar Levy". The Director General of Assam Rifles, Lt Gen P.C. Nair, senior officers and jawans of the force and their families from across the country also attended the function through video conferencing. --IANS sc/pgh ( 373 Words) 2022-03-24-21:32:03 (IANS) There has been a 22 per cent increase in employment in the last seven years since 2013-14, Union Labour Minister Bhupendra Yadav on Thursday told the Parliament. Responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha, he also said that as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLSF), the unemployment rate among graduate-level job-seekers, between the age group of 18 to 40 years, has come down. Replying to the supplementary questions in the House, Yadav said that apart from the farm sector, other sectors such as transport, education, hospitality, education, trade, and information technology have witnessed an increase in employment. Over 27 crore informal workers have also been enrolled on the e-SHRAM portal during the last six months, he said. The e-SHRAM portal was launched in August, 2021 with an objective to create a national database of unorganised workers and to facilitate delivery of social security schemes/welfare schemes of the Central and state governments to them. Any unorganised sector worker between 16 and 59 years of age group is eligible for registration on this portal. The government has made a provision for all registered workers to get an accidental insurance cover of Rs two lakh free of cost for a year through the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), the Minister said. --IANS ams/vd ( 225 Words) 2022-03-24-22:18:05 (IANS) In the February-March assembly elections, Singh, 47, won from the Yaiskul Assembly constituency for the second term. A former minister in the first BJP government, Singh, said that he would work hard to live up to the expectations of the members and run the house judiciously without any bias. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Congress legislature party leader O. Ibobi Singh congratulated the new Speaker on his election. The Chief Minister later tweeted: "Heartiest congratulations to my colleague, Shri Thokchom Satyabrata Singh on being unanimously elected as the new Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly. I wish him the very best on his new endeavour!" --IANS sc/pgh ( 135 Words) 2022-03-24-23:12:03 (IANS) Along with condemning Tamil Nadu for opposing the Mekedatu project, the two-page resolution calls for putting pressure on the Central government for necessary approvals. The resolution noted that the project will not harm Tamil Nadu and would help stabilise the allocation of 24 tmc of water which includes 4.75 tmc for drinking purposes of Bengaluru. The resolution points out that while demanding that Karnataka seek its approval for the Mekedatu project, Tamil Nadu is taking up projects illegally and unilaterally, without consulting Karnataka. Karnataka's Assembly resolution comes in response to a resolution adopted on Monday by the Tamil Nadu legislature. In its resolution passed unanimously, the Tamil Nadu Assembly had condemned the Karnataka government's decision to build a dam across river Cauvery at Mekedatu "disrespecting" the apex court, and also without the consent of concerned states. --IANS pvn/pgh ( 187 Words) 2022-03-24-23:18:09 (IANS) On a day of fast-paced developments, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed happiness after his long meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the national capital on the K-Rail project on Thursday, though the Congress in Kerala seems to be smelling a rat. "The meeting with the PM was excellent. He gave us a patient hearing and the response was encouraging. Overall, it was a positive feeling and we expect the Centre will give us the sanction for our K-Rail project," said Vijayan. The Chief Minister also dismissed the protests going on in the southern state against the K-Rail project as "stage managed". "We know that the people are with us, as our track record speaks of our development agenda for the state. People believe us and the protests going on in the state are scripted. We assure the people that the ongoing survey is being done for social impact assessment, and not for land acquisition. "Once the survey ends, then only a decision would be taken on land acquisition, and when it's done, we will invite the people losing their land and inform them on what they will be getting. We will not harm a single person," said Vijayan, as he thanked Modi for giving him the time to discuss the matter. Explaining the financing of the project, Vijayan said its cost will come to Rs 63,941 crore, of which Rs 33,700 crore will come from various financial institutions, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Asian Development Bank, to name a few. The Rs 13,362 crore funds for the proposed cost of acquisition of land will come from HUDCO, KIIFB and state government, while the balance after loans from the funding agencies will come from the Railways -- Rs 3,125 crore -- Rs 3,253 crore will come from the state government and Rs 4,252 crore form the public, said Vijayan. Minutes before the meeting began, protesting Kerala Congress MPs were allegedly roughed up by the Delhi police inside the Parliament. As the news trickled in, numerous protests were witnessed across the state with angry Congress workers clashing with the state police. At a few places, the local people were seen protesting against the K-Rail officials who had come to lay the marking stones for the project. Meanwhile, reacting to Vijayan's meeting with Modi, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan said that for the past one week, hectic preparations were going on for this meeting at the highest level among the Sangh Parivar forces, as there seems to be some sort of "unholy alliance" between the BJP and the CPI-M. "The proposal submitted for this project is misleading and the figures are all fudged so as to present a rosy picture. Vijayan is deceiving the people of Kerala by painting a rosy picture about the project. We want answers to the questions which we have raised about this project. We will not allow this project to go forward as this will bring untold miseries to the state as it's not a feasible one," said Satheesan. If completed, the K-Rail project will see a 529.45 km corridor connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod with semi high-speed trains covering the distance in around four hours. --IANS sg/arm ( 546 Words) 2022-03-24-23:18:10 (IANS) A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed demanding an inquiry by a central agency. Presently, Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the state government is investigating the case. Earlier on Wednesday, the Calcutta High Court took cognizance of the Birbhum incident where eight people were burnt to death following the killing of Trinamool Congress leader Bhadu Sheikh. Meanwhile, the Birbhum arson has also created a political stir in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party has sought the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and has demanded an investigation into the incident by Central agencies. Locket Chatterjee, BJP MP from Hooghly, has also claimed that about 20 people have been killed in the arson, "but no one knows the actual number because no one is being allowed to enter in Birbhum." The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government over the arson incident. The move came after a nine-member delegation of BJP MPs from West Bengal met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and sought his intervention and action against the perpetrators involved in the crime. Amid the row over the incident, Mamata Banerjee urged West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar "to refrain from making unwarranted statements and allow the administration to conduct an impartial probe". Dhankhar in a Twitter post had said that horrifying violence and arson orgy at Rampurhat, Birbhum indicates the state is in grip of the violent culture and lawlessness. "Violence at Rampurhat indicates an alarming situation in West Bengal. Law and order situation is nosediving in the state. Bengal is a laboratory of violation of human rights. I want to cooperate with the government, provided lawful procedure takes place," Dhankhar said. As many as eight people were burnt to death in the Rampurhat area of West Bengal's Birbhum on Tuesday after a mob allegedly set houses on fire following the killing of Trinamool Congress leader Bhadu Sheikh. Director-General of Police (DGP) West Bengal, Manoj Malviya informed that 11 arrests have been made in the case so far. A special investigating team has been formed to probe the matter. (ANI) Spencer Shattuck, a recent Johns Hopkins University graduate, president and owner of luxury watchmaker Towson Watch Company wears a chairmans only special watch. He purchased the business in the Spring of 2021 from Under Armour founder Kevin Plank and is looking to build the brand. Shattuck is in the showroom and workshop in City Garage. (Kim Hairston/The Baltimore Sun ) For Spencer Shattuck, it started with the Montblanc pens that his father would bring home from board meetings. Shattuck began collecting luxury writing utensils at age 11, at first from his father Mayo A. Shattuck III, CEO of Constellation Energy before its 2012 merger with Exelon. That led to a fascination with high-end timepieces. Advertisement Now 23, Shattuck has parlayed his hobby into a business, becoming the latest owner of Towson Watch Co., the luxury watch brand founded in 2000 by watchmakers Hartwig Balke and George Thomas. Shattuck purchased the watchmaking company last year for an undisclosed amount from a venture capital firm owned by Under Armour founder Kevin Plank, a longtime family friend. Sagamore Ventures bought into the company in 2016. With high-end microbrand watches gaining in popularity, Shattuck, the companys president, envisions rejuvenating American luxury watchmaking. Advertisement There is a rebound in the luxury watch space happening right now, and renewed interest in independent watchmakers, Shattuck said. Ive always looked at watches as art, individualized pieces of art that not everyone has. Ive always been just very interested in art and creating something from scratch. Spencer Shattuck, a recent Johns Hopkins University graduate, president and owner of luxury watchmaker Towson Watch Company, wears a chairmans only special watch. He purchased the business last year from Under Armour founder Kevin Plank and is looking to build the brand. Shattuck is in the showroom and workshop in City Garage. He describes the watches, handmade with German and Swiss components, as pieces of sculpture. Shattuck plans to hire watchmaking apprentices to carry on the tradition of the company's founding watchmakers. March 17, 2022. (Kim Hairston/The Baltimore Sun ) Switzerland is not the only place to obtain a luxury watch, he said. While fewer people now wear watches since smartphones also offer the time, watches are staging something of a comeback, both as smartwatches and as fashion statements. The global luxury watch market stood at $23.6 billion in 2020 and was forecast to grow at an annual rate of 3.25%, according to Mordor Intelligence, a market research firm based in India. Its report found the market contracted somewhat with the COVID-19 pandemic but has begun to bounce back. Globally, the growing consumer preference for high-quality, premium watches, which are perceived as status symbols, is the major driving factor for the luxury watches market, Mordors report said. The luxury market is largely dominated by such large brands as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Breitling. Theres even an active market for secondhand luxury watches that consulting firm McKinsey valued at $18 billion in 2019 and growing to $25 billion by 2025. Shattuck was a senior at Johns Hopkins University just over a year ago, planning a career in finance, when Sagamore representatives inquired about his interest in the brand. Plank, Shattuck said, recalled that he was always into watches. Advertisement Kevin [Plank] cared a lot about the longevity of this brand and he really wanted to pass it down to someone who was going to be committed to it, Shattuck said. Im in a very lucky position where I do have the opportunity to pursue my dream out of college. Hed had some entrepreneurial experience, running an online luxury goods resale business he started in high school. Money he earned through that business, along with savings, enabled him to buy the company on his own. He was encouraged to do so by his father, who retired as chair of Chicago-based Exelon last month after the energy giant split its utilities and power-generation businesses to create a new, Baltimore-based Constellation Energy. There are 210 working parts in each watch made by Towson Watch Co. (Kim Hairston/The Baltimore Sun ) A spokesman for Sagamore Ventures said the firm had been proud to support the watch company, calling it a treasured Baltimore business. We are thrilled that it is now in the capable hands of two passionate locals, master watchmaker Hartwig Balke and brand builder Spencer Shattuck, said Jeremy Soffin, the spokesman, in an email. We are rooting for their success. As a collector, Shattuck had known about the brand for years. He even interned there briefly in middle school. It boasts exclusivity and precision craftsmanship and two watchmakers who design and craft custom, handmade timepieces in limited numbers. It makes only 100 watches in each design. The company does not disclose annual sales, but Shattuck says it builds 300 to 400 watches each year, which sell for $2,000 to $15,000. He plans to adhere to the founders approach, designing and building all watches in-house. Since taking on the company last year, he has hired an apprentice and plans to bring in others to learn the craft from Balke and Thomas. Advertisement Each watchmaker works from his own home workshop, though Thomas is mostly retired. Balke also works from a newly expanded workshop in City Garage in Port Covington, where the brand moved its office and showroom under Sagamores ownership. In one key change, Shattuck has switched to a direct-to-consumer model, discontinuing sales through jewelry stores. Instead he connects with customers through a website, social media and the Port Covington showroom and at watch collecting events. Such events can be more about networking than sales, said Taylor Classen, a longtime watch enthusiast and friend of Shattucks who helps court clients and manage suppliers as a minority partner. Classen, a Towson resident and sophomore at Elon University, said he and Shattuck have traveled around the U.S. showcasing products and meeting customers. The watch world is a very small world, and your reputation is everything, said Classen, who met Shattuck when they were both high school students with vintage watch resale businesses. Part of my success selling vintage watches was through meeting people at dinners or collectors groups, outlets where people talk about watches. Shattuck was in eighth grade at Baltimores Calvert School when he first met Balke and Thomas, spending time learning how watches were made for a school project. That internship, like his recent company purchase, came about thanks to his familys connection with Plank, who was preparing at the time to buy a stake in the company and eventually acquired full ownership. Balke and Thomas, master watchmakers who met by chance at an Irish pub in Annapolis, had built a following for their timepieces. Advertisement A Towson Watch Co. watch commissioned by Gerhard Thiele, a German mission specialist on NASAs STS-99 mission in 2000, was flown on the Endeavor. It is on a watch winder in the companys showroom. (Kim Hairston/The Baltimore Sun ) Balke, a mechanical engineer, is known for having designed a watch worn by a NASA astronaut during a space shuttle mission in 2000. In 2009, the watchmakers were called in by the Smithsonian Institutions National Museum of American History to examine and repair a gold pocket watch that belonged to Abraham Lincoln, and helped discover a message engraved by a watchmaker who repaired it in 1861. Balke has said that neither he nor Thomas attended a traditional watchmakers school and instead learned by doing. Eric Zaccone discovered Towson Watch after moving to Baltimore in 2014 to work as a researcher for the Johns Hopkins University. He first saw the brand displayed in a Smyth Jewelers store. Afternoon Update Weekdays Updating you on the day's biggest news before the evening commute. > I was blown away by how beautiful they were, said Zaccone, a collector since age 16. Now 39 and a medical science liaison for a New Jersey company, hes been impressed by the companys craftsmanship and willingness to show customers where parts originated, including from Germany and Switzerland. As what he called a luxury American microbrand timepiece, Towson Watch is a staple in watch culture, Zaccone said. Advertisement He considers his Mission watch, the design that launched the company, my most prized watch. He spent several years searching for one of the rare models that had been made and finally found an owner willing to sell. The Choptank watch made by Towson Watch Co. that collector Eric Zaccone recently purchased. (courtesy of Eric Zaccone) Just weeks ago, he purchased another watch directly from the company, a $4,800 customized Choptank with a copper face and blue hands made in Switzerland. The brand, he believes, is poised to grow. You are getting a fantastic, high-end watch for a fair price, Zaccone said. These watches stand up with those highly recognizable big names. ... Theyre just beautiful timepieces, works of art, both functionally and in appearance. Yogi Adityanath will script history on Friday as he takes oath as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister for a new term in office after completing a full five-year term, a feat none of his predecessors has been able to achieve. A monk-politician Yogi Adiyanath was a surprise choice when BJP won the 2017 assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. A five-time Lok Sabha MP, he was picked for the key role in the electorally crucial state by the BJP leadership and has strived to live up to expectations from him. Yogi Adityanath gave a strong government in the past five years with improvement in the law and order situation in the state emerging a strong poll theme for BJP during electioneering for the assembly polls. Born on June 5, 1972, in a village in Uttarakhand, he was named Ajay Singh Bisht by his parents. He left home to join the movement for the construction of Ram Temple and became a disciple of Mahant Avaidyanath of Gorakhnath temple in Gorakhpur. He commenced his political journey in 1998 becoming the youngest MP from Gorakhpur. The results of assembly polls declared earlier this month have enhanced his image as a mass leader who has his ear to the ground and understands the electoral arithmetic of the state that has complex caste equations. Yogi Adityanath made headlines with his action against crime syndicates and his sprucing up law and order gave a sense of reassurance to the common man. The BJP-led government in the state worked for efficient delivery of welfare measures while it tackled challenges posed by COVID-19. His government worked towards tackling Japanese Encephalitis and improving the road network and power situation in the state. It banned illegal slaughterhouses and brought a bill against forced religious conversion. In an interview, Yogi Adiyanath said that his Hindutva favours 'sabka saath, sabka vikas'. The BJP successfully dealt with the combined challenge of the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The 'double engine' government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath has taken several initiatives for faster development of Uttar Pradesh and a defence corridor and a major international airport is coming up in the state. During the electoral campaign for the Uttar Pradesh elections, the Prime Minister lauded Yogi Adiyanath's work and his coinage - "UP plus Yogi bahut hai upyogi" (UP plus Yogi is very useful) became quite popular. Yogi Adityanath chose to contest the assembly polls and won the Gorakhpur Sadar seat by a huge margin. The BJP has created other records with its successive victory in Uttar Pradesh. It is the first time that a party has returned to power in successive polls after 37 years. The BJP won 255 seats in Uttar Pradesh with its allies in the state also registering impressive performance. The chief minister is expected to carry the momentum of the party's electoral victory to fulfill the poll promises and give a further push for the development of the state in his second term. (ANI) A look at the speech of Sharjeel Imam on December 13, 2019, at Jamia University reflects that 'Chakka Jam' was envisaged as a part of the plan of action, a Delhi Court on Thursday mentioned in its order dismissing the bail plea of Umar Khalid in Northeast Delhi violence larger conspiracy case. Additional Sessions Judge Amitabh Rawat said that there are two important factors that were highlighted by counsel and which needs a mention. First, is the idea of 'Chakka Jam' as used normally in the country. However, a look at the speech of Sharjeel Imam on September 13, 2019 at Jamia University reflects that 'Chakka Jam' is envisaged as part of a plan of action. The Court also said that there is a reference of Muslim students of JNU followed by the desire to do 'Chakka Jam' in as many as 50 cities in India where Muslims can do it. However, when 'Chakka Jam or blockage is used in the normal course, the main objective is to highlight the point of protest with some inconvenience that might be caused as a result of it. What is different here is that 'Chakka Jam' is desired with a certain goal. The Court also mentioned secondly that CAA/NRC protests were held across India but riots of this scale happened only in Delhi. Sharjeel Imam in his speech of December 13, 2019, makes a mention about Delhi being the capital of India and gives an illustration that if even a flyover collapses, the whole world will know of it. Also, Donald Trump, then US President Donald Trump was to visit Delhi on February 24, 2020. The happening of riots on the same day when the President of the USA was in Delhi and the whole world media was there to cover it, does not appear from the charge sheet to be a mere coincidence, the court observed. The Court noted, " In fact, there is a mention of the visit of the US President before the riots began. Accused Umar Khalid in his Amrawati speech specifically made a mention of the said visit on February 24 and the need to show to the world with media all around." Sharjeel Imam in his Gaya Speech of January 23, 2020 while again referring to the blockage of highways in Delhi, said that they will paralyze the government. He made an interesting reference while referring to the protest across India. He said that Delhi is special because anything that happens here will get international media in five minutes, firing will be covered in media and thus, if the army is to be deployed then it will be a humiliation for the government and not for Muslims. (ANI) The police said that the man is her neighbour and used to rape her when she used to be alone at home. The incident came to light when the girl complained of stomach ache, after which the victim's family reached the nearest hospital where the doctor told that the girl is five months pregnant. "When the accused came to know about this, he immediately fled from the spot. We started an investigation and arrested him from the Mira Road area," the police said. He will be produced before a court today. The police has registered a case under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code and POCSO Act. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday launched the BRO Tourism portal that will facilitate online booking of guided tours to the road infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). According to the Ministry of Defence, in the initial phase, e-Booking for a guided tour to Atal Tunnel, Rohtang will be available through the portal. Soon, infrastructure projects in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh etc will be included for guided tours. The world's highest motorable road at Umling La Pass, state-of-the-art bi-lane Sela Tunnel and Nechiphu Tunnel are among the projects which will be included. During the launch event, the first ticket from the website was presented to the Defence Minister by Director General Border Roads (DGBR) Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhry. Rajnath Singh exuded confidence that the website will go a long way in boosting tourism in far-flung areas. He said, in the coming times, it will be the most accessible and reliable source of information about the history and importance of the projects executed by the BRO and will provide a peek into the upcoming projects as well. Singh said after the construction of the Atal Tunnel, the number of tourists in that area increased six times. He made special mention of the setting up of BRO Cafes at 75 places in far-flung areas, expressing confidence that these cafes will provide basic amenities to the travellers, promote tourism in remote areas and strengthen the local economy. He emphasised the importance of connectivity and infrastructure in the development of the nation, saying that roads, bridges and tunnels in border areas play a central role in ensuring the socio-economic development of the region, besides catering to the needs of the Armed Forces. "Earlier, infrastructure development in border areas was never a priority, fearing its misuse by our adversaries during trying times. We totally changed this approach. Infrastructure development of any region is linked with the development of the nation as well as the global situation. With changing times, all areas move ahead in the path of development. We are committed to ensuring the development of the border areas as well. The recent announcement of a record increase in the capital budget of the BRO reaffirms that commitment," Singh said. He spoke about the Huri village of Arunachal Pradesh, the residents of which returned after the BRO ensured connectivity with the district headquarters. "Atal tunnel and Umling La pass are the biggest achievements of the BRO which have put India on the world map. The portal contains the photo and video galleries of tourist destinations and local flora and fauna, besides providing information about the BRO, the nature of works it has executed in border states and the challenges faced. It also hosts technical information related to construction for those working in the field of civil engineering, especially students and academia. With the aim to connect youth with the subjects related to defence, Singh urged the officials of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to devise a plan to promote defence tourism. He suggested exploring the possibility of organising visits to historic battlefields, war memorials, war museums, training academies or other similar defence establishments for people with the help of industry, start-ups and ex-servicemen, keeping in mind the security and sanctity of the places. (ANI) The protest was led by Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai. Condemning the incident, Annamalai said, "When the Nirbhaya incident took place, we said that such an incident was unlikely to happen in Tamil Nadu. But a similar incident had taken place here in Vellore. Minors are also involved in the Virudhunagar and Vellore incidents." "The law and order situation in the state is like this. DMK workers were among those arrested in the Virudhunagar incident. There is no security for women in Tamil Nadu for the last 10 months. Similarly, the police have no freedom. Their hands are tied by the ruling party," he added. A 22-year old woman was sexually assaulted by eight persons, including four juveniles, for several months. The accused threatened to share her assault video on social media. Police have arrested eight people, including four minors in the case. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday ordered a crime branch-criminal investigation department (CB-CID) probe into the matter. (ANI) Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Friday moved adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha for discussing the increase in the price of diesel, petrol and LPG cylinders. The prices of petrol and diesel on Friday were once again hiked across the country after a gap of a day. Petrol and diesel prices were hiked by 80 paise per litre in the national capital today. In the first hike in four months, the petrol and diesel prices were hiked for two consecutive days on Tuesday and Wednesday. The prices remained unchanged on Thursday. Earlier on Thursday, the oil companies raised the prices of petrol and diesel, the Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) increased the rate of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) by Rs 1 per kilogram.The price of one kg CNG has reached Rs 59.01 per kg in Delhi. The IGL has also increased the price of domestic piped natural gas (PNG) by Rs 1 per standard cubic meter (SCM) effective from Thursday. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha in the ongoing proceedings of the second half of the Budget Session have faced adjournments for a few days with Opposition creating ruckus over the fuel price hike. The Congress MPs protested at the Gandhi statue in Parliament over the increase in the prices of LPG cylinder gas and petrol and diesel on Wednesday. The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday faced adjournments following the ruckus created by the Opposition parties against rising cooking gas and fuel prices in the country. The second half of the Budget session of Parliament began on March 14 and will conclude on April 8. The first half of the Budget session began on January 31 and concluded on February 11. (ANI) In a horrifying case, a man sexually abused a minor girl in Pune. A case had been registered at Shivajinagar police station against an unidentified man, said Police. The sordid affair came to light when the mother of the victim complained to the police about the incident. The malfeasance was done by the accused when the victim was on her way to school. Earlier police had initiated an investigation after getting the whereabouts of the accused from the victim. "She is a minor, and we are dealing with the case with all sensitivity. We have registered the case at the Shivaji Nagar police station and have initiated the investigations immediately. The accused would be arrested soon," said Senior Police Inspector, Anita More. The accused has been booked under IPC sections of 376 and the POCSO Act. Further details are awaited. (ANI) The unfortunate arson incident in West Bengal's Birbhum that occurred early this week reverberated the Rajya Sabha on Friday with BJP leader from the state Roopa Ganguly breaking down over the tragedy while targetting the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, causing adjournment of the House for 10 minutes till 12.10 pm following ruckus. "Being born in Bengal is not a crime", said Ganguly while crying and wiping her tears, and mentioning "eight people, including two children, were burnt to death, Deputy Chairman sir". The Bharatiya Janata Party leader's attack during Zero Hour drew retaliation from TMC members, sloganeering against the BJP government in Centre and then the party leader trooping into the well of the House. Several MPs belonging to Bengal from treasury benches also came in support of Ganguly and they hit out at the West Bengal Chief Minister. Despite repeated requests from Deputy Chairman Harivansh, the members from treasury benches and the TMC continued sloganeering against each other. Amid the din, the Deputy Chairman tried to run the Zero Hour. As the ruckus continued, he then adjourned the House for 10 minutes till 12.10 pm. Ganguly raised the issue three days after a nine-member delegation of BJP MPs from West Bengal met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and sought his intervention and action against the perpetrators involved in the crime. Following the meeting, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government over the arson incident which claimed lives of eight people after some houses were set on fire in the state's Birbhum district. Around 10-12 houses were set on fire by the mob on Monday night and charred bodies were recovered by the police on Tuesday morning. The burnt bodies of eight people were found on Tuesday morning after houses were set on fire in Bogtui village in West Bengal's Birbhum in protests over the alleged murder of a Trinamool Congress leader Bhadu Sheikh-- the deputy chief of the Barshal gram panchayat and a resident of Bogtui who died in a bomb attack late on Monday night. Director-General of Police (DGP) West Bengal, Manoj Malviya informed on Tuesday that 11 arrests had been made in the case so far. (ANI) The gut-wrenching incident was reported in the early morning hours of Friday, through a PCR call. "The police immediately reached the spot near Peer Baba Majaar in Mangolpuri and found the dead body of an unknown male aged around 20 to 22 yrs old, with throat slit injuries. The dead body was stuffed in a purple coloured traveller bag. The body was clad in white kurta-pyjama. A case of murder has been registered" said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) outer Sameer Sharma. Several teams have been formed for the identification of the deceased, for checking the CCTV footages of the adjoining areas and for developing intelligence with regard to this incident. All neighbouring police stations and districts have been informed for checking the missing person records. Further details are awaited. (ANI) The High Court sought a report that is to be submitted by April 7. The case was being investigated by an SIT formed by the West Bengal government. As many as eight people were burnt to death in the Rampurhat area of West Bengal's Birbhum on Tuesday after a mob allegedly set houses on fire following the killing of Trinamool Congress leader Bhadu Sheikh. Director-General of Police (DGP) West Bengal, Manoj Malviya informed that 11 arrests have been made in the case so far. "Everyone demanded CBI inquiry. Everyone knows that Mamata Banerjee constituted SIT to suppress the case. Innocent people are murdered there but she is not accepting her government's failure," BJP MP Dilip Ghosh said after the Calcutta High Court's order. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government over the arson incident. The move came after a nine-member delegation of BJP MPs from West Bengal met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and sought his intervention and action against the perpetrators involved in the crime. (ANI) NEW DELHI The company behind a COVID-19 vaccine touted as a key tool for the developing world has sent tens of millions of doses to wealthy nations but provided none yet to the U.N.-backed effort to supply poorer countries, a sign that inequity persists in the global response to the pandemic. A quarter-million doses from the company were supposed to be available to the vaccine-sharing initiative, called COVAX, by March. But the U.N. agency in charge of deliveries says the first shipments now likely wont be made until April or May. Advertisement It wasnt supposed to be this way. The company, Gaithersburg-based Novavax, got $388 million from one of the organizations leading COVAX to fast-track the vaccines development and help make the shot available in poorer countries. The investment guaranteed COVAX the right of first refusal to the first Novavax doses, but the deal applied only to factories in the Czech Republic, South Korea and Spain, said Bjorg Dystvold Nilsson, spokesman for COVAX co-founder CEPI. Advertisement There are other factories that arent part of the deal and their shots are going elsewhere. The Serum Institute of India, the worlds largest vaccine maker, has manufactured millions of Novavax doses. According to Indias Ministry of External Affairs and the institute, more than 28.9 million of those doses were sent to the Netherlands in January and February, while Australia received about 6 million doses. Indonesia also received about 9 million doses in December. [ Novavaxs effort to vaccinate the world, from zero to not quite warp speed ] Thousands of other Novavax doses were also shipped from a Netherlands factory to other EU countries. Whatever the reason, a vaccine that was believed to be highly suitable for poor countries is now in large part going to rich countries, said Zain Rizvi, a drug policy expert at the U.S. advocacy group Public Citizen. Its tragic that in year three of the pandemic, we still cannot get the resources, attention and political will to solve vaccine inequity. The delay is the latest setback for COVAX, which has been repeatedly hit by supply problems and has missed numerous targets to share doses. Last year, WHOs director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus decried the chasm in vaccine supplies between rich and poor countries as a catastrophic moral failure. Vaccine availability has been improving in poorer regions recently, but logistical problems persist. According to data from Oxford University, only about 14% of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. More than 680 million doses of COVAX-provided vaccines remain unused or have expired, according to government data. Advertisement Even with vaccine supplies improving, some officials were eagerly awaiting the Novavax vaccine in particular because it is easier to transport and store than some other coronavirus shots. They also hoped it might be more enticing to people skeptical of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which suffered through a botched rollout in Europe. [ Novavax seeks OK for COVID vaccine in needy countries first ] Countries including Zimbabwe, the Central African Republic and Kiribati were among those in line to be offered Novavax doses by March from COVAX. Before the pandemic, Novavax was a small American company that had never brought any vaccine to market. Its shots have proved highly effective, but it is relying heavily on other companies to make them. The company, struggling to scale up production, also has delayed delivery to other countries, including some in the European Union. COVAX is supposed to receive more than 1 billion Novavax doses. In a statement, the Maryland company acknowledged that it had yet to share any shots with the vaccines alliance Gavi, which fronts the COVAX effort, but said it stands ready to do so. We continue to work with Gavi to reach our shared goal of ensuring global access to our protein-based vaccine where it is needed most, Novavax said. Advertisement Gavi suggested part of the delay is that the Novavax vaccine wasnt authorized by WHO until December. Gavi said it planned to allocate Novavax in the future and was in close touch with the manufacturer and expects the supply to be available for delivery when countries need it. Afternoon Update Weekdays Updating you on the day's biggest news before the evening commute. > Health officials also worry that the urgency to vaccinate people everywhere against COVID-19 has disappeared especially as many countries roll back precautions and the worlds attention is diverted. Rich countries have moved on from COVID and everyone is fixated on the war in Ukraine, but COVID-19 remains an acute crisis for most people in the world, said Ritu Sharma, a vice president at the charity CARE. She said COVAX was still desperately short of vaccines and that based on the current pace of vaccination, the world was still years and years away from immunizing enough people to stop future COVID-19 waves. Other experts said it was incumbent on public health agencies to ensure their investments into vaccines would benefit poor countries and to be more transparent about what went wrong. Whatever the explanation is, its unsatisfactory, said Brook Baker, an access to medicines specialist at Northeastern University. The bottom line is that there are still a lot of unvaccinated people in poor countries and once again, they are at the back of the line. Advertisement Cheng reported from London. Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. The Supreme Court on Friday granted permission to Preeti Chandra, wife of jailed Unitech promoter Sanjay Chandra to attend her grandmother's last rites with condition that she will be escorted by police during the time and return the jail on the same day after attending the ceremony. The court also directed Preeti Chandra not to use a phone or any communication device when she is out from jail. The court was hearing Preeti Chandra's plea seeking to attend the last rites of her grandmother. In the last hearing the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told the court that Preeti had recently got citizenship of the Dominican Republic and India did not have an extradition treaty with that country. ED opposed her bail plea and said that it was better to be safe than be sorry. Additional Solicitor General Madhavi Divan, appearing for the ED said that Preeti Chandra was arrested in the matter when she was trying to leave the country. Earlier, the ED had filed a prosecution complaint in a sessions court in Delhi against the founder of Unitech Group Ramesh Chandra, Preeti Chandra (Sanjay Chandra's wife) and Rajesh Malik of Carnoustie Group under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The ED has accused Unitech Group of transferring approximately Rs 347.5 crores to Carnoustie Group which in turn purchased immovable and movable assets in NCR, across India and abroad. (ANI) Rampur Police has sent a report to the District Magistrate for cancellation of the arms license of Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan's son Abdullah Azam Khan and his wife Tazeen Fatima. "In view of the cases registered against them, we have sent a report for cancellation of arms license of Azam Khan and Tazeen Fatima (Azam Khan's wife) to the District Magistrate. They possess revolver and rifle, respectively," Dr Sansar Singh, Additional Superintendent of Police, Uttar Pradesh told ANI. More than 200 cases have been registered against Azam Khan and his family. A number of cases have been registered against Azam Khan, most of which are about land encroachment by Mohammad Ali Jauhar University. Khan has been lodged in Sitapur Jail since February 2020 over several cases been registered against him, while his wife is out on bail for 1 year and his son is being released for 18 months. Azam Khan and his son Abdullah Khan were accused of forging the latter's age on his educational certificates for him to participate in the 2017 elections. He (Abdullah Azam Khan) was found guilty by the Allahabad High Court for submitting a forged birth certificate to the election body to contest elections. After winning the Rampur assembly seat in the recently-concluded Uttar Pradesh elections, Azam Khan resigned from the Lok Sabha. He represented Rampur in the lower house. (ANI) "The SIT by the state government was an attempt to suppress the facts. We had demanded a CBI inquiry in the case so that truth can be divulged. We thank the High Court for ordering a CBI probe in the case. We believe that a fair inquiry will be done now and justice will be given to the victims and their families," the BJP MLAs told ANI. "We also demand that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inform the house over the entire incident and also hold a discussion in the House. Our protest will continue until the chief minister gives a statement over the matter in the House," they added. Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court on Friday ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the case. The High Court sought a report that is to be submitted by April 7. The case was being investigated by an SIT formed by the West Bengal government. As many as eight people were burnt to death in the Rampurhat area of West Bengal's Birbhum on Tuesday after a mob allegedly set houses on fire following the killing of Trinamool Congress leader Bhadu Sheikh. Director-General of Police (DGP) West Bengal, Manoj Malviya informed that 11 arrests have been made in the case so far. (ANI) Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of Yogi Adityanath for the second term in Uttar Pradesh, the head priest of Gorakhnath Math in Gorakhpur performed a special 'Puja' on Friday. A special "Aarti" was also performed by the head priest Yogi Kamal Nath in the temple for Yogi Adityanath. He is head priest at the Gorakhpur Math, a temple that is known to have a strong influence in the eastern parts of the state. Adityanath, born on June 5, 1972 in a village in Uttarakhand, was named Ajay Singh Bisht by his parents, and later he left home to join the movement for the construction of Ram Temple at Ayodhya and became a disciple of Mahant Avaidyanath of Gorakhnath Math in Gorakhpur. He commenced his political journey in 1998 becoming the youngest MP from Gorakhpur Lok Sabha constituency. Adityanath represented the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat until 2017 when he became the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister after the Bharatiya Janata Party's landslide victory in the state polls. The Gorakhpur Sadar seat had also been a bastion of the BJP, which the party had never lost since 1967 since the days of the Jan Sangh. A five-time Lok Sabha MP, he was picked for the key role in the electorally crucial state by the BJP leadership. Adityanath, a monk-turned-politician, won his first-ever Assembly election by a margin of 1,03,390 from Gorakhpur Urban constituency, defeating the Samajwadi Party candidate Subhawati Upendra Dutt Shukla, who secured 62,109 votes in the recently-concluded UP Assembly elections. Adityanath will take oath as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh for the second time in a grand ceremony at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium at 4 pm today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, chief ministers of BJP-ruled states and senior BJP leaders are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony. According to sources, around 85,000 people will attend the grand ceremony in Lucknow. A grand stage has been set up and posters have been put up with slogans that read 'New UP of New India (Naye Bharat ka Naya UP)'. (ANI) The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has suspended a woman constable on Friday after the intervention of Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia into the incident at Guwahati airport where an 80-year-old disabled woman was subjected to a "strip search" after her hip implant set off metal detectors during a security check. "Woman constable Meera Das has been suspended for her behavior with the passenger and a detailed inquiry has been ordered into the matter," said a senior CISF officer. "The Constable has acted as per Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) but still she could have handled the situation in a much better way with an 80-year-old disabled woman passenger. Let the inquiry report come," he added. The incident took place at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) airport in Guwahati when a wheelchair-bound, Mhalo Kikon who underwent a hip replacement surgery last year was forced to "undress" at the CISF security check at the airport. "The staff on duty followed the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The passenger came into the booth for checking at 12.01 pm and left before 12.03 pm," the CISF claimed. Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday said he is 'looking into this' after the woman's daughter Dolly Kinon raised the issue on Twitter. As per Dolly Kikon, her mother Mhalo Kikon was traveling with her granddaughter to New Delhi. Kikon alleged, "The security personnel wanted 'proof' of her (mother's) titanium hip implant and forced her to "undress." "Someone please help! The CISF security personnel team at Guwahati Airport are harassing my niece who is taking care of my mother," she said in a series of tweet. She also alleged that the staff took away the complaint form, while her niece was taking a photo of it stating that it is not "allowed". She tweeted, "My mom is distressed." In another tweet, she alleged, "It is disgusting! My 80-year-old disabled mother was forced to pull down her undergarment and get naked. Why? Why?" Responding to her complaint, Guwahati International Airport replied, "We understand that the CISF and Security team have contacted you immediately to further assist the passengers and ensure comfort. The Safety and Security of all our passengers is our topmost priority. We eagerly look forward to serving you at Guwahati Airport." After facing criticism on social media, Guwahati Airport apologized for the inconvenience that the senior citizen had to face. (ANI) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has opposed in the Supreme Court the plea of Indrani Mukerjea, the prime accused in the Sheena Bora murder case, saying she has committed a "heinous act of planning and killing her own daughter" and "such a gruesome act does not deserve leniency". The CBI in an affidavit filed before the apex court vehemently opposed Indrani Mukerjea's bail plea saying she has committed the offence of murder of her own daughter and attempt to murder of her own son. Indrani Mukerjea is an influential person in the society who can influence the witnesses who are yet to be examined and there is apprehension that she may tamper with the evidence, said the CBI while adding that she is not trustworthy and reliable hence her bail plea should be dismissed. "There is every apprehension that she will threaten, intimidate or induce the prosecution witnesses, will tamper with the evidence and will abscond if enlarged on bail. Further, CBI has not filed a closure report as alleged, only further investigation has been concluded. Charge sheet have already been filed in the trial court," the affidavit stated. The prosecution has strong apprehension that in case she is released on bail, she may abscond which shall seriously hamper the ongoing trial of the case as the accused is a British national, the CBI further stated. As the matter came up for hearing today, a bench of Justices L Nageswara Rao and BR Gavai granted two weeks to Mukerjea to file a response on CBI's affidavit. Mukerjea has challenged the Bombay High Court order of November 16, 2021, denying her bail. Earlier, the bench had asked the CBI to file an affidavit on her bail plea. Filing the affidavit, the CBI strongly opposed the plea of Mukerjea saying it is liable to be rejected in view of the fact that there is no substance or merit in the same and she has miserably failed to show any new grounds entitling her for grant of bail other than the grounds which were mentioned before the Bombay High Court, the investigating agency said. "Applicant (Indrani Mukerjea) has committed very serious offences and the same cannot be treated like an ordinary case and as such the petitioner herein does not deserve any leniency from this Court," the CBI said. It further said that prison authorities of Byculla Women's Prison have round the clock medical facilities to attend to any emergency and proper treatment, and due attention is being provided by the jail authorities to Indrani Mukerjea. The offence committed by Mukerjea is very serious in nature and she is not entitled to any leniency from this Court on medical grounds, it said. The allegation that Sheena Bora was alive after April 2012 based on the SMS exchange between Sheena Bora and Rahul Mukherjea after April 24, 2012, is only the "figment of the imagination of the petitioner", the CBI told the apex court. There is sufficient evidence available in the present case which proves the guilt of Mukerjea and other co-accused beyond a reasonable doubt. Indrani Mukerjea, facing trial for allegedly killing her daughter Sheena Bora, is currently lodged at the Byculla women's prison in Mumbai following her arrest in August 2015. She had sent a letter from the jail to CBI stating that Sheena Bora is alive. She also asked CBI to record a statement of a jail inmate who claimed to have met Sheena in Kashmir. In her letter to the investigating agency, she stated that an inmate in Byculla prison had told her that she had spotted Sheena in Kashmir some time ago. In her letter, Indrani has requested the CBI to look into the possibility of Sheena being alive. Mukerjea has always maintained that Sheena has not been murdered and is alive and had gone abroad for her education in 2012, although she could never prove her claims in any way. The CBI has been investigating the Sheena Bora case since 2015, after taking over the case from Mumbai Police. According to the case registered by Mumbai Police, Sheena Bora was kidnapped and murdered by strangulation in April 2012. This case first came to light after the arrest of Indrani Mukerjea's driver, Shyamvar Rai in another case in August 2015. During the investigation, he confessed to having murdered Sheena Bora in April 2012 and said that he dumped her body in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. He had also told Mumbai Police that Sheena's mother, Indrani and Sanjeev Khanna (ex-husband of Indrani) were also involved in this murder. According to CBI's case before the court, Indrani Mukerjea killed Sheena Bora because she was furious over the relationship between Sheena Bora, whom she introduced as her sister to everyone, and Rahul Mukerjea, son of Peter Mukerjea (third husband of Indrani Mukerjea) from his first marriage. According to the CBI, Mukerjea killed Sheena Bora as Sheena was threatening to expose her in public over the fact that she was not her sister, but her daughter, CBI said. Driver Shyamvar Rai turned approver in this case. Peter Mukerjea was given bail by a special CBI court in March 2020. During the trial of the case, Indrani and Peter decided to end their relationship too. They were given divorce by a family court in Mumbai in October 2019. (ANI) The Delhi High Court has permitted Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor to appear through a virtual hearing before the trial court in a money laundering case related to allegedly wrongful loss of Rs 466.51 crore registered by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). The trial court on February 28, 2022 ordered Rana Kapoor to appear physically on March 29, 2022. Rana Kapoor through his advocate Vijay Aggarwal challenged the said order in Delhi High Court. The bench of Justice Yogesh Khanna on March 23, while allowing Rana Kapoor to appear before the court virtually, said the impugned order dated February 28 passed by the trial court so far relates to issuing the production warrants against the petitioner, in the circumstances explained, is hereby set aside. The petitioner is allowed to appear before the trial court on next date fixed by it through video conferencing. Former Managing director and CEO of Yes Bank Limited, Rana Kapoor recently had moved a petition in Delhi High Court seeking direction to permit him to appear through virtual hearing in trial court. Advocate Vijay Aggarwal, who appeared for the petitioner Rana Kapoor, submitted before the court that his client has been regularly appearing before the Special Court in Delhi through virtual hearing mode and facing multiple cases in Mumbai and is arrested and lodged in Taloja Jail Mumbai and thus physical production in Delhi on every date before the Special Judge, Delhi would not be feasible and would cause severe hardships to his client. The lawyer for Rana Kapoor also argued that his client is required more in Mumbai as the cases there are at an advance stage as compared to the case in Delhi. Advocate Aggarwal further argued that for his client to be produced physically from Mumbai in Delhi, would require significant amount of state machinery and therefore significant amount of resources would exhausted which in itself would not serve any purpose. In the present case, the trial court in October last year, took cognizance of Enforcement Directorate (ED) Chargesheet (Prosecution Complaint) filed against Avantha group promoter Gautam Thapar involving Yes Bank's Rana Kapoor and several employees in connection with money laundering case. According to the ED, an ECIR was registered against Gautam Thapar, Avantha Realty Ltd., Oyster Buildwell Pvt. Ltd. and others, alleging criminal breach of trust, cheating, criminal conspiracy and forgery for diversion/ misappropriation of public money during the period 2017 to 2019. Earlier, the ED told the Delhi Court that "Investigation revealed that proceeds of crime, were laundered through Oyster Buildwell Pvt Ltd (OBPL), Jhabua Power Limited (JPL), Jhabua Power Investment Ltd. (JPIL), Avantha Power and Infrastructure Ltd (APIL), Avantha Realty Ltd. (ARL) etc. which are being controlled and beneficially owned directly or indirectly by Gautam Thapar. (ANI) The accused, Piyush Tiwari alias Puneet Bhardwaj was declared Proclaimed Offender by the court. He was a wanted criminal in more than 30 cheating cases filed against him in different police stations in Noida, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. The 42-year old has been accused of cheating approximately Rs 1000 crore in the pretext of alloting flats in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and has been lodged in jail along with his wife, Shikha for her alleged involvement in the fraudulence. "Based on a tip received by HC Om Prakash Dagar, AATS/North, on Sunday, a dedicated team of AATS, North District swung into action and started developing secret information by using technical surveillance. On the basis of surveillance, it was learnt that Tiwari was residing in Nashik and doing business of Onion," the police said. During the investigation, the police found that Tiwari, after fleeing from Noida, was residing with a fake name Puneet Bhardwaj in Nashik, Maharashtra. During the interrogation, Tiwari revealed that he started his business as a builder in 2011 which eventually collapsed when the Income Tax department raided his house and seized approximatey Rs 120 crores. In order to stand in market, he started cheating people on the pretext of selling one flat to multiple buyers, the police said. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Friday allowed a landlord to reclaim possession of his shop located at Delhi's Connaught Place followed by a 50-year-old legal battle with tenants in different judicial forums. In that proceeding instituted before the Rent Controller, Delhi, altogether three individuals and three firms were originally impleaded as respondents. In this appeal, however, only three respondents have been impleaded. The shop was rented out to the then proprietor (since deceased) of the first respondent in the year 1936. The appellant became the landlord thereof on having purchased the subject premises from its erstwhile owner in the year 1958. The main ground on which the eviction was asked for was sub-letting without the consent of the landlord. The respondents run a retail outlet from the subject premises and at the material point of time, the respondents were operating from there a chemist shop. The substance of allegations of the landlord was that the respondents had sub-let certain portions of the premises to three medical practitioners, (including one dentist) and two other firms. By an order passed on June 5, 1997, the Additional Rent Controller, Delhi dismissed the petition holding that the appellant had failed to show that there was any sub-letting, assignment or parting with possession of the tenanted premises in favour of persons/entities who were included in the array of respondents. But in a judgment dated August 29, 2007 the Additional Rent Control Tribunal reversed the decision of the authority and passed an order of eviction on the ground of sub-letting. The respondents, thus, moved before the Delhi High Court challenging the order of the Tribunal and were successful in that proceedings. Delhi HC by its order dated November 14, 2018 set aside the judgment dated August 29, 2007 of the Additional Rent Control Tribunal and restored the judgment dated June 5, 1997 of the Additional Rent Controller. This judgment of the High Court was then challenged before the apex court. Senior Counsel Dhruv Mehta, appearing with advocate Jeevesh Nagrath, for the appellant landlord argued that sub-letting had been proved before the final fact-finding forum (at the appellate stage) and the appellate forum had returned findings on facts. In such circumstances, the High Court in its supervisory jurisdiction ought not to have had upset the order of the Appellate Tribunal, the lawyer argued. Senior Counsel Rana Mukherjee, appearing for the respondents, on the other hand, has opposed appellant submission. The Supreme Court passed an order in the favour of the landlord granting the right to its own property and thus set aside the judgment of the High Court and restore the Appellate Tribunal's findings. "The finding of the High Court that the appellate forum's decision was perverse and the manner in which such finding was arrived at was itself perverse," the top court said. "We accordingly direct that the appellant would be entitled to occupation charges Rs 30,000 per month from November 14, 2018 till the subject premises are vacated by the respondents, and the respondents must vacate the premises within a period of 53 weeks from date. A sum of Rs 1 lakh shall be remitted to the appellant within one month from the date and Rs 12 lakh within six months from date," a bench of Justices Vineet Saran and Aniruddha Bose said in its order. "So far as the occupation charges for the period of 53 weeks from today is concerned, by which period the respondents shall vacate the premises, the respondents shall remit to the bank account of the appellant the said sum of Rs 30,000 per month by the last date of each month and if any further sum is found due on computation made in the manner indicated above, such additional sum shall also be remitted within the aforesaid period of six months, " a bench of Justices Vineet Saran and Aniruddha Bose said. (ANI) Earlier, the members of the house questioned the indulgence of traffic police in corruption and malpractices. In a response to the allegations and questions, the Speaker said that a thorough investigation is to be done at all levels. "I know how the transfer posting is done and you catch or investigate only constable level officials. But the main point is that if postings are changed in return for money then that Officer will tend to extort or recover money through corruption," the Speaker said. The MoS Home assured the house that detailed investigations would be done in the matter. The budget session of the state legislature is being held between March 3 and March 25 in Mumbai. (ANI) Thirty students from the Pathways in Technology Early College High School program at Joppatowne High School participated in mock interviews March 10 with mentors from Aberdeen Proving Ground, including the Army Communications Electronics Command, Army Test and Evaluation Command, and Regional Network Enterprise Center. This event set a standard for the P-TECH program and will provide students with cutting-edge skills in applying and interviewing for jobs in the technology field, said Shomari Zachary, P-TECH coordinator. The lessons and skills they gained will forever guide them. Advertisement Interviews were conducted both online and in person. Students were required to dress for the occasion as they received on-the-spot feedback. The feedback given to me afterward was very helpful because the interviewers gave me better ways to remember my prepared thoughts and effective ways to practice for the interview, said Cash Carter, a 10th-grader. Advertisement Parents and guardians were instrumental in prepping students by conducting mock interviews at home, according to a news release from Harford County Public Schools. By the end of the event, students gained confidence in their abilities and intelligence after the interviews highlighted their potential, the news release said. This was an opportunity of growth and highlighted my real potential for the real world when I apply to cybersecurity jobs in the future, said Kennedy Green, a 10th-grader. Through the immersive P-TECH program, students are taking high school and college courses while working in the field of computer information systems or cybersecurity. The goal of the program is to empower students to pursue advanced education and to be financially successful in a global economy, according to the news release. Harford County Public Schools is partnered with the Army Communications Electronics Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground to create this event and to help students get paid internships as well as individualized mentorship. CECOMs contribution to Joppatown High Schools P-TECH program is priceless, the school system said in the news release. Moving forward, these students will be applying for six-week internships that will start in 2024, said Casi Boyer, a CECOM human resources specialist,. It is our hope they will eventually choose to become Army civilian employees and work with us at APG. I can honestly tell you [this] was a pivotal experience in their careers. Students from Joppatowne High School's P-Tech Program participated in a Mock Interview Day with mentors from Aberdeen Proving Ground virtually and in person on March 10, 2022. Pictured are Kristy Zander and Sajal Mirza. (Courtesy Harford County Public Schools) The flock of 'under 50' Chief Ministers is growing in size, with the monk-turned-politician Yogi Adityanath leading the pack of the younger generation of leaders at the helm of as many as six states in the country. The youth leadership taking the reigns of the states was a rare event in the last century as very few broke the glass ceilings. While Adityanath (49) stays under 50 years of age, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, 48, expanded the 'under 50' group this month which now has six members. M.O.H Farook was the first to break the glass ceiling, becoming the youngest Chief Minister in India after he took the charge of Puducherry in 1967 when he was just 29-years-old. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Parkash Singh Badal was 43 years old when he became Chief Minister of Punjab in 1970. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar had announced his arrival at the forefront of Indian politics by taking charge of Maharashtra in 1978. He was 38-years-old when he became the Chief Minister of the state. Afterwards, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) leader Prafulla Kumar Mahanta in 1985 became Assam Chief Minister when he was 34 years old. But India in the last two decades has seen more younger political leaders rising in the ranks in their respective political parties, with some gaining from the political legacies passed on to the next generation. The National Conference patriarch Farooq Abdulla in 2009 handed over the leadership baton to his son Omar Abdulla in 2009 who became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir at 38 years of age. The generational shift again took place in the Samajwadi Party when Akhilesh Yadav took over the leadership of his party and also became the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 2012 when he was 38 years old. A year later, Hemant Soren became the Chief Minister of Jharkhand in 2013 when he was 28-years-old, with his father Shibu Soren passing on the leadership baton of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) to him. Jagan Mohan Reddy, son of veteran Congress leader YS Rajsekhara Reddy, became the youngest CM of Andhra Pradesh in 2019 at 46. The last decade on the other hand has seen the arrival of the new set of leadership at the helm of the states while not hailing from leading political families. The Aam Admi Party (AAP) founder and bureaucrat-turned-politician Arvind Kejriwal became the Chief Minister of Delhi when he was 45 years old. Prema Khandu, 42, is also among the young Chief Ministers. He had first become the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh when he was 37 years old. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, 48, and his Uttarakhand counterpart Pushkar Singh Dhami, 46, are other 'under 50' members of the group. Out of the six 'under 50' Chief Ministers, four are from the Bharatiya Janta Party, and one each from the AAP and YSR Congress. (ANI) National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) through its Namami Gange project is aiming to clean the river Yamuna. A nearly 22 km stretch of Yamuna has been identified and the authorities are on mission mode to stop sewage flow into the river, because Yamuna, being the largest tributary of India's most pious river Ganga not just appears stagnant but also rotten due to the colossal amount of dirt, dust and untreated filth that have fallen directly into the river. "If we look at it, the flow of Yamuna...up to where the Chambal joins, it is very bad because there is a lot of pollution coming to the sector. It gets purified only after the Chambal joins, which later joins and that water goes and meets at Ganga. So, the most difficult part or the most polluted stretch of River Yamuna is 22 kilometers in the Delhi area, which does not see any flow because it is basically stagnant water and there is no additional water coming into it," said G Asok Kumar, Director General of National Mission for Clean Ganga on Friday. "We are now trying to focus on getting this Yamuna water clean. In Delhi, there are about 18 Nullahs, which flow into this 22 km stretch, which brings in a lot of water", said G Asok Kumar. He added, "Dirty water from Haryana comes in, dirty water from UP comes in and a lot of water from Delhi comes in the total sewage that is generated out of Delhi is around 3,200 megaliters per day (MLD), out of which the capacity to treat is 2,600. We have 24 STPs that treat around 2600 MLD and there is a gap of around 650 MLD. So, this has to be addressed". The National Mission for Clean Ganga has initiated setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) across the city. One of the biggest STPs, Coronation Pillar Sewage Treatment Plant in Delhi was recently visited by senior officials from the NMCG to take stock of the ongoing construction work. This STP will treat 318 MLD of wastewater at an estimated cost of Rs. 515 crore, out of which 414 crore is the capital cost. The 50 per cent of the capital cost is borne by National Mission for Clean Ganga. The NMCG chief said, "What have done in last few years since the Namami Gange formed, we have sanctioned 23 projects in the Yamuna sector for about 4,200 Crore to look after the issues of pollution in Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh sector, so that the entire stretch of Yamuna is cleaned up". Delhi, presently, generates an estimated sewage flow of 3273 MLD out of which 2340 MLD sewage is treated against the installed capacity of 2624 MLD. There is a discharge of 933 MLD untreated sewage into the river Yamuna. A total of 12 projects for the treatment of 1385 MLD sewage have been taken up at a cost of Rs. 2354 crore under Namami Gange Program in Delhi, to abate the pollution in River Yamuna. The government's sincere efforts by restricting the flow of urban sewage and industrial effluents from the city will help keep Yamuna clean. G Asok Kumar said, "That will be a big relief. 310 Million Liters per Day of treated water will be put into Yamuna. It also prevents that much dirty water from flowing into River Yamuna". The government's comprehensive plan also involves modernizing and regulating Dhobi ghats, which the authorities say have proven dangerous to both the sanctity and purity of the river. The NMCG, in collaboration with the Delhi government is also building Decentralized-STPs in parks of Delhi.The government says a holistic approach is what is required to treat the capital's sewage and this is going to be the fundamental level approach that will reward it with tangible results in the long run. The National Capital Region of India, being the world's largest urban conglomeration, has witnessed exponential growth--both in terms of economy and geography. Expectedly, the population too has grown quickly. This multi-fold expansion in population has paved the way for a rapid accumulation of land and river pollution. (ANI) A Sessions court in Kerala on Friday dismissed the bail application of tattoo artist Sujeesh PS who is accused in several sexual assault cases. The Court denied his bail applications in two of these cases. The tattoo artist was taken into custody by Cheranalloor Police on March 6 following the complaints of six women alleging sexual assault inside his tattoo studio. The accused have been charged with cases under sections 354 and 376 of the Indian Penal Code. By rejecting the bail petition, Additional Sessions Court Judge Shibu Thomas noted that "I am not inclined to grant bail to the petitioner at this stage of investigation considering the nature of the offence and strong similar antecedents of the petitioner. Granting of bail to the petitioner at this stage may affect the smooth progress of the investigation and the possibility of the petitioner influencing the witnesses and interfering with the investigation cannot be ruled out. So, considering the nature and gravity of the offence alleged and the stage of the investigation, I am of the view that the petitioner cannot be released on bail at this stage." Sujeesh was running a tattoo studio at Edappally in Kochi. An 18-year-old who alleged that she was raped inside the studio when she was getting inked, registered the first complaint against him. Following this, six other cases were registered against the tattoo artist, including a French woman, who had sent a complaint via email alleging sexual harassment. (ANI) Sticking with the Brahmin-OBC combination for Deputy Chief Ministers, Brajesh Pathak along with Keshav Prasad Maurya took oath on Friday as deputies of CM Yogi Adityanath. In the last term of the Yogi Adityanath government, Dinesh Sharma was the Deputy CM, representing the electorally crucial Brahmins in the state. Pathak had served as the Law Minister in the previous Yogi Adityanath led UP Government, and was credited to have worked for the party to consolidate the support base among the Brahmins in the run up to the Assembly elections. A prominent Brahmin leader of the party, he won the Assembly polls from the Lucknow Cannt seat in the 2022 state Polls. In 2017, Pathak jumped ship from Bahujan Samaj Party and joined the BJP in the presence of Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Minister Mahesh Sharma. Then in the 2017 Assembly elections in UP, he became an MLA from Lucknow Central seat. On 21 August 2019, after the first cabinet expansion of Yogi Adityanath he was given the charge of Legislative, Justice, and Rural Engineering service departments. He was a Member of the Parliament from the Unnao Lok Sabha seat from 2004 to 2009. Pathak started his political career from student politics in 1989 and became the president of Lucknow University in 1990. Brajesh Pathak was born on 25 June 1964 in the Hardoi district of UP. Brajesh Pathak is a lawyer by profession. He has done LLB from Lucknow University. The BJP has created other records with its successive victory in Uttar Pradesh. It is the first time that a party has returned to power in successive polls after 37 years. The BJP won 255 seats in Uttar Pradesh with its allies in the state also registering impressive performance. The Chief Minister is expected to carry the momentum of the party's electoral victory to fulfil the poll promises and give a further push for the development of the state in his second term. (ANI) Former official in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Arvind Kumar Sharma on Friday took oath as a Minister in the CM Yogi Adityanath led Uttar Pradesh Cabinet. Sharma in January 2021 had taken retirement, one-and-a-half years before his retirement, to join active politics. He has worked with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for 18 years, and he is also referred to as 'Modi's Man' in political circles. Sharma was sent to Uttar Pradesh during the second wave of COVID-19 to manage the relief work in Varanasi, PM Modi's Parliamentary constituency. Later, he was appointed vice president of the UP unit of the BJP. Currently, he is a member of the legislative council of the state. He joined BJP on January 14 this year, days after seeking voluntary retirement. Sharma is an IAS officer from the 1988 batch and has worked closely with PM Modi since he became Gujarat's chief minister in 2001. Sharma served as Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's secretary before joining the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) as a joint secretary after 2014. A K Sharma was born in the Mau district of Uttar Pradesh in 1962 and attended school there before attending Allahabad University. Before joining the civil service in 1988, he earned a master's degree in political science. His first posting as an IAS officer in the Gujarat cadre was as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). He became the district magistrate of Mehsana in 1995. Sharma began working as a secretary in Gujarat Chief Minister's office in 2001 and remained there till 2014, when he moved to the Centre. Sharma is known to have been a low-profile officer. He is said to have organised the 'Vibrant Gujarat' investor event, which was instrumental in attracting foreign investment to Gujarat. Sharma is also credited to have been instrumental in the relocation of the Tata Nano facility from Singur in West Bengal to Sanand in Gujarat, in 2008. In 2014, Sharma joined the PMO as a joint secretary and was later elevated to the additional secretary rank in 2017. In May 2020, Sharma was given the charge of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) ministry, the sector affected badly due to the COVID-19. (ANI) A Day after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged makers of the film 'The Kashmir Files' to put the film on YouTube and denied the film to be made tax-free for people in Delhi, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday urged Kejriwal to stop 'constantly mocking' the Kashmiri Pandits. Sarma further urged Kejriwal not to rub salt into Hindus' wounds. "If you don't want to make #KashmirFiles tax-free, don't. But stop this constant mocking of Kashmiri Pandits. Their sufferings are a result of such condescending attitudes and appeasement politics of secularists. It doesn't behove a CM to use the Assembly to rub salt in the wounds of Hindus," tweeted Sarma today. Slamming the BJP for promoting 'The Kashmir Files' and demanding that it be made tax-free in Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said, "Some people were earning crores" by exploiting the suffering of Kashmiri Pandits, while BJP leaders had been "reduced" to putting up posters of the movie." "If the BJP wants everyone to watch the movie, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri should release it on YouTube so that it is available to everyone for free," Kejriwal said in Delhi Assembly yesterday. The Vivek-Agnihotri directed 'Kashmir Files' that was released in theatres on March 11 stars Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi, Darshan Kumaar and others. It revolves around the killings of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s. The movie, which has been made tax free in several states in the country has caught up in controversy with BJP and Opposition parties sparring over the portrayal of the incidents it depicts. (ANI) Centre on Friday told Rajya Sabha that over 29 lakh farmers have benefitted from the Pradhan Mantra Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) since the inception of its respective component schemes. Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Prahlad Singh Patel informed in a reply to Bharatiya Janata Party MP Vikas Mahatme question regarding the number of farmers, directly and indirectly, benefitted from the PMKSY umbrella. In a written reply to another query about the number of food parks, cold chain infrastructure and the clusters created under the schemes being implemented under the PMKSY umbrella, the Minister informed that presently, there are as many as 20 completed/operational Mega Food Parks across India, while 41 have been sanctioned. 258 Integrated Cold Chains have been completed/operational in the country, and 349 have been sanctioned. While, as for the Agro Processing clusters, there are 12 completed/operational units and 68 more have been sanctioned. Patel said that the Food Processing Industries Ministry has conducted an evaluation study for relevant component schemes of PMKSY. "These studies have concluded that the component schemes have largely achieved their objectives with substantial benefit to the farmers," Patel said. Patel further said the evaluation study of integrated cold chain and value addition infrastructure scheme under PMKSY, conducted by NABARD Consultancy Limited in the year 2020 has estimated that captive projects under the scheme have resulted in an increase in farm-gate prices by 12.38 per cent and each project is estimated to benefit on average more than 9,500 farmers. PMKSY was approved by the cabinet in May 2017 for the period of 2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle. It is an umbrella scheme incorporating ongoing schemes like Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure and also new schemes like Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages, Creation or Expansion of Food Processing and Preservation Capacities. The objective of PMKSY is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease Agri-Waste. PMKSY is expected to attract investment of Rs 11.095 crore, which can benefit 28,49,945 farmers and generate 5,44,432 direct and indirect employment in the country by the financial year 2025-2026. (ANI) The Governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have signed a Combined Reciprocal Common Transport Agreements (CRCTA) covering both contract carriage and stage carriage as its validity is coming to an end soon. On the initiative of Member Secretary, NCRPB, and with the consent of the NCR participating States, NCRPB simultaneously worked on having the revised Agreement, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs informed in a statement today. One of the policy proposals of the Regional Plan-2021 for the National Capital Region is the unrestricted movement of buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws within the NCR. Implementation of this policy is important to facilitate the general public to commute between Delhi and the rest of NCR seamlessly. Now, as the NCR States with the efforts of their respective Transport Commissioners and Secretaries, have completed necessary action required u/s (5) and (6) of the Motor Vehicle Act 1988 and notified the Combined RCTA. NCR Planning Board is happy to finally issue the Combined Reciprocal Common Transport Agreements (CRCTA) covering both Contract Carriage and Stage Carriage. The agreement provides for countersigning of permits/licences for motor cabs/Taxis/Auto Rickshaw registered in NCR for seamless movement single point taxation for mass public transport vehicles of State transport undertaking inter-city buses, to ease traffic congestion and reduce air pollution, clean emission norms as per Government of India, provisions for aggregators and e-vehicles as per Ministry of Power (MOP) and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways guidelines etc. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Friday expressed surprise after it was told that bouncers were being sent by a private firm to evict government officials out of Sujan Singh Park flats near Khan Market here. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Centre, informed a bench headed by Chief Justice of India NV Ramana that government officials were being forced out of Sujan Singh Park flats with the help of bouncers. To this, the bench said, "How can they send bouncers against the government of India? List it next week before the appropriate bench." Mehta mentioned the matter before the CJI bench and sought urgent listing of the case whereby the Centre challenged in the top court a Delhi High Court judgement of January 8, 2020, which had affirmed the decision of the Additional Rent Control Tribunal directing the Centre to pay arrears of rent owed to Sir Sobha Singh and Sons Pvt Ltd. "The impugned order permits the other side to get it vacated and they are sending bouncers. I am sorry, but it's quite unusual but there are government officials," Mehta told the bench. Sir Sobha Singh and Sons Pvt Ltd. had filed an eviction petition before the Additional Rent Controller who passed a judgement on September 1, 2007, in its favour. Delhi High Court had also decided against the government. (ANI) Lashing out at the Centre, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Friday alleged that there is a nexus going on between the Central agencies and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to defame the Maharashtra government. This statement by Raut came days after former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, Devendra Fadnavis, alleged that the special public prosecutor of the state government has been planning a conspiracy against BJP leaders in Maharashtra. Fadnavis had also handed over a pen drive with a video recording to the Assembly Speaker and demanded a CBI probe into the matter. Speaking on this issue today to the reporters, Raut said, "What is this Pendrive? A new pendrive is surfacing every day...Is theirs a factory of it? There's a nexus of Central agencies and BJP...Same is happening in West Bengal, soon it'll happen in Tamil Nadu as well." "In Maharashtra, both the National Investigation Agency and the opposition are joining hands in order to defame the Maharashtra government. The central probe agency wants to overthrow the Maharashtra government in 'false' cases. The chargesheet get ready immediately on random cases. We do not even know what is the charge against us is about," he said. "There has never been such poor and low-level politics in Maharashtra," he added. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday attacked the Centre over raids and action by central probe agencies in alleged money laundering cases against people linked to the ruling alliance in Maharashtra and said that "missiles are being fired but we are safe as of now". These developments pour in as Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections are slated to be held this year. (ANI) Owl Magazine, the student multimedia publication of Harford Community College (HCC), earned first-place honors in two categories in the national 2021 Pinnacle Awards sponsored by the College Media Association. Owl Magazine won first place for Two-Year TV Station of the Year. This category recognizes excellence in coverage, content and reporting, production quality, service to the campus community and innovative use of audio/video. Advertisement They were judged on three video submissions: COVID-19 and Classroom Learning, The Truth About Tarot and Phoenix Rising: A Love Story. This was the fifth year that Owl Magazine won first place in this category. COVID-19 and Classroom Learning covered the return to in-person learning at HCC following the pandemic shutdown. The videographers were Paige Clark, Steven Hyde, Connor Smith, Cayden Hagy, Samantha Cox, Janet Barry, and Jennie Hall-Frantz. The video was edited by Samantha Cox, Nate McRoberts, and Jennie Hall-Frantz. Steven Hyde provided the on-air reporting. The video can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3l8pueS. Advertisement The Truth About Tarot featured a staff members first tarot card reading. Videography was provided by John Merkel and Matt Hubbard. The video was edited by Sam Raborg. Lexi Knipe provided the on-air reporting. The video can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3p1rWVX. Phoenix Rising: A Love Story highlighted a womans transgender journey with her high school sweetheart. Adeyemi Ekundayo provided the reporting, videography, and video editing. The video can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3oWa4vw. This video also won first place in the category of Best Viral Video which is a four-year college category. The last time Owl Magazine won the category of Best Viral Video was in the 2017-2018 Pinnacle Awards for D.C. on a Budget, which was also edited by Adeyemi Ekundayo. This category recognizes excellence in content, production quality, use of social media to promote the video and innovative use of audio/video in the production. Number of views the video received was considered but was not the sole metric by which the category is judged. The 2020-2021 student staff was led by chief adviser Claudia Brown, content adviser Matt Tennyson, and technical advisors John Merkel and Matt Hubbard. The awards were announced during the fall National College Media Convention, which was sponsored by the College Media Association and the Associated Press. Owl Magazine has been publishing videos on YouTube and Facebook since 2014 (@OwlMagazine). `Students interested in joining the staff may email harfowl@harford.edu or reach out via social media. No experience is necessary; training is provided. Paid positions and credit options are also available for interested students. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation and Tamil Nadu State Express Transport Corporation on Thursday in its tender issued for eateries, where state transport busses halt, had put up a condition that only vegetarian food should be served at these eateries. A statement from the state directorate of information and public relations department issued on Friday read, "Following complaints from commuters and hotel owners, we have revised the rules. The rule that the hotels should serve only vegetarian food has been retracted." The department had quoted 'hygiene' as one of the reasons behind the decision. The transport and road safety department, earlier stated that the government has been receiving complaints about eateries with unsanitary kitchens that serve unhygienic food. The notice also insisted that restaurants with CCTV cameras, hygienic kitchens, nominal pricing, computerised billing systems and complaints boxes should apply for the tender. Toilet facilities at these establishments must be provided free of cost for passengers. All items sold at MRP, the tender notice read. The decision to roll back the 'only veg' clause was taken after an outcry by the passengers and hotel owners. (ANI) A drug trafficker was shot in his leg when he allegedly attacked policemen and attempted to escape from the police custody in Assam's Karbi Anglong district on Thursday night, police said on Friday. Acting on a tip-off, Karbi Anglong district police had set up a checkpoint in front of SBI Khatkhati on Thursday night and later, detained the suspect while he was trying to cross the checkpoint on foot. On carrying out a thorough search of the person, the police team had recovered 40 soapboxes containing approximately half a kilogram of heroin from his possession. John Das, Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Bokajan in Karbi Anglong district told ANI that the apprehended person was identified as Bimal Paul and during preliminary interrogation, he informed that the consignment was to be delivered at Sukhanjan area under Bokajan police station. "As such, a team led by the Officer-in-Charge of Khatkhati police station and staff proceeded to Sukhanjan area and on the way, the accused person attacked Sub-Inspector Nitul Saikia and forcibly got down from the vehicle. Sub-Inspector Nitul Saikia also tried to stop the accused but the accused assaulted him and he crossed the highway." "He tried to stop him after firing one round in the air but the accused did not stop. Finally, one round was fired aiming at his leg and the accused got bullet injury," John Das said. The injured drug trafficker was immediately shifted to Bokajan CHC for treatment. "Sub-Inspector Nitul Saikia was also admitted to Bokajan CHC," John Das said. Further probe is underway. (ANI) Mahatma Gandhi's great-grandson, Tushar Gandhi, has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Gujarat High Court's order refusing to interfere with the proposed redevelopment of the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India NV Ramana said it would hear the matter next week after senior advocate Indira Jaising mentioned the case for urgent hearing before it. Jaising said the Gujarat Tourism Corporation is undertaking a project for the redevelopment of Sabarmati Ashram. The bench then agreed to list the matter for hearing next week on the virtual hearing day as requested by Jaising. "Okay, next week. Most probably next Friday," said CJI. The Gujarat High Court had dismissed Gandhi's petition against the State government's decision to redevelop Sabarmati Ashram. Thereafter, Gandhi approached the top court against the High Court order. Gujarat government had told the High Court that Sabarmati Ashram covers an area of 1 acre which would remain untouched, and the idea was to develop 55 acres of land surrounding the Ashram. The High Court in its order had noted that the State government assured that it will "not touch" three key attractions in the one-acre area housing the main ashram. Gandhi, however, stated that the significance of the land was not limited to the one-acre Ashram itself but covered the entire property on the banks of the Sabarmati. The petitioner expressed fears that the redevelopment would change the physical structure of Sabarmati Ashram and corrupt its simplicity and frugality which embodied the ideology of Mahatma Gandhi, thus making it diametrically opposite to Gandhian principles. He feared that the project would be turned into a commercial tourist attraction that would subsequently be pawned off to a private contractor to be run merely for profit. The Rs 1,200 crore Gandhi Ashram Memorial and Precinct Development Project has been jointly undertaken by the State and the Central government for developing the Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived from 1917 to 1930. The project would be developed over an area of 55 acres from the existing five acres by bringing together heritage buildings and restoring the surroundings. (ANI) The decision was taken in the Standing Committee of the National Board of Wildlife in its 67th meeting. Taking to Twitter, Yadav said, "Happy to inform that the Standing Committee of National Board of Wildlife in its 67th meeting has decided that Oct 5 from this year will be celebrated as National Dolphin Day." "Generating awareness and community participation is integral for conservation of this indicator species," the minister further tweeted. (ANI) With this, the active COVID cases in the state stand at 4,389. As many as 872 recoveries and zero deaths were also reported in the last 24 hours. "Two deaths were not added due to lack of documents and 79 deaths were added as per the new guidelines of the Central government," Kerala Health Department informed. The cumulative COVID death toll in the state was reported to be 67,631. (ANI) The Delhi Police, in collaboration with PETA (People for the ethical treatment of animals), raided an illegal bird market near Jama Masjid and rescued more than a thousand birds in the operation conducted on Wednesday here. After getting information from PETA, the Delhi Police rescued hundreds of muniya birds, two hill mynas, pigeons and many native parrots from the hands of vendors who had caged these birds after illegal hunting. The birds were trapped in small cages made of wire and stuffed in small dark rooms, suffocating for air and space. The police said that the birds were in a pitiable situation. The rescued birds, including adults, juveniles and baby parakeets, were handed over to the Forest Department for further treatment and medical care. They will be sent back to their original habitat once they are fit and healthy. This bird market located near Jama Masjid has been in existence for a long time. Delhi Police has raided this market many times earlier and had rescued many such birds but illegal trading of the birds in this market is a common occurrence. (ANI) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two separate cases against the General Manager, Chief Manager and Sales Officer of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) on the allegations of bribery of Rs 1 Lakh in each case. The first case has been registered on complaint against a General Manager(Retail Sales), IOCL, Nagpur and a Chief Manager(Retail Sales), IOCL, Nagpur on the allegations of demanding a bribe of Rs 1 lakh by the General Manager (Retail Sales), IOCL, Nagpur to execute an agreement with the present owner and also transfer of the ownership of retail outlet from the previous owner to the present owner, said a statement by the CBI. The accused persons have been identified as NP Rodge (General Manager) and Manish Nandle (Chief Manager) of the company in Nagpur. It was further alleged that the accused directed the complainant to pay the bribe amount to the Chief Manager (Retail Sales), IOCL, Nagpur. CBI laid a trap and the Chief Manager (Retail Sales), IOCL, Nagpur was apprehended while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh from the complainant. The second case has been registered on a complaint against a Sales Officer, IOCL, Gondia (Maharashtra) on the allegations of demanding a bribe of Rs 1 lakh for allowing the smooth functioning of the complainant's Petrol Pump without any delay caused by IOCL in providing the stock and also previous favours rendered to the Complainant, informed the statement. The accused in this case was identified as Sunil Golar. Searches are being conducted at the office and residential premises of the accused in both cases. An investigation is underway. (ANI) According to CBI, Kapoor, the prime accused in the Yes Bank case, had acquired property belonging to Avantha at a prime location in Delhi at a considerably lower price than its market value. An FIR was registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Mumbai last year in connection with the sale. Gautam Thapar is facing the Enforcement Directorate and CBI investigation in connection with the Yes Bank fraud case involving a transaction of Rs 307 crore with the realty company. The realty company is owned by Bindu Kapoor, wife of YES Bank promoter Rana Kapoor. The CBI has alleged that Thapar had entered into a criminal conspiracy with Rana Kapoor for the purpose of cheating. Thapar moved to Bombay High Court after Trial Court rejected the first bail application earlier in December 2021. Senior Public Prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar appearing on behalf of CBI argued that it is not the correct time to give bail to Thapar. Senior Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani appeared on behalf of Gautam Thapar, along with Karanjawala and Co law firm, argued before the court that after registration of the FIR, Thapar joined investigation as and when called upon by the investigating agency. Further, it was argued by Jethmalani that the chargesheet has been filed in the present case in October 2021 and summons were issued pursuant to which Thapar entered appearance before the Trial Court through Counsel. "However, Thapar was not arrested by CBI throughout the investigation even before the chargesheet was filed and summons were issued by the Trial Court," said Jethmalani. (ANI) Darekar, leader of opposition in Maharashtra Legislative Council is accused of forging documents to contest polls of the Mumbai District Co-operative Society in the labour quota. However, judge R N Rokade has extended the interim protection from arrest granted to Darekar earlier till March 29 so that he could file an appeal in the High Court. The FIR alleging cheating and criminal conspiracy under the relevant sections of the India Penal Code was lodged on March 14 at the Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Police Station in Mumbai following a complaint received by AAP leader Dhananjay Shinde. (ANI) The Supreme Court-appointed Committee probing Pegasus snooping case, has sought comments from the general public on issues under its consideration. The committee has shared an online form consisting of 11 questions seeking comments of lay persons until March 31. "The Technical Committee invites you to share your valuable views on the issues under its consideration pursuant to the aforesaid Terms of Reference, by answering the Questionnaire on the below mentioned online form. We request you to share your responses through the online form at: https://pegasus-india-investigation.in/invitation-to-comment/ on or before March 31, 2022," the committee said in a statement. Earlier in February, the technical expert committee set up to look into the allegations of the government allegedly using Israeli software Pegasus to spy on politicians, activists, and journalists submitted its interim report in the apex court Last year the apex court had appointed the three-member committee, headed by a former top court judge RV Raveendran to look into the allegations of snooping by Pegasus. The top court had said that in a democratic country governed by the rule of law, "indiscriminate spying on individuals cannot be allowed." The top court had noted that in the absence of the Centre not clarifying its stand on the issue, the court had no option but to set up an expert panel. The Centre had refused to file a detailed affidavit on the issue citing national security. Justice Raveendran is assisted by former IPS officer Alok Joshi and chairman of the sub-committee in the International Organisation of Standardisation/ International Electro-Technical Commission's Joint Technical Committee, Sundeep Oberoi. The top court in its order had said, "We live in the era of the information revolution, where the entire lives of individuals are stored in the cloud or in a digital dossier. We must recognize that while technology is a useful tool for improving the lives of people, at the same time, it can also be used to breach that sacred private space of an individual." Members of a civilized democratic society have a reasonable expectation of privacy, CJI Ramana had said. "Privacy is not the singular concern of journalists or social activists. Every citizen of India ought to be protected against violations of privacy. It is this expectation that enables us to exercise our choices, liberties, and freedom. As with all the other fundamental rights, this Court therefore must recognize that certain limitations exist when it comes to the right to privacy as well. However, any restrictions imposed must necessarily pass constitutional scrutiny," the bench had added in its order. As with all the other fundamental rights, this Court therefore must recognize that certain limitations exist when it comes to the right to privacy as well, the top court had said, adding that however, any restrictions imposed must necessarily pass constitutional scrutiny. The apex court had said that it is cognizant of the State's interest to ensure that life and liberty is preserved and must balance the same. It is undeniable that surveillance and the knowledge that one is under the threat of being spied on can affect the way an individual decides to exercise his or her rights and such a scenario might result in self-censorship, the apex court stated further. "The mere invocation of national security by the State does not render the Court a mute a spectator," said the apex court. It further had noted that there has been no specific denial of any of the facts by Centre averred by the Petitioners. The Centre had earlier told the apex court that it was willing to set up a committee of independent experts to examine all aspects of the alleged Pegasus snooping row. It had maintained that what software was used for the interception in the interest of national security can't be open for public debate. Several pleas were filed before the top court on snooping row by senior journalists N Ram, and Sashi Kumar, Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas of Communist Marxist Party of India (Marxist) and advocate ML Sharma, former Union minister Yashwant Sinha, RSS ideologue KN Govindacharya. Journalist Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, SNM Abdi, Prem Shankar Jha, Rupesh Kumar Singh and Ipsa Shatakshi, who are reported to be on the potential list of snoop targets of Pegasus spyware, had also approached the top court along with The Editors Guild of India (EGI) among others. The pleas sought inquiry headed by a sitting or retired judge of the top court to investigate the alleged snooping. The pleas said that the targeted surveillance using military-grade spyware is an unacceptable violation of the right to privacy which has been held to be a fundamental right under Articles 14, 19 and 21 by the Supreme Court in KS Puttaswamy case. (ANI) The Maryland State Highway Administration has expressed concerns over the traffic study conducted by the developers of the proposed mega-warehouse facility in Perryman. Advertisement A letter from Wendy Wolcott, a metropolitan district engineer from the highway administration, was sent March 18 to Mark Keeley, a senior project manager for Traffic Concepts, Inc., the group that completed the traffic study. Wolcott noted the traffic volumes in the study appeared significantly low for the proposed development and its capacity, and that employee shift changes were not mentioned as a reason for increased traffic volume. This is not the first letter Traffic Concepts has received expressing concerns about traffic patterns for the proposed development. In a March 4 letter to Keeley, Alex Rawls, a Harford County transportation planner, noted an incorrect northbound lane configuration for Chelsea Road. Advertisement Jim Lighthizer, managing partner of Chesapeake Real Estate Group, which is developing the Mitchell project, said the company was happy to receive these comments, as well as others from other agencies, so that it can develop a comprehensive response. Its not piecemeal, Lighthizer said. You cant look at one comment from one agency without looking at all the other effects on all the other agencies and all the other parts of the project. Rawls also said the proposed connector road from Route 715 and Woodley Road should not be included in the study because the connector has not been fully funded. We feel like it should be a step farther they should not even start work on the project until that road gets completed, said Perryman resident Paul Fallace. Perryman residents were also displeased by comments made by Harford County Executive Barry Glassman during a FOX 45 News segment Monday. When asked about the Mitchell development, Glassman said: Our job as a county is really to treat everyone fairly under the current code. We understand the citizens concerns. Were working with the citizens and developers to make sure that our review is comprehensive in this area. Perryman residents have attempted unsuccessfully to reach Glassman, and have asked publicly during several County Council meetings for Glassman to respond to their requests for a meeting. Afternoon Update Weekdays Updating you on the day's biggest news before the evening commute. > We have had no conversations with him at all, Perryman resident Leigh Maddox said. We have tried repeatedly to reach out to his office, to call his office, to write his office, and he has not responded to give us a meeting, which we think we deserve. Residents said theyve received responses from Cindy Mumby, the countys director of government and community relations and Glassmans spokesperson, but they still want a sit-down meeting with Glassman himself. Advertisement When reached for comment, Mumby replied that Glassman has a monthly segment on FOX 45. During the interview Monday, Glassman also said the county was keeping the project transparent by posting documents related to the project on the county website. If the process was so transparent, asked Perryman resident Ron Stuchinski, at what point is he going to communicate with us, the residents/citizens, that he, as executive, represents? Glassman restated what the developers said at a public hearing on March 15 that the Mitchell property has been zoned as light industrial for more than 20 years, which would allow this project to be developed. However, Perryman citizens argue that the code is outdated and should not allow for a project of this size. Twenty, 30 years ago, do you think that statues of Robert E. Lee would be taken down or that Harford County schools would be changing their names because ... people ... were slave owners? asked Perryman resident Britney Russell. Things have changed. And we feel as a community that [with] whats happening in Perryman, the zoning is no longer appropriate. Members of the Protect Perryman Peninsula group make their way through the streets of downtown Bel Air March 1 before attending a a County Council meeting that evening. (Matt Button / The Aegis/Baltimore Sun Media) Uttarakhand Police has set up Defense Forces Help Desk to address the complaints of families of the army and paramilitary personnel. Ashok Kumar, Director General of Police, Uttarakhand has started the Defence Forces Help Desk for the security and quick redressal of complaints of the families of the army and paramilitary forces deployed away from their homes, as per Uttarakhand Police Headquarters. Ashok Kumar said that there are many soldiers from Uttarakhand in the Indian Army and paramilitary forces. These jawans of the state discharge their duties at the borders/remote areas away from their families. In view of this, Defence Forces Help Desks are being set up in all the districts to help their families and to take legal action on top priority in matters related to security of their properties. In the Defence Forces Help Desk, the complaints made by the soldiers and their families will be ensured quickly, which will also be supervised from the headquarters level. (ANI) Boeing on Friday shared projections for South Asia's commercial aviation sector over the next 20 years, with the region leading the world in yearly passenger traffic growth. The company shared its annual South Asia and India Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) at Wings India 2022, anticipating resilient long-term demand for commercial airplanes and services following the COVID-19 pandemic. South Asia's air travel sector is dominated by the Indian market which accounts for about 90 per cent of the region's passenger traffic. India's continued economic growth and its expanding middle class will fuel demand across South Asia for 2,400 new commercial jets valued at nearly 375 billion US dollars during the 20-year forecast period, according to Boeing. Single-aisle airplanes will increase their share of total airplane demand to serve India's vast domestic market and competitive regional market which includes established carriers as well as start-up airlines. To improve and expand long-haul connectivity - especially routes from India to North America and Europe - carriers will continue to invest in versatile, fuel-efficient widebody airplanes. "We project robust demand for air travel in South Asia with carriers increasing services, and passengers feeling confident about travel to see family and friends and do business, as well as from air cargo," said Dave Schulte, managing director, regional marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Key elements that will promote continued growth in the region will be the competitive domestic market and opportunities in international routes, both backed by government policies to reduce airline costs and taxes," added Schulte. Salil Gupte, president of Boeing India, said, "India continues to develop as one of the world's largest civil aviation markets as it ramps up its capabilities and capacity in infrastructure and services. At Boeing, we are committed to supporting this growth through our Make in India supplier partnerships, next-generation products and solutions, technologies and services, to advance the future of commercial aviation." Sharing insights from Boeing's CMO forecast through 2040, Boeing informed, that Indian operators will need just over 2,000 new single-aisle airplanes to meet demand during the forecast period. Single-aisle airplanes such as the 737 families will continue to serve growth in domestic and regional markets, including flights from India to the Middle East and the Asia Pacific regions, Boeing added. Indian carriers will need 240 new widebody airplanes such as the 787 Dreamliner to meet long-haul demand, Boeing informed. India's air cargo growth is expected to average 6.3 per cent annually, driven by the country's manufacturing and e-commerce sectors, including its Make in India initiative. Boeing forecasts demand for more than 75 freighters, including 10 widebodies and 737 Boeing Converted Freighters, the statement read. India's civil aviation industry will require close to 100,000 new pilots, technicians and cabin crew personnel, with an increasing number of women pursuing aviation careers, the statement read. (ANI) Drugs weighing four kilograms was recovered from them along with one lakh in cash. The police have booked the four peddlers under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the accused are in judicial custody. (ANI) Seven members of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) were on Friday briefly detained by the Delhi Police as they protested against the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to the national capital. "Seven people, including one woman, were detained," DCP (New Delhi) Amritha Guguloth said. The members of TYC were protesting in front of the Hyderabad House on Ashoka Road, condemning the visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister. TYC's Delhi spokesperson Tsewang Gyalpo told IANS that the protesters who were taken to the Mandir Marg police station were released within four hours at 6.30 pm. "While we recognise that Wang's visit is a great opportunity for India and China to push for progress, we strongly urge Indian leaders to hold the Chinese leadership responsible for their actions in Tibet," one of the protesters said. They said with the illegal occupation of Tibet by China, the border disputes between India and China have become more tense, and Chinese forces have time and again tried to illegally intrude on the Indian soil. The Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in Delhi from Kabul on Thursday night. On Friday, he held separate meetings with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, before leaving for Kathmandu. This was the first visit by a high-level Chinese diplomat to India since the border dispute between the two nations erupted over two years ago. So far, 15 rounds of military talks have taken place to resolve the issue. The TYC alleged that the current Communist government in China is directly responsible for the spate of tragic events unravelling in Tibet, including human rights violation and restrictions on freedom of religion. "Over 158 Tibetans have self-immolated themselves in Tibet since 2009. The fate and conditions of others are still unknown," TYC said in a statement. It further demanded that China should be held accountable for all the atrocities committed to the people of Tibet, Uyghurs, as well as in Taiwan, Hong Kong and southern Mongolia and to release all the imprisoned Tibetan political prisoners unconditionally. TYC also claimed it has emerged as the largest and most active non-governmental organisation of Tibetans in exile, with more than 30,000 members worldwide. --IANS uj/arm ( 379 Words) 2022-03-25-20:14:02 (IANS) On a day when Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India, the UGC and AICTE warned Indian students and their parents not to seek admission in professional courses in China. The University Grant Commission (UGC) warning, a first of sorts in connection with Chinese educational institutions, invoked the extant rules that both UGC and AICTE "do not recognise such degree courses conducted only in online mode without prior approval". The UGC said, "A few universities in China have started issuing notice for admission to various degree programmes for the current and upcoming academic years. On the other hand, China has imposed strict travel restrictions in the wake of Covid-19 and has suspended all visas since November 2020." The member secretary of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) said, "A large number of Indian students have not been able to return to China to continue their studies due to these restrictions. Thus far, there has been no relaxation in the restrictions. Further, the Chinese authorities have conveyed earlier that courses will be conducted online." As per the extant rules, UGC and AICTE do not recognise such degree courses conducted only in online mode without prior approval. The UGC said, "In view of the above, students are advised to exercise due diligence in choosing where to pursue higher education to avoid further problems in employment or higher studies." AICTE had issued a warning in October last year to students headed to Pakistan. In that warning, the AICTE said that Indian citizens and Overseas Indian citizens must obtain NOC from the AICTE before enrolling in engineering and technology courses in Pakistan. When it had issued the warning for Pakistani institutions, the AICTE had said that a degree obtained after studying in unrecognised institutions is not equivalent to a degree in Indian institutions. Even after spending huge amount on fees to get degree from such unrecognised institutions, such students face problems in getting job opportunities in India. --IANS gcb/arm ( 341 Words) 2022-03-25-20:22:05 (IANS) At the event, Khattar congratulated the newly-elected Chief Minister and extended his best wishes. He also expressed hope that Adityanath will perform even better than his first term as the Chief Minister. The oath-taking ceremony ceremony was organised in a grand manner wherein Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with members of his Cabinet and Chief Ministers of 12 BJP-ruled states participated. --IANS vg/arm ( 103 Words) 2022-03-25-20:24:03 (IANS) Responding to a question asked by the Biju Janata Dal MP Sujeet Kumar, Minister for Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrashekhar said: "The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is mandated to track and monitor cyber security incidents in India. CERT-In has reported that a total number of 14,02,809 cyber security incidents were reported during the year 2021." Kumar wanted to know the number of cyber-attacks tracked and reported by the CERT-In in 2021. Chandrashekhar further said that the CERT-In has reported cyber security incidents across various sectors such as E-commerce, energy, finance, government, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, telecom, transportation, etc. The CERT-In is the national nodal agency for responding to computer security incidents as and when they occur. Talking about the steps taken by the Ministry to prevent cyber security incidents and keep cyber space free from such nuisance, the Minister said CERT-In issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats or vulnerabilities and countermeasures to protect computers and networks on a regular basis. "The government is committed to ensure that the internet in India is open, safe and trusted, and accountable for all users. CERT-In is mandated to track and monitor cyber security incidents in India," the Minister further said. CERT-In issues alerts and advisories about the latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities and countermeasures on a regular basis to protect computers and networks on a regular interval. CERT-In has empanelled 96 security auditing organisations to support and audit implementation of Information Security Best Practices and it has formulated a Cyber Crisis Management Plan for countering cyber-attacks and cyber terrorism for implementation by all Ministries/ Departments of Central government, state/UT governments and their organisations and critical sectors, the Minister added in the written reply. --IANS ams/pgh ( 322 Words) 2022-03-25-21:30:02 (IANS) Delhi Police has apprehended a 17-year-old teenager, in connection with the case of murder of a minor boy whose body was recovered from the national capital's Mangolpuri area on Friday morning, an official said. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sameer Sharma said a 17-year-old boy's body, stuffed inside a travel bag, was found earlier in the day in Mangolpuri. According to the official, a PCR call was received around 7 a.m. at Mangolpuri police station after which the a police team immediately rushed to the spot near Peer Baba Mazar main road. According to sources, a civil defence volunteer was the first to spot the bag. A foot of the deceased was visible as well. "As the police reached the spot, they found a traveller bag in which an unknown body of male, with throat slit injuries, was stuffed," the police officer said, adding the teen was wearing a white kurta pyjama. The police then registered a case under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and initiated an investigation. "Several teams were formed for the identification of the deceased, for checking the CCTV footage of the adjoining areas and for developing intelligence with regard to this incident," the DCP said, after which the deceased was identified. The 17-year-old went missing on Thursday night following which a complaint was lodged at the south Rohini police station. "An FIR was found already registered under section 363 (punishment for kidnapping) of the IPC," said the official. Several police teams were formed to investigate the case. "The call detail records of the concerned persons were obtained and analysed. After getting some leads about a person, an extensive search was carried out and the accused juvenile (a resident of Sector 2, Rohini) was apprehended," Sharma said. The police are yet to speak on details about the motive of the murder. Further probe is underway. --IANS uj/pgh ( 328 Words) 2022-03-25-21:52:02 (IANS) Researchers at the University of Bonn have created gas of light particles that can be extremely compressed. The study was published in the journal, 'Science'. The results of the study have confirmed the predictions of central theories of quantum physics. The findings could also point the way to new types of sensors that can measure minute forces. If you plug the outlet of an air pump with your finger, you can still push its piston down. The reason is gases are fairly easy to compress -- unlike liquids, for example. If the pump contained water instead of air, it would be essentially impossible to move the piston, even with the greatest effort. Gases usually consist of atoms or molecules that swirl more or less quickly through space. It is quite similar to light. Its smallest building blocks are photons, which in some respect behave like particles and these photons can also be treated as gas, however, one that behaves somewhat unusually. You can compress it under certain conditions with almost no effort. At least that is what theory predicted. Researchers have now demonstrated this very effect in experiments for the first time. "To do this, we stored light particles in a tiny box made of mirrors," explained Dr Julian Schmitt of the IAP, who is a principal investigator in the group of Prof. Dr Martin Weitz. Weitz said, "The more photons we put in there, the denser the photon gas became." The rule is usually, the denser a gas, the harder it is to compress. This is also the case with the plugged air pump at first the piston can be pushed down very easily, but at some point, it can hardly be moved any further, even when applying a lot of force. The Bonn experiments were initially similar: The more photons they put into the mirror box, the more difficult it became to compress the gas. However, the behaviour changed abruptly at a certain point. As soon as the photon gas exceeded a specific density, it could suddenly be compressed with almost no resistance. "This effect results from the rules of quantum mechanics," explained Schmitt, who is also an associate member of the Cluster of Excellence "Matter and Light for Quantum Computing" and project leader in the Transregio Collaborative Research Center 185. The reason is the light particles exhibit a "fuzziness" -- in simple terms, their location is somewhat blurred. As they come very close to each other at high densities, the photons begin to overlap. Physicists then also speak of a "quantum degeneracy" of the gas. And it becomes much easier to compress such a quantum degenerate gas. If the overlap is strong enough, the light particles fuse to form a kind of super-photon, a Bose-Einstein condensate. In very simplified terms, this process can be compared to the freezing of water: In a liquid state, the water molecules are disordered; then, at the freezing point, the first ice crystals form, which eventually merges into an extended, highly ordered ice layer. 'Islands of order' are also formed just before the formation of the Bose-Einstein condensate, and they become larger and larger with the further addition of photons. The condensate was formed only when these islands have grown so much that the order extends over the entire mirror box containing the photons. This can be compared to a lake on which independent ice floes have finally joined together to form a uniform surface. Naturally, this requires a much larger number of light particles in an extended box as compared to a small one. "We were able to demonstrate this relationship in our experiments," Schmitt pointed out. To create a gas with variable particle numbers and well-defined temperatures, the researchers used a "heat bath". "We insert molecules into the mirror box that can absorb the photons," Schmitt said. "Subsequently, they emit new photons that on average possess the temperature of the molecules -- in our case, just under 300 Kelvin, which is about room temperature, he further added. The researchers also had to overcome another obstacle. Photon gases are usually not uniformly dense -- there are far more particles in some places than in others. This is due to the shape of the trap in which they are usually contained in. "We took a different approach in our experiments," said Erik Bisley, first author of the publication. "We capture the photons in a flat-bottom mirror box that we created using a microstructuring method. This enabled us to create a homogeneous quantum gas of photons for the first time," he concluded. (ANI) During the combat between the Pakistani Armed Forces and the terrorists, the soldiers were killed while the terrorists fled away with severe injuries. According to the statement by ISPR, the terrorists attempted to enter Pakistan on the midnight of March 23-24 in the Hassan Khel area of North Waziristan district, reported The News International. "Due to alertness and timely response of the troops, the infiltration attempt was foiled. Terrorists retaliated with fire which was reciprocated in a befitting manner," said the ISPR statement. The four soldiers who were killed during the exchange of fire were identified as 34-year-old Lance Havaldar Wajahat Alam of Ghizer in Gilgit Baltistan, 25-year-old Sepoy Sajjid Inayat resident of Sheikhupura, 32-year-old Sepoy Maqbool Hayat, resident of Ghizer in Gilgit Baltistan, and 22-year-old Sepoy Sajjid Ali resident of Skardu. ISPR, after the incident, vowed, "The Pakistan Army is determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," reported the Pakistani publication. (ANI) Photo story: guardian of Francois' leaf monkeys in Mayanghe National Nature Reserve, SW China Xinhua) 15:25, March 24, 2022 Xiao Zhijin observes Francois' leaf monkeys in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, March 17, 2022. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) File photo taken on May 17, 2018 shows Francois' leaf monkeys in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Xiao Zhijin records Francois' leaf monkeys with a mobile phone in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, March 17, 2022. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Xiao Zhijin observes Francois' leaf monkeys through binoculars in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, March 16, 2022. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Xiao Zhijin works in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, March 17, 2022. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Xiao Zhijin observes Francois' leaf monkeys through binoculars in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, March 17, 2022. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Aerial photo taken on March 17, 2022 shows a view of the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Aerial photo taken on March 17, 2022 shows a view of the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China. Xiao Zhijin has been working in the Mayanghe National Nature Reserve for 33 years, researching and guarding Francois' leaf monkeys. Also known as Francois' langur, the species is one of China's most endangered wild animals and is under top national-level protection. It is also one of the endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) A Maryland judge on Friday rejected a General Assembly-approved map of the states congressional districts that had been challenged by Republicans, calling it a product of extreme partisan gerrymandering. Two GOP groups contended the map was unfairly drawn to favor Democrats and doesnt abide by Maryland constitutional guidelines. Advertisement In her decision, Lynne A. Battaglia, a retired state appeals court judge assigned to the Anne Arundel Circuit Court case, sided with the Republican challengers who had argued the map was drawn with partisanship as a predominant interest. She agreed with testimony stating Republican voters and candidates are substantially adversely impacted by the 2021 plan. Battaglia gave state legislators five days until March 30 to develop a new congressional plan that abides by the state constitution. Advertisement State Attorney General Brian Frosh, who defended the map, can appeal. Raquel Combs, a spokeswoman for Frosh, said no decision has been made about whether an appeal will be filed. Gov. Larry Hogan, an outspoken critic of partisan gerrymandering who backed an unsuccessful legal challenge to Marylands previous congressional maps, called Fridays ruling an historic milestone. Hogan had pitched letting an independent commission draw Marylands maps instead, something the Democrat-controlled General Assembly rejected. Last year, Hogan appointed a panel of Republicans, Democrats and independents to draw an alternate set of proposed electoral maps, which the governor submitted to the legislature. In response to Battaglias ruling on Friday, Hogan again urged state lawmakers to adopt the map drawn by his commission. For nearly eight years, we have been fighting to end the gerrymandering monopoly that has for too long been a shameful legacy of our state, the Republican governor said in a statement. This ruling is a monumental victory for every Marylander who cares about protecting our democracy, bringing fairness to our elections and putting the people back in charge. It puts in plain view the partisan, secretive and rigged process that led to the legislatures illegal and unconstitutional maps. In two lawsuits considered by the judge together, Republicans argued that partisan gerrymandering of the congressional districts by Democratic state lawmakers violated provisions in the state constitution. One suit was filed by Fair Maps Maryland, an anti-gerrymandering advocacy group tied to Hogan. The other was brought by the national conservative activist group Judicial Watch on behalf of 10 Republican voters in the state, including two Republican congressional candidates, state Del. Neil Parrott and Jeff Werner. interactive_content A 1972 amendment to the section of the constitution on the state legislature decrees that its legislative districts shall consist of adjoining territory, be compact in form and of substantially equal population and that lawmakers must consider natural boundaries and the borders of political subdivisions like counties and cities. Advertisement Lawyers for Frosh defended the map, arguing the Maryland Constitution doesnt specifically apply the same rules for congressional districts. But the Republican plaintiffs argued that the constitutions allusion to legislative districts was meant to be generic and to cover congressional districts as well as state legislative maps. Battaglia found the map violated the state constitutions equal protection and free speech clauses as well as a clause that protects participation in elections. Battaglia appeared to be persuaded by the testimony of Sean Trende, an election analyst for RealClearPolitics, who testified on behalf of the Republican plaintiffs. The retired judge repeatedly quoted Trendes arguments and analysis in her order. It is clear from Mr. Trendes testimony that Republican voters and candidates are substantially adversely impacted by the 2021 plan, Battaglia wrote. Fair Maps Maryland, one of the plaintiffs, heralded the decision as a win for democracy. Advertisement Judge Battaglias ruling confirms what we have all known for years Maryland is ground zero for gerrymandering, our districts and political reality reek of it, and there is abundant proof that it is occurring, the group said in a statement. In Maryland, where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-1 and Democrats hold a strong majority in both chambers of the legislature, the GOP has long criticized the states congressional map as one of the most gerrymandered in the nation. The map Battaglia struck down was drawn by a commission made up of leaders from the General Assembly, four Democrats and two Republicans. The commission was chaired by Karl Aro, the retired former head of the nonpartisan Bureau of Legislative Services who played a key role in redistricting in Maryland over several decades. Democratic leaders have said the map creates more compact districts and makes six of the eight districts at least somewhat more competitive. The maps must be redrawn every 10 years to account for population shifts determined by the national census. Democrats currently hold a 7-1 advantage over the GOP in the states eight U.S. House seats. The states lone Republican congressman, U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, represents the 1st Congressional District that includes the Eastern Shore and a portion of Baltimore County. In the now overturned congressional map, the 1st District was altered to remove some Republican areas and extended into Democratic areas of Anne Arundel County, potentially making the seat more competitive, according to some analysis. Advertisement Breaking News Alerts As it happens When big news breaks in our area, be the first to know. > If the case comes before the Maryland Court of Appeals, the states highest court, all but one of the serving judges have been appointed by Hogan. Chief Judge Joseph Getty last week delayed the states primary from June 28 to July 19 amid all the map challenges. State Senate President Bill Ferguson and Speaker Adrienne A. Jones released a joint statement saying they were disappointed by the decision. Additionally, it is not representative of the historic and long-standing legal requirements and precedent which the Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission took seriously when drawing Marylands new congressional map, the pair said. It was too soon Friday to know what a new map might look like or how much it might benefit Harris and other GOP candidates. Courts around the country have been dealing this year with complaints of alleged gerrymandering. Gerrymandering commonly involves stacking large numbers of the opposite partys voters into a limited number of districts, leaving that party with too few voters to compete elsewhere. So far courts have intervened to block maps they found to be GOP gerrymanders in North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania, infuriating Republicans and leading conservatives to push for the U.S. Supreme Court to limit the power of state courts to overturn maps drawn by state legislatures. Advertisement Baltimore Sun reporter Bryn Stole and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Two men have been held in the Faisalabad city of Pakistan for blackmailing and sextortion by sharing objectionable pictures of an American teenager who died by suicide in New York a year ago, said a media report. The victim named Shylynn Dixon, who took her life in March 2021, left behind a note saying she was "tricked by a blackmailer online", following which, the New York Police Department (NYPD) investigation revealed the involvement of two men blackmailing the minor, Samaa TV reported. "The blackmailer tricked me into sending embarrassing photos, and then threatened to send them to classmates and friends," read the suicide note of the 17-year old victim, who took her life on March 3, 2021. At least two friends of the victim had heard from her internet stalkers and received her obscene photos, according to NYPD. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), which undertook the investigation, on a request from the US embassy, traced the blackmailers to a location in Faisalabad from a Facebook profile, according to the media outlet. The accused, identified as Muhammad Arslan Saeed and Kamal Anwar, used a Facebook ID, created in the name of Moan Ikram for "blackmailing and sextortion by sharing the objectionable pictures to the victim and her friends", according to an FIR registered by FIA cyber wing. "Both accused confessed their guilt and stated that they did this illegal act purposefully with the active connivance of each other," added the FIR. (ANI) Shanghai-based renowned infectious disease expert Zhang Wenhong, in his Sina Weibo post, on Wednesday said that sustaining a normal life should be placed in the same important position as implementing dynamic zero-case policy and the mindset of "fighting the virus regardless of costs" should be abandoned. These remarks came at a time when Shanghai, has seen a sharp increase in the covid cases and is grappling with the situation. Shanghai reported four confirmed cases and 979 asymptomatic cases, according to the local health commission on Thursday, reported the Global Times. Zhang, in his post titled "Coronavirus not scary but difficult to fight", said, "The combat against coronavirus is a long-term one, it requires us not only to stamp out the epidemic, but also guarantee people's lives and normal access to hospitals, and the survival of businesses. All these will become the focus of a later phase of Shanghai's fight against coronavirus." Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that Beijing will stick to its "zero Covid-19" policy, days after National Health Commission (NHC) released new guidelines easing its control measures.The NHC had uploaded a new document on its website. Titled the Novel Coronavirus Diagnosis And Treatment Plan, it was the ninth revision to a document setting out COVID-19 policy for the country of 1.4 billion.China's zero-COVID policy is pushing cash-strapped local governments to the brink amid rising health care costs and efforts to control debt. (ANI) Taiwan intelligence has dismissed the reports of a possibility of Beijing invading Taipei this autumn and termed it as a part of "cognitive warfare" targeting Taiwan, according to a media report. The development comes after an alleged leaked document from Russian intelligence suggested that Chinese President Xi Jinping is considering invading Taiwan this autumn, reported Focus Taiwan. Dismissing the reports as "highly unlikely", National Security Bureau (NSB) Director-General Chen Ming-tong said, "I believe this so-called leaked document is part of 'cognitive warfare' targeting Taiwan." Chen's remarks came during Thursday's Legislative session to brief lawmakers on Taiwan's national security contingency amid the latest geopolitical situation in East Asia, according to the media outlet. According to Chen, with Beijing scheduled to be holding the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP's) 20th National Party Congress this autumn, the CCP's main task is to maintain stability within its country. Thus, it is extremely unlikely that China would launch an invasion of Taiwan during that time, he added. Notably, Chen's statement was made in response to lawmakers' question on an alleged leaked document made public by Russian dissident Vladimir Osechkin last week. According to the letter which Osechkin said was from an intelligence officer in the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, Xi was "considering taking over Taiwan in the fall" of this year as "he needs his own little victory to get re-elected for a third term", reported Focus Taiwan. However, Taiwan's foreign minister Joseph Wu had said last week that the authenticity of the document could not be confirmed, adding that the authorities were always ready to fend off the Chinese invasion. During the legislative briefing, Chen also said that the Russian invasion of Ukraine was a wake-up call for the democratic world to be more alert to the threats posed by authoritarian countries like Russia and China. Notably, Russia's invasion of Ukraine has raised apprehension in Taipei that China may try to follow suit and use force to annexe Taiwan. According to reports, China has been sending military aircraft into the air defence identification zone of Taiwan on almost a daily basis. On the other hand, as ground reports from Taiwan reveal, the Russian assault on Ukraine is serving a wake-up call for Taiwan, reported The HK Post. (ANI) Citing Belarus' continuous strategic support to Russia and its military forces, Australia on Friday has placed sanctions on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and members of his family along with 22 Russians including senior editors from organisations including Russia Today, the Strategic Culture Foundation, InfoRos and NewsFront. The Government of Belarus, under President Lukashenko, continues to provide strategic support to Russia and its military forces in their assault on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, said the Australian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking on the sanctions on Lukashenko's family, the statement read, "We are also placing sanctions on his son Viktor Lukashenko, who previously held senior national security roles in the Belarussian Government, and his wife Galina Lukashenko, the First Lady of Belarus." "These latest steps, one month into Russia's invasion of Ukraine, continue our focussed efforts to ensure that Russia and those who support its illegal, unprovoked invasion of its democratic neighbour, pay a high cost," it read. It slammed Belarus saying, "it has allowed Russia to fire ballistic missiles from Belarus into Ukraine, enabled the transport of Russian military personnel, heavy weapons and tanks into Ukraine, provided refuelling points in Belarus for Russian military aircraft and stored Russian weapons and military equipment." Australia reiterated its "unwavering" support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the people of Ukraine. It called upon Russia to immediately withdraw its military forces from Ukraine. (ANI) Oman Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi on Thursday called on Vice President Venkaiah Naidu at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas in Delhi, where the two sides exchanged views on a number of global issues of mutual concern. As per a statement from Oman Foreign Ministry, both sides reviewed the existing friendship and cooperative relations between the two countries during the meeting. They also emphasised the joint interest to strengthen and develop relations in various fields, to bring common benefits to both countries and their people, especially in the economic and technological fields as well as in the sectors of trade, renewable energy, tourism, health, higher education and food security. Notably, Oman Foreign Minister also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday where the two leaders reiterated their commitment to the close strategic partnership between the two nations. "Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the close Strategic Partnership between India and Oman. Both the Ministers highlighted the high priority accorded by the leadership of both the countries to bilateral relations based on high mutual trust and respect. Both Ministers underscored that as neighbours united by the waters of the Arabian Sea, both countries have an important role in maritime safety and security in the region," the MEA statement said. This comes at a time when the neighbouring country Pakistan, at the OIC meeting, raked up the issue of Kashmir. On the other hand, the UN delegation was in Srinagar for deep investments in the region. This is Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi's first visit to India since he was appointed as the Foreign minister of Oman in August 2020, according to the joint statement released by India and Oman's Foreign Minister. (ANI) Russia on Friday claimed to open a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports, said Ukraine's local media outlet The Kyiv Independent on Friday. "The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, Russia claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet. Moreover, as the Ukraine-Russia war enters the second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gives four cities the honorary title of 'Hero City' and seven National Guard service members 'Hero of Ukraine' title. The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously. The humanitarian condition in Ukraine continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation. According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements. Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country. The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces. (ANI) In a meeting with the leaders of the European Union (EU) at their Council meeting on Thursday (local time), US President Joe Biden reiterated commitment towards transatlantic unity in the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, according to a White House official. "President Biden enjoyed a warm and friendly meeting with EU leaders at their Council meeting tonight, where he shook the hand of nearly every leader in the room and spoke longer with several of them," said the official. According to the official, the discussion focused on Russia and Ukraine, including continued support for sanctions and humanitarian assistance, with a strong message of transatlantic unity and the need to stay the course animating the evening. "President Biden delivered powerful closing remarks, speaking from the heart about why Europe--the EU, NATO, the transatlantic alliance--is so important to the US," added the official. Notably, before heading for the Council meeting, Biden had said that he would "discuss China" with the European Council, reported CNN. On being asked if he trusts China, Biden said, "Yes," before adding "well, we'll discuss China. I've spent some time with Xi Jinping and I hope we're gonna get the chance to discuss China." He also said that unity between the United States and Europe was "the single most important thing that we can do to stop this guy (Putin) who's, in our country, we believe he's already committed war crimes", according to the media outlet. Russia began a special military operation in Ukraine on February 24 after the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics requested help in defending themselves. What followed the military operation was a slew of sanctions imposed by the western countries targeting the Russian economy. (ANI) According to the National Assembly Secretariat, the house will meet at 11 am, with Speaker Asad Qaiser in the chair, reported the Express Tribune. A 15-point agenda of Friday's session issued by the Secretariat on Thursday night also includes the no-confidence motion. Notably, acting on mutual hatred to oust Imran Khan, the Opposition parties submitted the no-confidence motion in National Assembly on March 8. In the 342-member National Assembly, the Imran Khan government requires at least 172 members to sail through the no-confidence vote. However, several dissident MNAs of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) came out in open and the government allies are reported to have sided with the Opposition, thus, it is yet to be seen if Imran Khan succeeds in defeating the no-trust motion. Further, in reference to the defection of Parliament members, the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) on Thursday said that not counting votes that members will cast during no-trust proceedings against Imran Khan would be "contemptuous". (ANI) Karzai also met Dmitry Zhirnov, Russian Ambassador to Afghanistan. "Former president Hamid Karzai met with Zamir Kabulov, Russia's special envoy for Afghanistan, and Russia's ambassador, Dmitry Zhirnov, and they discussed relations between the countries and further strengthening ties," TOLOnews reported. The meeting comes amid the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The conflict between the two countries continues to escalate as the Ukraine-Russia war enters the second month. Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country. Meanwhile, the situation of human rights in Afghanistan has also worsened since the collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban's return to power in August last year. Although the fighting in the country has ended, serious human rights violations continue unabated. Moreover, people in Afghanistan are also facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis which is being driven by decisions and positions taken by the international community, especially the US, that have blocked Afghanistan from aid funding and access to the global financial system. (ANI) India abstained from voting on the draft resolution by Ukraine and its allies on the humanitarian crisis in the war-torn country arguing that the draft resolution didn't fully reflect India's expected focus and the need of hour is to focus on cessation of hostilities. Speaking on the resolution by Ukraine and its allies on the humanitarian crisis in the war-torn country, TS Tirumurti, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations on Thursday (local time) said that the humanitarian situation continues to worsen, particularly in the conflict zones in urban centers and reiterated India's call for an immediate ceasefire. "India abstained on the resolution since what we require now is to focus on cessation of hostilities and on urgent humanitarian assistance. The draft resolution did not fully reflect our expected focus on these challenges." The UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine on Thursday, with 140 countries voting in favour and five against it. A total of 38 countries including India abstained. Meanwhile, Russia, Belarus, Eritrea, North Korea and Syria voted against it. The resolution titled "Humanitarian consequences of the aggression against Ukraine" calls out Russia's "assault" on Ukraine for creating the "dire" humanitarian situation. In a nine-pointer statement, Ambassador Tirumurti urged the global leaders to enhance the humanitarian support to Kyiv and address the needs of the concerned population. "We support the initiatives of UN, and its agencies. We hope the international community will continue to respond positively to the humanitarian needs of the people of Ukraine, including through extending generous support to the Secretary General's Flash Appeal and the Regional Refugee Response Plan on Ukraine," Tirumurti added. India has already sent over 90 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Ukraine and its neighbours, as part of nine separate tranches of humanitarian assistance delivered thus far, he said adding that these supplies have included medicines and other essential relief material. "We are in the process of sending further supplies in the coming days," Ambassador said further. Pointing out that India has ensured the safe return of about 22,500 Indians from Ukraine, he said: "We initiated Operation Ganga involving 90 flights. We have also assisted nationals from 18 other countries in that process. We are deeply appreciative of the facilitation rendered by the authorities of Ukraine and its neighbouring countries in ensuring their safe return." Tirumurti further underscored that it is important that humanitarian action is always guided by the principles of humanitarian assistance including humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. "These measures should not be politicized." "We firmly believe efforts at the United Nations should contribute to a de-escalation of the conflict; facilitate the immediate cessation of hostilities to promote dialogue and diplomacy and bring parties together to find an immediate end to the suffering of the people. We continue to underline the need to respect the UN Charter, international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states," he said. (ANI) The United Nations says a new safe passage operation is underway in and around the bombarded Ukrainian city of Mariupol. Humanitarian spokesman Saviano Abreu tells The Associated Press the U.N. is working in coordination with the parties to the conflict and the International Committee of the Red Cross. He says they will share more information when the situation allows. It's not clear how many people are part of the evacuation and Abreu wouldn't say whether people at the Azovstal steel plant are involved. A similar joint evacuation effort brought 101 civilians out of the plant over the weekend. Another brought out people from Mariupol and other communities on Wednesday. more >> In a joint statement, HRCP chairperson Hina Jailani, Secretary-General Harris Khalique, PFUJ President Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi said that in the charged political atmosphere there is a real danger of a violent clash among political parties in the run up to the National Assembly (NA) session convened on Friday to take up the vote of no confidence against the prime minister, The News International reported. According to the statement, breakdown of law and order and violent clash will not only undermine a constitutional political process inside the House but also play directly into the hands of undemocratic forces. Being nonpartisan, the PFUJ and HRCP believe in upholding principles of democracy, constitutionalism and parliamentary supremacy wherein the Parliament is allowed freely to perform its functions under the Constitution, The News International. "We have high hopes in the wisdom and sagacity of all political parties to heed the voice of reason and caution", the statement further said. The Opposition parties in Pakistan are jettisoning mutual hatred to oust Imran Khan as they submitted the no-trust motion in the National Assembly secretariat on March 8. Khan is set to face a no-confidence vote against him today. (ANI) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will arrive in Kathmandu at 3 pm (local time), according to the officials from the Nepal Ministry of Foreign Affairs Officials. Wangi Yi will look to ink key agreements on Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Nepal on his three-day visit to the country starting today, as the Himalayan country looks to flag reservations. Officials familiar with the preparations said as many as 10 agreements related to technical and economic assistance to Nepal are likely to be signed during Wang's visit, as per Kathmandu Post. The focus will be on signing at least implementation agreements for projects to be developed under the BRI, officials said, adding that, not even a single project has taken off under the BRI in Nepal in the last five years. The Nepali side, however, has expressed reservations about financing and developing projects under the BRI, the report said citing sources. Kathmandu has made it clear that there should be a joint mechanism for selecting the projects, preference should be given to grants but if a loan is required then the loan interest should not go beyond two per cent and that repayment time for the loan should be decided based on a mutually agreed timeline. Nepal has also set a condition that there should be competitive bidding in BRI projects and they should be open to all, not just Chinese firms. "After shortlisting projects, we can move ahead with a few under the BRI," said Prakash Sharan Mahat, spokesperson of the Nepali Congress who was former foreign minister when the BRI was signed in 2017. "Preference should be given to infrastructure and connectivity-related projects as per our requirements and priority." The Chinese visit also comes amidst a recent deterioration in ties between the two countries in light of Nepal's recent ratification of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact with the US. The MCC compact grants USD 500 million worth of developmental assistance to Nepal from the US. Following the MCC deal, the foreign ministry in Beijing reportedly concluded in its review that the Chinese presence in Nepal is weakening, hence, Foreign Minister Wang is being sent to Kathmandu to explore ways to turn things around, media reports said. The Nepali side is also expected to raise other issues including allowing more Nepali vehicles to enter China by relaxing the COVID protocol, while also allowing more Chinese trucks to enter Nepal. The Chinese side has been allowing only 20 Chinese cargo containers to cross over to Nepal daily via the Tatopani border and nine containers via the Kerung border, Kathmandu Post reported. Nepal will also raise the issue of the Nepali students enrolled in Chinese universities who are currently stuck in Nepal after returning home due to the pandemic due to China not reopening flights. Wang's Nepal visit will culminate the slew of trips that the Chinese Foreign Minister has made to the South Asian countries since he arrived in Pakistan on March 21 to attend the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit as a "special guest". Wang held talks with Taliban representatives in Afghanistan on Thursday. (ANI) The closure of the Nepal-China border since 2020 has impacted Kathmandu's trade and economy with China, experts said raising questions regarding the geopolitical and strategic interest of both the countries' economic benefit through the transboundary Himalayan multi-dimensional connectivity network. At a seminar organized by the Center for Social Inclusion and Federalism on BRI and Nepal China Relations in Kathmandu on Thursday, experts questioned if the relation of China-Nepal is based on friendship or just a mercantile partner, Khabar Hub reported. According to the media outlet, as many as 80 participants attended the event including diplomats, bureaucrats, journalists and reporters, and scholars of various fields. The seminar was organized at a time of the impending visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the seminar, three major themes were discussed by three separate panels. The themes include BRI and Geopolitics: Risks and Opportunities, Nepal-China Cross-border Relations, and Nepal-China Trade, Transit, and Transport. Ajaya Bhadra Khanal, Arpan Gelal, and Shraddha Ghimire presented their research findings on the topics respectively. The first panel emphasized the impacts of ensuing great power rivalry on Nepal and viewed Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit from the same lens. Furthermore, the panel discussed the contrasting models of diplomacy being practiced by Washington and Beijing and their averments towards one another regarding MCC and BRI, according to Khabar Hub. Foreign Minister Wang is expected to hold bilateral talks with his Nepali counterpart Dr Narayan Khadka and is also expected to talk to various key leaders including President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and former Prime Ministers and key leaders K P Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', the Nepal foreign ministry press release said. Nepal has seen a rising discontent and suspicion among the people against Chinese projects and investments in the country, with recent large-scale protests against Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project in Eastern Nepal's Jhapa district. Chinese officials say Wang's main agenda in Kathmandu is to reassess Beijing's geopolitical and security challenges, as China no longer feels secure in Nepal. "Implementation of the BRI projects in Nepal is important for Beijing," says a second Kathmandu-based Chinese official who has long liaised between Kathmandu and Beijing. He was also speaking on the condition of anonymity. "But this time Beijing is more worried about the security challenges emanating from the compact's approval," During his visit, Foreign Minister Wang will also take stock of the political climate in Kathmandu, reported The Annapurna Express. (ANI) Ahead of the National Assembly session on no-confidence motion against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party (PPP) on Thursday announced that matters had been settled with key government ally, Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and that the ruling coalition member will vote in favour of the motion to oust Imran Khan, local media reported. MQM-P is the largest ally of the ruling PTI coalition with seven members in the National Assembly. "Talks have been held with the MQM today (Thursday) and matters have been settled. It is also possible that some ministers will also be with the opposition," PPP secretary general Farhatullah Babar told reporters outside Zardari House after the party's parliamentary party meeting, The Dawn reported. MQM-P had demanded "share in jobs" as well as the opening of their party offices in Karachi and Hyderabad, the report said, citing sources, adding that the two sides had also agreed to form a committee to jointly suggest changes to the Sindh local government law. Talking to a TV channel, MQM leader Waseem Akhtar said their demands and issues were related to the Sindh province and it was good that both Asif Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had agreed to most of them. He said they also had had a good meeting with the government's teams on Wednesday. In a rapidly developing situation ahead of the crucial National Assembly session today, Opposition leaders also began speculations on the post-Imran Khan scenario. PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reached the official residence of Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif where they were also joined by Jamiat-Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Later, in an interview, Rehman said that the joint opposition had yet to decide on several matters ahead of the no-confidence motion. Asked about speculations that Shehbaz Sharif had been picked as the opposition's choice for the premiership after Imran Khan's ouster, Rehman said: "We will decide on all matters after the success of the no-trust move." The Pakistani National Assembly has a total strength of 342 members, with the majority mark being 172. The PTI led coalition was formed with the support of 179 members, with Imran Khan's PTI having 155 members, and four major allies MQM-P, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) having seven, five, five and three members respectively. Imran Khan's situation is precarious given that three of the four allies, that is, MQM-P, PML-Q and BAP have stated their support for the Opposition's no-confidence motion and said that they will vote accordingly. (ANI) ECP also imposed a fine of Pakistani Rs 50,000 each on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan and three other holders of public offices for addressing a public meeting in Malakand in violation of the code of conduct, Dawn newspaper reported. Imran Khan and others had addressed the rally in Malakand on March 20 despite the ECP's letters addressed to them, asking them to refrain from doing so. According to the Pakistani newspaper, Malakand's district monitoring officer (DMO) Ziaur Rehman issued five separate orders, directing the prime minister, chief minister, federal ministers Murad Saeed and Ali Haider Zaidi and provincial minister Shakeel Khan to deposit the fine till March 27. Rehman stated that under Section 234(5) of the Elections Act, 2017 the prime minister and the four other functionaries had the right to file an appeal before the ECP within three days of the order, Dawn newspaper reported. Earlier, Prime Minister Khan was fined Pakistani Rs 50,000 each for addressing public meetings in Lower Dir and Swat. Meanwhile, the crucial session of the Pakistan National Assembly will begin on Friday in which the no-confidence motion against Imran Khan will be moved. According to the National Assembly Secretariat, the house will meet at 11 am, with Speaker Asad Qaiser in the chair, reported the Express Tribune. Notably, acting on mutual hatred to oust Imran Khan, the Opposition parties submitted the no-confidence motion in National Assembly on March 8. (ANI) Taliban have denied reports of reshuffle in the Cabinet, saying that no changes have been brought to the government structure. Zabiullah Mujahid, chief spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan denied reports and said that rumours about the change of the Prime Minister of Afghanistan made public by some media are untrue. "Rumors about change of the Prime Minister of the IEA made public by some media are untrue. No changes have been brought in the cabinet," Mujahid tweeted. Earlier there were reports that the Taliban have decided to reshuffle their interim cabinet in an effort to get international recognition. As per a source interviewed by UK-based media, a 15-member team led by the supreme leader of the Taliban Mullah Hebtullah Akhundzada is busy discussing reshuffling the interim cabinet in Kandahar province, reported The Khaama Press has reported. This was the first meeting headed by Akhundzada since the Taliban took over. The meeting comes as the Taliban government has not yet been recognized by any country. Inclusivity of government and respect for women's and human rights are the biggest preconditions for recognition by the world community. The source, on the condition of anonymity, said that the 15-member team includes ministers of the interim government and other high-ranking officials of the Taliban, reported The Khaama Press. Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund, Deputy PM Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Defense Minister Mullah Yaqoob Mujahid, Interior Minister Sarajudin Haqqani, Minister of Education, Minister of Health, Minister Finance, Trade Minister, Mines and Petroleum Minister, Chief Attorney, and several other high-ranking officials of the Taliban have been meeting in Kandahar. Meanwhile, the Taliban has not officially commented on the meeting yet. (ANI) With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi for an official visit, exiled Tibetans have called upon India to press Beijing to resume dialogue with the Dalai Lama. Tibetan Parliamentarians-in-exile also demanded that China should stop repressive policies in Tibet while expressing mixed reactions to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's India visit and the talks between the two countries. "I would like to request the Government of India to raise Tibetan issues during the meeting with the Chinese foreign minister and also press for resumption of dialogue with his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. I would also like to ask the Chinese government to stop eradicating Tibetan identity and stop the repressive policies inside Tibet," said Thubten Gyatso, a Tibetan member of Parliament. Namgyal Dolkar, another member of the Tibetan Parliament in Dharamshala, said that Wang Yi is not welcome in a free and democratic country like India. "I would say that Wang Yi is not welcome in a free and democratic country. His country is responsible for unabated repression of rights of the people in Tibet for a long time, besides China is also responsible for the deaths of so many Indian soldiers on the border..." he said. However, Chodak Gyamtso, another Tibetan Parliamentarian, underlined the importance of the visit of the Chinese foreign minister, saying "it's very important to have good and positive relations between two giant countries of Asia, and it's also important to raise Tibet issue with both the sides." The Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening and is scheduled to hold talks today with the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar before leaving for Nepal for a three-day visit. Wang's Nepal visit will be his last stopover during the Chinese foreign minister's travel to the South Asian countries, beginning with Pakistan on March 21 to attend the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit as a "special guest". Wang held talks with Taliban representatives in Afghanistan on Thursday, followed by his arrival in New Delhi the same evening. China in recent times has introduced a number of new measures to further curtail the rights of Tibetans, who have been living under the Chinese occupation for decades. Recently, the Chinese authorities introduced a new code of conduct for members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in Tibet that explicitly forbids party members from all forms of religiosity in public and private life. Another new regulation called 'Measures on the Administration of Internet Religious Informative Services' which came into effect on March 1 bans all foreign organizations and individuals from spreading religious content online in China and Tibet except those who have acquired government licenses. At the same time, China has also begun demolishing structures symbolizing Tibetan Buddhism including old statues and monasteries with at least three such demolitions taking place since December last year as per reports. (ANI) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House here on Friday for delegation-level talks. Before meeting Jaishankar, the Chinese Foreign Minister visited National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's office in South Block. The Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi on Thursday. The key objective of Wang's visit is to restart physical engagement and also invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi for BRICS meet to be hosted by Beijing later this year. Before his India visit, the Chinese foreign minister attended the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting in Islamabad where he said, "On Kashmir, we have heard again today the calls of many of our Islamic friends. And China shares the same hope." However, India had rejected his remarks on Kashmir and said that other countries, including China, have no locus standi to comment on its internal affairs. This is the first visit of a senior Chinese leader to India in two years since the border stand-off between the two countries since May 2020. Last month, EAM Jaishankar had said that India's relations with China are going through a "very difficult phase" after Beijing violated the border agreements and asserted that the "state of border will determine the state of the relationship". After the Galwan Valley clash, both countries have held several rounds of border talks to resolve the standoff. India has called for complete disengagement in eastern Ladakh at all friction points. On March 11, the 15th round of Corps Commander level talks were held between the two countries on the Indian side of the Chushul-Moldo border point in which both sides agreed to maintain the security and stability along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector. Last year in July, EAM Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Dushanbe, where he conveyed that that unilateral change of status quo of the border area is not acceptable to India. This was the second face-to-face talk between Jaishankar and Wang Yi since the stand-offs started in early May 2020 at the LAC. Months after the Galwan Valley clash, Jaishankar held a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Moscow on the sidelines of the SCO meeting in September 2020 to discuss developments in the India-China border areas as well as on India-China relations. (ANI) Tokyo [Japan], March 25 (ANI/Sputnik): Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and his South Korean counterpart Chung Eui-yong discussed North Korea's intercontinental missile launch during their telephone conversation, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said. "The foreign ministers condemned the launches of intercontinental missiles by North Korea, especially the latest launch, and agreed that the intensification of North Korea's missile and nuclear programs is a blatant and serious challenge to the world community, reaffirming bilateral and trilateral cooperation, including the United States, the UN Security Council for entire denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions," the statement said. North Korea has confirmed that it had conducted a test launch of a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Thursday morning. A long-range ballistic missile was launched toward the Sea of Japan. The South Korean military confirmed that the missile flew approximately 670 miles with a maximum altitude of more than 3,850 miles. South Korea retaliated by launching a series of ballistic and cruise missiles toward the Sea of Japan. This is the 11th missile launch by North Korea this year. On February 27 and March 5, North Korea test-fired ballistic missiles as part of the reconnaissance satellite project. Seoul and Washington accused Pyongyang of testing a new Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile under the pretext of developing satellite systems. (ANI/Sputnik) The much-awaited session of Pakistan's National Assembly to take up the no-confidence motion against the Imran Khan-led Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has been adjourned to March 28 without the motion being tabled. The session was adjourned shortly after tributes were offered to Khayal Zaman, a member of the house from the ruling PTI who had recently passed away. Citing parliamentary convention, speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser said the first sitting after the death of a Member of the National Assembly (MNA) is limited to prayers for the soul of the departed and tributes fellow lawmakers wish to pay them, The Dawn reported. Qaiser asserted that he would conduct proceedings "as per rules and procedures" after which he adjourned the session till 4 pm on March 28. National Assembly Asad Qaiser has previously been slammed by the Opposition for siding with Imran Khan and even attending the party meetings of the ruling PTI. The National Assembly Secretariat had on Thursday evening issued a 15-point 'Orders of the Day' for the National Assembly session, which included the no-confidence motion. The development comes even as the Opposition parties had vowed to not allow any adjournment of the session without tabling of the motion. In a meeting on Thursday night, it was decided that the opposition would lodge strong protests if the proceedings were adjourned, media reports said. The Opposition parties had made elaborate preparations for the session, which was demanded in a letter to the National Assembly speaker on March 8. On the other hand, the ruling PTI has not issued any special instructions to its members for attending the session as the session has been requisitioned by the opposition Earlier, the joint Opposition had lodged protests over the session not being convened within the stipulated 14 days of the requisition, calling the delay by the speaker unconstitutional. The Pakistani National Assembly has a total strength of 342 members, with the majority mark being 172. The PTI led coalition was formed with the support of 179 members, with Imran Khan's PTI having 155 members, and four major allies Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) having seven, five, five and three members respectively. Imran Khan's situation is precarious given that three of the four allies, that is, MQM-P, PML-Q and BAP have stated their support to the Opposition's no-confidence motion and said that they will vote accordingly Upset with the news of allies joining the opposition camp, Imran Khan, in a last-ditch attempt, recently dispatched a team of senior PTI leaders to meet the allies and assure them that their reservations would be addressed. Adding to Khan's woes, almost 20 members from his own party had recently sought refuge in the Sindh House in Islamabad, and are expected to vote in favour of the no-confidence motion. The Opposition parties in Pakistan on the other hand hold the support of 162 members of the house and are expected to be joined by the three ruling coalition parties during the vote, helping them cross the majority mark, with 179 members supporting the no-confidence motion. (ANI) Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday told the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that there has to be "early and complete disengagement" in border areas for Indo-China ties to move forward. India and China, in a meeting of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, have ensured that the actions of both the countries do not violate the spirit of equal and mutual security, the government sources said. The two Asian neighbours also concurred to work in the same direction and resolve outstanding issues as quickly as possible, the sources added. The Chinese Foreign Minister, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, held delegation-level talks with NSA Doval on Friday. In their meeting, the two sides emphasised the need to continue positive interactions at diplomatic and military levels for restoration of peace, a prerequisite for normalisation of bilateral relations. This is the first interaction at the topmost level ever since the clashes between the two sides at the Galwan Valley in the summer of 2020. Both countries have held several rounds of border talks to resolve the standoff. India has called for complete disengagement in eastern Ladakh at all friction points. Today's discussions between Doval and Wang were held in a cordial atmosphere, the sources said. The two sides, according to government sources, discussed that the continuation of the present situation in the border areas is not in mutual interest, adding that restoration of peace and tranquillity will help build mutual trust and create enabling environment for progress in their relations. With both India and China emphasising the need for maturity and sincerity, the Chinese side invited the NSA to visit China to take forward the mandate of Special Representatives (SRs). The NSA Doval is learnt to have said that he could visit China after immediate issues are resolved successfully, said the sources. (ANI) Tokyo [Japan], March 25 (ANI/Sputnik): Japan will ban the export of luxury goods to Russia early next week, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said on Friday. "Early next week we will introduce the export ban measure of luxury goods," Hayashi said, adding that the bill on legislation in the field of cryptoassets in order to prevent Russia from avoiding sanctions, is in preparation for submission to the parliament. Hayashi said that he considers it necessary to impose sanctions against Russia, like the other members of the G7. Earlier on Friday, the Japanese Foreign Minister unveiled a new package of sanctions against 25 Russians and 81 organizations from Russia. Japan's sanctions list now includes 101 names and 130 organizations from Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday that Moscow, in response to Tokyo's unfriendly steps, is refusing to negotiate a peace treaty with Japan, is halting visa-free travel for Japanese citizens to the southern Kuril Islands, and is withdrawing from dialogue with Japan on establishing joint economic activities in the southern Kurils. A series of Western countries have introduced new sanctions against Russia amid the situation in Ukraine. A number of companies have announced their withdrawal from the Russian market and the closure of production facilities in Russia. As the Kremlin said earlier in the month, the Western sanctions are very serious and Russia was preparing for them in advance. It requires analysis and coordination of agencies to work out the response measures corresponding with Russia's interests. Earlier in the month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the policy of restraining and weakening Russia is a long-term strategy of the West and sanctions have dealt a serious blow to the entire global economy. The main goal of the West is to worsen the lives of millions of people. The president also said that the US and the EU have defaulted on their obligations to Russia, freezing its foreign exchange reserves. Current events draw a line under the global dominance of the West in both politics and economics, Putin said. (ANI/Sputnik) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Friday said that peace and tranquillity at the border areas with China have been the foundation of stable and cooperative ties between the two countries. He made these remarks after holding talks with Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi that lasted for about three hours. Jaishankar said that he and his Chinese counterpart addressed a broad and substantive agenda in an open and candid manner. "I would describe the current situation as work in progress, obviously at a slower pace than desirable. And my discussions with Foreign Minister Wang Yi today were aimed at expediting that process," Jaishankar told reporters here after delegation-level talks with Chinese FM. "The impact of the tension at the border areas on the overall relationship has been visible in the last two years. This is only natural since peace and tranquillity at the border areas have been the foundation of stable and cooperative ties. Indeed we have agreements designed to strengthen these foundations and prevent the kind of situation that we are seeing today," he added. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Friday told the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that there has to be "early and complete disengagement" in border areas for Indo-China ties to move forward. In a meeting between the Chinese Foreign Minister and NSA Doval, both countries emphasised that their actions should not violate the spirit of equal and mutual security, the government sources said. The two Asian neighbours also concurred to work in the same direction and resolve outstanding issues as quickly as possible, the sources added. The Chinese Foreign Minister, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, held delegation-level talks with NSA Doval on Friday. In their meeting, the two sides emphasised on the need to continue positive interactions at diplomatic and military levels for restoration of peace, a prerequisite for normalisation of bilateral relations. This is the first interaction at the topmost level ever since the clashes between the two sides at the Galwan Valley in the summer of 2020. Both countries have held several rounds of border talks to resolve the standoff. India has called for complete disengagement in eastern Ladakh at all friction points. Today's discussions between Doval and Wang were held in a cordial atmosphere, the sources said. The two sides, according to government sources, discussed that the continuation of the present situation in the border areas is not in mutual interest, adding that restoration of peace and tranquillity will help build mutual trust and create enabling environment for progress in their relations. With both India and China emphasising the need for maturity and sincerity, the Chinese side invited the NSA to visit China to take forward the mandate of Special Representatives (SRs). The NSA Doval is learnt to have said that he could visit China after immediate issues are resolved successfully, said the sources. (ANI) "LOT Polish Airlines is pleased to announce the commencement of passenger flights to Mumbai effective 31st May 2022. Furthermore, the Polish flag carrier resumes passenger flights to Delhi effective 29th March 2022," the airline said, adding that it resumes flights to Delhi after a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation. India is the world's seventh-largest economy, the most important Polish trade in South Asia, the airline said. Notably, amid the war between Russia and Ukraine, countries like Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, and Moldova have helped 'Operation Ganga' to evacuate Indian nationals from the war-ravaged country. This resumption of the flights comes after a long pending demand by the Indian diaspora in Poland. "We as Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IPCCI) are extremely glad to see the announcement by Poland to connect Mumbai and Delhi directly. It's an important step forward by Poland and will give a big boost for trade and tourism between India Poland," Amit Lath, Vice President of Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry said. "It's also of great convenience for many Indian students studying in Poland," he added. (ANI) Budapest [Hungary], March 25 (ANI/Sputnik): Hungary will not allow the supply of weapons to Ukraine through its territory, despite the demands of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as this would endanger the life and safety of the Hungarians, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Friday. "We understand that Ukraine and the Ukrainian people are the most important thing for the president of Ukraine. However, the most important thing for us is the security of Hungary and the Hungarian people. We are acting to keep Hungary out of the war, so we will not allow weapons to pass through our territory. These supplies will immediately become a military target for destruction, and we are not ready to put the life and safety of the Hungarians at risk," Szijjarto wrote on Facebook (banned in Russia). In early March, Hungary issued a decree prohibiting the supply of weapons to Ukraine from the country's territory. (ANI/Sputnik) Leaders of the G7 countries on Friday said that they will spare no efforts to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Lukashenko regime in Belarus, accountable for their aggression in Ukraine. "We will spare no efforts to hold President Putin and the architects and supporters of this aggression, including the Lukashenko regime in Belarus, accountable for their actions. To this end, we will continue to work together, along with our allies and partners around the world," the joint statement by the G7 leaders said. The joint statement came following a meeting of the G7 leaders in Brussels which comes at a time when civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine are rapidly rising. The G7 or the Group of Seven is an inter-governmental political forum consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Calling the Russian invasion unjustifiable, unprovoked and illegal, the leaders said that the Russian leadership is obligated to immediately comply with the order of the International Court of Justice to suspend the military operations that it commenced on 24 February 2022 in the territory of Ukraine, without any further delay. The joint statement also resolved to impose severe consequences on Russia including by fully implementing the economic and financial measures that have already been imposed, while also addressing the Russian people saying, "the people of Russia must know that we hold no grievances against them. It is President Putin, his government and supporters, including the Lukashenko regime in Belarus, who are imposing this war and its consequences on Russians and it is their decision that besmirches the history of the Russian people." The statement further said that the Russian attacks near the nuclear sites have put the Ukrainian populations under "extreme risk" with the potential for "catastrophic results". "We warn against any threat of the use of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons or related materials. We recall Russia's obligations under the international treaties to which it is a signatory, and which protect us all. In this regard, we categorically denounce Russia's malicious and completely unfounded disinformation campaign against Ukraine, a state in full compliance with international non-proliferation agreements," the statement said. The statement also extended thanks to all those who are providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, asking others to join as well, while it commended the neighbouring countries of Ukraine "for their solidarity and humanity in welcoming Ukrainian refugees and third-country nationals from Ukraine." The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine continues to deteriorate even as the conflict that began on February 24 with the Russian announcement of "special military operations" has entered its second month. The ongoing conflict has resulted in about 10 million people getting displaced within the country or ending up as refugees abroad till now according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). More than 3.5 million refugees have fled to the neighbouring western countries, including Poland, Romania, Moldova and Hungary, with European Union President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday announcing an economic package of EUR 3.4 billion to support EU countries hosting those fleeing the war. As of March 23, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recorded a total of 2,685 civilian casualties in the war-torn country, among them 1035 killed and 1,650 injured. (ANI) Highlighting the great importance and an absolute necessity to honour the victims of genocide and their descendants, speakers at an international conference have demanded international recognition of the Bangladesh genocide that took place during March-December 1971. The demand came during an international conference held on Thursday titled, 'Bangladesh: Justice after genocide' held at Leiden University in the Hague and organized by Europe based Bangladeshi diaspora organization European Bangladesh Forum (EBF) in collaboration with the Leiden University UNICEF Student Team the Hague & SESA (Southeast and South Asian) Club by CIROS (Community of International Relations and Organisations Students). A total of around 72 participants, mostly university students from different universities in the Netherlands joined the conference and took part in the discussion during the two Q&A sessions. Former member of the Bangladesh Parliament M Mahjabeen Khaled shared her personal story saying, "that topic is very personal to me and my family" and "The war of liberation defines me and what I am today." She further stated, "1971 liberation war has narrated thousands of personal stories and I hope that in the 21st century the global community will stand alongside Bangladesh, not just to remember, but also to recognise the Bangladesh Genocide of 1971." Paying rich tributes to Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, founder of Bangladesh, former ambassador of Pakistan to the US Hussain Haqqani said, "had he lived, I am certain he would have supported the idea of a formal apology from Pakistan for the tragedy inflicted on the people of Bangladesh during their war of liberation. This demand is supported by fair-minded people, like Pakistani dissidents like me," the Pakistan diplomat said adding, "collective apologies help heal wounds and enable nations to deal with past wrongdoing. Bangabandhu's (Sheikh Mujibur Rehman's) life and struggle make him a hero for the people of Bangladesh and other nations but in a fairer world, he would not have had to face the repression and injustice that he fought at great cost to himself and his family," Haqqani further said. EBF also plans to organize a two-day long demonstration in front of the historic 'Broken Chair' at the UN building in Geneva, Switzerland starting today. The demonstration is being organized in collaboration with the International Human Rights Commission Bangladesh, Geneva. The demonstration will reiterate the demand for trial of the perpetrators responsible for the genocide in Bangladesh and international recognition of the 1971 genocide committed by the Pakistan army. During the 1971 Genocide in Bangladesh, the Pakistan military deliberately harmed hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi citizens. Rights group says the horrors of 1971 are considered one of the worst mass atrocities in history. The damage they inflicted can be described in the following numbers. As many as three million people were believed to have been killed, up to 200,000 women were violated and over 10 million people were forced to cross the border to India to seek shelter. (ANI) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar said on Friday that the remark made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the OIC meet, which had sparked a strong response from New Delhi, featured in the delegation-level talks between the two ministers. Speaking to reporters here after the talks between the two ministers, Jaishankar said he conveyed that India hopes that China would follow an independent policy in respect to New Delhi and will not allow its policies to be influenced by other countries. "Did the issue of what Minister Wang Yi said at the OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) Conference come up? Yes, it did. I referred to it. I explained to him, why we found that statement objectionable. It was a subject discussed at some length. There was a larger context as well," Jaishankar told reporters after delegation-level talks with the Chinese Foreign Minister. "I conveyed that we hope that China would follow an independent policy in respect of India and not allow its policies to be influenced by other countries and other relationships," said Jaishankar. Jaishankar said that the Chinese Foreign Minister expressed a desire to return of the bilateral ties to normalcy, but he conveyed that India wants stable and predictable relations. "(Chinese) Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed a desire to return (of the bilateral relationship) to normalcy but also referred to the larger significance of our ties. I was equally forthcoming that India wants a stable and predictable relationship but restoration of normalcy will require the restoration of peace and tranquillity," he added. Wang Yi's visit comes shortly after India rejected his remarks on Kashmir at the OIC meeting in Islamabad. India had also said that other countries, including China, have no locus standi to comment on India's internal affairs. Before meeting Jaishankar, Wang Yi met National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. NSA Doval told the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister that there has to be "early and complete disengagement" in border areas for Indo-China ties to move forward. (ANI) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Friday said that China has not invited India to the Afghanistan meeting that is set to take place later in March. China had earlier announced the third foreign ministers' meeting among the neighbouring countries of Afghanistan. The Taliban have confirmed participation in the meeting scheduled to be held later this month. "On the Afghanistan meeting, which the Chinese are convening, I believe... No, they have not invited us," Jaishankar said during a press conference after holding the delegation-level talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Answering a question on Wang Yi's recent remark at the OIC meeting, Jaishankar said the two ministers discussed that issue and he conveyed India's hope that China would follow an independent policy in respect to New Delhi. "I conveyed that we hope that China would follow an independent policy in respect to India and not allow its policies to be influenced by other countries and other relationships," said Jaishankar. On the issue of terrorism emanating from Pakistan, Jaishankar said, "It did come up, in terms of my sharing with him India's view of concerns, what we have in respect of Pakistan and of course what were the positions taken during OIC meet." Answering a question of whether Indo-Pacific featured in the talks, the minister answered that Indo-Pacific did not come up during the talks. (ANI) ehran [Iran], March 25 (ANI/Xinhua): Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has reaffirmed Iran's red lines, such as lifting sanctions "to the maximum," for reaching an agreement in the nuclear talks in Vienna, the Iranian Students' News Agency reported Friday. Abdollahian made the statement during his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut on Thursday, highlighting Iran's determination to defend the red lines set for the nuclear talks to safeguard its interests. "We are optimistic and serious about the outcome of the Vienna talks. In our view, the agreement should be such that lifting of sanctions is done to the maximum," he told Mikati. "We want the agreements to be in a way that benefits the region and expands our good relations with the countries of the region," the Iranian top diplomat noted.Meanwhile, the Lebanese prime minister expressed hope for the success of the talks in the Austrian capital, agreeing that a positive deal would benefit the region including Lebanon. Abdollahian expressed the same point of view in another meeting with Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri during his visit to Lebanon, according to Tasnim news agency. Iran signed a landmark nuclear deal with world powers in 2015. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed unilateral sanctions on Iran. Since April 2021, eight rounds of talks have been held in Vienna between Iran and the remaining parties to the deal, namely Russia, China, France, Britain, and Germany, with the United States indirectly involved, in a bid to revive the deal. (ANI/Xinhua) Noting that completion of disengagement is necessary for discussions on de-escalation along LAC in eastern Ladakh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has described the current situation "as work in progress obviously at a slower pace than desirable" and said his talks with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi were aimed at expediting the process. Addressing a media briefing on Friday after delegation-level talks with Wang Yi, the minister said the relationship is not normal due to the large presence of Chinese troops near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in contravention of agreements. He said they discussed "bilateral relations that have been disturbed as a result of Chinese actions since April 2020". Jaishankar said several rounds of commander-level talks between India and China have made progress but "we still have ongoing friction areas". He said there is a situation where peace and tranquillity in the border areas has been disturbed. The minister said he and Wang Yi met for about three hours and addressed a broad and substantive agenda in an open and candid manner. Jaishankar said they have been in touch with each other over the last two years, even if there had been no bilateral visits during the period. He said they met in Moscow in September 2020 and then again in Dushanbe in July and September 2021 and also had telephonic conversations during this period with the focus of interactions being the "situation in our border areas". "Our meeting had led to an understanding on disengagement and de-escalation. The challenge, of course, has been to implement it on the ground. We have had 15 rounds of talks between Senior Commanders and progress has been achieved on several friction points from the disengagement perspective. This needs to be taken forward since the completion of disengagement is necessary for discussions on de-escalation to take place," he said. " I would describe our current situation as work in progress, obviously at a slower pace than desirable and my discussions with FM Wang Yi today were aimed at expediting the process," he added. Asked if talks on issues such as education, travel and commerce indicated normalcy in bilateral relations, Jaishankar said so long as there are very large deployments, border situation is not normal. "No, our relationship (with China at present) is not normal, given the presence of a large number of troops in contravention of the 1993-96 agreements. So long there are very large deployments, border situation is not normal. We still have ongoing friction areas; have made progress in resolving some friction areas including Pangong Tso. Our discussion today was how to take this forward," he said. Jaishankar said that large deployments in the border areas is violative of 1993-1996 agreements between the two countries. "Now, we all know that the senior military commanders have been meeting. The point is that so long as there are very large deployments in the border areas, which are violative of 1993-1996 agreements, clearly, the border area's situation is not normal. The main point, which I again spelt out at some length in my statement -- we have a situation where peace and tranquillity in the border areas have been disturbed," he said," answering a query. He said that peace and tranquillity is the foundation for going forward and added that his answer to the question regarding normalcy between the two countries is "no". "My answer to is our relationship is normal is no, it is not and it cannot be normal if the situation in the border areas is abnormal and surely there the presence of a large number of troops there in contravention of agreements is abnormality." He said there is a need to sort out border issues in their entirety. "We have had meetings before with Minister Wang Yi before and there have been talks in parallel -- not only the senior military commanders but also we have had, I think, eight meetings of WMCC, which is the working mechanism dealing with this issue. So, they have made considerable progress, I don't dispute that, in fact, I welcome that, but, they haven't sorted out the issue in its entirety. So, our effort today is to sort out the issue in entirety and deal with the disengagements, so that, it allows us to look at the de-escalation possibilities." Asked if any timeline has been set for disengagement and de-escalation at LAC, he said: "there was no timeline" and a parallel but a separate discussion took place in regard to sorting out the situation in border areas. (ANI) A Sindh-based political party in Pakistan held local police responsible for the death of Hindu girl Pooja Kumari who was killed by a man at her home in Rohri town a few days ago. The girl identified as Pooja Kumari was shot in Rohi, Sukkur after she put up resistance to the attackers. Speaking to media persons in the city of Sukkur today, Sindh United Party (SUP) president Syed Zain Shah said that family of the slain Kumari had complained to police beforehand against possible assault on the girl but police did not bother to take their complaint seriously. "If police had taken preemptive measures, Pooja Kumrani might have not have suffered death at the hands of her tormentor because her parents had already indicated to police about the alleged killers," he was quoted as saying by Dawn newspaper. "SSP Sukkur should constitute a team and investigate the matter seriously," Zain Shah said and added that Sindh police had become an estate police and it was least interested in serving people. On Wednesday, Pakistan police had arrested a suspect connected with the shooting of an 18-year-old girl, who was shot dead. This is not a stand-alone incident in Pakistan. Human rights activists say that hundreds of Christian and Hindu girls are forced to convert to Islam every year. Women belonging to minority communities are regularly abducted and forcibly converted. Rights group says the country's minority communities have long faced the issue of forced marriages and conversions. Multiple rights organisations have accused the Pakistan government of not taking necessary actions over the rising crimes against Hindus and other minorities. (ANI) Dozens of students have rallied in Kabul on Friday to protest the Taliban's decision to block girls' schools. A number of protestors chanted slogans against the Taliban. One of the slogans said, "No religion has blocked education and the ban on educating girls is blatant gender discrimination." As the new school year begins in Afghanistan, the Taliban has announced that the boys can continue their education normally. However, the doors of the schools have been closed to girls beyond the sixth grade. The intentional community has condemned this ban saying, this move will have an inevitable impact on the Taliban's prospects of gaining political support and legitimacy either at home or abroad. Condemning the Taliban's decision not to reopen secondary schools to Afghan girls, the United States and its allies have called on the group to revoke its decision. A joint statement issued by Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union has condemned the Taliban's decision on March 23 to deny so many Afghan girls the opportunity to finally go back to school. "The Taliban's action contradicted its public assurances to the Afghan people and to the international community," read the statement, adding that the decision came after months of work by the international community to support teacher stipends based on an expectation that schools would be open for all, with the higher interest of Afghan students and teachers in mind. They called on the Taliban urgently to reverse this decision which will have consequences far beyond its harm to Afghan girls. "Unreversed, it will profoundly harm Afghanistan's prospects for social cohesion and economic growth, its ambition to become a respected member in the community of nations, and the willingness of Afghans to return from overseas," the statement added. (ANI) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday reached Nepal on a three-day official visit to the Himalayan nation. "State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PRC Mr. Wang Yi arrived in Kathmandu this afternoon for a three-day official visit. The visiting dignitary was accorded warm welcome by Foreign Secretary Mr. Bharat Raj Paudyal at TIA," Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a tweet. In a whirlwind tour, Wang landed today in Nepal after a visit to India. He had come to India after visiting Kabul following his participation at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meet in Islamabad. Wang's Nepal visit comes in the backdrop of Nepal ratifying the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, a grant of USD 500 million developmental assistance from the US to Kathmandu, seen as a setback for China. According to an article in The Annapurna Express by Shambhu Kattel, the Foreign Ministry in Beijing has apparently concluded in its review that China's presence in Nepal is weakening. The article said President Xi Jinping is sending Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Kathmandu to explore ways to turn things around. It said China decided to send its foreign minister to Kathmandu while the Chinese Communist Party was holding its Annual National People's Congress, suggesting an unusual level of urgency at the unfolding events in Nepal. According to the article, the Chinese officials have said that Wang's main agenda in Kathmandu is to reassess Beijing's geopolitical and security challenges, as China no longer feels secure in Nepal. "Implementation of the BRI projects in Nepal is important for Beijing... But this time Beijing is more worried about the security challenges emanating from the compact's approval," said a second Kathmandu-based Chinese official who has long liaised between Kathmandu and Beijing, according to the article. During his visit, Foreign Minister Wang will also take stock of the political climate in Kathmandu, the article said. According to the Annapurna Express article, the Chinese official associated with China's diplomatic corps in Kathmandu said that in the lead up to the compact's endorsement, there was a lack of coordination among the Chinese agencies handling Nepal. Speaking anonymously, he also said the communication gap between Beijing and the Chinese Embassy was also growing. Nepal's federal parliament did ratify the compact, as the Americans wished, but in the run-up to ratification, Beijing tried mighty hard to stop it. It sees the USD 500 million development grant to Nepal as a part of America's strategy to encircle China, the article noted. (ANI) The Tibetan Youth Congress staged a protest outside the Hyderabad House in Delhi on Friday against the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to India, demanding Chinese FM to go back to his country. "We are protesting against Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. He is here to discuss the Line of Actual Control (LAC) border issue but actually, India-Tibet shares the LAC. So, Tibet should be there in the meeting, not China," one of the protesters said. While another protester said, "We strongly condemn the Wang Yi's presence in India and we also demand the justice and freedom for all those Tibetans who are residing in Tibet." Earlier today, exiled Tibetans have called upon India to pressurise Beijing to resume the dialogue with the Dalai Lama. Tibetan Parliamentarians-in-exile also demanded that China should stop repressive policies in Tibet while expressing mixed reactions to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's India visit and the talks between the two countries. "I would like to request the Government of India to raise Tibetan issues during the meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister and also press for resumption of dialogue with his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. I would also like to ask the Chinese government to stop eradicating Tibetan identity and stop the repressive policies inside Tibet," said Thubten Gyatso, a Tibetan Member of Parliament. However, Chodak Gyamtso, another Tibetan Parliamentarian, underlined the importance of the visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister, saying "It's very important to have good and positive relations between two giant countries of Asia, and it's also important to raise Tibet issue with both the sides."The Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening and is scheduled to hold talks today with the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar before leaving for Nepal for a three-day visit. Wang's Nepal visit will be his last stopover during the Chinese foreign minister's travel to the South Asian countries, beginning with Pakistan on March 21 to attend the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit as a "special guest". Wang held talks with Taliban representatives in Afghanistan on Thursday, followed by his arrival in New Delhi the same evening. (ANI) "International travellers into and out of Australia will still be required to provide proof of double vaccination against COVID-19. Travellers will also still be required to wear a mask while on international flights based on medical advice," Hunt said in a statement. These measures will be adopted under non-emergency provisions in the Biosecurity Emergency Determination regulations relating to COVID-19 for Australia, the minister said. "The requirements for maritime arrivals will also be aligned with those on airlines, as part of the safety protocols for the resumption of cruising," Hunt noted. The official stated that closing the borders for two years was instrumental in "managing the pandemic" and reducing the human cost. According to previous reports, starting from April 17 international cruise ships will be allowed in Australian waters. (ANI/Sputnik) Abdulhaq Omeri, a senior Afghan journalist informed that Zadran was arrested while he was returning to his home. "Former Paktia Deputy Chief of Police Mohammad Chargand Zadran has been arrested by the Taliban in Khost's Do Manda district. He was on his way home when he got out of his car. He is still with the Taliban," Omeri tweeted. This comes a few days after the rights groups highlighted that the Taliban have heightened surveillance and said that they would take retaliatory action in response to further attacks on Taliban officials. Afghan activists told Human Rights Watch (HRW) that the Taliban in Helmand have increased their surveillance of individuals and groups they accuse of being "opposed to the Islamic Emirate." The threats follow a spate of attacks in which Taliban members have been abducted or killed. The Taliban have previously carried out revenge killings of former government officials and have been responsible for forcibly disappearances or summarily executing former members of the security forces and others they accuse of being their enemies. The statements heighten concerns that Taliban fighters in the province could use recent attacks as a pretext to commit abuses against perceived critics, including journalists and activists. (ANI) While the situation in the once-seriously-affected Covid-19-hit countries are slowly getting back to normalcy, China is struggling hard to control the rising cases now. The situation is becoming worse every passing day. There are two apparent reasons for the Chinese woes. First, Beijing's much-touted 'Zero Covid' policy has failed to achieve the expected outcome. And second is the inefficacy of Chinese vaccines against coronavirus. Chinese vaccines SinoVac and SinoPharm were among the first vaccines developed to build antibodies against coronavirus. China exported these vaccines to different countries and even donated them to some poor countries. In the due course of time, complaints started coming in about the ineffectiveness of these vaccines. China refused the reports. But many countries went on administering, an additional dose, also known as a booster shot, to those already vaccinated. At the end of December when the Omicron variant was spreading fast, China's Sinovac showed its limitation in countering the virus. According to a study conducted by the University of Hong Kong, SinoVac generated very poor virus killing antibody responses against Omicron. Moreover, it failed to provide adequate levels of protection in those who were already given two doses of Sinovac. This certainly does not bring good news for Chinese health authorities since they had administered over 2.6 million doses to its 1.6 billion populations by 2021. According to a government report, 3 per cent of people aged above 80 years died after taking two doses of the Chinese vaccine SinoVac. The fatality rate is 6 per cent for those who took one dose. Moreover, a document by the Chinese National Health Commission showed that Chinese vaccines were leading to leukemia. The ineffectiveness of vaccines has left Chinese authorities with no option but to rely on forced lockdowns to break the chain of infection. Major cities are shut down, people are locked out, markets are closed, and industry supply chains are broken. This has affected people's routine life as well as caused loss of jobs and income. China has been imposing lockdowns in various major cities as the number of fresh cases increases. In Shenzhen city, people are compelled to undergo three rounds of testing. They can only go out for testing. All means of public transport are suspended and no one can leave the city. This has impacted people as well as businesses. Tech giant Apple too has suspended its operations in Shenzhen. Matt Murphy CEO of Shenzhen-based semiconductor manufacturing company Marvell Technology said the lockdowns were aggravating the problems for the technology supply chain. "More broadly, if you look at the situation in China, the lockdowns certainly have the potential to have all kinds of disruption in the electronics industry," he said. The latest outbreak has impacted almost every corner of China. Authorities are implementing the 'Zero Covid' policy strictly, which has disrupted food and medicine supplies, manufacturing and retail business. Yet, the cases are rising, thus frustrating the authorities as well as the locked-out residents. Notably, over 85 per cent of the Chinese population is vaccinated. People are blaming the government and vaccine companies for mismanagement and are protesting against forced vaccination. "The testing agencies want this to go on. The vaccine companies want to inoculate forever," said a Chinese citizen on the social media platform WeChat. Another Chinese citizen Lau said he was feeling helpless. "There's nothing we can do. We don't know when it's going to end, clients are on the verge of cancelling orders, supplies are dwindling and employees can't get to work," he said. The frustration regarding the failure of the 'Zero Covid' policy is growing among authorities as well. Jilin provincial health commission official Zhang Yan accepted there was mismanagement in tackling the virus infection. "The emergency response mechanism in some areas is not robust enough, there is insufficient understanding of the characteristics of the Omicron variant ... and judgment has been inaccurate," Yan said. India, the second populous country after China and suffered badly earlier, now has managed to control the Covid-19 spread. New Delhi has declared that there will not be any restrictions on public movement after March. In China, however, people are still vulnerable to viral infection as Chinese vaccines have been found to be ineffective in just six months after administering them. The Chinese population is still quite far from achieving herd immunity. In such a scenario, only an effective vaccine appears to be the only solution. However, the Chinese vaccines are failing in their objectives. Rather they are becoming disastrous in some cases. (ANI) The U.S. secretary of state, and foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Morocco, and Bahrain will arrive in Israel for a series of "historic" diplomatic meetings at the invitation of Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, according to a statement released by the ministry. Israel signed an agreement with the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco to normalize ties in 2020. The agreement came as part of the so-called Abraham Accords, in which Sudan also agreed to normalize ties with Israel. (ANI/Xinhua) Sixteen directors of Afghanistan's Labour and Social Affairs Ministry have been replaced by the Taliban's senior official relatives, who have only religious education degrees. According to a report in Pakistan's vernacular media, all the 16 directors, who have been fired, hold either master's or bachelor's degrees. The group's senior officials have appointed their relatives who only have only religious education degrees. Meanwhile, Abdulhaq Omeri, a senior journalist in Afghanistan said that the Taliban are turning Abdul Hai Habibi Central High School into madrassa. Citing high school's principal, he further stated that most of the students come from the urban areas but now the Taliban has directed them to shift Abdul Hai Habibi High School away from the city and elsewhere by all means. Earlier today, dozens of students have rallied in Kabul to protest against the Taliban's decision to block girls' schools. A number of protestors chanted slogans against the Taliban. One of the slogans said, "No religion has blocked education and the ban on educating girls is blatant gender discrimination." As the new school year begins in Afghanistan, the Taliban has announced that the boys can continue their education normally. However, the doors of the schools have been closed to girls beyond the sixth grade. Condemning the Taliban's decision not to reopen secondary schools to Afghan girls, the United States and its allies have called on the group to revoke its decision. A joint statement issued by Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union has condemned the Taliban's decision on March 23 to deny so many Afghan girls the opportunity to finally go back to school. (ANI) 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. The murder of a Hindu girl in Pakistan has raised the question about women's safety in the country, especially of women from the religious minority communities. Recently, an 18-year-old girl from the Hindu community, Pooja Kumari was shot dead in Sukkur while she resisting attempted abduction. The assailant is believed to have entered her house with two accomplices and shot her after she refused to marry him. The police have arrested the suspect and presented him before the local court, said an editorial in The News International citing reports. It said that numerous cases of abduction and forced conversion of underage girls were reported, particularly in Sindh but the entire judicial system, police and administrative machinery appears to be helpless in such cases. Pakistani politician talks about various issues ranging from poverty to corruption but they don't give much attention to the issue that is needed. The Pakistani publication believes that discrimination and hatred against women have been created, nurtured and spread across the country. It also states that the state policies of the country have added to the increasing crimes against women and religious minorities. On one side Pakistan government discuss 'Islamophobia' with the western countries while the country themselves don't do justice to their own minorities. The increase in the number of forced conversions of underage girls clearly states that Pakistan doesn't give even the basic rights to the minority communities. Pakistani publication mentions 2014, Pakistani Supreme court judgement where they recommended to protect the rights of minorities and issued a general critique of a state that has not followed its duty to protect the most vulnerable among them. The court also called for the constitution of a task force but none of this could stop the crimes against religious minorities. The editorial suggested that the Pakistan government need to take strict action and merely legislating the issue won't help Pakistan to win the battle against intolerance. Notably, since the Imran Khan government came to power in August 2018, Pakistan's Global Gender Gap Index has worsened over time. In 2017, Pakistan ranked 143, slipping to 148 in 2018. According to the last year's 'Global Gender Gap Report 2021', Pakistan ranked 153 out of 156 countries on the gender parity index, that is, among the last four. The country has become more conservative since Imran Khan came to power. (ANI) Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Vice-President Maryam Nawaz on Friday said that the Pakistani people will "definitely come out to rally but only to oust him and his government." Addressing a public rally in Lahore, Maryam said "People will definitely leave their houses, but only to send you home," she said, Pakistani media organisation Geo News reported. Taking a jibe at the frequent usage of "trump card" by Khan, that he often says that he will use for the benefit of the nation, the PML-N Vice-President said, "You only have one trump card and that is your resignation." Maryam accused the Pakistani PM of using money from the national treasure to fund allies. She further stated that people will ask him about using national treasury money. She said that the Pakistani PM is being ousted only due to the nation's curse. "People beg me to spare them from him whenever I go to Islamabad," Maryam was quoted as saying by Geo News. The PML-N Vice-President stated that Khan is afraid that people will find out about the money that he has stolen in Bani Gala, a residential area in Islamabad. "He is afraid of the money he has stolen in Bani Gala," adding "no one will come to his rescue now," Maryam was quoted as saying by Geo News. "He used to claim he will never give a National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO)," but "now look how he is begging for one," she added. Meanwhile, on Thursday, Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party (PPP) announced that matters had been settled with key government ally, Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and that the ruling coalition member will vote in favour of the motion to oust Imran Khan, according to Dawn. MQM-P is the largest ally of the ruling PTI coalition with seven members in the National Assembly. "Talks have been held with the MQM today (Thursday) and matters have been settled. It is also possible that some ministers will also be with the opposition," PPP secretary general Farhatullah Babar told reporters outside Zardari House after the party's parliamentary party meeting. The Pakistani National Assembly has a total strength of 342 members, with the majority mark being 172. The PTI led coalition was formed with the support of 179 members, with Imran Khan's PTI having 155 members, and four major allies MQM-P, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) having seven, five, five and three members respectively. (ANI) Amid the reports about China's increasing military in the Solomon Islands, Beijing on Friday said both countries have developed conventional security cooperation that is in line with international law and international practice. China and Solomon Islands are reportedly negotiating a new security agreement that Beijing could establish a military presence in the Pacific Island country. Through this agreement, Chinese ships may make visits, carry out the logistical replacement, and stopover in the Solomon Islands. "China and the Solomon Islands, as two sovereign and independent states, develop conventional cooperation in the field of law and order, as well as security, on the basis of equal treatment and mutual benefit, which is in accordance with the international law and practice," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Friday. Wang added that the appropriate cooperation contributes to maintaining public order in the Solomon Islands, promotes peace and stability in the region, as well as the common interests of China and other countries in the region. Despite making remarks on the deal, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson did not answer the question of whether the security agreement between China and the Solomon Islands, which circulated in the media, is genuine. Media reports this week said a security cooperation agreement between China and the Solomon Islands. The Financial Times reported that ships of the Chinese army docked in the Solomon Islands will be protected by members of the Chinese security personnel. The reports further said Chinese forces can be called upon in case of social unrest in the Solomon Islands and to protect Chinese personnel and projects. (ANI) "The leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest - including the situation in Ukraine. It was a frank and candid conversation lasting almost an hour. They agreed to speak again soon," the British Prime Minister's Office said in a statement. During the phone call, Johnson expressed again his sympathy with the victims of the flight that crashed in China last week. Noting the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties at the ambassadorial level between the two countries, Xi said that the relationship in the past half-century has witnessed continuous growth on the whole despite some ups and downs. Noting that both nations have different domestic conditions and development paths, Xi said the two sides should bear in mind a strategic and long-term perspective, Xinhua news agency reported. Xi said that China is willing to conduct dialogue and cooperation with Britain in a frank, open and inclusive manner, and hopes that the British side can view China and China-Britain relations objectively. (ANI) Allies of Taiwan are not afraid to invest in Taipei despite China's pressure and the first shots in Taiwan's commercial retaliation to Chinese economic pressure seemed to be laced with Lithuanian rum. In an effort to promote the use of the 20,400 bottles of rum diverted to Taiwan, the Taiwanese National Development Council recently posted recipes for "dark 'n' stormy" cocktails, French toast, and steak, among other foods, on Facebook, reported European Times. While Taiwan's move encourages residents to experiment with new cocktails and recipes, it appears to be largely a risk management technique for friends and partners in international trade. The rum, along with other items, was supposed to be sent to China from Lithuania until diplomatic difficulties erupted. Lithuania-China ties deteriorated dramatically in August 2021, when Lithuanian officials announced the establishment of a Taiwanese Representative's Office, a de facto embassy in Vilnius. Boycotts, such as the one on Lithuanian rum, are not unusual in Chinese economic policy. In reaction to a variety of perceived insults by other countries, economic pressure, particularly trade boycotts, have been used as penalties, reported European Times. In response to Prime Minister Scott Morrison's request for an international probe into the origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, China levied duties on Australian wine as high as 218 per cent in late 2020. The Nobel Peace Prize given to dissident Liu Xiaobo in 2011 caused an effective embargo on Norwegian salmon imports. In 2016, China increased taxes on Mongolian resource imports in reaction to the Dalai Lama's visit to the nation. In 2017, China retaliated over South Korea's construction of a US-made missile defense system by boycotting Korean cultural items and shops, reported European Times. In light of such instances, Western politicians have proposed a system of trade alliances to mitigate the effects of economic coercion. While Lithuania, Australia, and others have sought relief from the World Trade Organization, the WTO's dispute resolution procedure may be long, resulting in short-term losses for smaller nations. As a result, academics have recommended a "NATO-for-Trade" strategy. States would act collectively under this approach not just within the WTO dispute settlement procedure, but also outside of it, to react against trade coercion or to mitigate economic risk for small nations by purchasing boycotted products directly. A similar EU-wide policy to safeguard member states from foreign nations was recently suggested by France. By permitting the European Commission to impose penalties on non-member states with majority support, the European Union would decrease the barrier to collective action. This danger may be lessened if a system of trade alliances were in existence, and nations would be more inclined to condemn trade aggressors, reported European Times. (ANI) "Today the US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated five individuals and five entities connected to Burma's military regime pursuant to Executive Order (E.O) 14014," the US Department of Treasury said in a statement on Friday. Among the entities is the 66th Light Infantry Division (LID), the statement said. "Members of the 66 LID have been accused of carrying out the Christmas Eve massacre in 2021, where civilians in Pyay and Hpruso Townships of Karen State were captured, tortured, and killed, including some whom members of the military reportedly burned alive," it added. According to the Treasury Department, the US accuses Myanmar's military of committing atrocities against ethnic and religious minorities, violent repression of political dissent and innocent people. "Treasury is committed to holding accountable those who are responsible for the ongoing violence and repression. We will continue to support the people of Burma, including those who are courageously standing in opposition to the military," Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said. The Myanmar military seized power in February 2021 after seeing accusing civilian leaders of rigging the general election. The military's actions spurred major civil unrest that led to over 1,600 casualties. (ANI) As China continues its crackdown against Tibetans' culture, the video services and other online platforms will no longer use the Tibetan language. Citing Tibetan sources, Radio Free Asia reported that the Chinese government has imposed restrictions on the use of the Tibetan language in video services and other online platforms. Following this decision, China-based language learning app Talkmate and video streaming service Bilibili have removed the Tibetan and Uyghur languages from their sites. Last year, on December 20 the Chinese authorities issued an order where foreign organisations and individuals were not allowed to spread 'religious content' online in China or Tibet, which came into effect on March 1. Such restrictions are also seen on social media platforms, according to the source. A researcher at the Dharamsala, India-based Tibet Policy Institute named Phentok confirmed that China's new restrictions had gone into effect on March 1. "Specifically, those platforms where users go live to perform and communicate with their audiences have seen more restrictions put in place," a source was quoted as saying by RFA. "Tibetans are forbidden to speak in Tibetan while communicating, and if any Tibetan artist tries to represent Tibetan culture and tradition on their social media platform, their accounts are disconnected," the source said. "And if such performances go live, they are immediately interrupted by the government," the source added. According to sources, northwest China's Qinghai province has already banned Tibetan social media groups tied to religion. They have also warned the group members that if they continue to use those media groups then they will be investigated and even can be jailed. Earlier, the teachers in the Lhasa region are given workshops on teaching children in the Chinese language to brainwash them. Even the textbooks have now been translated into Chinese in Golog (in Chinese, Guoluo) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of northwestern China's Qinghai province. Recently, the focus on teaching in Chinese has increased in all Tibetan schools and the political ideology of Chinese President Xi Xi Jinping is now the main theme for instruction. Chinese troops occupied Tibet in 1950 and later annexed it. The 1959 Tibetan uprising saw violent clashes between Tibetan residents and Chinese forces.The 14th Dalai Lama fled to neighbouring India after the failed uprising against Chinese rule. The Dalai Lama, the supreme Tibetan Buddhist leader, established a government-in-exile in India. (ANI) Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi denied the Pakistan People's Party's (PPP) claim that Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) will vote in favour of the motion to oust Imran Khan, adding that MQM-P told them that PPP is giving false statements. This statement comes after the meeting that took place between the Pakistan Foreign Minister and MQM-P leaders in Islamabad, Pakistani channel ARY News reported. Qureshi came to the meeting along with Asad Umar and Pervaiz Khattak. In the meeting, Qureshi conveyed the important message of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran khan to MQM-P leaders. "We have told them to be together as they are our ally. The meeting with the MQM-P delegation was held in a good environment and it was a positive and fruitful meeting," Qureshi was quoted as saying by ARY News. Earlier today, Pakistan Federal Minister for Information Technology Aminul Haque said that MQM-P is still part of the government and any decision will be taken only after consulting with the constituents and activists of the party. After arriving at the National Assembly session, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecom, Aminul Haque referring to the flag on his car, said that MQM-P is still part of the government. Earlier, on Thursday, Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party (PPP) announced that matters had been settled with key government ally, Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and that the ruling coalition member will vote in favour of the motion to oust Imran Khan, according to Dawn. "Talks have been held with the MQM today (Thursday) and matters have been settled. It is also possible that some Ministers will also be with the opposition," PPP secretary general Farhatullah Babar told reporters outside Zardari House after the party's parliamentary party meeting. Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Vice-President Maryam Nawaz on Friday said that the Pakistani people will "definitely come out to rally but only to oust him and his government." Addressing a public rally in Lahore, Maryam said "People will definitely leave their houses, but only to send you home," she said. The Opposition parties in Pakistan had submitted the no-trust motion in the National Assembly secretariat on March 8. (ANI) Two individuals and three companies responsible for supplying the Myanmar military regime with weapons and equipment have been sanctioned, the UK Government has announced on Friday. The British Foreign Office said the country has also designated the new Head of Air Force who was recently appointed to the State Administration Council. The move comes ahead of Myanmar Armed Forces Day this weekend. On Armed Forces Day last year, the Myanmar military killed over 100 civilians, in what is regarded as the bloodiest day since the coup in February 2021. The press statement said new sanctions, freezing assets and banning travel to the UK, will be brought against Dr Aung Moe Myint, Aung Hlaing Oo and General Htun Aung. Dynasty International Company Ltd, Myanmar Chemical and Machinery Company Ltd, and Miya Win International Ltd will also have their assets frozen. The UK has worked closely with partners in the US and Canada to coordinate this latest round of action. UK Minister for Asia, Amanda Milling said: "The Myanmar military has shown no signs of stopping its brutal campaign of violence against the people of Myanmar, who continue in their fight for democracy. "These sanctions target those who are instrumental in supplying the military with weapons that facilitate these abuses across the country," Milling added. According to the UK foreign office, the Myanmar military continues to use violence against civilians, including indiscriminate airstrikes, village burnings, and the suppression of the opposition movement. The individuals and entities listed are responsible for facilitating this violence, including through supplying the military with weapons and services that have increased their ability to commit human rights violations. "The UK will continue to coordinate with allies, to push for an end to violence, the full implementation of the ASEAN Five Point Consensus, and immediate humanitarian access to those in need of life-saving aid," the release said. (ANI) "To deliver on the Prime Ministers' of Australia, India and Japan and the President of the United States' vision for a free, open and resilient Indo-Pacific, this week the Quad Senior Cyber Group met in Sydney for two productive days of discussions on opportunities to extend our cybersecurity cooperation and uplift cyber resilience and critical infrastructure protection in our region," the White House said in a statement According to the release, Australia, India, Japan and the United States recognize the need for improving cybersecurity in an increasingly digital world with sophisticated cyber threats. The White Hosue said the Improvements are particularly important in delivering the essential services of life, health and livelihood that are provided by the critical infrastructure. This meeting resulted in a work plan to further collaboration between the members, and with partners and industry in the region to address our common challenges. The group will report back to Leaders through the established Quad processes, the release added. (ANI) Female Foreign Ministers from over a dozen countries including Australia, UK and Norway on Friday expressed their deep disappointment and concern over the girls being barred access to secondary schools in Afghanistan. As the new school year begins in Afghanistan, the Taliban has announced that the boys can continue their education normally. However, the doors of the schools have been closed to girls beyond the sixth grade. The intentional community has condemned this ban saying, this move will have an inevitable impact on the Taliban's prospects of gaining political support and legitimacy either at home or abroad. "As women and as foreign ministers, we are deeply disappointed and concerned that girls in Afghanistan are being denied access to secondary schools this spring. The Taliban's decision to suspend secondary classes until further notice is particularly disturbing as we repeatedly heard their commitments to open all schools for all children," said a joint statement of Female Foreign Ministers on the occasion of the re-opening of schools in Afghanistan. "We urge the Taliban to live up to their commitments to the Afghan people and to adhere to the international conventions that Afghanistan has subscribed to. We call upon the Taliban to reverse their recent decision and to grant equal access to all levels of education, in all provinces of the country. Practical difficulties in implementing a non-discriminatory educational policy must be overcome," the statement added. The ministers said that they will watch closely whether the Taliban deliver on their assurances. "We will measure them by their actions, not by their words." "Access to education is a human right to which every woman and every girl is entitled. Individually, girls' education and women's empowerment lead to a better life, help to alleviate economic challenges for their families, and are the basis for exercising social rights and political representation," they added. (ANI) International Court of Justice has fixed the time limits for the filing of the Memorial and the Counter-Memorial in the case of 'Allegations of Genocide under the Convention on the Prevention & Punishment of the Crime of Genocide for Ukraine and Russia'. In its order of March 23, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, taking into account the views expressed by the Parties (Ukraine and Russia), fixed September 23, 2022, for the Memorial of Ukraine and March 23, 2023, for the Counter-Memorial of the Russian Federation and reserved the subsequent procedure for further decision. Earlier, on March 16, the ICJ had ruled that Russia must suspend its military operations in Ukraine. Ukraine moved the ICJ against Russia accusing it of falsely claiming that Ukrainians are committing genocide in their territory and using it as a pretext for war. Ukraine had instituted proceedings against the Russian Federation with respect to "a dispute . . . relating to the interpretation, application and fulfilment of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide". ICJ had on March 1 fixed March 7 and 8, 2022 as the dates for the oral proceedings in a hybrid format on the Request for the indication of provisional measures. However, Russia on March 5 indicated that it will not participate in the oral proceedings and a public hearing was held in a hybrid format without the participation of the Russian Federation. After the hearing, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of the Netherlands communicated to the Court a document setting out the position of his Government regarding the alleged "lack of jurisdiction of the Court" in the case. Russia emphasized that, in its view, Ukraine's Application "manifestly fall[s] beyond the scope of the [Genocide] Convention and thus the jurisdiction of the Court," The ICJ, however, indicated certain provisional measures. (ANI) "Canada is imposing targeted sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Burma) Regulations against individuals and entities responsible for procuring and supplying arms and military equipment to the military regime in Myanmar, as well as the Commander of the Air Force," the statement said. The Canadian authorities said they made the decision to impose additional sanctions in coordination with the US and UK governments. "Canada stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar. We cannot and will not remain silent while this regime continues its cruel disregard for human life," Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly said. Jolly called on the international community to apply greater pressure on Myanmar's military to end lethal attacks on its own people. The Myanmar military seized power last February, using a constitutional mechanism of transferring power in an emergency situation. The military arrested the key government officials after it accused them of rigging the general election, and later appointed a new administration. (ANI) Describing numerous achievements of his PTI-led government since coming into power in 2018, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday claimed that no regime in Pakistan had performed in the last 50 years as well as his government did during its three-and-a-half-year rule, Express Tribune reported. "Look at our economy, our tax collection, we have collected the highest amount of taxes in this period, we have the highest yield of crop in the country's history, we have also taken care of the farmers and have given them the correct price which had never been paid [by any previous governments]," the premier said while addressing an impressive public gathering in Khyber-Pakhtunkwa's Mansehra district. Coming down hard on his political opponents, the premier alleged that Rs 200 to Rs 250 million are being offered to buy people's conscience. "Our MNA, Saleh Mohammad, was offered Rs 250 million by the opposition but he refused," he claimed. The Prime Minister said that the opposition was seeking NRO (amnesty) like the one given by former military ruler General (Retd) Pervez Musharraf. "It would be the biggest treason with Pakistan the day I forgive them (opposition leaders)," he added, the report said. He said that the no-confidence motion has been tabled so that the opposition leaders could get an easy escape'. "Three rats are trying to hunt me down, but what they don't know is that they will be hunted down instead... I will defeat them," Khan said. --IANS san/arm ( 260 Words) 2022-03-25-21:14:04 (IANS) Ukraine informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that there has not been any rotation of technical staff at the Chernobyl nuclear plant since March 21, the UN nuclear watchdog said on Friday (Local Time). In an IAEA statement, Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi said, Ukraine also did not know when the next rotation might take place. Ukraine's regulatory authority told the IAEA on Thursday that Russian shelling of checkpoints in the nearby city of Slavutych, where many Chernobyl nuclear power plant staff live, "prevented them from travelling to and from the plant." The current staff who arrived at the plant on March 20-21 replaced the personnel who had been there since Russian forces took control of the site on February 24, the IAEA said. On Friday, Ukraine's State Agency for the Management of the Exclusion Zone "provided additional detailed technical information about the Central Analytical Laboratory in Chernobyl town, which it earlier this week said had been 'looted by marauders." Grossi said he has "in recent weeks expressed deep concern about the difficult situation facing staff operating Ukrainian nuclear facilities where the Russian military is present". He has stressed that "their ability to carry out their important tasks without undue pressure" is critical in order to maintain nuclear safety. (ANI) High Commission of India in Bangladesh pays solemn tribute with a blackout of the Chancery complex to honour the sacrifice of untold millions of Bangladeshi people killed and women assaulted during 'Operation Searchlight' 51 years ago, said the Mission in Dhaka in its statement. On March 25, 1971, Pakistan Army launched 'Operation Searchlight,' wherein a planned military operation was carried out by the Pakistani Army and its military deliberately harmed hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi citizens. Rights group says the horrors of 1971 are considered one of the worst mass atrocities in history. The damage they inflicted can be described in the following numbers. As many as three million people were believed to have been killed, up to 200,000 women were violated and over 10 million people were forced to cross the border to India to seek shelter. Moreover, highlighting the great importance and an absolute necessity to honour the victims of genocide and their descendants, speakers at an international conference in Hague have demanded international recognition of the Bangladesh genocide that took place during March-December 1971. The demand came during an international conference titled, 'Bangladesh: Justice after genocide' held at Leiden University in the Hague on Thursday. It was organized by Europe based Bangladeshi diaspora organization European Bangladesh Forum (EBF) in collaboration with the Leiden University UNICEF Student Team the Hague and SESA (Southeast and South Asian) Club by CIROS (Community of International Relations and Organisations Students). A total of around 72 participants, mostly university students from different universities in the Netherlands joined the conference. They took part in the discussion during the two Q and A sessions. (ANI) Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Friday interacted with the Indian Foreign Service Officer Trainees of the 2021 batch and diplomats from Bhutan at Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) in New Delhi where he stressed on the importance of Indian diplomats in promoting the values of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Taking to Twitter, the Ministry of External Affairs wrote, "Foreign Secretary @harshvshringla interacted with Indian Foreign Service Officer Trainees of 2021 batch and diplomats from Bhutan. Stressed on the pivotal role of our diplomats in promoting the ideals of #AtmanirbharBharat & of India as a 'Force for global good'." Aatmavirbhar Bharat is the vision of the Prime Minister of making India a self-reliant nation and Shringla' laid a thrust on pushing the initiative by the PM further. Earlier on March 9, the Foreign Secretary while addressing the inaugural session of the Training Module organized by Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service on India's Neighbourhood at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie underlined that neighbourhood comes first and foremost amongst all of India's foreign policy priorities. "The Neighbourhood First Policy, at the instance of the Prime Minister, accords the highest priority to our relations with Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka," Foreign Secretary Shringla said, adding further that, "It is these countries, with the exception of Pakistan, that we work most closely with." "Whether it is the "India First" policy of the Maldives or Sri Lanka; "Sonali Adhyay" in India-Bangladesh ties; B4B - Bharat for Bhutan and Bhutan for Bharat - spirit, the epithets describing India's relations with its neighbours are not by coincidence. They are manifestations of our Neighbourhood First policy in action", read the MEA statement. (ANI) This image of the tryworks was taken from the shipwreck site of brig Industry by a NOAA ROV. The tryworks was a cast iron stove with two deep kettles used to render whale blubber into oil. It was manufactured by G & W Ashbridge, a Philadelphia company. (NOAA Ocean Exploration) A recent 207-year shipwreck discovery showcased the history of Black and Native Americans in one of the nation's oldest industries. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its partners announced the discovery of a 207-year-old whaling ship at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico in March 2022. The 64-foot long, two-masted wooden brig is helping researchers learn more about a little-known time period of American History. The ship was first discovered in late February off the coast of Pascagoula, Mississippi, which is located along the state's southeastern coastline about 40 miles southwest of Mobile, Alabama. "Today we celebrate the discovery of a lost ship that will help us better understand the rich story of how people of color succeeded as captains and crew members in the nascent American whaling industry of the early 1800s," NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. said in a news release from NOAA. Spinrad explained that the discovery reflects the prosperity of African Americans and Native Americans in the ocean economy during a time when they were facing discrimination and other injustices. "It is also an example of how important partnerships of federal agencies and local communities are to uncovering and documenting our nation's maritime history," said Spinrad. During this time, African enslaved people and Native Americans served as essential crew, according to NOAA. This image of an anchor was taken from the 1836 shipwreck site of brig Industry in the Gulf of Mexico by the NOAA ROV deployed from NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer on February 25, 2022. (NOAA Ocean Exploration) "Black and Native American history is American history, and this critical discovery serves as an important reminder of the vast contributions Black and Native Americans have made to our country," U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves said in the NOAA news release. Story continues Graves said the discovery will help researchers learn more about the lives of Black and Native American mariners as well as their communities during the 19th century, in addition to understanding more of the immense challenges those groups faced on the land and at sea. The discovery was aided by a remotely operated vehicle aboard NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer, which was able to provide guidance via satellite to scientists onshore. The vehicle explored several suspected locations first spotted by an energy company in 2011. Six years later, an autonomous vehicle briefly viewed the area but it wasn't until last month that it was fully examined. CLICK HERE FOR THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Recently, a coordinated effort was launched between scientists and archaeologists from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to find Industry, according to CNN. Last month, the team was able to find the ship's wreckage. The team also uncovered details about the ship and how it sank. The whaling brig was built in 1815 in Westport, Massachusetts, a town bordered by Rhode Island in southeastern Massachusetts. The brig was used to hunt whales in several large bodies of water including the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. Named Industry, the ship was used for 20 years until it was lost during a strong storm on May 26, 1838. NOAA Ocean Exploration documented the brig Industry shipwreck in the Gulf of Mexico at a depth of 6,000 feet below the Gulf surface. The brig sank in the summer of 1836 after a storm snapped its masts and opened the hull to the sea. (NOAA Ocean Exploration) The ship was hunting for sperm whales located more than 70 miles from the Mississippi River. During the storm, the masts on the ship snapped and opened its hull to the sea. Out of 214 whaling voyages from the 1780s to the 1870s, it is the only one known to be lost in the Gulf of Mexico. According to a report filed by the team, the ship did not sink immediately after the storm hit, due to whale oil that was on board. "That there were so few artifacts on board was another big piece of evidence it was Industry. We knew it was salvaged before it sank," Scott Sorset, marine archeologist for the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, said. There was a mystery for several decades about the whereabouts of the crew after the ship went down in the storm, but research by Robin Winters of Westport Free Public Library was able to identify the crew members of Industry and what happened to them after the ship sank. Winters' research revealed an article from June 1836 in the Nantucket Inquirer and Mirror that reported the crew was picked up at sea by another whaling ship. The crew was returned safely to Westport. The mosaic of images from the NOAA video of the brig Industry shipwreck in the Gulf of Mexico, February 25, 2022, shows the outline in sediment and debris of the wooden hull of the 64-foot by 20-foot whaling brig. The tryworks and two anchors are also visible. A third anchor is buried in the sediment near the tryworks. Mosaic was created by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management using NOAA ROV video footage. (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management) "This was so fortunate for the men onboard. If the Black crewmen had tried to go ashore, they would have been jailed under local laws. And if they could not pay for their keep while in prison, they would have been sold into slavery," said James Delgado, Ph.D., senior vice president of SEARCH Inc., who worked closely with Winters and several other local historians to confirm the identity of Industry. Paul Cuffe, a mariner and entrepreneur whose father was a freed slave and whose mother was a Wampanoag Native American, had a son that navigated on Industry. The son-in-law of Chuffe was an officer on the brig and is thought to have made the most whaling voyages of any Black person in American history. "Finding the Industry is an amazing opportunity to tell a much fuller story of Paul Cuffe's accomplishments as a whaling captain, businessman and social activist bent on finding a way to end the slave trade," said Lee Blake, president of the New Bedford Historical Society, who played a key role in the development of the Captain Paul Cuffe Park and an African American and Native American Heritage Trail. For the latest weather news check back on AccuWeather.com. Watch the AccuWeather Network on DIRECTV, Frontier, Spectrum, fuboTV, Philo, and Verizon Fios. AccuWeather Now is now available on your preferred streaming platform. Mar. 25LORETTO, Pa. A grant of more than $24,000 from the National Aeronautics and Space Adminstration will help St. Francis University create models of the moon's surface, along with educational videos and presentations dedicated to science and upcoming engineering projects on the moon, for exhibits that will benefit the community. "The more we learn about the moon, the more we'll learn about our Earth," said Lanika Ruzhitskaya, assistant professor of physics. She is the principal investigator for the Community Anchor Award through the science outreach program at the Loretto school, which applied for the funding to expand scientific education in the region. Colleagues Timothy Miller, Qin He and Guochang Wang will assist with the St. Francis project, which is titled "Space Sciences and Engineering Mobile Interactive Exhibit for Rural Areas: Earth to Moon." The team is meeting and setting up a schedule to determine when the exhibits will be ready most likely by the end of August, Ruzhitskaya said. The group will work with the Claysburg, Hollidaysburg, Patton and Portage libraries to host the displays. "The goal is to make people feel like they have a little bit of the moon in Pennsylvania," Ruzhitskaya said. That will be done with models made using the university's 3D printers. "The exhibit will expose young children and their families to space sciences and engineering through live interaction with the exhibit's educational content and SFU faculty and students," a university release said. Ruzhitskaya said the librarians at the facilities will be trained to operate the interactive exhibits. Miller said he expects this to be "a great education opportunity to the local community." "We have been considering using different 3D printing models, pictures, videos of rock samples, moon structure, ecological systems, etc., to visualize the moon surface," he said. "We also want to use different 3D models to display the life difference between Earth and moon, such as house structures, transportation, communication, energy supplies, etc. The main idea is to help understand how sciences and engineering knowledge can be applied to achieve different goals on the moon." Story continues Miller is a petroleum engineer whose main research is focused on the extraction of subsurface hydrocarbons from rocks by drilling. He said that NASA is undergoing a drilling project on the moon and that this work is an essential step in understanding the celestial body. "We hope this project is a start for our area in a process of deep learning of the moon and also our Earth," Wang said. "More people can be involved in this process, delivering knowledge to the public community, contributing to the progress of science and engineering associated with the moon and space, inspiring new ideas and so on." Wang is also a petroleum engineer and geologist. "Through conducting this project, we believe the students in elementary school, high school and college can learn more about the moon and the history and future of research and projects associated with the moon," Wang said. "This could attract more students to the STEM majors in college and improve their willingness to learn geology, physics and engineering. For parents, besides better understanding the moon for themselves, they can give more broad suggestions for their children for their major and career." St. Francis was one of 21 organizations across the country to receive the NASA funding. "Our grant was so good they could not refuse it," Ruzhitskaya said. She added that those at NASA were impressed with the engineering component of the project. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the 2018 Met Gala. Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images Sarah Jessica Parker turns 57 on March 25. Parker, who has been in the public eye since the late '70s, is known for her unique fashion sense. These are some of the most daring looks Parker has worn on the red carpet. At a September 1988 charity event, Parker established something that's still true today: She loves a hat. Parker on September 21, 1998. Ron Galella Collection/Getty Images She paired this giant flowered black hat with denim overalls and an oversized white blazer, along with a few layered necklaces. Even at 23 years old, Parker knew what she wanted to express, in regards to fashion. For the premiere of "Slam Dance" in September 1987, Parker walked the red carpet in a black bra top, high-waisted jeans, and another oversized blazer. Sarah Jessica Parker on September 27, 1987. Jim Smeal/Ron Galella Collection/Getty Images Of course, her hair was teased high to '80s perfection. She opted for a similar albeit a more colorful version of the same look in November 1991 at the premiere of "For the Boys." Sarah Jessica Parker on November 13, 1991. Barry King/WireImage/Getty Images Parker wore a colorful, sequined bolero-style jacket adorned with Grecian art, a golden bra, and red velvet pants. At an event in February 1992, Parker went for Old Hollywood glam with a low-cut dress and a string of layered pearls. Sarah Jessica Parker at a gala in 1992. Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection/Getty Images Her normally bouncy curls were blown out straight, which added to her vintage look. At the VH1 Vogue Fashion Awards in October 1997, Parker wowed in this backless minidress with barely there straps. Sarah Jessica Parker on October 23, 1997. Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty Images This look is timeless anyone could walk the streets of New York City in this dress and look just as contemporary as Parker did in the late '90s. Parker attended HBO's Emmy Awards party in September 2000 wearing a dress straight out of Carrie Bradshaw's closet. Sarah Jessica Parker arrives for HBO's Emmy party on September 10, 2000. Jason Kirk/Liaison/Getty Images "Sex and the City" had started two years prior, and Parker attended an HBO party in a ballerina-pink dress with a feathery skirt, similar to Bradshaw's iconic tutu look in the "SATC" opening. Parker walked the Screen Actors Guild Awards red carpet in March 2001 in this bold two-piece look. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the Screen Actors Guild Awards on March 11, 2001. Jason Kirk/Newsmakers/Getty Images Parker tied up her iconic curls to let this bold look do the talking, walking the red carpet in a black sequined bandeau top and a matching midi-length skirt. Story continues At the 2003 Golden Globes, Parker went for a menswear-inspired look with tailored pants and, of course, a little of her trademark edge in the corset top. Sarah Jessica Parker during the 60th Golden Globe Awards on January 18, 2003. Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage/Getty Images Parker's top also had a few strips of fabric across her shoulder, as well as a pink brooch. The Broadway star wowed at the 2003 Tony Awards in this sheer halter dress. Sarah Jessica Parker arrives at Radio City Music Hall for the 2003 Tony Awards on June 8, 2003. Richard Corkery/NY Daily News Archive/Getty Images Parker's dress, designed by Gucci, featured multiple sheer panels and strategically placed black patches. Parker wore this interesting combination of hot pink and lace at the 2004 CFDA Fashion Awards. Sarah Jessica Parker wearing a Howard Greer dress attends the 2004 CFDA Fashion Awards on June 7, 2004. Peter Kramer/Getty Images Parker's Howard Greer dress featured an exaggerated black tutu skirt, a hot-pink bodice with a plunging neckline, and a black lace overlay. This is just one of many Met Gala looks that will make this list. For the 2006 event, Parker combined tartan, lace, and tulle. Sarah Jessica Parker departing the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Benefit Gala on May 1, 2006. Evan Agostini/Getty Images The 2006 theme was "AngloMania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion," and Parker certainly understood the assignment of combining traditional with the controversial. Her dress was designed by Alexander McQueen. Parker returned to two of her true loves, "Sex and the City" and hats, for the "SATC" film premiere in May 2008. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the "Sex and the City" world premiere on May 12, 2008. Jon Furniss/WireImage/Getty Images She strutted down the red carpet in this green strapless dress and exaggerated beret with a tower of flowers attached. She channeled Carmen Sandiego at a premiere in December 2009 with this magenta fedora and black trench coat. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the afterparty for the premiere of "Did You Hear About The Morgans?" on December 8, 2009. Jon Furniss/WireImage/Getty Images Nothing explains Parker's love of drama more than this look. During a March 2010 event, Parker wore this celestial black minidress. Sarah Jessica Parker at the ShoWest awards ceremony on March 18, 2010. Ethan Miller/Getty Images The dress was designed by Marchesa. Parker went even bigger with both her dress and her hat at the "Sex and the City 2" premiere in May 2010. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the UK premiere of "Sex and the City 2" on May 27, 2010. Jon Furniss/WireImage/Getty Images Parker's dress featured a bubble high-low hem and a two-toned neckline, which she paired with a giant nest-like hat and a black armband. This is the peak of Parker's hat love it almost looks like a sculpture. She wore it at a November 2011 event. Sarah Jessica Parker wears a hat designed by Philip Treacy on November 2, 2011. Scott Barbour/Getty Images Her hat, which many compared to a Slinky, was designed by Philip Treacy. For a fashion show in March 2012, Parker donned a gray cape, a sheer white dress with a black bra visible underneath, and gloves. Sarah Jessica Parker arrives for the Louis Vuitton Ready-To-Wear Fall/Winter 2012 show on March 7, 2012. Marc Piasecki/WireImage/Getty Images This begins a run of visible undergarments, a look that Parker has stayed committed to. At the punk-themed Met Gala in 2013, Parker wore a feathery headpiece. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the Met Gala on May 6, 2013. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images This headpiece was also designed by Philip Treacy. She paired the ornate piece with a pink-and-gold-splattered gown designed by Giles Deacon. For the 2014 Met Gala, Parker paid homage to Oscar de la Renta in this sweeping black and white gown adorned with his signature. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the "Charles James: Beyond Fashion" Costume Institute Gala on May 5, 2014. Jamie McCarthy/FilmMagic/Getty Images Parker was one of the evening's co-chairs, and therefore couldn't disappoint ... and she didn't. This look, a true showstopper, was of course designed by Oscar de la Renta. At the next year's Gala in May 2015, Parker once again wore a bold headpiece designed by Philip Treacy. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the "China: Through The Looking Glass" Costume Institute Benefit Gala on May 4, 2015. Jamie McCarthy/FilmMagic/Getty Images That year's theme was "China: Through The Looking Glass," and you can see the Chinese influence in Parker's headpiece, which resembled a flaming dragon float you might see in a Chinese New Year parade. At the New York City Ballet Fall Gala in September 2015, Parker wore this unique navy gown that looks splattered in crystallized paint. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the 2015 New York City Ballet Fall Gala on September 30, 2015. Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic/Getty Images The dress featured a sheer top and sleeves. Parker's look at a May 2016 event consisted of a plastic dress covered in studs. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the 68th Annual Parsons Benefit and Fashion Show on May 23, 2016. Jared Siskin/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images She paired the plastic Valentino dress with a simple navy crewneck. Parker wore unique tights for a November 2016 appearance on "The Tonight Show." Sarah Jessica Parker during an interview on November 22, 2016. Andrew Lipovsky/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty Images This dress is low-key, by Parker's standards, which opened the door for a fun pair of tights and scarlet heels. She rocked this strapless bronze gown with detached sleeves at the People's Choice Awards in January 2017. Sarah Jessica Parker poses in the press room during the 2017 People's Choice Awards on January 18, 2017. Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images for Fashion Media The dress' skirt actually has layers there's a pale brown layer underneath featuring accordion pleats. She opted for a similar strapless-with-detached-sleeves silhouette at the New York City Ballet's 2017 Fall Fashion Gala, this time in a shimmery navy dress with fringed skirt. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the New York City Ballet's 2017 Fall Fashion Gala at on September 28, 2017. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images Parker's fun look was designed by Morse. Parker yet again wore a white lace top with an exposed black bra at an October 2017 event. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the Intimissimi Grand Opening on October 18, 2017. Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images She paired the top with a black tulle skirt. Parker was a real traffic-stopper at the 2018 Met Gala in this ornate golden dress with matching cape and headpiece. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination" Costume Institute Gala on May 7, 2018. Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images Her headpiece featured the nativity scene inside of it, a nod to the Catholic theme of the evening. Parker's dress was designed by Dolce & Gabbana. At a September 2018 red-carpet event, Parker wore this sequined navy dress with a thigh-high slit. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the "Here And Now" premiere on September 6, 2018. Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images She added a black velvet sash to her Prabal Gurung dress, which matched her subtly exposed black bra. Parker ramped up the drama at the 2018 New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala in this ruby-red ball gown with sheer paneling on the back and sleeves. Sarah Jessica Parker arrives to the 2018 New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala on September 27, 2018. James Devaney/GC Images/Getty Images Nope, Parker's dress isn't short-sleeved if you look carefully, you can spot the red cuffs on her wrists are attached to the mesh sleeves. The dress' back also showcases an exposed black zipper, adding a little edge to the Giles Couture look. For the 2019 New York City Ballet Gall Fashion Gala, Parker stepped it up yet again by rocking this hot-pink ruffled gown. Sarah Jessica Parker attends the New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala on September 26, 2019. Monica Schipper/WireImage/Getty Images The bold dress was designed by Zac Posen. You can see on Instagram that Parker added a perfectly Bradshaw touch: mismatched heels. In October 2020, while standing in front of her new store, Parker wore a violet dress that almost looked like a blanket. Sarah Jessica Parker on October 15, 2020. Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images Parker's dress featured tassels at the hem and a slit. For the premiere of "And Just Like That" in December 2021, Parker wore a two-toned tea-length dress with a matching cape. Sarah Jessica Parker attends HBO Max's premiere of "And Just Like That" on December 8, 2021. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images Parker wore a favorite of herself and Carrie Bradshaw for the premiere, an Oscar de la Renta design. Read the original article on Insider Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center is planning a sweeping, $645 million project to modernize the hospital that includes renovations, the construction of new buildings and the demolition of others. The Lakeview hospital is proposing building a four-story addition to its Center for Advanced Care building, which is a facility for outpatient care, which is care that does not require an overnight hospital stay, according to an application the hospital filed with the State Health Facilities and Services Review Board. Advertisement Its also hoping to build a five-story bed tower on top of the Center for Advanced Care, where most of its overnight beds would be relocated to private rooms. Now, only about 20% to 25% of the hospitals rooms are private. The plan also calls for modernizing large parts of the main hospital and demolishing three buildings, which are now part of the main hospital, that the application describes as outdated. One of the buildings slated for demolition is more than 100 years old. Advertisement Overall, the project would mean 332,780 square feet of new construction, with completion in 2030. Once its finished, the hospital would have 326 licensed, staffed beds, said hospital president Susan Nordstrom Lopez. Now, the hospital has 397 licensed beds but only about 304 are staffed, meaning only 304 are able to be used, she said. Were going to have a pretty new campus when this is all completed, Nordstrom Lopez said. The state review board must approve the project before it can proceed. The board is scheduled to consider the project at its June 7 meeting. The project could break ground as early as this summer, Nordstrom Lopez said. A main motivation behind the project is to make sure all patients get private rooms where they and their families will have more space, Nordstrom Lopez said. Having private rooms is very important in a pandemic era, and this gives us an opportunity to create that kind of space for our patients and their families, Nordstrom Lopez said. I think, finally, well have the kind of space that reflects the quality of care our patients receive at Illinois Masonic. The new bed tower would house inpatient and intensive care unit beds as well as labor and delivery and neonatal intensive care unit beds. Most of the hospitals inpatient beds would be moved to the new bed tower. The expansion of the Center for Advanced Care would include a new breast center with mammography and ultrasound services that are now in a leased medical office building. It would also expand outpatient cancer services, as well as relocate and modernize operating rooms. The Center for Advanced Care is already in a relatively new building that was completed in 2015. But demand for cancer services in that building has been high, driving the need for expansion, Nordstrom Lopez said. The four-story addition will extend the center to the west. Advertisement In the current main hospital building, several floors would be modernized, expanding cardiology services and current operating rooms. A number of doctors and local health care leaders have already expressed their support for the project, writing letters to the state review board endorsing it. A hospital that has been dedicated to caring for the community for over 100 years is in need of a major overhaul, wrote Dr. Richard Fantus, Masonic medical director for trauma, surgical and perioperative services, in a Feb. 28 letter to the board. He noted that many of the hospitals beds and operating rooms are now in a building thats more than 50 years old. Five decades of advancements in medicine bring with it the need for additional space and modernization in order to accommodate the significant increase in technology, Fantus wrote. He added that, The recent pandemic illustrates how semiprivate patient rooms no longer have a place in the delivery of modern health care. Dr. Jude Duval, director of maternal fetal medicine at Masonic, wrote that often, now, women in the neighborhood receive prenatal care elsewhere but end up at Masonic in emergency situations. Advertisement Modernizing spaces for womens health would give women the opportunity to deliver their newborn in their neighborhood and no longer have to travel away from families and friends, Duval wrote. In recent years, a number of Chicago-area hospitals have embarked on construction projects designed to keep up with advancements in medicine and a shift toward outpatient care, as more procedures are able to be done without an overnight stay. Earlier this year, University of Chicago Medicine announced plans to build a $633 million, 500,000-square-foot cancer hospital in Hyde Park to attract more patients, help address health inequities on the citys South Side and free up beds at the main hospital. Rush University Medical Center has also been constructing a large facility on Chicagos Near West Side that it hopes will become a destination center for cancer and neurological care. Mar. 25HARLINGEN The chief executives of 10 major airlines and cargo haulers sent a letter to President Joe Biden demanding an end to mask mandates and pre-flight testing for international travelers. The letter was passed to the White House through the advocacy group Airlines for America, and was signed by the CEOs of American Airlines, United Airlines Holdings, Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. Others include the leaders of UPS Airlines, FedEx Express, JetBlue Airways, Alaska Air Group and Atlas Air Worldwide. "We are encouraged by the current data and the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions from coast to coast, which indicate it is past time to eliminate COVID-era transportation policies," the letter reads, citing the latest pandemic numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The airline leaders noted they had instituted many policies voluntarily at the start of the pandemic to limit the spread of COVID, but they say the decline in deaths and hospitalizations means "they no longer make sense." Two weeks ago, the federal Transportation Security Administration extended the mask mandate for airports, commercial aircraft, buses and rail systems which was set to expire March 18. It was the fourth extension of the mandate since February 2021. Last month, Texas Attorney Gen. Ken Paxton filed suit against the Biden administration seeking to rescind mask mandates for airports, airlines and all public transportation networks. The suit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, contends the CDC lacks authority to impose such a broad health mandate and that it violates the constitutional rights of Americans. The Daily Beast ReutersTroops sent into Ukraine to back up Russian forces say they had no choice but to leave because Russian military was in shambles and they deceived us at every step.Soldiers from the breakaway state of South Ossetiaspeaking to South Ossetian leader Anatoly Bibilov at a meeting publicized by the independent news outlet MediaZonarattled off a list of complaints about faulty equipment, lack of leadership and intel, and brainless tactics.South Ossetia, which relies heavily on military and f As the mercury rises each spring, so do pollen and grass counts that trigger allergic reactions. Still, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, experts say there is no need to panic. Catherine Monteleone, an allergist and immunologist with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital New Brunswick, said seasonal allergies have not been shown to make people more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19. Symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as a cough, can nonetheless overlap with those of COVID-19, making the virus more difficult to diagnose without testing, she added. "You can make a checklist," Monteleone said. "Ask yourself: What are the symptoms that I'm feeling? And, if I've had allergies before, is this different?" COVID-19 warning signs Monteleone said the symptomatic should first look to their history of seasonal allergies and attempt to parse any inconsistencies. Common signs of allergies such as itchy, watery eyes and sneezing are rarely directly linked to COVID-19, she said. Intestinal issues, however, are rarely linked to seasonal allergies, she added. Headaches, fatigue, runny nose and sore throat are common to both. A checklist created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can help people parse their symptoms. James Mitchell, a doctor with American Family Care's Paramus clinic, said even COVID-19's symptom of loss of smell can be similarly caused by allergy-borne nasal congestion. Loss of taste, however, is less likely to be allergy related. Mitchell and Monteleone said fever is probably the biggest warning sign that symptoms of a perceived acute allergic reaction may stem from COVID-19. "You don't get a fever with an allergy usually, or the muscle aches, the flu-like feeling," Monteleone said. "Certainly you can be tired from allergies, but usually not muscle aches." Mitchell said a fever combined with some other symptoms, such as deep and persistent cough or shortness of breath, should be a cause for concern and probably trigger a COVID-19 test. Any symptoms affecting the respiratory tract should be viewed with caution, he added. Story continues "People know their bodies best. If something feels off, always get tested," Mitchell said. A history of seasonal allergies should be considered when reviewing symptoms, Monteleone said. Also important to weigh are the prevalence of COVID-19 and the availability of tests for it, she added. COVID cases have fallen dramatically since the wave of the initial omicron variant hit at the end of 2021. From more than 40,000 daily confirmed cases a few days before New Year's Eve, state officials in March have reported about 500 lab-confirmed cases each day. Health: Cases expected to rise as BA.2 variant is now dominant strain in NJ and NY Dining: Looking to take a road trip? These 8 New Jersey restaurants are worth it News: Top New Jersey lawmakers in no rush to have state regulate 'warehouse sprawl' If unsure, take the test COVID-19 tests that can be taken at home without the risk of infecting others are readily available. While it may be advisable in novel circumstances to contact a physician, Mitchell said to use personal judgment. "Your doctor will probably advise you to test anyway, because the tests are so widely available now," Mitchell said. "We had been reserving them for critically ill patients when they were new and scarce. Back then, it was more of an issue." Mitchell's Paramus clinic and others throughout the region provide walk-up care, including rapid and more accurate polymerase chain reaction COVID-19 testing. The former takes less than 20 minutes and is free for many with insurance. Since mid-January, the U.S. government has also offered every home in the country free delivery of two sets of four at-home tests. Those who ordered the first batches may have tests that expire late this spring and may need to renew later this allergy season. Monteleone recommended signing up and taking an at-home test for peace of mind, if "you're going to go be near Grandma, and your allergies are acting up." "If your suspicion is low and the home test is negative, that can probably be the end of it," she said. David Zimmer is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Spring allergies or COVID? Doctors say watch symptoms, test SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia will roll out a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccines to its most vulnerable population starting next month, authorities said on Friday, as the country looks to limit fresh outbreaks ahead of winter. The decision comes amid a steady rise in cases fuelled by the highly contagious BA.2 sub-variant of the Omicron strain and concerns of co-circulation of COVID-19 and flu viruses during colder months as most social distancing restrictions end. A second booster shot will be offered from April 4 to people who had their previous booster shot at least four months ago and are over 65 years, Indigenous Australians over 50, people with disability or severely immunocompromised, Health Minister Greg Hunt said during a media briefing. Australia, which is among the most heavily vaccinated countries against the new coronavirus, has so far administered two vaccine doses to 95% of people above 16. Nearly 67% has been given a third, or booster shot, official data showed. This has helped Australia to restrict its COVID-19 numbers, with about 4 million cases and 5,824 deaths registered since the pandemic began, far lower than many comparable countries. A total of around 35,000 new cases and 16 deaths were reported by late morning on Friday, with four states due to report later. (Reporting by Renju Jose; Editing by Lincoln Feast.) Diana Irion (pictured) is the mother of missing Nevada teen Naomi Irion. KOLO Diana Irion is the mother of missing Nevada teen Naomi Irion. Naomi was abducted from a Walmart parking lot on March 12. Diana told Insider it felt like being "shot in the chest" to learn her daughter was missing. The mother of a missing Nevada teen told Insider about the gut-wrenching moment she learned about her daughter's abduction while thousands of miles away in South Africa. Naomi Irion was waiting in her car to take a shuttle to her job at a Panasonic factory around 5:30 a.m. on March 12, when a nondescript man approached her vehicle, got in, and drove off with her inside. Naomi's car was found abandoned less than a mile from the parking lot two days later, with evidence inside suggesting her disappearance was "criminal in nature," according to police. Naomi's disappearance came just a few months after she returned to the US to live with her older brother, after finishing high school in South Africa, where her parents worked for the State Department at the US diplomatic mission in Pretoria. Naomi was last seen wearing this outfit before she was abducted. Lyon County Sheriff's Office In an interview with Insider on Thursday, Naomi's mother, Diana Irion, said her husband woke her up at 3 or 4 in the morning to tell her that Naomi had been taken. "It was like being shot in my chest," Irion said. "My heart just exploded with pain and I felt like I was going to die. I still feel that way all the time." Irion said the embassy took "really good care" of the family as they made preparations to travel back to the US to aid in the search for Naomi. "They sent a doctor to travel with me because I was in shock. They medicated me so that I wouldn't have a panic attack or something on the plane," she said. Irion also made the grueling 36-hour journey with her three younger adopted sons. The suspect who abducted Naomi is seen above. Lyon County Sheriff's Office Naomi's older brother, Casey Valley, said that Naomi's disappearance is all the more heartbreaking because she was the family's "miracle" baby. Story continues Valley said that his mom suffered a miscarriage before Naomi was born, and when Diana was in the final stages of pregnancy with Naomi, doctors told her that there was a good chance Naomi would die after birth as well, due to a depletion of amniotic fluids. Doctors "expected her to basically gasp for breath and pass away as soon as she was born and she didn't," Valley said. "That was an actual miracle that brought Naomi into our lives and we need another one," he added. Valley remains hopeful that he will see his sister again, saying "if anyone can make it through this kind of thing, it's Naomi." "We have hope." Naomi is described as being 5-foot-11, 240 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. She has both sides of her nose pierced and her septum pierced. She has a smiley face tattoo on one of her angles. She was last seen wearing a blue Panasonic shirt, a gray cardigan, sweats, and knock-off Ugg boots. Anyone with information on Naomi's disappearance is being asked to contact Lyon County Sheriff's Detective Erik Kusmerz at 775-577-5206, ext. 2, mentioning case number 22LYO068. Kusmerz can also be emailed at detective@lyon-county.org. Anonymous tips are to be directed to Secret Witness of Northern Nevada at 775-322-4900. Read the original article on Insider President Joe Biden touched down Friday in Poland, what's become the epicenter for millions fleeing their home country, to meet with U.S. service members and refugees as his presence in Europe sends a powerful message that NATO is united against Russia's violent invasion. At a briefing in Rzeszow on the humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis, Biden, again, called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "war criminal," after the State Department announced this week its formal assessment that Russian forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine. MORE: US formally accuses Russian forces of committing war crimes in Ukraine "The single most important thing that we can do from the outset is to keep the democracies united in our opposition and our effort to curtail the devastation that is occurring at the hands of a man who I quite frankly think is a war criminal," Biden said, flanked by Polands President Andrzej Duda and USAID Administrator Samantha Powers. "I think it will meet the legal definition of that as well." PHOTO: President Joe Biden and Polish President Andrzej Duda participate in a roundtable on the humanitarian response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) Biden's schedule was slightly delayed Friday after the plane flying Polands president turned back en route to Rzeszow to make an emergency landing in Warsaw. MORE: US, NATO 'would respond' if Putin used chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden says Earlier, Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin greeted members of the 82nd Airborne division in Rzeszow to thank them for their service and ended up staying for a slice of pizza. PHOTO: President Joe Biden eats a pizza slice as he meets with members of the 82nd Airborne Division in the city of Rzeszow in southeastern Poland, around 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the border with Ukraine, on March 25, 2022. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images) "Thank you very, very much for all you do. And it's not hyperbole to suggest you're the finest fighting force, not in the world in the world. That's not hyperbole," Biden told the room. But the president also raised eyebrows when he appeared to tell the group that American troops will be going into Ukraine, though he has repeatedly said that he will not send troops there. "You know, with the Ukrainian people, Ukrainian people have a lot of backbone, they have a lot of guts and I'm sure you're observing it," Biden said. "And you're gonna see when you're there, and some of you have been there. You're gonna see, you're gonna see women, young people standing, standing in the middle, in front of a damn tank, just saying I'm not leaving. I'm holding my ground. They're incredible. But they take a lot of inspiration from us." Story continues MORE: Ukraines military forces Russian troops east of Kyiv back 55 km from city center Asked to clarify Biden's comment, a White spokesperson told ABC News, the President has been clear we are not sending U.S. troops to Ukraine and there is no change in that position. Biden also told the room that what they are engaged in is "much more than just whether or not you can alleviate the pain and suffering of the people of Ukraine." PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks to members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2A Arena, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) "What's at stake, and not just in what we're doing here in Ukraine to try to help the Ukrainian people and keep the massacre from continuing, but beyond that, what's at stake is...what are your kids and grandkids gonna look like in terms of their, their, their freedom." Raising his familiar line of the current fight between autocracies and democracies, Biden told these troops what they are doing is "really consequential" and goes beyond just helping Ukrainians from this invasion. "The fact of the matter is that you are the finest this is not hyperbole. You're the finest fighting force in the history of the world. Let me say it again, the finest fighting force in the history of the world. Part of the reason is you've had to fight so much for the last 20 years. For real," he said. PHOTO: Caption *President Joe Biden speaks members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2 Arena in Jasionka, near Rzeszow, Poland, March 25, 2022. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) He also brought up his late son, Beau, saying, "Proudest thing he ever did was put that uniform on. Like many of you, he didn't have to go either," Biden said. MORE: Russia-Ukraine live updates: Pope Francis to consecrate Russia, Ukraine National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed earlier Friday that the president will meet with refugees Saturday when he is in Warsaw and deliver a "major address" ahead of his departure. "He will also have the opportunity to meet with Ukrainian refugees, and with American humanitarians who are they're trying to help feed and respond to the material needs of the refugee population in Warsaw," Sullivan told reporters on Air Force One. "And he will give a major address tomorrow that will speak to the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world, and why it is so important that the free world sustain unity and resolve in the face of Russian aggression," Sullivan added. PHOTO: President Joe Biden takes a selfie with U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2 Arena in Jasionka, near Rzeszow, Poland, March 25, 2022. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) In neighboring Ukraine, the war continues. In one of the worst attacks yet, the city council of the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol has said 300 people were killed in a devastating bombing of its drama theater, where hundreds of people were sheltering. The building was marked with the words "Children" written in giant Russian letters on the ground to either side. MORE: Biden heads to high-stakes NATO summit amid showdown with Putin over Ukraine Biden and the leaders of the other 29 NATO member countries came together in Brussels Thursday in a powerful show of solidarity against Russias invasion. PHOTO: This satellite image shows the aftermath of the airstrike on the Mariupol Drama Theater on March 19, 2022, in Mariupol, Ukraine. (AP) Biden announced new sanctions against Russia, targeting a majority of the Duma, the lower level of parliament, over 40 Russian defense companies and yet more Russian oligarchs. He also announced the U.S. will provide $1 billion in humanitarian aid to support people within Ukraine and those impacted by Russias war against Ukraine. That funding will go to food, shelter, clean water, medical supplies and other assistance. Pushed on what the U.S. and NATO would do if Russia used chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden would not get specific or confirm intelligence that Vladimir Putin is moving chemical weapons into Ukraine but said they "would respond" and that "the nature of the response would depend on the nature of the use." Biden calls Putin a 'war criminal' after meeting with troops in Poland originally appeared on abcnews.go.com President Biden Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images President Biden on Friday expressed disappointment he was unable to include a visit into Ukraine as part of his European trip amid Russia's invasion. Biden addressed U.S. troops stationed in Poland on Friday, and during a roundtable conversation about the humanitarian crisis the war in Ukraine has caused, he suggested he wanted to visit Ukraine but was unable to do so due to security concerns, CNN reports. "Quite frankly, part of my disappointment is that I can't see it firsthand like I have in other places," Biden said. "They will not let me, understandably, I guess, cross the border and take a look at what's going on in Ukraine." There had been questions ahead of Biden's trip to Europe as to whether he might visit Ukraine. But White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that while Biden's trip "will be focused on continuing to rally the world in support of the Ukrainian people and against President Putin's invasion of Ukraine," there were "no plans to travel into Ukraine." While speaking to U.S. troops, Biden said the world is at an "inflection point," and the stakes of the conflict include whether democracy or autocracy is "going to prevail." He also appeared the suggest the troops might be going into Ukraine, telling them about what they are "going to see when you're there." A White House spokesperson later clarified to The Independent's Andrew Feinberg, "The president has been clear we are not sending U.S. troops to Ukraine and there is no change in that position." According to NBC News, Biden is set to meet with Ukrainian refugees and deliver an address on the state of the war before returning to Washington. You may also like Restaurant cancels Capitol rioter's pre-prison party 7 cartoons about Ketanji Brown Jackson's confirmation hearings Clarence Thomas facing pressure from lawmakers following revelations regarding wife's texts For Ana Castillo, a Chicagoan known for her work as an author, educator, poet and activist, home is where her books are. Which, given the pandemic, means a home in the most southern point of New Mexico. Castillo was back in her hometown Thursday night to receive the Chicago Literary Hall of Fames Fuller Award at the American Writers Museum. Inspired by the works of author Henry Blake Fuller, the award is given to a Chicago author who has made an outstanding lifetime contribution to literature. An honor bestowed on Chicagos greatest living writers, Castillo rounds out the list of awardees at an even dozen. Advertisement Chicago has informed me in so many ways, Castillo said. I grew up at a time before and during the civil rights movement. So, I have a very clear view of what my hometown has been, what it is and where it is now. I love the grounded sense in the Midwest. You can win the Nobel Prize and people (here) will say thats wonderful, you got this award, how are you paying your rent? All of that has made me who I am. No matter what, I have no hesitation and no grand errors about rolling up my sleeves and getting the work done and all that has to do with Chicago and the Midwest. We spoke with the editor of La Tolteca 2.0 (an arts and literary zine that features creatives of all backgrounds while focusing on the marginalized) prior to the events festivities. The interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. Advertisement Author Ana Castillo gives a speech after receiving the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame's Fuller Award during a ceremony on March 24, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune) Q: Youve been an advocate of Chicana feminism for years, aka Xicanisma. How is that applicable today with nonbinary people and other intersectionality? A: I said it in the book (Massacre of the Dreamers: Essays on Xicanisma) and I still feel that way. The book is about 30 years old and there was a 20th anniversary edition of it. I did some revisions, but the good news for me was that there wasnt that much to revise. And the bad news for the world was that there wasnt much to revise. Labels serve us in our generation, in our time and personally, like a calling card. This is how I identify, just like pronouns how should I refer to you? That being said, Im not going to hold you to that 10 years from now. Times have changed or you have changed, and you have a right to do that. The important thing about a label is that you give it to yourself. With Xicanisma, I was attempting at the time to assert an identity that existed. Sandra Cisneros and I were reading together in Chicago for many, many years. And we would laugh when people would say oh two Chicanas, searching for their identity, wherever we would go. We werent searching for an identity, we knew our identity. We were asserting that identity. Thats what Xicanisma was trying to do at that point, to say: This is who we are. Were complex. Weve been around for a long time, many generations. The U.S. and Mexico have had a conflictive relationship. There was a time when Texas was part of Mexico and there are people now that go back nine generations in Texas, not immigrants, theyre not migrants. And that was all part of the Chicana identity. Today, in many ways that still applies. But Im not holding anybody to what I said 30 years ago. Today, laws have changed, people have a different sense of identity. Theyre welcome to add, subtract or multiply that but it gives a basis. And because I wrote the book and I did the research on it, if you argue about it, at least you have something to argue about. Debate it, at least theres a foundation there. Prior to that, the conversation, the dynamic, the politic in the United States was black and white. And we had the whole Southwest that was just dismissed. With Xicanisma, thats what I was trying to do and what my generation of Chicana writers and scholars were trying to get down in writing. Q: You often write in English and Spanish in the same story without translating. Are readers more accepting of that today than when you first started out as a writer? A: 100%, people are more into it. Why? Because there are now leagues of writers who are bilingual, not just Mexican American or Chicano, but from all different countries. Weve had lots more immigration in the last 30-40 years from everywhere for a lot of reasons. Theyre much more educated and because there was this legacy from my generation and from the 60s that was saying assert your identity; that is going on with a whole range of reasons of why people use the language that they use. I write in English, or I might write a poem in Spanish. The objective is to reach everybody, as many people as you can. And so, thats where Im at, and Ive been for some time. Advertisement Q: In that pursuit to reach out to as many people as possible, are you making art outside of your writing? A: In 2016, I was in shock, like so many, about the results of the election, I went into this dark place and by 2017, I had told myself there was no point in writing anymore. And how I was expressing myself was with drawing journals that I had laying around. ... I started drawing with Sharpie pens, and using various color pens and watercolor, and so on. While I was not writing, I was expressing myself in a million different ways. I have hundreds of drawings. Some of them I have sold. I put some on my website and Ive sold to some people whove asked about them and collect work. One was on a cover of a literary journal in Turkey. ... Its not on the front burner, in terms of promoting or looking for a place to exhibit. But I think its very safe to say that you may be seeing more of my artwork in the future, my artwork and perhaps my artwork with my writing. Author Ana Castillo (left) has a conversation with Christine Maul Rice after Castillo received the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame's Fuller Award during a ceremony on March 24, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune) Q: A Lifetime Achievement Award, but youre still so young. What else do you want to accomplish? Do you have a to-do list? A: As far as being honored by these organizations. Its not for me to say. You work very hard; if youre recognized in your life thats the cherry on the topping, but you work at it because you believe in it and for many women and for many people of color and people who are marginalized in one way or the other, a major aim of our ambition and our work comes from a collective place. I am not trying to say that I represent this group or that group, but this group and that group have not been represented or have been underrepresented. And so we would love to see ourselves in stories and in print and on-screen. And just in all the different places that represent our society, in government. Everyone wants to be recognized. Everyone would like to see the belief that theyll be immortalized in some way. And I feel that in my own way, I surpassed that. I didnt study writing. I didnt have any writing career ambitions. I didnt go home at 20 years old, saying hey, Im gonna be a poet to my factory working parents. Ive surpassed that a long time ago. But those other things that are on the outside world that would be lovely and wonderful, and I feel in my heart, long after Im gone, that will happen. Im so grateful that my hometown has acknowledged and welcomed and embraced my presence and my efforts for many years now. It was more than I had ever expected anything after that, Ill keep working and well see what happens. Advertisement drockett@chicagotribune.com The White House has indefinitely postponed a special summit with leaders from across Southeast Asia that was initially scheduled for next week, according to four sources familiar with the schedule change. The gathering with the 10 countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was set to take place on Monday and Tuesday at the White House, and it was meant to demonstrate the United States enduring commitment to a region that is critical to its commercial and security interests in Asia, the White House said in late February. On Friday, a spokesperson for the National Security Council said in a statement to POLITICO that, "The President looks forward to welcoming the ASEAN leaders to Washington, DC for a U.S.-ASEAN Special Summit. To ensure invited ASEAN leaders can all participate, we are working closely with ASEAN partners to identify appropriate dates for this meeting." President Joe Biden will instead meet on Tuesday with Singapores prime minister, Lee Hsien Loong, to discuss both U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region, such as supply chains and maritime security, as well as the bloody conflict in Ukraine. Biden has spent the past month increasingly focused on Russias war in Ukraine; he returns from a four-day trip to Brussels and Warsaw on Saturday, where the war and subsequent sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin have been top of his agenda. The month-long conflict in Eastern Europe has injected a new urgency into U.S. efforts to reinvigorate old alliances and cultivate new ones, including in the Asia-Pacific. But it has also underscored, yet again, how difficult it is to reorient U.S. foreign policy away from the conflicts of the 20th century in Europe and the Middle East, and toward the biggest global challenge of this century: an increasingly aggressive China. Date in flux: On Feb. 28, the White House released a statement from press secretary Jen Psaki saying the administration was proud to announce the historic ASEAN summit would take place on March 28 and 29. Story continues But the administration has been less definitive in recent weeks. A U.S. official said on March 10 that the administration was working with ASEAN leaders to set a formal date for the gathering, but said it has not been postponed. Asked at a March 17 press briefing about the status of the summit, Psaki said only that the White House was working through the schedules of a number of leaders, so that's always a challenge and a factor. The possibility of postponing the gathering of ASEAN leaders was first raised earlier this month when Cambodia's foreign minister told Reuters that some Southeast Asian leaders could not travel to Washington on the dates the White House had announced. Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are all members of the association. Conflicting schedules: Schedule conflicts do appear to be the cause of the delay, as neither the Biden administration or ASEAN wanted to leave out key members, people with knowledge of the situation told POLITICO. It seems that the event is experiencing scheduling turbulence, with more than one of the key ASEAN members unable to move or cancel pre-existing commitments on dates that the USA has proposed, said Kurt Tong, a partner at The Asia Group. It is challenging given the long ten-member ASEAN roster and that organizations strong desire for inclusiveness. A critical region: The White House has repeatedly declared that Southeast Asia is a central focus of its foreign policy efforts, particularly as part of the Biden administrations efforts to counter Chinas rising global influence. Vice President Kamala Harris carried that message to Vietnam and Singapore during a weeklong trip in August. And a string of key Cabinet officials, including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, made visits to the region in the administrations first year. Biden himself participated in a virtual summit with ASEAN leaders in October. At that meeting, Biden first announced his administration's intention to craft an Indo-Pacific Economic Framework that would deepen U.S. trade and investment ties in the region, with an eye towards China. The Commerce Department and Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are now seeking public comment on what the framework should entail. The administration has already said it will not include market access provisions found in typical trade deals, which many partners in the region are seeking, and instead focus on issues like supply chain resiliency, decarbonization and infrastructure and clean energy. The war in Ukraine has also contributed to delays in Biden administration decisions on imposing new tariffs on China, as POLITICO reported last week. An astronaut looks at the lunar surface through the hatch of a moon lander. (NASA Illustration) NASA has laid out its plan for choosing a second commercial venture to build a landing system capable of carrying astronauts to and from the lunar surface. The venture would provide a competitive alternative to SpaceXs lunar landing system, which is based on its Starship design and won a $2.9 billion NASA contract last April. The Starship lunar lander is scheduled to take on an uncrewed test mission to the moon in 2024, followed by the first crewed lunar landing for NASAs Artemis program in 2025. We expect approximately one human landing per year, over a decade or so, and these are not isolated missions, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said today. Each is going to build on the past progress. And all of that is, of course, in preparation for us then to have the first human mission to Mars late in the 2030s or 2040. When SpaceX won NASAs nod last April, two competitors for the contract Alabama-based Dynetics and a team led by Jeff Bezos Blue Origin space venture complained that NASA should have made more than one award, in the interest of promoting competition. Some members of Congress, including Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., made similar arguments. Nelson said the new program, known as the Sustaining Lunar Development contract or NextSTEP Appendix P, would address those complaints. I promised competition, so here it is, he told reporters. If the program proceeds according to plan, the second companys landers would go into service in the 2026-2027 time frame, starting with an uncrewed test mission to the lunar surface. The new program follows up on a $146 million effort called NextSTEP Appendix N, which is paying five companies to fine-tune their plans for crewed lunar landers and reduce future technical risks. Blue Origin is part of that effort as are Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, two of its partners in the National Team that was behind the initial lunar lander proposal. SpaceX and Dynetics are also participating in Appendix N. Story continues Blue Origin and its National Team partners, as well as Dynetics, will presumably put in proposals for the second contract. In an emailed response to GeekWires inquiry, a Blue Origin spokesperson said the company was thrilled that NASA is creating competition by procuring a second human lunar landing system. By doing so, NASA will establish the critical redundancy and robustness needed for establishing permanent U.S. lunar presence, the spokesperson wrote. Blue Origin is ready to compete and remains deeply committed to the success of Artemis. We will continue to work with NASA to achieve the United States goal to return to the moon as soon as possible. SpaceX, which is said to be on track with its plans for the lunar Starship, wont be eligible to bid for the second contract. Instead, NASA will negotiate with SpaceX to upgrade Starship for missions following up on the first landing, in accordance with provisions under Option B of NextSTEP Appendix H. (SpaceXs initial contract was awarded under Option A.) The new specifications will boost the requirements for crew landing capacity beyond the initial two-astronaut configuration. Capabilities for carrying cargo and science instruments will be boosted as well. Still more upgrades would make it possible for the lander to stay on the lunar surface longer than the six days currently called for, said Lisa Watson-Morgan, program manager for the Human Landing System Program at NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center. NASAs original lunar lander concept envisioned as many as three separate spacecraft elements including a moon-orbiting transfer vehicle, a descent module and an ascent module. Based on the Appendix N discussions, that three-element architecture would no longer be a requirement, Watson-Morgan said. However, the lander would have to be capable of docking with the Gateway space platform that NASA envisions putting into lunar orbit. NASA officials held back for now on providing dollar figures for the new lunar lander program. Nelson said details on proposed spending for fiscal year 2023 should be coming next week. Watson-Morgan said a draft request for proposals would be issued by the end of March, with a final version released this spring. She said the award should be made at the onset of the new year or shortly thereafter. Last year, NASAs lunar lander award to SpaceX set off a months-long legal wrangle with Blue Origins team but James Free, NASAs associate administrator for exploration systems development, said last Novembers resolution of the dispute validated NASAs approach to the competition. He also said the Appendix N process should lead to lower bids for future lunar landers. Many folks have told us, Hey, you know, weve learned a lot, and we think our bids can be better this time,' Free said. On related topics: Watson-Morgan said SpaceX has met all their milestones to date for the development of the lunar Starship, although she acknowledged that increasingly challenging milestones such as Starships first orbital launch lie ahead. Were working deeply with them to make sure we have the right risk-based insight thats needed. There are some potential areas that were watching out for, she said. Even under the newly announced programs, astronauts would be sent from Earth to lunar orbit using NASAs Orion capsule and Space Launch System rocket, Nelson said. The SLS rocket is due to be launched for the first time in the May-June time frame for an uncrewed round-the-moon mission. Nelson noted that a more powerful version of the SLS is due to become available for launch after Artemis first crewed lunar landing. Thats the only difference in the architecture, Nelson said. In response to a question about the war in Ukraine and its effect on the International Space Station partnership with Russia, Nelson said that the professional relationship between the astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the station, as well as the professional relationship between Mission Control in both Houston and Moscow, continues unaltered. He said he expected the return of NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hai aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft, scheduled for later this month, to take place without a hitch. More from GeekWire: Boris Johnson's leadership threats have been driven underground since Russia invaded Ukraine. Potential rivals are "discreetly" continuing to canvass for support, sources told Insider. MPs were less than enthusiastic about a team-building dinner planned for next week. Conservative members of the UK Parliament are continuing to plot against Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fearing a wipeout at the next election if he remains leader. Though tensions have cooled in part because of the war in Ukraine and changes to Johnson's top team pockets of resistance have persisted, with leadership rivals canvassing support in stealth mode. One MP commissioned private national polling, which is being shown to a small group of other MPs and appears to illustrate a disaster scenario in which the party loses power in a landslide. That contrasts with the official line in recent weeks: that the prime minister's poll ratings had stabilized as "partygate" receded and Johnson took a prominent international role responding to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The private polling seen by Insider was carried out more than a month after JL Partners released research that also suggested dire prospects for the Conservatives should an election be held soon. The polling also found a personal distaste for Johnson, who received dire ratings on issues including trustworthiness, competence, patriotism, and ability to take decisions. Would-be rebels are regrouping, sources told Insider, after losing momentum from the start of the year when the extent of law-breaking parties in Downing Street was first becoming public. Johnson has planned a dinner for all Tory MPs on Tuesday night, several invitees told Insider, at a hotel in central London. It appears designed to improve his standing among backbenchers ahead of the local elections in May. Numerous MPs, however, told Insider they weren't planning to go or were less than enthusiastic about the prospect of spending an evening with Johnson. Story continues Several Tories, who spoke with Insider on the basis of anonymity, said they expected the leadership issue to resurface later this year, triggered by the findings of a police investigation into the lockdown parties or by a poor showing at the local elections. Others suggested that Johnson's approach to digital communications, including news about him getting briefings on WhatsApp, could further undermine him in a planned public inquiry into his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though one backbencher confidently said "the coup is dead we killed it," others suggested challengers were merely biding their time. Potential candidates, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, Trade Minister Penny Mordaunt, and the Foreign Affairs Committee chair, Tom Tugendhat, were "discreetly" continuing to build support, sources said. Sunak has faced criticism from backbenchers for not doing enough in this week's spring statement to address the cost-of-living crisis. Insider has previously reported his waning popularity among colleagues. One MP said Cabinet ministers were also suffering from taint by association, saying: "If you work at the zoo, you get covered in shit." Several backbenchers suggested it would take very little for the febrile environment of January and early February to return to Westminster. A senior Tory estimated that the number of letters of no confidence was still "hovering at around 50," despite some colleagues such as Andrew Bridgen having withdrawn theirs. A vote of no confidence would be triggered if 54 letters were submitted. Another senior Tory said there was a "Cold War of the Tory party," with supporters and critics in a standoff against each other. He added: "The prime minister is only as good as his next election." A serving minister told Insider the party was split into three: one-third staunch supporters, one-third undecided, and the other third against Johnson. "If he can't restore that trust, he can't be a leader," the minister said. A backbencher from the 2019 intake described Johnson's standing as tenuous "even with the backdrop of Ukraine." "We changed prime minister in World War II and the Gulf War I don't think you can use the current situation as an excuse to do nothing," the backbencher said, adding, "Colleagues are in denial if they think that." Read the original article on Business Insider A 12-year-old boy was found unresponsive on his school bus and died days later from a fentanyl overdose, according to authorities in New Jersey. He lived with his uncle, Troy Nokes, whos accused of making the boy clean up his drug lab where he made fentanyl, the Camden County Prosecutors Office said in a news release. Nokes, 35, of Blackwood, was charged on March 21 in connection to his nephews fatal overdose, according to prosecutors. The charges include first-degree aggravated manslaughter and second-degree employing a juvenile in a drug distribution scheme. A school nurse tried saving the boy when he was found on Jan. 24, before EMS arrived and brought him to a hospital, the release said. Then he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and died on Feb. 1. His name was not released. A postmortem exam conducted by Philadelphias Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined he died from fentanyl intoxication. Nokes is accused of having his nephew clean fentanyl contaminated drug paraphernalia, according to authorities. The boy wasnt wearing protective gloves when doing so, witnesses told police. Additionally, Joanna Johnson is named as Nokes co-defendant and is charged with tampering evidence and hindering the apprehension of Nokes, the release said. Both were arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service Regional Fugitive Task Force. Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic opioid 80-100 times stronger than morphine and is often advertised as strong heroin, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. From 2019 to 2020, drug deaths of children ages 10 to 14 tripled, CNN reported based on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis conducted for the outlet. The boys death is one of several youth fentanyl overdose deaths over the past year. On March 3, the grandparents of a toddler who overdosed from fentanyl were arrested and charged with first-degree murder in Tennessee, McClatchy News previously reported. A 13-year-old boy who overdosed in January was found to have had more than 100 bags of fentanyl in his bedroom, ABC News reported. Story continues The investigation into the boys death is ongoing, according to prosecutors. The name of his school wasnt specified in the release. Nokes is also charged with: First-degree strict liability drug-induced death First degree maintaining a (controlled dangerous substance) production facility Six counts of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child Six counts of third-degree witness tampering One count of fourth-degree tampering with evidence Two counts of third-degree hindering apprehension Two counts of third-degree aggravated assault Additionally, Nokes faces seven other related charges, according to the release. Nokes and Johnson are being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility ahead of a pretrial detention hearing, the prosecutors office said. His Blackwood home where his nephew lived is located in Gloucester Township, roughly 44 miles south of Trenton. Teen charged with murder after 12-year-old dies of overdose, California officials say Teen died experimenting with drugs at friends house, Missouri cops say. Two charged Girl overdoses in high school class, feds say. Now, Colorado woman faces charge Toddler died from fentanyl overdose, and now grandparents face charges, TN cops say The first time Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) catches a glimpse of Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley) in season two of Bridgerton, shes on the back of a horse. Kate is far outpacing him, and Anthony struggles to catch up. After jumping a high hedge, Kate turns around, lowers her cape, and gives Anthony a look that says, Try me. He seems intrigued and challenged by a woman who so clearly forges her own trail. The charged scene sets the tone for the rest of the season, which sees Anthony and Kate try to outmaneuver each other, again and again a charade that leaves them panting in the process. Though Anthony starts courting newcomer Edwina Sharma, he cant shake the feelings he has for her older sister, Kate. Simone Ashley told TODAY that Fittingly, Kate and Anthonys first meeting was among Ashleys favorite scenes to film though she said she has "so many favorite scenes." I love any scene with Kate and Anthony riding their horses, Ashley told TODAY. Those were some of my favorite days filming on set with Johnny. And just bringing this love story to life with him. It really, truly was such a joy. Speaking to Shondaland, Ashley recalled the first time she got on a horse: Bareback, on a trip to Wales with friends. This was among the many adventures of the England-born actor, who told Glamour she hasn't lived "more than a year" in a single place, and splits her time between the U.K. and L.A. As it turns out, the travel experience was also career preparation. With season two of "Bridgerton," Ashley went from Bridgerton fan to star. The 26-year-old actor has been obsessed with the Regency drama ever since season one premiered in December 2020. I definitely was obsessed with Bridgerton, just like the rest of the world, Ashley said. The difference between Ashley and the rest of the world?" She watched the show while vying for a starring role in it. At the time of the shows release, Ashley was filming another Netflix hit, Sex Education, a high school-set show that stars Gillian Anderson as a famous sex therapist and Asa Butterfield as her son, who gives love and dating advice to his classmates. Ashley's character, Olivia, is a member of a popular clique known as The Untouchables." Story continues Ashley heard her "Sex Education" co-stars discussing the Regency drama, rapidly becoming a cultural phenomenon. Then, she got a call from her agent with news about a potential part. That's when she hit "play," and geared up for a potentially career-defining role. Ashely had been appearing onscreen since 2016, with roles in British shows like "Broadchurch" and "The Sister," and the movie "Detective Pikachu." But a starring spot in "Bridgerton," one of Netflix's most popular shows, would be the making of a big break. Just two weeks after her audition, Ashley landed the part of Kate, and was whisked away into the pastel-hued world of Bridgerton, based on the Regency romance novels by Julia Quinn. Shortly after being cast, and after my chemistry read with the gorgeous Jonathan Bailey, I was immediately on set in wig fittings, makeup tests. (I was) transported to this beautiful world, filming in these amazing locations and horse riding, she said, before joking: So yeah, I definitely got the gist of what ('Bridgerton') was all about. But what is her character, Kate Sharma, all about? Ashley describes her character as someone who is loyal, protective, smart, fierce with a big heart. Ashley can see flashes of herself in Kate, too. "There's a lot about Kate I empathize with. I really admire her bravery," Ashley said. More than anything, Kate is devoted to her family. Newcomers to season two and to the tons social scene, the Sharmas are originally from Bombay, India. Kate and her stepmother, Mary (Shelley Conn) arrive in London with the intention of finding Edwina (Charithra Chandran), Kates younger sister, a suitable match. All of Edwinas suitors must pass Kates test first and Anthony, a notorious rake, certainly wont. Liam Daniel/Netflix While Ashley said acting out Kate and Anthonys love story was "magical," she appreciated the opportunity to bring South Asian characters to the ballroom of Regency England just as much. Its been so much fun to represent this family, who are a minority of what we see on screen, and to represent that with two other gorgeous South Asian women: Shelley Conn, who plays Lady Mary, and the diamond in every meaning of the word, Charithra Chandran, who plays Edwina, Ashley says, referring to Edwina being deemed diamond of the first water by Queen Charlotte. I think its just so important that were doing this, Ashley said of including diverse characters in period pieces. Hopefully, in a few years time, we wont even be having this conversation, and itll be so normal and it wont be as wonderfully groundbreaking as it is now. Season two of Bridgerton includes nods to the sisters heritage, including a strings remix of a song from the popular Bollywood movie, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham; a culturally specific pre-wedding ceremony; and a scene in which Kate applies coconut oil to Edwinas hair, a technique used in India. I think its such a beautiful and intimate bonding moment between two sisters that I think a lot of cultures can relate to, Ashley said. And Ive never seen anything like that on-screen before. That was super fun to play. Ashley says she admires Kate's bravery in Kate's fierce love for her family particularly to her sister is what makes this season's romance so complicated. Kate feels conflicted when she begins developing feelings for the very man she's supposed to be protecting her sister from. Like Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset from season one, Kate and Anthony find themselves in an enemies to lovers situation. However, it takes even longer for the ice to melt. As Ashley told TODAY, her character can be a bit stubborn at times, especially when it comes to acknowledging her feelings. Kate and Anthonys particular dynamic means that season two goes lighter on the sex scenes than the first. I think 'it takes one to know one,' so they definitely grind each others gears, Ashley said. They challenge each other. Theres a lot of sparring going on. A lot of competition. Simone Ashley opened up about her chemistry with co-star Jonathan Bailey, who plays Anthony Bridgerton. (Liam Daniel / Netflix) However, their sparring might just be for the best, because it leads to personal growth. (It) evolves into vulnerability and the idea of maybe allowing love to affect them, she said. Theres so much chemistry between them. Its such a magical love story. Im excited for everyone to slowly see them gravitate towards each other throughout the series. Ashley told TODAY she was a big Each season of "Bridgerton" focuses on a different couple. In a previous interview, Ashley said she is open to making a cameo in season three of Bridgerton, as Phoebe who plays Daphne Bridgerton did in season two. But Kates time in the spotlight will soon be over as another duo goes on a journey of self-discovery, prompted by romance. Shell take with her the memories of a Bridgerton ballroom, looking into Baileys eyes during their characters first dance. If theres a way to just condense that love story into one scene, I would say that one. Itll always be a favorite memory of mine, filming that with Johnny, Ashley says. BEREA, Ohio (AP) Deshaun Watson sat stoically behind the microphone, and for nearly 40 minutes barely talked about football. This wasn't the time. It's unclear when that will be. Facing pointed questions about sexual misconduct allegations brought against him by 22 women, Watson, one of the NFL's top quarterbacks, defended his character and denied any wrongdoing Friday while being introduced by the Cleveland Browns. Wearing a dark pinstriped suit and orange tie, Watson showed little emotion at the dais while saying he has never mistreated women and vowing to earn the trust of his new team and a fan base conflicted over his arrival. I've never assaulted or disrespected or harassed any woman in my life, Watson said. "Ive never done these things people are alleging. It was the first time Watson has answered direct questions about the allegations, which first surfaced in March 2021. Watson didnt play last season for Houston as the criminal and civil complaints by massage therapists mounted and before being heard by two grand juries in Texas. Flanked on the dais by Browns general manager Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski, Watson was asked why he should be believed and not the nearly two dozen women who have come forward. He has been accused of exposing himself, touching the women with his penis and forcing himself on them. Watson has maintained any sex was consensual. What I can continue to do is tell the truth, and that is I have never assaulted, disrespected or harassed any woman in my life, he said. I was raised differently. That is not my DNA. That is not my culture. That is not me as a person." On Thursday, a grand jury in Brazoria County, Texas, declined to indict Watson on one of the original criminal complaints. Two weeks ago, a jury in Harris County also chose not to pursue charges on nine cases. Watson, acquired last week in a controversial trade that has brought the Browns widespread criticism and scrutiny, understands there are people who will never believe him. Story continues I know that theres going to be a stain that probably is going to stick with me for awhile, but all I can do is keep moving forward and to continue to show the person that I am, the true character, the true person, the true human being I am, the 26-year-old said. Watson still faces 22 civil lawsuits. The three-time Pro Bowler said he has no intention of settling, and that his only goal is to clear my name as much as possible." The Browns, who have spent two decades looking for a franchise QB, are taking heat for their decision to bring on a tainted player. The team expected a serious backlash, and only felt comfortable in pursuing Watson after a thorough investigation Berry described as a five-month odyssey. Berry said the team's lawyers told the Browns not to talk to the 22 women because it could compromise any investigation. We as organization know that this transaction has been very difficult for many people, particularly women in our community, Berry said. We realize that it has triggered a range of emotions. And that, as well as the nature of the allegations, weighed heavily on all of us. It was because of the weight of the anticipated reaction and the nature of the allegations that really pushed us to do as much work as possible internally and externally in terms of understanding the cases and who Deshaun was as a person. We do have faith and confidence in Deshaun as a person. Owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam were sensitive that Watson joining the Browns might have a negative impact on anyone who has suffered sexual abuse. Both said they have close friends in that category. We put more time, more thought, more effort, talked to more people, did more research on this decision by far than any other decision we've made with the Cleveland Browns, Jimmy Haslam said on a Zoom call with his wife from outside the country. It's not something we took lightly. Dee Haslam said she had multiple conversations with the couple's daughters during the vetting process, and that ultimately she became agreeable with acquiring Watson after learning more about him. This has been a really hard and difficult journey for us and our family, she said. We had to work really hard to get comfortable with the decision. It took some time. Jimmy Haslam said a family member and counselor gave him advice before moving forward with the trade. Both of them said exactly the same thing, Haslam said. "They said, Your daughters and Dee ought to have veto over this trade, and if theyre not for it, if anyone of them is not for it, you shouldnt do it. And at first, I thought, Thats interesting. Then I thought, That makes a lot of sense. And everybody was on board with doing this, some later than earlier. Watson dismissed needing counseling because he feels he's been falsely accused. I don't have a problem, he said. I don't have an issue. The Browns enticed Watson to waive his no-trade clause and agree to come to Cleveland with a record-setting $230 million, fully guaranteed contract, which includes a $1 million base salary in the first season in the event he's suspended by the NFL. Watson initially rebuffed the Browns before changing his mind. He said the contract wasn't a factor. It was not necessarily a turn down, he sad. The media was kind of rushing me to make a decision, and I was not comfortable making that right decision. The league has an ongoing investigation into Watson's behavior and whether he violated its personal conduct policy. ___ More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL Manchester United playmaker Bruno Fernandes (Getty Images) Bruno Fernandes is close to agreeing a new five-year contract with Manchester United. The 27-year-old still has three years to run on his current deal with the option of a further years extension. But after becoming a key figure at Old Trafford following his 46m move from Sporting Clube de Portugal, United are ready to reward him with improved terms. Negotiations between Fernandes representatives and the club are now understood to be nearing an agreement, with sources encouraged that talks are progressing well. The Portugal internationals new deal is expected to see his salary believed to be in the region of 100,000-a-week increased to better reflect his importance to United. Fernandes influence has waned slightly this season, having lost penalty-taking duties since the arrival of compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo last summer, but he has still scored nine goals and provided 14 assists in all competitions. The renewal is expected despite uncertainty over Uniteds direction, with the Old Trafford clubs search for a new permanent manager intensifying. Erik ten Hag, the Ajax coach, held talks with United over the position earlier this week and further discussions are expected with other candidates. United are determined to see through a full and proper process and have cautioned against any one candidate being considered a favourite at this early stage. Mauricio Pochettino is among those being considered as Ole Gunnar Solskjaers successor, with Julen Lopetegui and Luis Enrique also thought to be on the shortlist. Jurors at the Shawnee County Courthouse, shown here, on Thursday convicted Charles Melvin Wilson II of crimes that included intentional second-degree murder. A Shawnee County District Court jury convicted Charles Melvin Wilson II Thursday of intentional second-degree murder in the May 2020 shooting death in North Topeka of 53-year-old Lisa Hill. At the conclusion of a trial that lasted four days, jurors also convicted the 49-year-old Wilson of one count each of aggravated assault and aggravated child endangerment, said Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay. Hill was found with a fatal gunshot wound to the head about 3:47 p.m. on May, 7, 2020, at 1132 N.W. Central. Investigators quickly connected Wilson with the crime and located him that afternoon at his home at 1225 N.E. Quincy, where a standoff took place until Wilson exited the building and was taken into custody at 6:19 p.m., Kagay said. Deputy District attorney Lauren Amrein prosecuted the case against Wilson. His sentencing was set for 1:30 p.m. May 26. Hill's son, 26-year-old Joseph Ross Hill, was fatally shot on April 24, 2020, 13 days before Lisa Hill was killed, in the 1200 block of N.E. Quincy. Vincent D. Gonzalez-Rook, 24, is set to be tried Sept. 26 in that case on charges that include intentional second-degree murder. Michael Darian Lloyd Flores, 27, faces charges in the case that include involuntary manslaughter. His next court hearing is a status conference set for July 7. Tim Hrenchir can be reached at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Charles Melvin Wilson II convicted in North Topeka murder of Lisa Hill In the lead-up to Sundays 94th Oscars ceremony on ABC, theres been all kinds of panicked flop sweat about dwindling audience numbers and reversing the trend. The deeper anxiety is that the Oscars are losing their relevance altogether as a must-see event. To which I say: They are and so what? Nothing stays the same. The movie business itself has changed dramatically: What gets made. What gets the big marketing push. How all of it gets distributed. If the Academy Awards dont have the cachet they once did, thats because the movies arent the shared cultural experience they once were. And if we arent collectively watching the same films anymore, outside of a handful of blockbusters, of course interest in the Oscars is going to wane. Advertisement Good movies are good movies, regardless of how many people tune in to watch a few statues being handed out. But if we think about the Academy Awards as the elaborate promotional scheme they actually are, then maybe its time Hollywood finds other ways to hawk worthy films. For years, Oscar presenters would stand on stage and declare that one billion people worldwide were watching the broadcast. It was never true. But that kind of hyperbole is emblematic of a mindset that insists Hollywood has to be the center of the movie universe. More and more viewers, I suspect, are starting to feel otherwise. The 94th Academy Awards will air live on ABC Sunday. (Danny Moloshok/Danny Moloshok/Invision/AP) I never liked the horse-race reporting around the awards circuit anyway. The Oscars have a long and entrenched problem of prioritizing the talents of white people, both in front of and behind the camera, while ignoring the work of others. But the Oscars werent founded on merit or a noble urge to celebrate the best in film anyway; the Academy itself was launched as a way to subvert the efforts of actors and others in forming labor unions. This isnt an obscure detail, but its one we probably dont talk about enough. Advertisement Back in the mid-1920s, MGM founder Louis B. Mayer and his fellow movie moguls decided they needed an organization to handle labor problems at the studio without having to get into the union thing, the film critic and historian David Thomson wrote in a 2014 piece for Vanity Fair that details the cynical mindset behind the Academys launch. It would be a public relations operation that pumped out the message that Hollywood was a wonderful place where delightful and thrilling stories were made to give the folks a good time. They decided to call it the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as if the Academy had always been there, arranged by God and Harvard and Albert Einstein, is how Thompson puts it. (Reader, I laughed!) Someone at their first banquet suggested they hand out prizes and the rest is history. The Hollywood biography Lion of Hollywood: The Life and Legend of Louis B. Mayer quotes the big man himself on this development: I found that the best way to handle (moviemakers) was to hang medals all over them. If I got them cups and awards, theyd kill themselves to produce what I wanted. Thats why the Academy Award was created. For its first few years, the Academy functioned as its own union essentially a company-controlled union as opposed to an independent trade union that had its own standard contract outlining terms and conditions of work. That is, until company unions were outlawed in 1935. So those are the origins of your not-so-precious Oscars. Which is why I cant get worked up over a PR scheme that is starting to falter nearly 100 years after it began. They had a good run! Doesnt mean I dont like seeing great films (and the people who helped make them) get a boost. Doesnt mean the prospect of a live broadcast featuring no shortage of egos (and occasionally the rare glimpse of humility) isnt fun to watch. But this was never a pure endeavor. I guarantee on Sunday well hear at least one presenter utter some version of the phrase the magic of the movies. That sentiment starts to sound pretty hollow when you read through any of the brutally honest anonymous Oscar ballot pieces published by The Hollywood Reporter each year. If Academy members cant summon enthusiasm for the nominees their own peers, for crying out loud why should audiences? Do people who make movies even like the industry theyre working in? Actor Jackie Cooper, left, with producer Louis B. Mayer at the premiere of Cooper's 1933 film "The Bowery." (Associated Press) The producers of this years broadcast have made a number of strange decisions in the hopes of luring audiences back. But if you havent been watching the Oscars in recent years, Im not sure the prospect of (checks notes) non-movie professionals like Tony Hawk, Kelly Slater and Shaun White showing up as presenters will change your mind. Nor will moving eight awards, including film editing and production design, to a pre-show slot, where they will be taped and then sliced and diced and edited into the main event. Did you hear that Disney failed to use one of its allotted tickets to ensure that Rachel Zegler, the star of the studios best picture nominee West Side Story, would be in attendance? If the Oscars are really just a glamorous PR project and they are, Blanche, they are why so many unforced PR errors? Anyway, the Academy stepped in and invited Zegler to be a presenter, so crisis averted. But as film editor Myron Kerstein, nominated this year for tick, tick Boom!, noted on Twitter: With all due respect to the great and talented Rachel Zegler, there seems to be more support for a star than all the categories who wont be able to be featured live on the broadcast. What is wrong with this town? I mean what is wrong, indeed! Advertisement Carol Lawrence, from left, Rachel Zegler and Rita Moreno at the premiere of "West Side Story." (VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) Ive been pretty hard on the Oscars and while its not my job to brainstorm marketing schemes for Hollywood people get paid a lot more money than I to do just that I do think a new series on HBO Max called One Perfect Shot (premiering this week) offers some ideas about how to promote movies and the people who make them. Created and hosted by Ava DuVernay (a past Oscar nominee herself) and inspired by the Twitter account of the same name, the six-episode docuseries allows a director to talk about one scene, from one movie, and how they got the shot. The series needs work and doesnt yet live up to its title; theres too much emphasis on the directors biography and not enough on the technical aspects of the scene in question. But I like the idea behind it. What if the Academy scraped the Oscars or at least stopped worrying so much about the broadcasts shrinking ratings and focused on producing a series like this every year? Its a way to honor innovative work, but also give audiences a sense of what problem-solving looks like on these massive creative endeavors. The Michael Mann episode features the director talking about the ways his Chicago upbringing influenced his filmmaking: Film directors that come from Chicago and lived in the inner city make films like The French Connection or Heat. But if they lived in suburbs, they make comedies. Hes not wrong! Mann chooses the climactic shootout from 1995s Heat starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. Ive never gotten around to seeing Heat, but you know what? Now I want to after watching Manns episode of One Perfect Shot. Thats marketing. Aaron Sorkin is featured in another episode and, while hes a visually indistinct filmmaker, I appreciate that he walks us through a technical challenge from 2020s The Trial of the Chicago 7 when filming the melee that took place between police and protesters in Grant Park. The budget only allowed for 120 protesters: How do you turn 120 protesters into thousands and thousands? Through a crowd duplication technique called tiling. And then he shows exactly what the CGI entails. Advertisement Understanding that doesnt make me like this particular movie any better. But I have a deeper understanding of how it was made and why, which just generally has a way of creating more interest in movies in general. Far more, I would argue, than an Oscars broadcast ever did. Robert De Niro, left, and Val Kilmer in Michael Mann's "Heat." (Frank Connor) Nina Metz is a Tribune critic nmetz@chicagotribune.com What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. Sign up for our Eat. Watch. Do. newsletter here. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China is likely to offer some support to Russia's economy amid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, but will engage in a "dance" to maintain economic ties with Europe and the United States, a senior White House official said on Friday. The United States has warned of significant consequences if Beijing offers material support to Russia for its war in Ukraine, or provides an economic lifeline to Moscow in the face of large-scale Western sanctions. Mira Rapp-Hooper, director for the Indo-Pacific at the White House National Security Council, told an online panel discussion that driving a wedge between Russia and China would be easier said than done, but that Beijing would remain uncomfortable with Russian President Vladimir Putin's war. "We're unlikely, I think, to see a fully and publicly unified Moscow and Beijing in which China is totally comfortable being saddled with the burden of Vladimir Putin's brutal and ill-begotten war," Rapp-Hooper said. "That is to say that we are likely to continue to see some amount of Chinese support for the Russian economy, but a dance that Beijing tries to do to keep up its economic ties to the European Union in particular, but also to the United States," she said. In February, China and Russia declared a "no limits" partnership, with a promise to collaborate more against the West. But Western governments are shutting off Russia's economy from the global financial system, pushing international companies to halt sales, cut ties and dump tens of billions of dollars' worth of investments. China has repeatedly voiced opposition to the sanctions, calling them ineffective and insisting it will maintain normal economic and trade exchanges with Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden, who spoke with China's leader Xi Jinping last week, said on Thursday that China understands its economic future is more closely tied to the West than to Russia Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" Ukraine. Ukraine and the West say Putin launched an unprovoked war of aggression. (Reporting by Michael Martina and David Brunnstrom; editing by Jonathan Oatis) BEIJING (Reuters) - China has urged "all sides" to exercise restraint regarding North Korea's long-range missiles tests, the foreign ministry said on Friday. "We express concern at the present situation," ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, when asked about the tests at a daily briefing. On Thursday, North Korea fired a Hwasong-17, a huge new intercontinental ballistic missile, in a test that leader Kim Jong Un said was designed to demonstrate the might of its nuclear force and deter any U.S. military moves. (Reporting by Eduardo Baptista, Writing by Yew Lun Tian; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) NEW DELHI (AP) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Indian counterpart and the national security adviser on Friday to expedite the disengagement of thousands of Indian and Chinese forces involved in a tense faceoff and occasional clashes along their disputed border, an Indian official said. A fierce brawl in June 2020 exploded into hand-to-hand combat with clubs, stones and fists that left 20 Indian soldiers dead. China said it lost four soldiers in the clash. "I would describe the current situation as a work in progress obviously at a slower pace than desirable," Indias External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told reporters. He was referring to 15 rounds of talks between military commanders as well as diplomatic contacts between the countries to end the impasse. Friday's talks with Wang focused on expediting the disengagement of troops in friction areas and the possibility of de-escalating the situation, he said. "The fictions and tensions that arise from Chinas deployment cant be reconciled with the normal relationship between the two neighbors." The two sides seemed to differ on that point, with Wang saying the border issue should neither define nor affect the overall development of China-India ties, China's official Xinhua News Agency said. Wang also said their two countries should resolve the border issue and manage their differences to promote bilateral relations. Jaishankar said that Wang spoke about Chinas desire for normalcy in ties with India. But he told him that would require restoration of peace and tranquility on the border, suggesting total disengagement of forces. Since February last year, both India and China have withdrawn troops from some sites on the northern and southern banks of the Pangong Tso Lake, Gogra and Galwan Valley, but they continue to maintain extra personnel as part of their deployment. The Indian side treated Wangs first visit to New Delhi in more than two years as a low-key event, apparently unsure of the outcome. Jaishankar said the visit was not announced in advance at Beijings suggestion. Wang did not speak to the media after the meeting. Story continues He is expected to leave for Nepal on Friday, after visiting Afghanistan on Thursday for talks with the new Taliban rulers. The two officials also discussed the war in Ukraine. Both India and China have friendly ties with Russia and have rejected Western calls to condemn Moscows invasion. Jaishankar said they "agreed on the importance of an immediate cease-fire as well as return to diplomacy and dialogue." A day before Wang's trip, India criticized his comments on the disputed region of Kashmir during a speech he gave at a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Pakistan earlier this week. Indian media reports quoted Wang as saying that China shares the same hope as the OIC on Kashmir. The OIC is supportive of Pakistans stand on Kashmir, which accuses India of human rights violations and seeks a plebiscite to determine the future of the region, which is divided between the rivals. Indias External Affairs Ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi said in a statement that matters related to Jammu and Kashmir are entirely the internal affairs of India and that other countries, including China, have to right to comment. ___ Associated Press writer Ken Moritsugu in Beijing contributed. Citizens for Better Judges endorsed four candidates Thursday in contested races for Jefferson Circuit Court, including the only incumbent who drew a challenger, while snubbing two well-known criminal defense attorneys and a district court judge. Incumbent Mary Shaw, supported by CBJ, was seen as potentially vulnerable because she signed the search warrant for the raid in which Breonna Taylor was killed, although the officer who sought that was later fired for submitting untruthful information on an affidavit. FACT CHECK 2.0: Separating the truth from the lies in the Breonna Taylor police shooting CBJ, a 39-year-old organization that says its goal is to promote the most highly qualified judicial candidates, endorsed Shaw over Tracy Evette Davis and Christine Miller. In other contested races, it endorsed: Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Ebert Haegele over District Court Judge Julie Kaelin, a supporter of bail reform. Sarah Clay, a fifth-generation attorney from Danville and niece of attorney Thomas Clay, over prominent defense attorney Todd Lewis and lawyers Tim Buckley, Nichole Compton and Blaine Grant. Former prosecutor Dorislee Gilbert over Tish Morris, whose late father, Geoffrey Morris, served on the circuit bench, and attorney Zachary Zach McKee. The group made no endorsement in a race that matches prominent defense attorney Ted Shouse against Critt Cunningham and Melissa Logan Bellows. CBJ said it will announce its endorsements for Jefferson District Court on April 6 and those for the Kentucky Court of Appeals and Supreme Court on April 12. Andrew Wolfson: 502-582-7189; awolfson@courier-journal.com; Twitter: @adwolfson. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Citizens group endorses judge who signed Breonna Taylor warrant (Independent) Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been released from the hospital a week after he was admitted. Mr Thomas left Sibley Memorial Hospital on Friday, according to a court spokesperson. He was reportedly admitted to be treated for an infection. Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas. Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images Newly revealed text messages show Thomas' wife urged Mark Meadows to overturn the 2020 election. The news prompted scrutiny of Clarence Thomas' lone dissent in a January 6-related case. Ginni Thomas has long participated in partisan politics despite her husband's role on the court. In January, the Supreme Court rejected former President Donald Trump's bid to block the release of some presidential records to the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. Only one of the nine justices dissented: Clarence Thomas. At the time, Thomas provided no explanation for why he would have approved Trump's request a standard omission when the top court addresses emergency motions. But Thomas' objection came under scrutiny on Thursday after The Washington Post released a bombshell report that the justice's wife, Virginia "Ginni" Thomas, sent text messages to Mark Meadows, then-the White House chief of staff, urging him to try to overturn the 2020 presidential election results after Trump's loss to Joe Biden. In a message sent on November 6, 2020, Ginni told Meadows that Trump should not concede the election, saying: "it takes time for the army who is gathering for his back." In another message sent on November 10, 2020, days after the major news networks declared Biden the winner of the 2020 election, Ginni wrote to Meadows: "Help This Great President stand firm, Mark!!!" "You are the leader, with him, who is standing for America's constitutional governance at the precipice. The majority knows Biden and the Left is attempting the greatest Heist of our History," the text continued, per The Post. Ginni also sent text messages that contained claims about voter fraud, and cheered on Trump's allies who had been challenging the results. Federal, state and local officials have repeatedly said the 2020 election was fair and accurate and no widespread voter fraud occurred. Story continues In total, Ginni and Meadows exchanged 29 texts from November 2020 to January 2021, The Post reported. The texts are part of the trove of evidence that the January 6 committee is investigating and is among the thousands of messages that the panel obtained from Meadows before he stopped cooperating with the investigation late last year, CNN first reported Thursday. Meadows and Ginni did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment. Ahead of the Supreme Court's order on Trump's White House documents, Meadows filed a supporting brief in favor of blocking the release of documents. Ginni, a longtime conservative activist, has made national headlines in recent months over her advocacy given her husband's position on the nation's highest court. Earlier this month, she acknowledged attending the "Stop the Steal" rally that preceded the Capitol attack but said she got cold and left before Trump gave his speech. She also denied having ties to the organizers of the rally after several news outlets reported that she was connected to January 6 rally organizers and served on the board of a conservative group that promoted overturning the 2020 election results. In a recent interview with the Washington Free Beacon, she said she and her husband had their "own separate careers, and our own ideas and opinions too." "Clarence doesn't discuss his work with me, and I don't involve him in my work," she said. Read the original article on Business Insider Empathy is not a quality many Republican senators want to see in the next Supreme Court justice. Traditionally considered an admirable attribute, the ability to empathize with anothers plight has become a touchstone for GOP opposition to Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. Advertisement The first Black woman nominated to become a justice, Jackson brings a lifetime of experience never seen before on the high court, which has been filled almost exclusively by white men for most of its 233-year history. Democrats praise President Joe Bidens choice of the Harvard-educated lawyer and appellate court judge as long overdue, making the judicial branch begin to look more like America. Advertisement Perhaps nothing more dramatically captured Jacksons landmark moment than the image of the 51-year-old Black judge, tears streaming down her cheek, as the only Black member of the Senate Judiciary Committee spoke of the joy her nomination brings to him and so many others. But on the other side of the Senate, Republicans lining up to oppose the historic nomination are warning that Jackson carries too much empathy to the job. Jackson, Republicans have argued, shows compassion for criminal defendants she represented as a lawyer, and they have questioned whether that compassion extends to victims. They say she sentences criminals in particular, child pornography defendants too leniently as a judge, despite fact checks of her record that show shes largely in line with protocol in most cases. They worry Jacksons empathy will cloud her judgment on the high court. It seems as though youre a very kind person, and that theres at least a level of empathy that enters into your treatment of a defendant that some could view as maybe beyond what some of us would be comfortable with, said Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said he was looking for a justice who will make decisions based on the law, not based on personal experiences or preferences, not on empathy. Its not the first time the concept of empathy has been wielded as a disqualifying weapon against a nominee for the high court. Nor is it the only time the empathy standard was applied to the women tapped for the bench, rather than the much longer list of men. More than a decade ago, Republicans lodged similar arguments against another trailblazing minority woman nominated by a Democrat to the Supreme Court Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina justice, a Puerto Rican-American who grew up in the Bronx. Barack Obama popularized the idea of making empathy among the core criteria he was looking for when the newly elected president was seeking a nominee to replace the retiring Justice David Souter, himself among the more empathetic thinkers on the court. Advertisement At the time, Obama said he would seek someone who understands that justice isnt about some abstract legal theory or footnote in a case book. It is also about how our laws affect the daily realities of peoples lives. I view that quality of empathy, of understanding and identifying with peoples hopes and struggles, as an essential ingredient for arriving at just decisions and outcomes, Obama said. It was May 2009, and Obamas young White House was just taking shape. Soon the qualities the first Black president sought for a Supreme Court justice became whats now referred to as the empathy standard. In nominating the Yale-educated Sotomayor, Obama said her mastery of the law and ability to render impartial justice were not enough. We need something more, he said. For this, Obama drew from the former Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, who he quoted as saying, The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience. What started as lofty goals and a nod to history, the empathy standard swiftly transformed into conservative legal catchphrase for liberal judges. Advertisement Months later at Sotomayors confirmation hearing, the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, the conservative Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, warned of the slippery slope of confirming justices based on the empathy standard. I am afraid our system will only be further corrupted, I have to say, as a result of President Obamas views that, in tough cases, the critical ingredient for a judge is the depth and breadth of ones empathy, said Sessions, who would go on to become former President Donald Trumps first attorney general. I fear that this empathy standard is another step down the road to a liberal activist, he said. This past week, Jackson testified at her Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, fielding more than 20 hours of questions from senators about her views, her record and approach to the law. The mother of two told senators she doesnt hold to a particular judicial philosophy but rather a method for scrutinizing cases, striving to keep a neutral approach and stay in my lane as a judge rather than veering into policy making. Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California said she has a real sense of empathy. Advertisement The American Bar Associations standing committee on the federal judiciary gave her its highest rating, well qualified. The Fraternal Order of Police, the large law enforcement group, said she has earned this. Since its founding in 1789, the Supreme Court has had just two Black justices the late Thurgood Marshall, the storied civil rights leader, confirmed in 1967, and Clarence Thomas, who joined in 1991. Inside the Senate committee room was a tense if sometimes celebratory atmosphere, with civil rights leaders in attendance marking the milestone. At one point, after Jackson had wiped away her tears, the youngest senator, Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., told Jackson there are millions and millions of people who are watching and cheering you on right at this very moment. Around the world, he said, people are seeing what is possible in America. Jackson has worked in public and private practice, and has been confirmed by the Senate three times before as a federal judge, on the U.S. sentencing commission and in her current job on the appellate court. Advertisement In the 50-50 Senate, it is no longer necessary to muster broad support for Supreme Court nominees, after a Trump-era rules change that allows for confirmation with 51 votes. Democrats have the slim majority with Vice President Kamala Harris able to break a tie, and are on track to confirm Bidens pick by time senators leave for a scheduled spring recess April 8, even if all Republicans are opposed. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell announced after the hearings he would oppose Jacksons nomination, setting the tone for the other GOP senators to follow. McConnell had laid out his concerns days earlier: If any judicial nominee really does have special empathy for some parties over others, thats not an asset. Its a problem. Marvell Dixon, 45, is shown in a family photo taken after his release from prison after 25 years. Marvell Dixon was 21 when he was found guilty of murder by a jury and sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for more than 30 years. But now, after two eyewitnesses admitted to framing Dixon by lying in their testimony at his trial, a Franklin County Common Pleas judge ordered him to be released. The Franklin County Prosecutor's office will not retry the case, making Dixon, now 45, a free man. Kort Gatterdam, Dixon's attorney, said Dixon cried when he found out he would be free after more than 25 years behind bars. Test of convictions: Read the award-winning series about wrongful convictions "When I called him a couple of days ago and said, 'Youre going home,' there was just silence," Gatterdam said. "He's been on pins and needles for so long." Attorney Kort Gatterdam, who represented Marvell Dixon in his appeals. Dixon wants to settle back into normal life and plans to reconnect with his four children, one of whom was born after he was sent to prison, Gatterdam said. He also plans to meet with other relatives. On Friday, Dixon was not yet ready to talk about the process that led to his release and was still processing the fact that he was free, Gatterdam said. Dixon had been convicted of aggravated murder and felonious assault in Franklin County Common Pleas Court for a July 9, 1995, shooting in which 17-year-old Douglas Harvey, of Detroit, was killed and another man, Ervin Nixon, was injured. The case was unsolved for more than a year before Nixon came forward and told police that Dixon was the shooter. A second witness, Joe Robinson, corroborated Nixon's testimony. According to court records and The Dispatch's archives, Harvey was shot while riding in a car on the Near East Side. The car crashed into a pole at the intersection of Ohio and East Livingston avenues. Harvey died at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center the next day. At three different trials in 1996 and 1997, Nixon and Robinson testified that Dixon pulled the trigger and killed Harvey. The first trial ended with a mistrial, and the second with a hung jury that had 10 of the 12 jurors favoring a conviction. Story continues The third trial, in 1997, ended with Dixon being convicted and a sentence that meant Dixon would spend 31 years in prison before he could ask for parole. Release doesn't always mean freedom: Exonerated men describe life, racism faced after wrongful convictions, decades in prison After appeals didn't go anywhere, Dixon who had maintained his innocence was out of options until 2016. It was then that Nixon recanted his testimony, prompting a hearing in December 2017 to determine if Dixon would get a new trial. At the hearing, Nixon admitted to lying about Dixon's involvement in the shooting and framing him for murder, court records show. Nixon said that he decided to say Dixon had committed the shooting after the two men got into an argument in a corrections facility they were both in during 1996 and because of a gang rivalry Dixon was a member of the Bloods and Nixon was a leader in the local Crips gang at the time. Common Pleas Court Judge Jenifer French said in a motion denying Dixon's motion for a new trial in 2018 that while Nixon's testimony was credible, the likelihood of a guilty verdict remained with multiple other witnesses putting Dixon near the scene or identifying him as the shooter. Nixon was charged with perjury and sentenced to nine months in prison in 2019. "I made a mistake as a kid pointing him out, saying that he did something that he didn't do," Nixon said, according to a transcript of the hearing. "I thought I was doing the right thing for a cause that wasn't true." The remaining option for Dixon to be granted a new trial was for the second witness who identified Dixon, Joe Robinson, to support Nixon's assertion that Dixon was framed. Previous coverage: Building off wins in 2021, Ohio's Wrongful Conviction Project plans to take on more cases After being released from prison on unrelated charges, Robinson also admitted while on the witness stand to lying about Dixon being the shooter. With a sworn affidavit from Robinson, Dixon's lawyers filed a motion for a new trial in May. "Mr. Dixon could not predict when or if Joe Robinson would recant," the motion said. "He has been stuck in prison waiting for years for Nixon and Robinson to do the right thing." On Wednesday, Robinson pleaded guilty to perjury and was sentenced to time served. Following the plea, Gatterdam asked Common Pleas Court Judge Karen Phipps, who was presiding over the plea hearing, to grant Dixon's release from prison. "Their case was the two witnesses who have both recanted under oath," Gatterdam said. "The state has no case to pursue." Phipps granted the motion and after the proper paperwork had been filed and processed, Dixon was released, officially becoming a free man around 6 p.m. Thursday. Gatterdam said he knows there will be some people who believe Dixon who had previously pleaded guilty and served a seven-year prison sentence for a Aug. 21, 1996, shooting in which 18-year-old Maurice Arnold was killed should not have been released. "He admitted to what he did way back in the day and did his sentence. It doesnt mean he should be framed for something he didnt do," Gatterdam said. "Unfortunately, he was in the wrong place at the wrong time in terms of meeting the person who framed him." New unit: Franklin County prosecutor forming new unit to investigate wrongful-conviction claims Gatterdam credited the Franklin County Prosecutor's office for listening to the witnesses when they recanted and doing their due diligence to make sure justice was served for Dixon. "The state has concluded that the interests of justice required dismissing this case," Franklin County Prosecutor Gary Tyack's office said in a statement. Tyack was a Franklin County Court of Appeals judge on two of Dixon's appeals, rejecting both. More: Westerville woman sues Ohio for wrongful imprisonment after 18 years behind bars "It's terrible that Marvell served all this time for something he didnt do, but it's nice to be able to approach and have prosecutors listen and do their due diligence and work collectively to get the right result, even if it happened this many years later," Gatterdam said. "They had no idea that these two witnesses had sought to frame Marvell over a gang issue." Dixon could be entitled by law to monetary compensation for wrongful imprisonment, Gatterdam said, but is focused for now on reconnecting with his family and adjusting to life as a free man. He will decide on whether to seek the compensation later. bbruner@dispatch.com @bethany_bruner This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus man freed after witnesses admit framing him for 1995 murder Hundreds of cities and towns dot North Carolinas landscape, from Charlotte and its nearly 900,000 residents to Dellview, population 6. Nearly all of them elect mayors and other town leaders who are in charge of funding local departments like police or parks and recreation. And while there are often disagreements on exactly how to spend the towns money, usually the state government stays out of the way and lets each community make its own decisions. Sometimes, however, things get so out of control that the state has to step in. Thats what happened in both Spring Lake and East Laurinburg in late 2021, when a group called the Local Government Commission announced it was taking over control of those two towns finances. Led by N.C. Treasurer Dale Folwell, its the type of state commission whose attention is rarely is good sign. Spring Lake, about 50 miles south of Raleigh and a Fayetteville suburb on the north end of Fort Bragg, is notable for being far and away the largest town ever to have its finances taken over by the state. It has a population of roughly 12,000 people and a $13 million budget. Most other places the state has taken over, by contrast, have budgets of less than $200,000. Was there embezzlement or anything criminal? In both recent cases, investigators working for N.C. Auditor Beth Wood accused town officials who had the power to write checks on behalf of their towns of abusing that power and using public funds as their own personal bank account. East Laurinburgs former finance director is accused of taking around $11,000, and Spring Lakes former finance director is accused of taking roughly half a million dollars. In both cases, that missing cash plus other, more general mismanagement, left each town facing fiscal woes serious enough to warrant attention not just from Wood but also Folwell, the states top financial officer. So the Local Government Commission added Spring Lake and East Laurinburg to the list of local governments not trusted to make their own financial decisions. Story continues The News & Observer previously reported that in Spring Lake, for instance, the town has no record of dozens of vehicles that DMV records show it owns. No one can say whether the cars are missing, stolen, accounted for, or were previously sold or otherwise disposed of. How many cities get taken over by the state? Its a short list. Of the more than 1,000 local government units in the state, only seven are currently under state control. Another, Spencer Mountain in Gaston County, ceased to exist after the 2020 Census showed its population had dropped to zero. And a few others have previously been taken over but later won back the right to control their own money. Those are Enfield in Halifax County, East Spencer in Rowan County and Princeville in Edgecombe County, which has gone under state financial control not once but twice. Princeville, the nations oldest Black-chartered town, was recently the subject of a News & Observer story that focused on its long history of being flooded and rebuilt in increasingly worse natural disasters. What happens after North Carolina takes over? For some towns, when they lose financial control they stand to cease existing altogether. The state revokes the town charter, and any services the town had been providing for its residents would either end or be picked up by someone else, like a private company or the county government. Thats what will happen to East Laurinburg this summer, when it ceases to be a town in June. The town was created in the early 20th century, The N&O reported last year, specifically to let a textile mill pay less in property taxes. But the mill has long since shut down, and the town now has only 281 residents, one employee and few services. But thats seen as a last-ditch option. The LGC would rather help local leaders get their town back on its feet and prove themselves able to take back responsibility for their own financial decisions. Frank Lester, Folwells spokesman, told The News & Observer that the goal is to return control as soon as it is possible and feasible but that the towns wont automatically regain control of their spending decisions. There is no minimum amount of time involved, Lester said. The time needed will vary based on the specific circumstances of the local government. LGC staff is actively involved in both the daily financial operations of the local government as well as engaging with local governing boards or councils. But if local leaders show they can work with the commission to hit financial goals and other requirements, he said, then the LGC will vote to give them back control. The main goal, he said, is to ensure that the local government has taken the necessary steps to maintain its financial stability and is on a solid path to sound fiscal management. What types of towns tend to be under state control? Usually, very small ones, where the budgets are so barebones that even minor errors or theft can add up to a substantial percentage of the budget. Theyre also typically in rural areas. Spring Lake is a notable exception on both counts. Its located in one of the states biggest counties and has a budget nearly 10 times bigger than the next-biggest town to have been taken over by the state. Here is a list of all seven local governments currently under state control, and their most recent budget information from Folwells office. Six are towns and one is a sanitary district. Many towns have special tax districts, like fire districts or sanitary districts, that collect extra taxes within the boundaries of that district for a specific purpose, like funding firefighters or sewer systems. Spring Lake (Cumberland County): $13 million annual budget Robersonville (Martin County): $1.45 million annual budget Pikeville (Wayne County): $688,379 annual budget Cliffside Sanitary District (Rutherford County): $194,486 annual budget Eureka (Wayne County): $176,507 annual budget Kingstown (Cleveland County): $171,440 annual budget East Laurinburg (Scotland County): $75,000 annual budget Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced a top-to-bottom review of the county's probation policies and procedures on Thursday to determine why a Level 2 sex offender was allowed to work less than 1,000 feet from a school. The move comes five days after a juvenile female was allegedly raped by two clerks inside a corner store on Central Park in the City of Rochester. The store is across the street from the campus of the Dr. Freddie Thomas Learning Center, home to a pair of elementary schools. One of the two men charged in the incident, Shadad Alghaithy, is registered as a level 2 sex offender based on a 2021 felony conviction for first-degree disseminating indecent material to minors. "I just feel for that victim, her family and this community," said activist Rashad Smith, co-founder and chief creative consultant at ROC Freedom Riders. "But I also know the problem is so much bigger." The County Executive ordered an immediate review of all 239 sex offenders currently under the supervision of the county's probation office to ensure that each one is complying with state law or court orders at both their residence and place of employment. Richard Tantalo, the county's director of public safety, is supervising the case review. He said on Thursday that the process was nearly complete. "I just feel for that victim, her family and this community," said Rashad Smith, of ROC Freedom Riders. "But I also know the problem is so much bigger." "Shadad Alghaithy should not have been working across the street from a school. This review will determine how it happened and what steps must be taken to ensure this never happens again," Bello said. "I share the community's outrage and concern about this incident and my thoughts are with the victim and her family." Bello said George Markert will lead the probation assessment, in conjunction with the county's Office of Public Integrity. Markert is a former deputy chief with the Rochester Police Department and director of public integrity for the City of Rochester. Bello did not set a timetable for the review process, but said he expected Markert to submit a public report with findings and recommendations "in a timely manner." Story continues "The supervision of sex offenders is complex and involves state laws and court rulings that determine the terms of probation," Bello said. "The public needs to have trust that the county enforces the restrictions placed on sex offenders to the letter of the law." What happened in the corner store? Police say a girl was sexually assaulted by two store clerks after she went to the corner store at 95 Central Park. On Saturday afternoon, a Rochester girl went to the corner store at 95 Central Park, at the corner of Central Park and Scio Street to purchase hair gel. After she entered the shop, store clerks are accused of locking her inside and raping the girl, according to the Rochester Police Department. City court documents allege that one of the men pulled her into a back room at the store, where she was sexually assaulted despite telling him to stop. After the girl left the store, she went home and told her family about the encounter and they called 911 around 3:20 p.m. Saturday, said Lt. Greg Bello of the Rochester Police Department. Officers apprehended the two clerks without incident, Bello said. Police executed a search warrant at the store and recovered five pounds of marijuana and a Glock 9mm handgun, loaded with 48 rounds in a drum-style magazine. The gun, police said, was reported stolen from Whitehall, Ohio. Community reaction Melanie Funchess is the president of Ubuntu Village, an organization dedicated to creating culturally responsive community-driven healing and wellness. The incident has evoked many emotions on social media and through community discussions. "When it comes down to it, we're talking about a child that lost their innocence," said Melanie Funchess, president of Ubuntu Village, an organization dedicated to creating culturally responsive community-driven healing and wellness. Many community members say the bigger problem is the role corner stores play in Rochester's marginalized communities. These mini markets serve as gathering spots for neighborhood residents and are often the only option for groceries within food deserts. The stores are also flashpoints for violence and illicit activities. More: Does it matter who owns your corner store? "We know which stores are prone to violence," Funchess said. "You can ask anybody about their neighborhood stores and they know." Tamara Leigh, a diversity consultant and the editor of Blaque/Out Magazine, agreed. "You know which ones not to stop at and what time not to stop there," Leigh said. "Everybody in every neighborhood does." Tamara Leigh is a diversity consultant and the editor of Blaque/Out Magazine. Funchess said many of the owners of the city's corner stores are partly to blame for the incidents that happen at their stores, many of whom are not from the neighborhoods they serve. "The incident itself is disgusting," Funchess said. "But it's indicative of the blight these stores bring to our communities. They don't serve healthy food options; many of them have drugs and guns inside. I don't know anyone who likes the corner stores. People see them as a necessary evil. It's a ripe environment for rape, and not just the rape of this little girl, but the rape of our community." Many in the community have taken to social media to discuss the incident. "I've read posts about this situation where people are blaming the mom and blaming the little girl," Leigh said. "That's wrong; that needs to stop. I don't want to make this about a particular group of people. My concern is predators. We are not doing a good enough job in our community of protecting our children from predators. "This situation is awful, but there are so many layers of accountability that can be passed along, none of which is that child," Leigh said. "I don't care if this kid is good, bad or otherwise; it doesn't matter, that's a child. Her only responsibility should be to wake up, go to school, come home and live." Who was arrested? Two store clerks Shadad Alghaithy, 20, and James Hampton, 28 were each charged with first-degree rape, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, second-degree criminal possession of cannabis and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, all felonies. Both men were also charged with unlawful imprisonment, a misdemeanor. Alghaithy is a level 2 sex offender based on a 2021 conviction for first-degree disseminating indecent material to minors, a felony, Bello said. Alghaithy was under the supervision of the Monroe County Probation and Community Correction when he was arrested, according county spokeswoman Meaghan McDermott. Because he was on probation at the time, he "should not have been present within 1,000 feet of a school," she said. Searching for more victims Police said they are concerned that there may be more sexual assault victims linked to these two men and the Central Park store. Officers are asking that anyone who was attacked or knows a victim to call 911. What about the store? The store on Tuesday afternoon was padlocked and is not open, according to a news release from city officials. Since Saturday, Rochesters Neighborhood Preservation and Legal teams "took immediate action to ensure this property is no longer a venue for illegal activity," the news release read. The building owner, who was renting space to the business owner of the corner store, agreed to a six month closure of the retail space, and to numerous restrictions once it reopens, said Rochester Corporate Counsel Linda Kingsley. As soon as we learned of the incident this weekend, we began an accelerated process around this property, Kingsley said Tuesday. Given the extent of alleged criminal activity discovered Saturday including violent sexual assault, weapons and drugs we are taking immediate and definitive actions to ensure this location is no longer a threat to the community. What's next? Both Alghaithy and Hampton were arraigned Sunday in City Court and are being held in the Monroe County Jail without bail. They are both due to return to court for a preliminary hearing on Friday. Contact Victoria Freile at vfreile@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @vfreile and Instagram @vfreile. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Girl raped in Central Park corner store in Rochester NY. What we know Doug Jones, who has served as an adviser to Judge Jackson, told theGrio that he wants to see the Supreme Court nominee confirmed with bipartisan support. Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia publicly announced on Friday that he will vote to confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for the Supreme Court, just days after Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said on the Senate floor that he will vote no for the historic nomination. Senator Manchin, a moderate Democrat who hasnt always been in lockstep with his party, has been consistent in voting along party lines with Senate Democrats on judicial nominations. Doug Jones, the Nominations Adviser for Legislative Affairs at the White House, and who has personally been advising Judge Jackson throughout her confirmation process, told theGrio that Senator Manchins statement of support pretty much seals the deal for us, hopefully. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, President Bidens nominee for Associate Justice to the Supreme Court, and former Sen. Doug Jones, D-Ala., are seen in between meetings in Russell Building on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) Still, he is hoping that the nations potential first Black woman Supreme Court justice can be confirmed with bipartisan support. I think well get all Democrats and we are still not stopping yet. Were going to continue to work to try to get Republican votes because she deserves it. Jones, a former U.S. Senator in Alabama, said he and others will continue to hold meetings with Senators to sway votes in favor of Judge Jackson. He is not sure how many Republicans will be part of that number but he believes a few can be persuaded in favor of Jackson. A political, racial, and gender divide is playing a hand in the opposition from Republican members of the Senate. Jones, who has vast experience in Washington, said In any other place in history Judge Jackson would likely be close to a unanimous vote, depending on some circumstances. But we live in a different world today. He noted, there were votes that we knew that we were likely never to get. And quite frankly, Senator McConnell was one of them, despite what he said early on. U.S. Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson talks to White House liaison former Senator Doug Jones (L) as her husband Patrick Jackson watches, as she arrives for her confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill March 22, 2022 in Washington, DC.(Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Ketanji Brown Jackson faced questions from Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee unrelated to her court decisions and her legal prowess, including issues on race and gender. Story continues The full Senate vote on Jacksons nomination is expected next month before the upper chamber is out for recess on April 11. Jackson only needs 50 votes from all Democratic members to become the next Supreme Court justice. If confirmed, she would be installed for the next session of the Supreme Court starting October 1. Jones did acknowledge that the confirmation vote could be a close one, resulting in a tiebreaking vote from Vice President Kamala Harris a unique, yet historic moment in which the nations first Black woman vice president would cast the deciding vote for the first Black woman Supreme Court justice. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images) Certainly its possible, said Jones, but were hopeful that we will get Republican support and that the 51st vote from the vice president will not be necessary. He added, I just believe that there are enough Senators in that body on both sidestheyre going to do an independent evaluation. Theyre looking at this nomination very closely, and they will look at her and her record. And thats what theyre going to base their final vote on. It wont be the number of people that call in. In the midst of the confirmation process, the White House has been gauging public support for Judge Jackson. Polling from Pew Research indicates that 44% of the public says the Senate should definitely (24%) or probably (20%) confirm Jackson, while just 18% say she should not be confirmed. Nearly four-in-ten (38%) say they are unsure. Three-in-ten Democrats say Jackson is more qualified for the Supreme Court than other recent nominees, including 39% of liberal Democrats and 23% of conservative and moderate Democrats. By contrast, a third of Republicans say Jackson is less qualified than other recent candidates a view held by 42% of conservative Republicans and 18% of moderate and liberal Republicans. TheGrio is now on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Could Ketanji Brown Jacksons Supreme Court confirmation come down to tie-breaking vote from VP Harris? appeared first on TheGrio. SOMERTON, Ariz. (AP) One by one, a voice called out the names of 169 people just released by U.S. Border Patrol. Migrants rose from folding chairs in a clinic warehouse and walked to a table of blue-robed workers, who swabbed their mouths. All but two Cuban women tested negative for COVID-19 that February morning. They were quarantined to motel rooms, while other migrants boarded chartered buses to Phoenix's Sky Harbor International Airport for flights across the U.S. Theirs were among just seven of 5,301 tests the Regional Center for Border Health near Yuma, Arizona, did last month for released migrants that were positive a rate of 0.1% COVID-19 rates are plunging among migrants crossing the border from Mexico as the Biden administration faces a Wednesday deadline to end or extend sweeping restrictions on asylum that are aimed at limiting the virus' spread. Lower rates raise more questions about scientific grounds for a public health order that has caused migrants to be expelled from the United States more than 1.7 million times since March 2020 without a chance to request asylum. While there is no aggregate rate for migrants, test results from several major corridors for illegal border crossings suggest it is well below levels that have triggered concerns among U.S. officials. In California, 54 of 2,877 migrants tested positive the first two weeks of March, according to the state Department of Social Services. That's a rate of just 1.9%, down from a peak of 28.2% on Jan. 8. In Pima County, Arizona, which includes Tucson, the seven-day positivity rate among migrants didn't exceed 1.3% in early March and dropped to 0.9% on March 10. The seven-day rate topped 5% on only two days during the final three months of last year. Then, as the omicron variant spread, it surged to double-digits for most of January, peaking at 19.2% on Jan. 12 and falling below 5% on Feb. 12. McAllen, Texas, the largest city in the busiest corridor for illegal crossings, has a higher rate among migrants 11.3% for the week ending March 16 but it has been consistently lower than the general population. Only two of 24 border counties have had high rates in the general population: Hidalgo, which includes McAllen, and Yuma in Arizona. Story continues The rate among migrants in McAllen peaked at 20.8% the last week of January, when it was double that in the general population. It bottomed at 1.4% the last week of November, when the general population was at 6.2%. As mask mandates have lifted, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is under mounting pressure to fully restore asylum by ending Title 42, named for a 1944 public health law. Critics say it has been an excuse to wriggle out of asylum obligations under U.S. law and international treaty. Justin Walker, a federal appeals court judge in Washington, wrote this month that it was far from clear that the CDC order serves any purpose for public health. Walker, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, noted that the Biden administration hasnt provided detailed evidence to support the restrictions. The CDCs order looks in certain respects like a relic from an era with no vaccines, scarce testing, few therapeutics, and little certainty, Walker wrote for a three-judge panel. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky noted falling rates when she ended asylum limits on unaccompanied child migrants on March 11, while keeping them for adults and families with kids. In August, U.S. border authorities began testing children traveling alone in their busiest areas: positives fell to 6% in the first week of March from a high of nearly 20% in early February. The White House and Homeland Security Department have said decisions on Title 42 rest with the CDC. Walensky told reporters Wednesday that the CDC was reviewing data ahead of next week's deadline, noting that its two-month renewal in late January came near the peak of the omicron variant. Scientific arguments for Title 42 have met with skepticism from the start. The Associated Press reported in 2020 that Vice President Mike Pence directed the CDC to use its emergency powers, overruling agency scientists who said there was no evidence it would slow the coronavirus. Anne Schuchat, the second-highest ranking CDC until last May, told members of Congress after her departure that the asylum limits lacked foundation as a public health measure when introduced. The bulk of the evidence at that time did not support this policy proposal, she said. Title 42 also has supporters. In a ruling this month in a lawsuit over the order, U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman in Fort Worth, Texas, said: There should be no disagreement that the current immigration policies should be focused on stopping the spread of COVID-19. Even while large-scale expulsions were carried out under Title 42, the U.S. processed more than 2.8 million cases under normal immigration laws, which allow people to seek asylum. With costs and strained diplomatic relations limiting expulsions to many countries, migrants are often released to nongovernmental groups and ordered to appear later in immigration court. The groups test for COVID-19. In El Paso, Annunciation House saw positives plunge to around 2% among the roughly 175 migrants it tested daily in early March, said director Ruben Garcia. Positives were close to 40% at the height of the omicron variant, he said. In Arizona, at the Regional Center for Binational Health, monthly rates peaked at 3% last year. Still, Amanda Aguirre, its president, is wary about lifting Title 42. My concern is that at any time were going to see new variants coming into this area, she said. The Val Verde Border Humanitarian Coalition, which tests migrants in the busy Del Rio, Texas, area, said it went several weeks without a single positive. Yesterday there was one positive and today there was one positive thats out of hundreds tested, the group wrote last week in response to questions. ___ Ghisolfi reported from Palo Alto, California. Angeliki Kastanis in Los Angeles contributed. ___ This story has been update to correct the date of the renewal decision to Wednesday, not Tuesday. The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care. The blood supply remains critically low locally and nationwide. The Blood Connection recently announced that critically low blood supplies are affecting local hospital orders. Hospitals like AdventHealth Hendersonville rely on The Blood Connection for blood products to care for patients who are battling cancer, facing surgeries or experiencing emergencies, according to a news release from the local hospital. To increase the local supply, AdventHealth and The Blood Connection are hosting a community blood drive on Wednesday, March 30. The blood drive will be from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at AdventHealth, 100 Hospital Dr. in Hendersonville. Attendees should look for The Blood Connection Mobile Donor Unit parked behind the hospital. The Blood Connection has a location in Hendersonville, 825 Spartanburg Highway, and one in Asheville, 225 Airport Rd. For more information, go to thebloodconnection.org. Historic blood shortage At the beginning of the year, the American Red Cross announced that the nation is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. According to the Red Cross, the shortage is caused by: 10% overall blood donation decline since March 2020 62% drop in college and high school blood drives due to the pandemic. Student donors accounted for approximately 25% of donors in 2019 accounted for just around 10% during the pandemic Ongoing blood drive cancellations due to illness, weather-related closures and staffing limitations Blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients and those battling cancer. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, according to the Red Cross. For more information on the Red Cross and other blood drives, go to www.redcrossblood.org. This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Critical blood supply shortage impacts local hospitals Born in 1903, Volodymyr Lopushanskiy was a writer, newspaper editor and military historian who grew up during Ukraines many struggles for independence, from the time of the last czar through two world wars and the repressive Soviet era. He told stories of liberation in books. He wrote plays. He ran a bookstore. In 1952, Lopushanskiy was arrested for allegedly anti-Soviet activities and sentenced to 10 years in a gulag. I come from a family that has deep roots in Ukrainian nationalistic history, says Marta Lopushanska, his 42-year-old granddaughter in Baltimore. My grandfather was a writer who was sent to Siberia for writing essentially a memoir. He got back to Lviv completely a changed man and never spoke to anyone about what happened to him when he was in prison. Volodymyr Lopushanskiy died in 1987, a couple of years before the collapse of the Soviet Union that had imprisoned him. Ukraine declared its independence in 1991, and now finds itself in another existential struggle, its army and citizenry fighting off an unprovoked and horrible Russian invasion that has devastated cities, displaced families and left hundreds of civilians dead. Lopushanska watches with shock and horror as Russia terrorizes her homeland and the country of her relatives and friends. This is not a military to military war, she says. This is just a civilian massacre. So, more than 4,600 miles away from her hometown of Lviv, she honors the spirit of her grandfather and her proudly Ukrainian family by raising money for the battle with Russia. She started a United for Ukraine Baltimore Facebook group, collected more than $35,000 (so far) through online donations and at least another $10,000 from a fundraiser Wednesday night at a Fells Point bar and restaurant co-owned by her husband, Shane Gerken. This is not just Ukraines war, she says. We have to unite. Im sure everyone realizes by now that, on the grand scale of things, its a war for democracy. Story continues Marta Lopushanska was born in Lviv in 1979. Her parents were doctors her father a pediatrician, her mother an endocrinologist. Marta grew up in the last decade of the Soviet era with a clear understanding that she was Ukrainian, not Russian. We have our own identity, our own language, she says. We have our own traditions, our own church. Our culture is so rich. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, with Ukraine suddenly an independent state, life became a hard struggle for her family and for everyone she knew. Everything my parents and grandparents had worked for disappeared due to inflation, she says. We went from being a middle class family to living paycheck to paycheck, and sometimes my parents were paid with barter a pair of boots or a sack of grain. We all experienced hunger on a daily basis. In winter, my boots were too small for us. We walked with holes in them because my parents were too poor to buy me a pair of boots that would be sufficient, and the winters were very hard. My grandfather took it to heart. He had strokes and became very weak. He could not take the fact that all the money he had in the bank, his life savings, all of a sudden was worth nothing. Her father took a job as an emergency room physician, her mother taught continuing education classes for nurses. On top of the hardships of daily life, there was, Lopushanska says, an ever-present fear. Being Ukrainian, living in an independent Ukraine, there was always a fear of Russian invasion, always, she says. It was a fear so deep down we didnt want to believe it would come to fruition. Lopushanska was in Ukraine during the Orange Revolution in 2004-2005 and again during the bloody Revolution of Dignity in 2014 as Ukrainians fought against corruption in their government and against the nations ties to Moscow. But then came Russias annexation of Crimea and now, eight years later, its indiscriminate bombing of cities in an attempt to reclaim all of Ukraine. The United States says war crimes have been committed, but, indeed, the war itself is a crime. You feel so disheartened that this happened in the 21st century, Lopushanska says. With only $80, she left Ukraine in 1999 to become a student at the Maryland Bible College and Seminary in Baltimore. She taught English as a second language at community colleges before becoming, by 2005, a real estate agent. She now works in Canton for Berkshire Hathaway. Gerken, Lopushanskas husband, runs Barcocina on the waterfront in Fells Point, site of United For Ukraines $50-per-person fundraiser. All food and drinks were donated. Lopushanska says all proceeds, including a donation from Pimlico Capital, a Pikesville-based real estate lender, will go directly to small volunteer groups serving two causes in Ukraine food, clothing and transportation for people (mostly women and children) displaced by the war and supplies for front-line troops and militia. Lopushanska made the connections, she said, through friends and relatives in Lviv. Shes already made some donations $4,000 toward a van for Ukraine troops and received videos and photos of men in uniform expressing thanks for her help with the fight against Russia. Shes already planning other fundraising endeavors. The military guys are all fathers and brothers and husbands, she says. These guys are willing to give up their lives to protect everyone. We have to do everything to help them. By Siphiwe Sibeko JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Hundreds of striking Sibanye-Stillwater workers blocked a major highway outside Johannesburg on Friday to press their demands for higher wages, and union leaders said they would not back down despite the gold miner's no work, no pay policy. The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) have been on strike since March 9, demanding an increase of 1,000 rand ($68.77) per month over the next three years. Hundreds of workers on Friday chanted slogans and burnt tyres, blocking a major highway. AMCU head Joseph Mathunjwa urged them to continue with the strike. "Going on strike is one of the best decisions you have ever made. This is about the future of your children, do not back down," Mathunjwa told the cheering workers. Solidarity union and the United Association of South Africa (UASA), the other unions which were negotiating with Sibanye, have accepted Sibanye's offer. Under Sibanye's final offer, miners, artisans and officials would receive a 5% pay increase each year while "unskilled and semi-skilled" employees would be given an annual increase of 800 rand a month each year between 2022 and 2024. Sibanye has said it would not increase its offer and is implementing a lock-out order against NUM and AMCU members, who will not be paid while on strike, under the terms of South African labour law. A five-month strike by AMCU at Sibanye's gold operations from November 2018 to April 2019 cut the company's South African gold revenue by 19% that year. The contribution of Sibanye's South African gold operations to group earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) has declined from about 16% during the previous strike, to about 7% in 2021. ($1 = 14.5422 rand) (Reporting by Siphiwe Sibeko; Writing by Nelson Banya; editing by Barbara Lewis) Seminole County deputies said a maintenance workers murder at a local mosque appears to be random. The investigation remains active as deputies remained at the Husseini Islamic Center near Sanford early Friday. Hester Avenue near Ronald Reagan Boulevard is still closed as of Friday morning. Deputies said the 59-year-old victim was attacked early Thursday. READ: Sheriff: Man who beat mosque worker to death with shovel thought he was Julius Caesars descendent Investigators said Ahmed Raslan, 38, scaled a barbed-wire fence, broke a window and killed the victim. Deputies said Raslan then took a stolen minivan to Indian River County. READ: Boy, 14, dies after falling from Free Fall ride at ICON Park, deputies say Deputies caught up to him and shot him. Investigators found bizarre social media posts from Raslan, saying he had the blood of Julius Caesar in his veins and Caesar was the rightful owner of the mosque. Raslan was taken to a hospital in Indian River County. READ: Florida man killed in crash after hitting 11-foot alligator on roadway Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Xinjiang attracts investment projects with optimized business environment Xinhua) 17:04, March 24, 2022 URUMQI, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has signed more than 460 investment projects so far this year, worth more than 190 billion yuan (about 30 billion U.S. dollars), according to the regional department of commerce. Hou Mingping, an official with the bureau of commerce of Aksu Prefecture, said the prefecture sent 38 teams across the country to attract investment at the beginning of the year. Meanwhile, some places in Xinjiang have carried out online investment promotion due to the current epidemic situation, according to Hou. In order to stimulate the vitality of market entities, Xinjiang has taken measures to optimize the business environment this year, continued to increase tax support and boosted the confidence of enterprises, said the department. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) The United States is expanding efforts to help Ukrainian refugees. It has agreed to accept up to 100,000 people escaping from the war and to increase support for Eastern European nations that have taken in most of the people fleeing Russian forces. Its a modest number relative to the need, with an estimated 3.6 million refugees and millions more displaced within Ukraine. Its also modest by historical standards, far less than the number who came from Southeast Asia decades ago. A look at the situation: Advertisement President Joe Biden speaks about the Russian invasion of Ukraine during a news conference after a NATO summit and Group of Seven meeting at NATO headquarters, Thursday, March 24, 2022, in Brussels. (Evan Vucci/AP) What was announced? While in Brussels to meet with European allies, President Joe Biden said the United States would admit up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees and provide $1 billion in humanitarian assistance to countries affected by Russias invasion of Ukraine. The financial support is important because most of the approximately 3.6 million refugees who have fled Ukraine are in neighboring countries such as Poland, Moldova, and Romania and are posing a substantial burden. Advertisement This is not something that Poland or Romania or Germany should carry on their own, said Biden, who said he hopes to meet with refugees on his European trip. This is an international responsibility. The White House has said for weeks that the U.S. would welcome Ukrainian refugees at some point, so the announcement wasnt a surprise. Officials have said, and continue to maintain, that most of the refugees want to remain in Europe because they have family there and can more easily return home once its safe. A refugee fleeing the war from neighbouring Ukraine walks with children holding toys after crossing the border by ferry at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing in Romania, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Andreea Alexandru/AP) Who is coming, when and where will they go? Among the first Ukrainians refugee coming to the U.S. will be those who have family already in the United States, Biden said at a news conference. U.S. refugee efforts will also focus on helping refugees who are considered particularly vulnerable following the Russian invasion, groups that include LGBTQ people, those with medical needs as well as journalists and dissidents, according to administration officials, who spoke to journalists on condition of anonymity to discuss the plan before the public announcement. The administration did not provide a timeline but its typically a lengthy process and the officials said all 100,000 may not necessarily arrive this year. Most of the refugees probably will settle in parts of the U.S. that already have large concentrations of Ukrainians. Such areas include the New York City area, Pennsylvania, Chicago and Northern California. A refugee fleeing the war from neighbouring Ukraine hugs her dog after crossing the border by ferry at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing in Romania, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Andreea Alexandru/AP) Is that a large number? Not relative to the need, considering the number who have already fled Ukraine and the millions more who are displaced within the country. Its also not large by historic standards. The U.S. took in more than 200,000 refugees, mostly from Southeast Asia, in 1980 alone. The total between 1975-1981 was more than 735,000, according to State Department figures. Since August, when the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, the U.S. has admitted more than 76,000 Afghans, including large numbers of former military interpreters and their families. The administration, in consultation with Congress, set the annual cap of refugees for the 2022 budget year at 125,000, a total that does not include the evacuated Afghans. The administration says it does not immediately plan to seek to raise the cap because many of the Ukrainians can be brought to the U.S. under humanitarian parole or family reunification programs that are not counted against this cap. Advertisement Refugees fleeing the war from neighbouring Ukraine walk after crossing the border by ferry at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing in Romania, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Andreea Alexandru/AP) What has been the reaction? Refugee advocates had been urging the administration to expedite admissions following Russias invasion of Ukraine. Thats even as refugee resettlement agencies were struggling because of program cuts under President Donald Trump, whose administration slashed the refugee admissions cap to a historic low of 15,000. Advocates welcomed Thursdays announcement, as did members of members of Congress with large Ukrainian populations in their districts, such as New Jersey Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell. Until today, the rate of Ukraine refugee acceptance by our nation has lacked urgency, he said. But this mornings announcement by the Biden administration to accept 100,000 refugees from Ukraine has the urgency that is essential for this dark moment. There seems to be public support as well. The vast majority of Americans -- 82% -- say they favor providing humanitarian support to refugees from Ukraine, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. A smaller but still wide majority, 67%, say they favor accepting refugees from Ukraine into the U.S. Just 13% are opposed while another 21% say they hold neither opinion. FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank has nominated Yngve Slyngstad, the former head of Norway's sovereign wealth fund, to its supervisory board, Germany's largest lender said on Friday. Slyngstad was chief executive officer of Norges Bank Investment Management, which manages the world's largest sovereign wealth fund, a position he held for 13 years. He recently joined the Norwegian conglomerate Aker ASA to lead its asset management unit, focusing on renewable energy projects. Deutsche has been positioning itself to finance the transition to a more sustainable future. "We will benefit from ... his vast experience as one of the pioneers of sustainable investing, as well as his current focus on cutting edge matters related to climate change and energy transition," said Mayree Clark, who oversees the bank's nomination committee. Slyngstad will replace Gerhard Eschelbeck, whose five year term is about to conclude. Shareholders will be called to officially ratify the move at the bank's annual general meeting in May. (Reporting by Tom Sims and Frank Siebelt; additional reporting by Gwladys Fouche; editing by Maria Sheahan) (Getty Images) Dillian Whytes lawyer has accused Tyson Furys promoter Frank Warren of stupid games as the acrimonious build-up to the world heavyweight title fight continues. The British heavyweights clash on 23 April at Wembley Stadium for Furys WBC belt. And Whyte, who continues to train in Portugal, remains upset at the pay split for the fight, which culminated in him not showing up to the first press conference between the fighters earlier this month. But Whytes lawyer Jeffrey Benz has accused Warren of being difficult over their demands, telling Talk Sport: "We haven't spoken to Frank or George for a month. I have a total of a three-minute conversation with Frank, he called me, everything we've asked for is normal, standard, commercial, its not outlandish or outrageous. Its like nothing Ive ever seen. We dont have a single ticket for Dillian, his entourage, his Mum, or anybody else, contrary to what Warren said, we didnt ask for complimentary tickets equal to the total number of ringside seats, we asked for 25 ringside seats. Its normal. Its what we give to Dillians opponents. We have been given nothing. Weve asked for credentials for his security team and video team. Theyve given us the bare minimum. We spent weeks asking them to tell us the size of the ring. Imagine if Crystal Palace travel to Chelsea and they dont know the size of the pitch? Its been stupid games, it was like pulling tooth and nail. Trying to stack the deck in favour of Fury. Warren later replied: We couldnt agree terms, we went to a purse bid, I dont want to own him, I just want him to do what hes signed for. He has refused to do any filming for BT. He said he didnt show up because he didnt get a private plane. Were not obliged to do this. He wanted a choice of what plane to fly on and he didnt want any strangers to film him. WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) A leaked document indicates that China could boost its military presence in the Solomon Islands including with ship visits in a development that is raising alarm in nearby Australia and beyond. The Solomon Islands revealed on Thursday it had signed a policing cooperation agreement with China. But more concerning to Australia was the draft text of a broader security arrangement that was leaked online. Under the terms of the draft agreement, China could send police, military personnel, and other armed forces to the Solomons to assist in maintaining social order and for a variety of other reasons. It could also send ships to the islands for stopovers and to replenish supplies. The draft agreement stipulates that China would need to sign off on any information that's released about joint security arrangements, including at media briefings. Without directly addressing the content of the draft agreement, Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement saying We would be concerned by any actions that destabilize the security of our region. The department said that after riots last year in the Solomon Islands capital, Honiara, Australia and its neighbors had been able to send security assistance without the need for external support. Pacific Island nations have the right to make sovereign decisions, the department said. Australias cooperation with our Pacific family is focused on the economic prosperity, security and development of our region. New Zealand said it planned to raise its concerns about the document with both the Solomon Islands and China. If genuine, this agreement would be very concerning, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta said. Such agreements will always be the right of any sovereign country to enter into; however, developments within this purported agreement could destabilize the current institutions and arrangements that have long underpinned the Pacific regions security. Story continues Questioned about the agreement, China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing and the Solomons conducted normal law enforcement and security cooperation on the basis of equal treatment and win-win cooperation." This is in line with the international law and international practice, conducive to maintaining social order in the Solomon Islands and promoting peace and stability in the region, and helpful to enhance common interests of China and the Solomon Islands, as well as all countries in the region," ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters at a daily briefing on Friday. Wang referenced China's previous support for the Solomons in handling riots and maintaining stability," but did not cite the agreement directly. Referring to Australia, he said China hoped the relevant party will see this objectively and calmly, and refrain from overinterpreting it." It is irresponsible and unhelpful for regional stability and development that the individual Australian official hyped the fallacy of Chinas so-called coercion and deliberately created tensions," Wang said. Anna Powles, a senior lecturer in international security at New Zealands Massey University, said Australia, New Zealand and the U.S. would all be very concerned about the draft agreement, which was ambitious on China's part. Powles said it would be interesting to know what kind of goods China might want to send to the Solomons to service its ships, and whether there was the potential for mission creep in the future, like China developing a naval base. She said she was concerned China was trying to direct the political narrative by controlling what information could be publicly released. A lot of the wording in the draft agreement was vague, Powles said, including exactly what type of military and paramilitary forces that China might send to the Solomons. She said it was either clumsily worded or deliberately opaque. It was not immediately clear when the security agreement might be finalized, signed or go into effect. The Solomon Islands, home to about 700,000 people, in 2019 switched its diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing, which was a contributing factor to last year's riots. Last month the U.S. announced plans to open an embassy in the Solomon Islands, laying out in unusually blunt terms a plan to increase its influence in the South Pacific nation before China becomes strongly embedded. The U.S. previously operated an embassy in the Solomons for five years before closing it in 1993. Since then, U.S. diplomats from neighboring Papua New Guinea have been accredited to the Solomons, which has a U.S. consular agency. A news release from the Solomon Islands government on its new policing agreement with China revealed few details. The statement said the agreement had been signed in a virtual meeting between China's Wang Xiaohong, an executive vice minister, and Solomon Islands Police Minister Anthony Veke. Wang said in the release that since the Solomon Islands began diplomatically recognizing China, the bilateral relations have developed rapidly and achieved fruitful results" and that China was ready to advance practical cooperation in police and law enforcement." Veke, meanwhile, said the Solomon Islands government attached great importance to its relationship with China. Senator Tammy Duckworth, Democrat of Illinois, knows firsthand the sacrifices of going to war and being a working mom. The Iraq war combat veteran and mother of two is using Women's History Month to make a renewed push for her legislation to establish a memorial in the nation's capital to honor the nearly 18 million women who worked on the home front during World War II. "We know all about the 'Rosie the Riveters' but I think most people are surprised when they hear we haven't honored them," Duckworth told CBS News in an exclusive interview. The Illinois Democrat sent a letter Friday to West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, who chairs the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources urging him to "swiftly move" the bill. She re-introduced the bipartisan legislation last May, known as the Women Who Worked On The Home Front World War II Memorial Act. "These women many of whom had no expectation of working outside the home answered the call during a global crisis to work as pilots, engineers, taxi drivers, letter carriers, code breakers, manufacturers and more," the letter states. "It is time we recognize the decisive role they played." Duckworth acknowledged it as a "fitting bill" during Women's History Month, adding: "There is not a more appropriate time than now to codify the authorization to create a commemorative work in honor of these brave women." The idea for the memorial came from Raya Kenney, who was a fifth-grade student when she first designed a model of the monument for a school assignment inspired by the movie, "A League of their Own." Kenney, now 20, has been advocating for the memorial since then. "It was the first time that I had seen women taking a role that a man had held previously, and that a woman had never held," Kenney told CBS Evening News in 2020. Kenney has continued to lobby Congress and has been meeting with senators to build support. She worked with D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton on companion legislation in the House. It passed overwhelmingly in the chamber last December by a vote of 425-1. Story continues "I'm really excited that Senator Duckworth is working on our behalf," Kenney said Thursday. "We're trying to get on the calendar. That's our next step." Both women hope the committee will take up the measure soon which could pave the path for a full vote in the Senate. If approved, it would authorize Kenney's foundation, Women Who Worked on the Home Front, to begin work on the project. That would include raising funds and looking for a space for the memorial. "There's always been a sense of urgency with this project since these women are getting older every day that passes," Kenney said. "Especially reading about the Rosies who are no longer with us every single day because we want as many of them to see this erected as possible," The percentage of women in the workforce increased from 27% to nearly 37% between 1941 and 1945, bolstering the U.S. economy during the war. Duckworth calls the lack of a memorial honoring the working women of World War II a "glaring omission." "With my two girls, my four-year-old and my seven-year-old, I want them to know about that," said Duckworth. "I want them to celebrate these women who stepped forward." "CBS Reports" explores the early adopters of the metaverse Texts reveal Justice Clarence Thomas' wife pushed to overturn the 2020 election Justice Clarence Thomas' wife pushed to overturn the 2020 election By Alexandra Valencia QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuadorean lawmakers on Thursday roundly rejected a proposed bill that conservative President Guillermo Lasso had said would attract investment for the beleaguered economy, but which opponents decried as privatisation of public assets. Lasso, a former banker who does not have a majority in the legislature, in February asked lawmakers to approve the creation of public-private partnerships to facilitate infrastructure projects - using the stock market to raise financing - and create free trade zones. The president has said the proposed changes would attract billions of dollars in investment in telecoms, energy, mining and oil, which he maintains are key to righting the country's finances and creating the two million jobs he has promised during his tenure. He can propose the law - which was rejected by 87 of 134 lawmakers present - again. The law would have promoted the privatisation of public property, including the country's water resources, opposition lawmakers said. "This law has been rejected because we have not accepted the blackmail of lawmakers who come to ask for hospitals, electricity companies and ministerial posts in exchange for their votes," Lasso said on social media. "The only thing lawmakers have done is lost opportunities for those women and young people," he said. Hundreds of unions members, students and teachers marched in Quito on Wednesday to protest the law, which also would have exempted basic materials from taxes and investors from tariffs. Lasso has also promised labour reform and is seeking to sell a state-run bank, as well as concessions for the government telecoms company and the Esmeraldas oil refinery. (Reporting by Alexandra Valencia ; Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell) The European Union has reached an agreement to adopt the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a sweeping antitrust law meant to rein in Apple, Google, Meta and other tech giants. Lawmakers reached a provisional agreement on the law Thursday, following hours of negotiations, the European Parliament wrote in a statement . The law could have far-reaching implications, some of which could extend beyond Europe. Most notably, one of the primary provisions of the DMA is that messaging providers would need to make their services interoperable with other services, EU lawmakers agreed that the largest messaging services (such as Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger or iMessage) will have to open up and interoperate with smaller messaging platforms, if they so request, the EU Parliament said following the agreement. Its unclear for now if this requirement would also apply to interoperability between the large messaging platforms themselves. Parliament wrote that the interoperability provisions for social networks will be assessed in the future. We have a deal on #DMA! Last trilogue with @Europarl_EN and @EUCouncil ended with a good, strong agreement. Tune into our press conference tomorrow 8:45 pic.twitter.com/krHHsOqG8u Margrethe Vestager (@vestager) March 24, 2022 In a statement, an Apple spokesperson said the company was "concerned" about some aspects of the law. "We remain concerned that some provisions of the DMA will create unnecessary privacy and security vulnerabilities for our users while others will prohibit us from charging for intellectual property in which we invest a great deal," the spokesperson said. "We believe deeply in competition and in creating thriving competitive markets around the world, and we will continue to work with stakeholders throughout Europe in the hopes of mitigating these vulnerabilities. Meta didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. The company's head of WhatsApp, Will Cathcart, wrote on Twitter that he hoped the law was "extremely thoughtful." "Interoperability can have benefits, but if it's not done carefully this could cause a tragic weakening of security and privacy in Europe," he said. Story continues The DMA also prohibits companies from combining personal data for targeted advertising without explicit consent, a move that could limit Meta and others ability to serve targeted ads to users. As The New York Times points out , there are still many questions about how European lawmakers will enforce these new rules and the companies in question are likely to raise legal challenges. Earlier proposals of the law also included provisions that would change how Apple and Google ran their app stores. Under the proposed rules, Apple would have to allow users to install apps from other stores, and both Apple and Google would be required to allow developers to bypass their companies; storefronts and use their own billing. Its unclear if those provisions were included in the latest agreement. The European Parliament will hold a press conference Friday, when they are expected to share more details. Updated to include a comment from Will Cathcart. A former head of a Broward County charter school that had a history of issues was convicted of embezzling about $400,000 in federal funds from the school and wire fraud, a federal jury in Fort Lauderdale found Wednesday. Jamika I. Williams, the former president of Advancement of Education in Scholars Corporation (AESC), a Florida nonprofit corporation that operated the now-defunct Paramount Charter School at 7100 W. Oakland Park Blvd. in Lauderhill, was found guilty on two counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds and 18 counts of wire fraud, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Southern District of Florida. Williams sentencing is set for June 7. She faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for each charge related to the theft of government programs and 20 years in prison for each of the wire fraud charges. She also goes by the name of Jimika Mason. What can parents, students expect from Floridas K-12 testing overhaul? What led to the charges? Paramount, a K-8 school, operated for just two years, between 2015 and 2017. It received federal funds through Title 1, which is paid to a school when more than 50 percent of the students are eligible for free or reduced lunches. During the two years that the school operated, trial evidence showed that Williams stole $398,957 from AESCs business account and used that money to buy a vehicle and pay for a private school, rent, and other personal expenses, according to the release. She transferred the funds from the AESC account into another account operated by Florida Scholars Educational Services Corp., where Williams was also president. Is that school book objectionable? Or this one? Legislature wants more people involved The school received $3,124,621 in state and federal funds while operating, according to the Sun Sentinel, which also documented issues at the school, including lights not working, water not running and a high teacher turnover that led students from different grades to be jammed into one room. The General Motors logo at the company's world headquarters in Detroit. (ASSOCIATED PRESS) A former General Motors manager was arrested Thursday in Los Angeles on a charge that he took more than $3 million in bribes from a South Korean parts supplier in return for a major contract with the Detroit automaker. Hyoung Nam So, 46, who now lives in Irvine, took $3.45 million in cash from the parts supplier in late 2015, a payoff for rigging the bids on a contract to supply GM with auto painting, window film and molding, according to a federal grand jury indictment issued Wednesday. At the time, So, who goes by Brian, was a manager in GMs Global Purchasing and Supply Chain organization in Michigan, where he oversaw the supply of parts used to build automobile interiors. In January 2020, So was hired as global purchasing chief at Karma Automotive, a luxury car company in Irvine, according to his online resume. So left Karma Automotive in December 2021, according to the company. So's attorney, H. Dean Steward, declined to comment. GM released a statement saying it was cooperating with federal investigators. "General Motors does not tolerate or condone corruption or bribery of any kind," a company spokesperson said. "The illegal conduct alleged here is entirely inconsistent with our code of conduct and corporate policies." The indictment charged So with one count of conspiracy to commit bribery. Prosecutors say the amount of the alleged kickback was unusually high for a purchasing agent at one of America's biggest corporations. "The bribe amount is very significant," Assistant U.S. Atty. Jeff Mitchell said. "Its larger than most bribe amounts that people see in corporate prosecutions." Agents from U.S. Homeland Security Investigations seized $3.19 million in cash from a private vault in Los Altos in 2017, and they believe that was part of the bribe proceeds, authorities said. The money was returned to South Korean authorities, they said. The plot began at an October 2015 meeting in South Korea, where So told the owner of the parts supply company that he could ensure it won a large GM contract in return for $5 million in cash, according to the indictment. Story continues The supplier listed in the indictment as an unnamed co-conspirator and another unnamed accomplice arranged for money brokers in South Korea and Los Angeles to transfer $1 million in cash to the United States, the indictment says. The accomplice rented a car in L.A. and drove the cash to Detroit, where the supplier picked it up and gave it to So at a hotel in Troy, Mich., it says. After a competitor submitted a lower bid, the supplier who paid the bribe revised its proposal, and So then recommended that GM executives award the contract to the company that paid the kickback, according to the indictment. A week later, it says, the supplier's accomplice collected another $2.45 million in cash from Los Angeles money brokers and drove it to Detroit, where the supplier again picked up the money and delivered it to So, this time outside a restaurant in Detroit. The supplier was prosecuted in South Korea, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles. Kookje Shinmun, a newspaper in Busan, South Korea, reported that an unnamed auto parts supplier was arrested and indicted in 2017 on charges of paying a $3.45-million "rebate" on a $35-million sale of car equipment to GM, but the final outcome of the case was unclear. Times Staff Writer Jeong Park contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. An attorney for a former London ISD teacher who admitted to having an improper relationship with a student has motioned for the recusal of 214th District Judge Inna Klein from the case on the grounds that Klein's "impartiality might reasonably be questioned." Senior Judge Rogelio Valdez is set to oversee a court hearing on March 31 to decide whether or not Klein should recuse herself from Amber Prince's case. In response to the motion from Prince's attorney, filed March 2, Klein declined to recuse herself, court records show. Instead, Klein referred the motion to Judge Missy Medary, the presiding judge of the Fifth Administrative Judicial Region, who appointed Valdez to consider the motion. Klein did not respond to the Caller-Times' request for comment. Amber Prince, a 41-year-old former London ISD high school teacher, admitted to having an improper relationship with a male student. Prince, 41, pleaded guilty to 10 counts of improper relationship between educator and student a second-degree felony on Feb. 22, after agreeing to a plea deal with prosecutors with the Nueces County District Attorney's Office, according to court records. Prince was arrested in March 2021. Klein ordered Prince to serve five years of deferred probation, a form of community supervision that permits a defendant to accept responsibility for a crime without an actual conviction being placed on the record. At the request of prosecutors, Klein also sentenced Prince to serve 60 days in the Nueces County Jail two weeks each year starting Feb. 24 this year as a condition of community supervision. Prince, then represented by Jared Perkins and Christopher Gale, disagreed with this condition. According to court records, Prince "sought no jail time as a condition of community supervision." Prince's current defense attorneys, Terry Shamsie and Stephen Byrne (hired by Prince after Klein's Feb. 22 judgment), now argue that Klein failed to render impartial judgment when considering the conditions of Prince's community supervision. In a motion filed on March 2, Shamsie called for Klein's recusal from Prince's case and argued that Klein did not fully disclose conflicts with the district attorneys office, nor that she was reported to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct by the district attorney's office in November 2021 for allegedly watching jury deliberations in Derek Parra's murder trial. Story continues Citing confidentiality, state commission Executive Director Jacqueline Habersham declined to confirm to the Caller-Times whether the office was investigating Klein. According to Shamsie, Prince "was not informed of the risk she was undertaking by allowing the Court to hear her case, and set the conditions of community supervision." He argued his client was not aware that Klein might have "tempered her rulings in a manner that would please the District Attorney's office" to advance her own interests and "attempt to influence potential testimony" presented by the district attorney's office to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct. Shamsie argued that Klein leveraged "such information to her advantage at the expense" of Prince, whom he described as "very vulnerable" and suffering from mental illness. "It is impossible and incalculable for the defense to know how many cases, with whom, concerning what issues, and to what degree the Court has decided that the separation of powers, and the integrity of the Judiciary was not important," Shamsie wrote. "Judge Klein disregarded her judicial duties, and deprived the defendant of her right to an independent and impartial judiciary." Shamsie did not respond to multiple requests for additional comment. MORE COVERAGE More: Four of six men charged in London Estates slaying appear in court, accept plea deals More: Jury sentences former Calallen ISD teacher to 35 years in prison for child sex abuse Kailey E. Hunt covers breaking news and public safety in South Texas. John Oliva covers education and community news in South Texas. Consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to the Caller-Times. This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Former London ISD teacher motions to remove judge from case A jury on Friday convicted former Nashville nurse RaDonda Vaught of criminally negligent homicide and abuse of an impaired adult after a medication error contributed to the death of a patient in 2017. The jury deliberated for approximately four hours in a trial closely watched by nurses and medical professionals from across the country, many worried Vaught's case could set a precedent for medical errors leading to criminal charges. Vaught, 38, was indicted in 2019 on two charges, reckless homicide and impaired adult abuse, in the death of Charlene Murphey at Vanderbilt University Medical Center just after Christmas 2017. Jury selection in her trial began Monday. RaDonda Vaught and her attorney Peter Strianse listen as verdicts are read at the end of her trial in Nashville on March 25, 2022. She was convicted of criminally negligent homicide and abuse of an impaired adult after a medication error contributed to the death of a patient in 2017. Criminally negligent homicide is a lesser included charge of reckless homicide under state law. Murphey, 75, died at Vanderbilt on Dec. 27, 2017, after being injected with the wrong drug. Murphey was supposed to receive a dose of Versed, a sedative, but was instead injected with vecuronium, which left her unable to breathe, prosecutors have said. More: RaDonda Vaught faces years in prison after conviction "I am just relieved that this portion of the process is over," Vaught told reporters after the verdict was read. "I hope that they (Murphey's family) are also just as relieved to be moving away from this process that has been held up in the legal system for four and a half years. I hope that they are able to find peace with the resolution of this process." Does Vaught verdict set bad precedent? Nurses watched from the gallery, too. Many of them wore scrubs to court. They traveled from across the state and the country, and said they wanted to both support Vaught and make clear their worry over the fallout of the case. They were quietly animated in the courtroom gallery. Some, like Rebecca Ray, spent her time crocheting a blanket. "She came in innocent and she will leave innocent, no matter what the jury says," Ray said Friday morning before the verdict was read. Story continues But prosecutors argued Vaught's actions alone were beyond the normal scope of an accident or mistake. RaDonda Vaught probably did not intend to kill Miss Murphey, but she made a knowing choice," Assistant District Attorney Brittani Flatt said Thursday during the state's closing arguments. 'Zero regrets about telling the truth': Ex-nurse RaDonda Vaught speaks out ahead of guilty verdict Closing statements: 'Collision course with destiny': Jury deliberates on ex-nurse charged in death of patient Hospital in spotlight: Ex-nurse RaDonda Vaught's trial reveals medication access problems at Vanderbilt in 2017 They said Vaught consciously disregarded warnings and risks when she pulled the wrong medication from an electronic dispensing cabinet that required her to search for the drug by name, and is therefore culpable in Murphey's death. "This wasnt an accident or mistake as its been claimed. There were multiple chances for RaDonda Vaught to just pay attention," Assistant District Attorney Chad Jackson said in a rebuttal during closing arguments. Defense attorney Peter Strianse shows RaDonda Vaught the documents to wave her right to testify during the third day of testimonies in the Vaught trial, at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville , Tenn., Thursday, March 24, 2022. Vaught is a former Vanderbilt University Medical Center nurse who was charged in the death of a patient. Vaught's defense argues that although Murphey's death is tragic and irreversible, the outsize consequence does not make Vaught's mistake a conscious, criminal act of homicide. "I hope it doesn't set any legal precedent. I hope that this district attorney's office or other district attorney's office will not see this as open season on medical errors," defense attorney Peter Strianse said Friday. When asked Friday after the verdict, prosecutors vehemently denied that this case was based on anything but the actions of one person. "No. Absolutely not," Assistant District Attorney Debbie Housel said. "This is what RaDonda Vaught did, not the nursing community." "We want Davidson County to know that we, as the DA's office do not prosecute on lies, we prosecute on the facts. The jury heard all the facts in this case, and they rendered a verdict accordingly, and we thank them for that," Jackson said. But nurses in the gallery clearly disagreed. Murphey's family her daughter in law, her granddaughter, others who loved her were also in the gallery all week. When the verdict was read, they were themselves largely still, showing no large reaction to the news. Each hugged the three prosecutors before they exited the courtroom. Family members declined to comment all week and left the courtroom without speaking to reporters Friday. No question of malice Vaught has always taken responsibility for her actions, both immediately after Murphey suffered a cardiac arrest and she realized she may have given the wrong drug, and in every investigation since then. "What struck me most about RaDonda Vaught's interviews was not her honest recitation of the facts ... but her genuine worry and concern about Charlene Murphey and concern for her family," Strianse said during the defense's closing statement Thursday. "She was not thinking about herself. "She was a scapegoat." Vaught was stripped of her license by the Tennessee Board of Nursing in July, after the board initially chose not to investigate the death. Davidson County Criminal Court Judge Jennifer Smith heard the case. RaDonda Vaught speaks about her experience while waiting for the jury to finish deliberating her case at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 25, 2022. Alternate jurors were dismissed and the jury charged with its duty just before 6:30 p.m. Thursday, but remaining jurors chose to return early Friday morning to formally begin deliberations. Throughout the week, the jurors were a remarkably animated bunch, nodding along with witnesses for both sides, nudging each other, exchanging glances. Among the final panel, now made of six men and six women, was both a practicing registered nurse and a former respiratory therapist, whose medical experience could impact their review of the case. They elected the director of a nonprofit that works in prisons to be their foreperson. Vaught case timeline: The RaDonda Vaught trial has begun. This timeline will help with the confusing case. Nurses keep close watch: Nurses watching the RaDonda Vaught trial worry the case has already limited patient safety Assistant District Attorneys Debbie Housel, Chad Jackson and Brittani Flatt prosecuted the case. Murphey's family sat in the gallery all week, as did a collection of nurses and other medical professionals across the aisle gathered in support of Vaught. The American Nurses Association on Wednesday released a statement of concern the trial could set a worrying precedent and discourage nurses from reporting errors. They worried the trend could ultimately hinder patient safety. Sentencing in the case will be handled by Smith at a later date, likely in mid-May. The District Attorney's office confirmed a conviction of criminally negligent homicide can carry 1-2 years of incarceration, the gross neglect charge could stretch from 3-6 years. The judge will determine the sentences, which could each run concurrently or consecutively, based on statutory guidelines. Vaught took a moment after the verdict to speak to any nurses and health care professionals following the case. "I don't think that the takeaway message here is not to be honest and truthful," Vaught said. "You just you guys do what you do. Do it well. Don't let this defeat you mentally. Keep your standards." Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms@tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @MariahTimms. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: RaDonda Vaught found guilty on two charges in death of patient Anjanette Young listens to attorney Keenan Saulter, who points to City Hall, speak June 16, 2021, regarding developments on Young's case and efforts to work with the city of Chicago to bring the matter to a resolution. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune) A federal judge on Friday granted the Chicago Police Department a three-year extension to comply with the consent decree it now operates under, giving the department until 2027 a total of eight years to implement a series of much-anticipated court-ordered reforms. CPD also agreed to allow portions of the consent decree to govern search warrants, a key area for reform advocates, particularly in light of the 2019 wrongful raid at the home of Anjanette Young and other similar botched police action nationwide. Advertisement Chicago police officers wrongly raided Youngs residence and handcuffed her while she was undressed. The department made the stipulations in an agreement with the Illinois attorney generals office, which is overseeing implementation of the consent decree. The matter was addressed in a hearing Friday before U.S. District Judge Robert Dow, who called the new timeline and the search warrants critically important issues to the success of the decree. Advertisement We recognize that for many people of Chicago, CPD compliance with the consent decree cannot come soon enough, said Mary Grieb, an attorney with the AGs office. And we agree. Grieb, though, said it is important to be realistic and transparent with the public about how long the reforms will take. The Chicago Police Department has been under the sweeping consent decree since 2019, after a U.S. Department of Justice investigation of the department that came in the wake of the killing of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald by former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke. The original terms of the court order gave the department five years to complete reforms, though police departments under consent decrees often take longer than that to come into full compliance. In the past few years, we have seen firsthand how deep these problems are, Grieb said. Police superintendent David Brown talks with members of the press on March 13, 2022, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune) Chicago police Superintendent David Brown pointed to a number of reasons for the extension. He said it would likely take several budget cycles to equip the department with the technology it needs to fully comply with the reforms and assess whether the fixes are working. He also noted that the consent decree requires a ratio of about one sergeant for every 10 officers, a figure the department is way under, he said. Brown said the city will also need several staffing and budget cycles to bring the ratio down. He also noted that the stipulation to include search warrants adds additional consent decree work. Advertisement CPD has received criticism in the past for moving too slowly, or failing to create a necessary culture change to make the reforms effective, but department officials say around 10 years is typical for complying with a consent decree. Youve got to first write the policies and then develop the curriculum and train everyone and then you can have the opportunity to change the culture, Brown said. After the hearing, Brown, along with Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, released a joint statement that said it will take time to properly implement reforms. The City of Chicago initially agreed to endeavor to achieve full compliance with the requirements in the Consent Decree within five years, the statement read. This timeline must be extended to achieve the operational and technological goals of the CPD that will lead to true cultural change within the CPD. When granting the extension, Dow said both he and those evaluating the departments reform progress believed five years was an unrealistic goal. He noted that the Los Angeles Police Department completed its consent decree in about 12 years. We are bound and determined to get there a lot sooner than 12 years, so I think eight years is an excellent target to strive toward, Dow said. Advertisement Regarding the search warrant addition, the Police Department agreed that warrants would apply to three paragraphs in the impartial policing section of the document. Under the sections, CPD would be required to ensure that its policies and procedures now including but not limited to search warrants do not discriminate against people based on race, sex, gender identify or other protected classes. The sections prohibit police from using factors like race, sex, housing status or financial status when making routine or spontaneous law enforcement decisions, except when such information is part of a specific subject description. The agreement says CPD must demonstrate that its search warrant process is fair and not discriminatory and implement sufficient policies, training, data collection, supervision and accountability systems. It likely will improve trust in the way we interact with the public when we do have to search or detain people, Brown said. CPD officials said the search warrant application was requested by the AGs office, but that the department agrees with the importance of warrant reform. In Chicago and around the country, we have witnessed the tragic and horrifying consequences of bad warrants based on bad information, Grieb said. These often lethal consequences fall disproportionately on Black and brown people. Advertisement Grieb said the framework already in the consent decree, when applied to search warrants, will provide a remedy for unjust search warrant actions. Everyone knows search warrants have been in the news a lot the past year, Dow said, as he granted the parties request. Frankly, they have been challenging issues for CPD and judges alike for a long time. The department is regularly monitored on its reform progress by an independent body. In the most recent report from independent monitor Maggie Hickey, the department achieved preliminary compliance in just over 50% of the provisions that have been reviewed. The next report is expected in the coming weeks. mabuckley@chicagotribune.com LUBBOCK A former San Angelo police chief has been found guilty on four charges stemming from an accusation that he improperly used his influence to convince city councilors to award a $6 million contract to a radio communications company that investigators believe paid him kickbacks through his cover band. Tim Vasquez, San Angelo's police chief for 2004-16, was charged with a count of receipt of a bribe by an agent of an organization receiving federal funds and three counts of honest services mail fraud. Timothy Vasquez, the former police chief of San Angelo, heads into the federal courthouse in Lubbock where he is on trial on bribery and mail fraud charges. It took jurors about a day to reach a verdict following a three-day trial that began Monday, presided by Judge Jimmy Hendrix in the George H. Mahon Federal Building. Vasquez now faces a maximum punishment of 70 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. After the trial, he was booked into the Terry County Detention Center. Undisclosed relationship Vasquez was accused of accepting more than $170,000 in bribes from San Antonio based Dailey-Wells Communications to use his influence as police chief to steer the contract to the company in 2015 to upgrade San Angelo's radio system. Prosecutors presented evidence they believed showed Dailey-Wells kept Vasquez in their pocket since 2007, when the provider was first awarded a contract to provide the city with a radio system. They said that from 2007-15, the provider paid Vasquez more than $84,000 through his band, Funky Munky, which performed at the company's functions in San Antonio. After the contract was awarded in 2015, Vasquez through his band received another $94,000 from the company, for a total of $178,000. The mail fraud charges were related to the three checks the city cut and sent by mail to Dailey-Wells as payment for the contract. Federal prosecutor Sean Long presented evidence that Vasquez used his position as police chief to circumvent the city's bidding process and convince city officials to stick with Dailey-Wells, its provider. Story continues Defense attorney David Guinn told jurors the investigation into his client's relationship with Dailey-Wells was blown out of proportion, saying the payments to Funky Munky were legitimate. Vasquez took the stand in his defense, during which he said he was unaware that he needed to disclose the business relationship. Such disclosure is required under the state's local government code and the city's employee and purchasing policies. "Knowing now after going through everything that I've gone through, I wish that I had just filled out that form," he said, choking up at times. "I wish I had known, I wish I was aware of the efforts I needed to make." He said he believed everyone knew he was in a band that played at Dailey-Wells' private events, which he said were legitimate performances. "It wasn't hidden. It was on our band Facebook page," he said. Five City Council members who voted for the contract told jurors they relied on Vasquez's opinion and recommendation when they voted in 2015 to give the contract to Dailey-Wells. But they said they would change their votes now had they known about Vasquez's financial relationship with the vendor. None of them were aware that Dailey-Wells hired Vasquez's band to perform for the company. This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Ex-San Angelo police chief found guilty of federal charges By Charlotte Greenfield and Jonathan Landay KABUL/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States abruptly cancelled meetings with the Taliban in Doha that were set to address key economic issues, officials said on Friday, after Afghanistan's Islamist rulers reversed a decision to allow all girls to return to high school classes. The cancellation of talks was the first concrete sign that recent Taliban moves on human rights and inclusivity could directly impact the international community's willingness to help the group, some of whose leaders are under U.S. sanctions. "Their decision was a deeply disappointing and inexplicable reversal of commitments to the Afghan people, first and foremost, and also to the international community," a U.S. State Department spokesperson told Reuters. "We have cancelled some of our engagements, including planned meetings in Doha, and made clear that we see this decision as a potential turning point in our engagement." Three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that the series of meeting between U.S. and Taliban administration officials were set to take place on the sidelines of a conference in Qatar's capital on Saturday and Sunday. Some of the meetings were to have included United Nations and World Bank representatives, the sources added. An Afghan foreign ministry spokesman confirmed that a Taliban delegation, including the acting foreign minister, had been expecting to go to Doha. The talks were designed to cover issues including the independence of the Afghan central bank and the printing of Afghani currency bank notes. Also up for discussion were a humanitarian exchange facility to free up cash and hundreds of millions of dollars of funding currently held in a World Bank Trust Fund that is earmarked for Afghanistan's education sector, according to the three sources. They declined to be named because they were not authorised to speak with the media. "The Qatari jet that was meant to collect Muttaqi's delegation in Kabul has not turned up," said a diplomatic source, referring to Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Story continues The Qatari government's communications office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 'TRAGIC' CONSEQUENCES The move shows the headwinds the Taliban administration faces in accessing foreign aid and freeing up the banking sector. Hard currency shortages have fuelled inflation and worsened the economic crisis. The Taliban have also been unable to access billions of dollars in foreign reserves held overseas as governments including the United States refuse to fully recognise them. In addition to the crippled financial system, the sharp drop in development funding that once amounted to billions of dollars and helped the Afghan government to function has exacerbated food shortages and poverty. Roughly 23 million people are experiencing acute hunger and 95% of the population are not eating enough food, according to the United Nations. Washington and its allies have insisted that the Taliban, who banned girls from school and most women from work the last time they ruled, improve their human rights record. The Taliban, who fought an insurgency that toppled the Western-backed government last August, have also been accused of suppressing free speech, violently breaking up protests and exacting deadly revenge on their former foes. The group says it will honour everyone's rights within its interpretation of Islamic law and has vowed to investigate specific allegations of abuse. The Taliban on Wednesday backtracked on their previous commitment to open high schools to girls, saying that they would remain closed until a plan was drawn up for them to reopen. The U-turn shocked many, leaving students in tears and sparking small protests by girls in Kabul. It also drew condemnation from humanitarian agencies and foreign governments. "They are definitely shooting themselves in the foot," said Graeme Smith, a senior consultant at International Crisis Group, of the decision on girls' education. A major donor summit for humanitarian aid is set to take place this month, co-hosted by Britain, in an effort to help raise $4.4 billion in funding the United Nations says it needs to meet urgent needs in the country. Diplomats and aid groups fear that the war in Ukraine, combined with the Taliban's decision on girls' schooling, will make it harder to raise the money. "The decision is understandable," John Sifton of Human Rights Watch said of the U.S. move. "The U.S. and other donors need to communicate to the Taliban that their actions are unacceptable." "At the same time, the cancellation of this important meeting is tragic ... The Afghan economy has collapsed, and millions are facing acute malnutrition. People are dying of starvation every day." (Additional reporting by Andrew Mills in Doha and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Editing by Mike Collett-White) An F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet piloted by the son of a candidate to be the Oklahoma attorney general crashed in rural Louisiana on Wednesday during a training exercise. Gentner Drummond, a former Air Force captain and Republican seeking the top law office in the Sooner State, said in a Facebook post that the plane was flown by his son, Alexander, a captain in the Oklahoma Air National Guard who ejected prior to the crash. "I am thankful today that God was watching over my son," Drummond wrote. "Some of you may recall that Alexander is a fighter pilot, just like I was as a young man. This morning, he had to do something I never did: eject from his F-16 before it crashed." Read Next: Increase to Maximum Life Insurance Payout for Service Members, Veterans Clears Senate The F-16 belonged to the Tulsa Vipers, part of the Oklahoma Air National Guard's 138th Fighter Wing. A statement from the Oklahoma Air National Guard said the pilot was taking part in a routine training mission out of Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, Texas. Around 11:15 a.m. local time, Louisiana State Police in Beauregard Parish received reports that a plane had crashed in a wooded area about 150 miles from the Texas base. Derek Senegal, with Louisiana State Police Troop D, said the pilot was safe and had been retrieved by military personnel from Fort Polk, Louisiana, a nearby Army base. "The pilot was able to eject but was transported back to Fort Polk for medical evaluation," Senegal told Military.com. Senegal added that there was no smoke and no fire when the plane crashed. Lt. Col. Geoffrey J. Legler, a spokesman with the Oklahoma Military Department, said in a statement there were no civilian casualties on the ground. "Air Force and civilian emergency first responders immediately responded to the scene of the crash and have no reported injuries at this time," Legler said in the statement. Drummond said his son is receiving medical care and is expected to make a full recovery. Story continues "When you serve in the military, you put your life on the line day-in and day-out -- whether our country is at war or not," Drummond wrote. "As an American, I thank my son for his service and his commitment to fighting for our freedom." Wednesday's crash is the latest training incident involving a fighter jet on U.S. soil. Last month, a Mirage F1 fighter jet from Luke Air Force Base in Arizona crashed in the desert not far from a retirement community. Earlier this month, a Marine F-18 Hornet crashed and exploded at a former South Carolina governor's family plantation. -- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly. Related: F-18 Crashes and Explodes at Former South Carolina Gov's Family Plantation; Pilots Eject Safely The FBI has announced a $15,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of January 6 rioter Jonathan Daniel Pollock. The 23-year-old central Florida man from Lakeland faces multiple high-level charges and is accused of assaulting multiple police officers with a deadly weapon, according to the FBI. The FBI offices in DC and in Tampa, Florida issued the call for information. Weve been trying to locate Mr Pollock since last summer, FBI Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani said in a statement. The allegations against him arent going away and must be dealt with. The FBI is patient but determined to bring to justice those responsible for the violence at the US Capitol on January 6th. The agency said Mr Pollock, a welder and ironworker, is thought to have friends and family throughout central and north Florida, as well as in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. He could be working in the construction business, the FBI said. The agency listed his birthdate as 21 February 1999. He stands at 510, has brown hair, and weighs around 160 pounds. The FBI Washington Field Office began reviewing the case of an unknown man on 21 January last year. The man would later be identified as Mr Pollock. In a video posted to Twitter by the FBI office in Tampa on 19 October, Mr Pollock can be seen wearing camouflage clothing as he takes part in the battle with police officers at the Capitol. #WANTED: Jonathan Daniel Pollock, 21, of Lakeland, Florida, on federal charges for assault on law enforcement during the U.S. Capitol breach on January 6, 2021. Call 1-800-CALL-FBI with information or submit tips to https://t.co/0eeH1tVIxf. pic.twitter.com/pGbOpcQJxj FBI Tampa (@FBITampa) October 19, 2021 The office said he fled the Lakeland area in late June of last year and has since been a fugitive. Story continues Mr Pollocks four co-defendants were all arrested around the same time in June. One of the co-defendants is his sister, Olivia Pollock, who also faces felony charges, according to the Lakeland Ledger. All the other co-defendants have been released on bond pending trial. One of them, Joshua Doolin, 24, faces misdemeanour charges for entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds. The rest face felony charges. His lawyer Allen Orenberg have argued that Mr Doolin should be tried separately as he could be tainted by the others, who are facing more serious charges. Mr Orenberg argues that a joint trial presents a substantial risk of prejudice for Mr Doolin, The Ledger reported. In his motion to the United States District Court for the District of Columbia requesting the separation of the cases, he said that keeping the evidence separate would be extremely difficult, if not impossible. Mr Orenberg wrote that the other defendants as well as un-indicted co-conspirators, chiefly orchestrated and carried out the bulk of the criminal acts alleged in the indictment. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Moeder pushed back in a 13-page memo, noting that Mr Doolin and his co-defendants are related or friends. Last year, a relative told The Ledger that Mr Doolin is a cousin of the Pollock siblings. The other co-defendants are Joseph Hutchinson III, who previously lived in Lakeland and now resides in Georgia, and Michael Perkins from Plant City, Florida. Mr Moeder wrote that the group of five toppled a police barricade, engaged in a coordinated effort to attack law enforcement officers, and engaged in disruptive and disorderly conduct for several hours. He added that they used several weapons, including flagpoles, a chemical irritant canister, and riot shields. The prosecutor noted that the group didnt enter the congressional building, but that they did reach the Upper West Terrace and the Lower West Terrace in an attempt to do so. Mr Moeder alleged that the group participated in assaultive conduct against police officers for 20 minutes and that Mr Doolin followed Mr Pollock as he grabbed a riot shield from an officer and used it to attack members of law enforcement. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) First lady Jill Biden traveled to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Tennessee on Friday to meet with Ukrainian children with cancer and their families fleeing the war and seeking treatment in the U.S. Biden was greeted when she arrived at the Memphis hospital by president and CEO James Downing; Rick Shadyac, CEO of ALSAC, which raises funds for St. Jude; and actress Marlo Thomas, the daughter of hospital founder and late actor Danny Thomas. Biden's stop in Memphis was the first leg of a trip Friday that also includes travel to Colorado for a Democratic National Committee finance event in Denver, the White House said. Her visit to St. Jude, considered a leading researcher of cancer and other life-threatening diseases that affect children, is part of her and President Joe Biden's so-called Cancer Moonshot effort, which aims to reduce the cancer death rate by at least 50% over the next 25 years. Improving the lives of children with cancer is a main goal of St. Jude, founded in 1962. Using mostly private donations, families with children who are patients at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing and food. Marlo Thomas is St. Jude's national outreach director. Jill Biden met with a cancer survivor and toured a laboratory where doctors research how T-cells can fight pediatric brain tumors. She also visited privately with Ukrainian pediatric cancer patients and their relatives. On Monday, St. Jude received four Ukrainian children, ages 20 months to 8 years old. In addition to receiving cancer treatment, the children also will get therapy to address their psychological, emotional and cultural needs, the hospital said. Biden said she heard about their journey to the U.S. and watched the children play with Play-Doh. They seemed comfortable and they didn't seem sad, Biden said. They were just like normal kids, like normal families. It was just, it's amazing." Story continues Biden also told hospital officials and reporters that she was inspired by the work done by St. Jude and how it turns devastation into hope. After Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, St. Jude teamed up with foundations in Poland to evacuate children with cancer from the war zone, Downing said. The collaborative has helped more than 600 patients by translating medical records and coordinating convoys from the Ukrainian city of Lviv to the Unicorn Marian Wilemski Clinic, a summer resort converted into a triage center in Poland. From there, sick children have been transported to cancer centers in Europe, Canada and the U.S., Downing said. The four St. Jude patients traveled aboard a U.S. government-operated medical transport aircraft from Krakow, along with a St. Jude doctor who had been in Poland with them, the hospital said. A second group of Ukrainian patients could arrive at the hospital next week, Downing said. The U.S. has granted patients and their families accelerated immigration parole status, Downing said. In 2019, St. Jude began working with the government and hospitals in Ukraine to assess the level of care they could provide. Ties were established with four Ukrainian hospitals and other entities in Poland, Moldova and Romania, Downing said. Within hours of the Russian invasion, St. Jude was asking its partners how it could help, Downing said. In those early hours of the war, it was clear that, over time, children were going to have to be evacuated, Downing said. Downing said he knows of at least two children who have died in the process of moving from Ukraine to Poland. It is a journey that is life threatening, in and of itself, Downing said. I think it was Marlo who said these children face two wars the war of fighting cancer and the war in their homeland. Part of the drive to help Ukrainian children with cancer involves translating their medical records. St Jude established a network of 200 translators across the world who work on patient records. A Memphis doctor, Lana Yanishevski, and her husband, Yuri, have been involved in that effort. The Jewish couple fled anti-Semitism in Ukraine and arrived in Memphis in 1991. They received asylum and have become U.S. citizens. Lana is a pediatrician and Yuri works as a engineer for ALSAC. With help from Yuri, who converts photographed and emailed medical charts into a more easily readable format, Lana translates them from Russian or Ukrainian into English. She then sends them to St. Jude, which distributes them to the proper hospitals. During a Zoom interview with The Associated Press, Lana briefly held up a medical chart for a child who has an inoperable brain tumor and is under palliative care. She does not know the child's location, and the chart was not legible. No hope for survival, and then he's dealing with war, Lana said. Imagine those parents. Lana and Yuri said they have felt depressed and helpless as they've watched the war unfold in Kyiv, where they lived and still have friends and relatives. But now, they feel like they are making a tangible difference. That was kind of like a light inside me, against all this darkness, Yuri Yanishevski said. It makes me feel great, makes me feel useful. ___ The story was corrected to show the children are 20 months to 8 years old. The big story: As angry residents have come to berate school boards over issues such as masks and books, boards have attempted to take back their meetings by changing their public comment rules. Some have shortened the time available for people to speak. Others have imposed stricter sign-up deadlines. In Pinellas County, board members discussed such possibilities. They opted for a change that largely aligns its policy with state law on giving people a voice while still conducting an orderly meeting. They also stopped livestreaming the input on items that dont appear on the action agenda, a procedure thats not part of the policy. A handful of the most vocal critics were not happy. Read about it here. Hot topics Book bans: Moms for Liberty has called on the Brevard County school district to remove 19 books from schools, calling them pornographic, WOFL reports. The Flagler County school districts new policy on library book borrowing is gaining attention across Florida, as more districts face challenges, Flagler Live reports. Race relations: The St. Petersburg chapter of the NAACP is seeking action related to reports of racist activity at a local private high school, Bay News 9 reports. Gender lessons: Two Flagler County School Board members expressed dismay over students leaving classes to protest legislation regarding gender lessons at schools, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reports. Two others supported the students right to speak out. Teachers across the nation are raising concerns about the potential impact of the legislation, CBS News reports. Teacher shortages: The Santa Rosa County school district is trying to start early in hiring for next fall, the Pensacola News-Journal reports. Gun violence: The Duval County school district is reminding parents to take care with weapons at home, to avoid accidental shootings, WJXT reports. Pandemic protocols: Martin County schools have returned to operating as they did before the COVID-19 pandemic, WPTV reports. Story continues Other school news The University of South Florida unveiled its new campus career center. Its goal is to help thousands of students get jobs more quickly. Its programs will be woven into curriculum. Celebrity chef Guy Fieri dropped in to visit a Palm Beach County high schools culinary students. He gave a $20,000 donation to the program, the Palm Beach Post reports. The Lee County school district faces allegations of employees spying on the public through social media. One employee has filed a whistleblower complaint offering details, WINK reports. From the police blotter ... A teacher at a Hillsborough County private school was arrested on allegations of inappropriately touching a student and showing them pornography. A Brevard County middle school teacher was arrested on allegations of sending harmful material to minor, WKMG reports. From the court docket ... The former operator of a Broward County charter school was found guilty on charges of theft and fraud involving school federal funds, the U.S. Attorneys Office reports. A St. Johns County private school teacher pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to entice a minor for sexual activity, WJXT reports. Dont miss a story. Heres a link to yesterdays roundup. Before you go ... The idea of toy instruments for heavy metal is just so intriguing. Sign up for the Gradebook newsletter! Every Thursday, get the latest updates on whats happening in Tampa Bay area schools from Times education reporter Jeffrey S. Solochek. Click here to sign up. When someone is elected to office or serves in another leadership position, they are entrusted to act with integrity and use the finances associated with their office appropriately. But thats not always what happens. Two state audits of the town of Spring Lake (in 2016 and 2022) uncovered financial mismanagement of the towns funds, including by a former finance director who had filed for personal bankruptcy and spent nearly $500,000 for personal use. She has not been charged with a crime. Several prominent North Carolina leaders, though, have been charged in the past with financial crimes related either to their office or campaigns, often ending in either prison time or other punishments. Here are some notable North Carolina politicians, both at the state and local levels, who have previously been involved in financial scandals, including embezzlement, bribery and public corruption. Laura Riddick Laura Riddick, who served as Wake County Register of Deeds from 1997 to 2017, pleaded guilty in August 2018 to six counts of embezzling from the office she ran for two decades. The deeds office discovered in 2017 that money was missing from the office. An investigation by Wake Countys insurance company found $2.3 million had vanished from the office between 2013 and 2017, The News & Observer reported. Prosecutors charged four former employees of the deeds office with taking a combined $1.13 million, including $926,615 by Riddick. Riddick reached a plea deal with prosecutors that required her to pay back the money she had taken from the office and serve five to seven years in prison. The judge also granted Riddick work release, The N&O reported. As of May 2020, Riddick was serving her sentence at the North Carolina Correctional Institute for Women in Raleigh. Riddicks husband, former News & Observer reporter, columnist and editor Matthew Eisley, said then month that she had been sick with the coronavirus for more than a month, The N&O reported. Story continues Former Wake County Register of Deeds Laura Riddick turned herself in Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017, on charges of embezzling $900,000 over more than six years. Three other former employees of the office were also indicted in the case involving $2.3 million missing from the office. Meg Scott Phipps The first woman to serve as the states Commissioner of Agriculture and the daughter and granddaughter of two North Carolina governors, Meg Scott Phipps pleaded guilty in 2003 to extortion, mail fraud and other charges. Phipps, a Democrat, was elected agriculture commissioner in 2000, but controversy quickly surrounded her as former campaign aides testified that she pressured state fair concessionaires and ride operators for political contributions, including illegal cash contributions, The N&O reported. She resigned from her position in June 2003, and faced trial later that year. A Wake County jury convicted her on state charges, and she later pleaded guilty to federal charges. Phipps was sentenced to four years in federal prison. She served her sentence at a federal prison camp for women in West Virginia, and was released in 2007. The N&O reported at the time that upon her release, Phipps would work at Hawfields Presbyterian Church in Alamance County. Former NC Agriculture Commissioner Meg Scott Phipps and her father, former Gov. Bob Scott, May 14, 2003, on the Cherokee, N.C. Indian Reservation eating trout and touring farms. Bob Scott was governor from 1969 to 1973. Phipps, the granddaughter of Gov. Kerr Scott, was agriculture commissioner from 2001 to 2003 when she was forced to resign in a State Fair contract scandal. She pleaded guilty in 2003 to five federal counts of fraud, conspiracy and witness tampering and was sentenced to four years in federal prison. Jim Black Jim Black, a former member and speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives from Mecklenburg County, was from 2005 to 2007 involved in a series of scandals, including charges of public corruption and bribery. Black pleaded guilty to bribery for giving $50,000 in cash and checks to former state Rep. Michael Decker of Forsyth County following the 2002 elections. Decker, then a Republican, switched parties to help keep Black, a Democrat, in the speakers office, The N&O reported. According to a July 2007 report from The N&O, Black faced federal public corruption charges for accepting $29,000 in cash payments from chiropractors while pushing legislation that would be favorable to the profession. A federal judge ordered that Black, who was 72 at the time, spend five years and three months in federal prison for the public corruption crime, as well as that he pay a fine of $50,000, The N&O reported. Black also entered into an Alford plea on state corruption charges, for which he was sentenced to eight to ten months in prison and was ordered to pay a $1 million fine, The N&O reported. Black was allowed to serve his state and federal sentences at the same time. Black served his sentence at a federal prison in Georgia and was released in 2010. He was required to spend the remaining six months of his term either at a halfway house or under house arrest, The N&O reported. Former Speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives Jim Black, right, and his attorney Ken Bell listens near the end of his sentencing hearing held in a Wake County courtroom in 2007 Frank Ballance Frank Ballance, a Democrat who represented North Carolina in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2003 to 2004 after previously serving in both the state House and Senate, pleaded guilty in 2004 to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and money laundering. Ballance was indicted on federal charges that arose from allegations that, while he was a state legislator, he channeled $2.3 million in state money to a charitable organization created to help low-income people fight drug and alcohol abuse. Ballance then diverted some of that money from its intended purpose, according to authorities, giving some of it to his children and to share with his mother for community programs, The Associated Press reported. Ballance was sentenced in 2005 to serve four years in prison, with two years supervised release, and to pay a $10,000 fine. Ballance served his sentence at the federal prison in Butner, and was released in 2009. He died in 2019 at the age of 77. Former FBI agent Chuck Stuber, right, handcuffs former U.S. Rep. Frank Ballance after he turned himself in at the the Federal Courthouse on in Raleigh. David Lewis David Lewis, previously one of the most powerful Republicans in the North Carolina General Assembly, was charged in August 2020 with federal financial crimes in what prosecutors said was a scheme to take money from his political donors for personal use, The N&O reported. Lewis was charged with not filing taxes and making false statements to a bank, in relation to his campaign finance scheme, The N&O reported. Prosecutors announced shortly after the charges were made public that Lewis would take a plea deal, The N&O reported. In exchange for a guilty plea, prosecutors agreed not to seek prison time for Lewis, provided that he repay the $365,000 he took from donors for his personal use. Had he faced trial, Lewis could have faced up to 30 years in prison. Instead, he avoided prison time and was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and have two years of supervised release, The N&O reported. Rep. David Lewis of Harnett County presides over the house committee working to redraw political maps that were recently ruled unconstitutional on Thursday, September 12, 2019 at the Legislative Office Building in Raleigh, N.C. Fletcher Hartsell Fletcher Hartsell, a Republican member of the North Carolina House of Representatives from 1991 to 2016, was indicted in 2016 on state and federal charges related to misappropriating campaign funds by spending more than $200,000 on vacations, speeding tickets, haircuts and other personal expenses. A News & Observer investigation of Hartsells campaign spending triggered an extensive review by the state, the results of which were then forwarded to state and federal prosecutors. The state indictment against Hartsell included three counts of certifying a campaign-finance document as correct, while knowing it was not, The N&O reported. The federal indictment in the case included 14 charges against Hartsell, including mail fraud, wire fraud and money laundering, The N&O reported. The indictment alleged that Hartsell engaged in a scheme to solicit and obtain campaign money from 2007 through 2015 that he spent on personal items and services and then concealed his actions by filing knowingly false campaign finance reports. Hartsell in May 2017 was sentenced to eight months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to three federal charges in the case. He later pleaded guilty to three state charges, but received a suspended sentence and probation for those charges. Sen. Fletcher Hartsell, left, reads his indictment with attorney Wade Smith as they wait to appear before a magistrate at the Wake County Detention Center on Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in Raleigh, N.C. Patrick Cannon Patrick Cannon, a Democrat who served as mayor of Charlotte from 2013 to 2014 and had previously served on the Charlotte city council, was convicted in 2014 of accepting more than $50,000 in bribes. Cannon was arrested by the FBI in March 2014 on public corruption charges of theft and bribery, following an FBI sting investigation that dated back to 2010. Cannon pleaded guilty in June 2014 to one count of honest services wire fraud. He acknowledged taking bribes and other gifts in exchange for using his political influence to help those who paid him, The Charlotte Observer reported. The crime carried a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Cannon was sentenced to serve 44 months in federal prison. He served half of the sentence at a minimum-security prison in West Virginia before being released in 2016. Cannon is currently making a bid to return to politics, as he has filed to run for an at-large seat on the Charlotte city council in the upcoming election, The Charlotte Observer reported. Common murre eggs in the Field Museum's bird division egg collection on March 23, 2022. A recent study uses data from eggs collected a century ago to show that some Chicago birds are nesting a month earlier than they used to, which researchers say is most likely a result of climate change. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) Some Chicago birds are nesting nearly a month earlier than they did more than a century ago. And like some other shifts happening around the Great Lakes region as temperatures rise and the timing of the natural world drifts, theres a familiar driver: climate change. Thats according to a new study from local researchers published in the Journal of Animal Ecology and thanks to some eggs more than 100 years old. Advertisement As plants, animals and insects adapt to warmer and wetter conditions in Illinois, birds are also responding to a changing climate, researchers found. About a third of the 72 bird species included in the study have started laying eggs on average 25 days earlier than they did more than 100 years ago. To go back in time in northeast Illinois, researchers turned to measurements of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which correlate with temperature trends, along with a room full of eggs. Advertisement On a recent afternoon, John Bates, curator of birds at the Field Museum and the studys lead author, opened a drawer filled with shells shaded sandy brown to robin egg blue, speckled and splattered and clustered together in padded boxes. The Field Museum's bird division egg collection has more than 500,000 specimens. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) These are a smattering of bird eggs of different species, Bates said, still holding a hint of wonder toward the familiar collection in front of him. Weve got a robin, weve got a cedar waxwing. These are orchard orioles. A few boxes sat on a table in the cabinet-lined room home to tens of thousands of eggs as small as hummingbirds, and as large as those from the extinct elephant bird with handwritten cards offering nesting clues. Blotted eggs from a cedar waxwing, dated August 1897 and collected near Glencoe, came from a nest built in an oak tree, twenty-five feet from the ground. Incubation had begun for a trio of robin eggs collected in 1901, found in a Calumet nest made of grass and mud, and discovered in scrub oak. One egg in a collection of five appeared more flecked than the others an addition from a parasitic brown-headed cowbird that dropped its egg off among an orchard oriole clutch. Some of the eggshells their insides blown out long ago date back to the 1870s, when ornithologists and hobbyists of all ages at times tried to get their hands on a nest. The early egg collectors may not have been professionals, Bates said, but you had to be a really good natural historian to find nests. Cedar waxwing eggs collected in 1897 in the Field Museum's egg collection. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) But egg collecting, then a popular pastime, waned at the turn of the century, as criticism around the practice grew and it was eventually regulated. Although good for birds, the lack of eggs created a data gap. To create continuity, the studys authors pulled together data from other sources, including research undertaken at the Morton Arboretum on cow bird parasitism the birds drop their eggs off in other birds nests and leave the young for the other parents to raise and statistical modeling. Advertisement Additional data also came from Chris Whelan, now an evolutionary ecologist focused on birds at the University of Illinois at Chicago, whose studies have led him in search of nests a needle-in-the-haystack problem. Some people never get better at it, Whelan said. Other people seem to be born naturals. When trying to spot a nest, one should be on the lookout for clumps in vegetation, Whelan said. There are also behavioral cues: the gathering of leaves and twigs, food carried en route to chicks, even a certain way of flying. You read as much information as you can about the habits of nesting birds, Whelan said. And then you go out and you put that into practice. To get a literal birds-eye view, Whelan has used poles able to extend up into trees with attached mirrors like what youd see on the side of a bicycle, and employed binoculars to see the reflection. Some researchers were less surprised that nesting had shifted than by how early the shift was for some spec Advertisement ies. Another unexpected finding was that some migratory birds are also nesting earlier. Our overall general patterns didnt fit the preconceived idea that we had about migration, Bates said. Maybe thats just illustrating there are other factors that are complicating things with each one of these species in ways we need to know more about. Whelan said the birds might arrive with a buffer window, and settle down faster if weather conditions are favorable and food is abundant. That some birds seem to be navigating the change is a good thing, Whelan said. But there are still concerns about bird activity not syncing up with food availability, whether during migration, at winter grounds or during breeding, and the effect that could have on survival and reproduction. The fact that it isnt a problem now doesnt mean that it wont be a problem in the future, Whelan said. The big worry there is if youre not producing young, youre not going to maintain population size. There are nearly 3 billion fewer birds in the U.S. and Canada than there were in 1970, a major 2019 study from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and conservation organizations found. Advertisement Scientists are continuing to study the multiple factors likely responsible for the massive disappearance, but an additional challenge such as limited food combined with something as harmful and pervasive as habitat loss may make bird survival all the more difficult. Not all species are declining, and some are declining at very different rates, Bates said, similar to the differences in nesting found in the study. Peregrine falcon eggs in the Field Museum's collection. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) American robins, which are increasing overall, were actually found to be nesting later on average, the study found. Bates thinks and hopes the use of eggs in research is only beginning. Theyve already proven essential in understanding the thinning effects from the pesticide DDT and may prove valuable as scientists seek to understand the long-term effects of climate change, pollution or environmental cleanups. Things are continuing to change, and there may be tipping points, Bates said. All of this is about monitoring in the long term. Bates said hes spent much of his career studying places such as the Amazon, where large swaths of birds have never even had their eggs described. With so much still unknown about the worlds birds, similar studies showing whats happening with nesting in other regions could begin to fill in the blanks. Advertisement John Bates, curator of birds at the Field Museum, is the lead author of a study that uses data from eggs collected a century ago to show that some Chicago birds are nesting a month earlier than they used to, which researchers say is most likely a result of climate change. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) Bates pulled out another shelf holding the eggs of common murres, black and white seabirds whose females lay uniquely colored and patterned eggs, and so can spot their young among large colonies. Its an incredibly valuable part of the biology of birds, Bates said, eyeing the eggs, marvels in themselves, and just another about which scientists still have much to learn. mgreene@chicagotribune.com US Embassy building stays empty as the diplomatic staff was ordered to leave Ukraine Kiev, Ukraine on February 23, 2022. Photo by Dominika Zarzycka/NurPhoto via Getty Images A conspiracy theory that the US and Ukraine were making bioweapons has been spreading for weeks. The theory was boosted by Russian and Chinese officials, and prominent right-wing figures in the US. The conspiracy theory has circulated heavily in QAnon communities online. A conspiracy theory that the United States and Ukraine were attempting to create biowarfare weapons spent weeks floating around far-right media outlets, pro-Russian Telegram channels and QAnon communities in the early days of Russia's invasion. But quickly these unfounded claims found their way to primetime cable news and received millions of views on popular YouTube shows. Fox News host Tucker Carlson, comedian turned YouTube host Russell Brand and numerous other pundits have added fuel to a conspiracy theory that previously only proliferated in Russian state media and far-right message boards such as 4chan. The claims have gotten loud enough that U.S. and European officials have in recent weeks repeatedly pushed back against what they have described as a campaign of disinformation. While speaking to the Senate Intelligence Committee on March 10, the Director of National Intelligence in the US, Avril Haines, called the conspiracy theory a "classic move by the Russians" that's consistent with longtime "efforts to accuse the United States of sponsoring bioweapons." But the conspiracy theory persists. Kremlin officials have doubled down on the claims, while major right-wing figures and users in far-right chats online continue to discuss it and add new elements to the specious narrative. The episode shows how fringe conspiracies enter the mainstream, experts say, and how they can linger despite no evidence supporting them. Beatriz Buarque, a conspiracy theory researcher and doctoral fellow at the Centre for the Analysis of the Radical Right, told Insider that the theory has had such wide reach because it offers a narrative for the invasion that appeals to people with a distrust of American institutions. Conspiracy theories "satisfy human desire for explanations, often reducing complex events to a battle between 'good' and 'evil,'" Buarque said. "Especially during moments of great uncertainty, they tend to thrive because they provide a sense of orientation." Story continues The biolab conspiracy gets a boost from Russian officials and media influencers The conspiracy theory began to spread nearly immediately after Russia invaded Ukraine. The hashtag #USBioLabs trended on Twitter on February 24 after the now-suspended user WarClandestine wrote a thread claiming without evidence that Russia was attacking Ukraine to destroy biological laboratories in the country, according to the fact-checking website Snopes. Politifact also covered the theories, which it has deemed false and based on a faulty understanding of programs aimed at reducing the threat of outbreaks. Although the United States has assisted Ukraine via the U.S. Department of Defense's Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP), which works to counteract disease outbreaks and detect pathogens, there is no evidence of a military or weapon-oriented biological program in the country. The BTRP has included upgrading multiple laboratories in Ukraine and building two new ones, according to the US Embassy in Ukraine's website. But Russia's false framing of the invasion as an attack on western elites using Ukraine to produce bioweapons has been a natural fit for far-right conspiracists to embrace, Buarque said. "To many far-righters, western governments and mainstream media are deceiving," Buarque said. "Vladimir Putin explicitly expressed the same views while announcing the military operation." The theory received even more widespread attention in early March after Russian officials parroted and expanded the claim. Igor Konashenkov, a Russia Ministry of Defense spokesperson, claimed without evidence on March 6 that Russian forces had discovered "a US-financed military biological program," according to Russian state-owned news agency TASS. Russia's foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova repeated the claim on Wednesday and alleged that Ukraine was developing biowarfare capabilities. Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian also echoed Russia's conspiracy earlier this month and made claims about U.S. biolabs operating in Ukraine while saying that the U.S. should disclose its "biological military activities." On China's microblogging platform Weibo, hashtags relating to the conspiracy theory have been viewed at least 180 million times, according to The Washington Post. Russian and Chinese officials and media have offered no verified evidence for their claims, which Ukraine and United States officials have denied and fact-checking organizations have debunked. Instead, experts and U.S. officials say that this is part of a longstanding Russian disinformation campaign aimed at justifying its invasion of Ukraine. European Union foreign spokesman Peter Stano said on March 9 the Kremlin's credibility is "very doubtful and low" and that Russia has "a track record of promoting manipulative narratives about biological weapons and alleged 'secret labs.' Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki called Russia's claims "false" and "preposterous" on Twitter. The White House has claimed that the theory is being used to justify the Kremlin's invasion, while suggesting that Russia could itself use chemical weapons which the Geneva Protocol banned from use in warfare after World War I and then blame Ukraine. Conservative media outlets and other pundits have framed the White House denials as part of a cover up, selling the conspiracy as illicit knowledge that authorities don't want the public to know about. Fox News host Tucker Carlson has repeated the conspiracy theory multiple times on air and claimed the US is lying about not manufacturing biological weapons in Ukraine. On Thursday night's show, he echoed a Russian propaganda report that claimed Hunter Biden, a frequent target for conspiracy theories, was involved in the creation of biolabs in Ukraine. Many of the top conservative news podcasts also discussed and supported the conspiracy theory, according to a Brookings Institute report, with several dedicating multiple episodes to the claims. The comedian Russell Brand made similar statements on YouTube, encouraging viewers not to trust "propagandist narratives" circulated by the "mainstream media" about laboratories in Ukraine. The episode received over 1.7 million views since airing in early March. Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has a history of spreading extreme conspiracy theories, echoed Russia's claims without evidence as well and on March 17 introduced a bill to Congress to "stop taxpayer funding of bioweapons." Russian propaganda has a history of spreading biological warfare claims Caroline Orr Bueno, a behavioral scientist and disinformation researcher, told Insider that the Kremlin's biolab narrative is the latest in a long history of Russian disinformation operations concerning biowarfare. Russia's biological conspiracy theories date back to at least the 1980s, Bueno said, when the Soviet Union's KGB began a campaign to propagate the false claim that the United States created the HIV/AIDS virus and claimed it was the result of military scientist experiments. Since then, Russian claims of U.S. bioweapons have become frequent Kremlin talking points. "There have been a number of subsequent allegations involving other viruses and laboratories, including in 2016, when Russia falsely accused the US of constructing secret biolabs to manufacture biological weapons in Georgia and Kazakhstan," Bueno said. Russian media outlets have spread nearly identical false claims before about the United States creating biological weapons in Ukraine, according to the EUvsDisinfo fact-checking database. The biolab conspiracy has also circulated heavily in QAnon communities, Bueno said, featuring in far-right Telegram chats and among QAnon groups. The theory has also spread among members involved in the so-called "Freedom Convoy" trucker protest in the United States. Multiple right-wing publications with a history of spreading baseless conspiracy theories, including Alex Jones' InfoWars, have additionally published stories on the topic. QAnon adherents have picked up the Russian bioweapon narrative and given it "an American twist," Bueno said. One version of the conspiracy theory in QAnon circles, according to Bueno, claims that Putin's invasion is also targeting child traffickers and deep state enemies, possibly with Donald Trump's help. Read the original article on Insider Gareth Bale scored twice in Wales victory over Austria (Nick Potts/PA) (PA Wire) Gareth Bale has hit out at malicious stories about him in the media and called on more respect for the mental health and wellbeing of professional athletes. Bale has been the subject of attacks in the Spanish media over his lack of appearances for Real Madrid this season, with sports newspaper Marca labelling the winger a parasite. He was targeted by sections of the Spanish press again on Friday morning after his match-winning performance for Wales in a World Cup play-off semi-final against Austria on Thursday night, with the accusation that he prioritises his country over his club after missing Madrids match with Barcelona on the weekend. He has managed to play five games for Wales this season but only six for Madrid. Bale said after the game that he did not want to comment on the media coverage, but added: Its disgusting and they should all be ashamed of themselves. And he elaborated in a statement on social media, blaming the Daily Mail website for shining a light on the negative press in Spain. The Daily Mail shining a light on this piece of slanderous, derogatory and speculative journalism by Marca, Bale wrote. At a time where people are taking their own lives because of the callousness and relentnesses of the media, I want to know, who is holding these journalists and the news outlets that allow them to write articles like this, accountable? Fortunately I have developed a thick skin during my time in the public spotlight, but that doesnt mean articles like these dont cause damage and upset personally and professionally at the receiving end of these malicious stories. I have witnessed the toll the media can take on peoples mental and physical health. The media expect superhuman performances from professional athletes and will be the first to celebrate with them when they deliver, yet instead of commiserating with them whey show an ounce of human error, they are torn to shreds instead, encouraging anger and disappointment in their fans. Story continues The everyday pressures on athletes is immense and its clear as day how negative media attention could easily send an already stressed athlete, or anybody in the public eye, over the edge. I hope that by the time our children are of an age where they are able to ingest news, journalism ethics and standards will have been enforced more stringently. So I want to use my platform to encourage change in the way we publicly talk about, and criticise people, simply for the most part, not meeting the often unrealistic expectations that are projected onto them. We all know who the real Parasite is! More to follow... A group of voters in Georgia is seeking to block U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's eligibility to seek reelection, arguing that she helped facilitate the Capitol riot. A challenge, filed Thursday with the office of Georgia's secretary of state office, claims Greene is not eligible under the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution because, allegedly, before, on, and after January 6, 2021, Greene voluntarily aided and engaged in an insurrection to obstruct the peaceful transfer of presidential power, disqualifying her from serving as a Member of Congress. The 14th amendment states that no member of Congress who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress . . . to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same. Greene in a statement to the Associated Press said she has never encouraged political violence and never will. She also said she is being targeted by the group because she is effective and will not bow to the D.C. machine. Politics: North Carolina voters dispute Rep. Madison Cawthorn candidacy, citing Jan. 6 involvement Washington: Ginni Thomas, wife of Clarence Thomas, acknowledges she attended Trump rally that preceded Capitol riot The group of registered voters in Greenes Georgia congressional district bringing the challenge are represented by Free Speech for People, an election and campaign finance reform organization. The complaint cites tweets and statements the Georgia Republican made before, during and following the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection when a group of pro-Trump rioters breached the Capitol building in hopes of preventing President Joe Bidens victory over former President Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election. The filing alleges Greene helped plan the riot or the demonstrations held before the riot. While private citizens discussing the overthrow of the government over a few beers does not amount to engaging in insurrection, when a Member of Congress publicly encourages her supporters to engage in insurrection, as the evidence shows Greene did, she has provided useful support to the insurrection and therefore engaged in insurrection, the complaint says. Story continues Free Speech for People has filed another challenge targeting U.S. Rep. Madison Cawthorn, R-N.C., but the move has been blocked by a federal judge. Indianas state election commission last month also rejected an effort to remove U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., from the ballot over allegations Banks supported the Capitol riot. Contributing: Associated Press What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Marjorie Taylor Greene candidacy questions over Jan. 6 Capitol riots A Florida man who worked closely with Rudy Giuliani on former President Donald Trump's drive to get Ukraine to open an investigation that would be politically damaging to President Joe Biden pleaded guilty Friday to wire fraud in connection with a business scheme. Lev Parnas, 50, admitted in a federal court hearing that he deceived investors in the ironically named business venture, "Fraud Guarantee," which was ostensibly aimed at helping vet business opportunities for potential fraud. "Between 2012 and 2019, I agreed with another person to give false information to individuals regarding the financials to a start-up project called, 'Fraud Guarantee,'" Parnas told U.S. District Court Judge Paul Oetken. "I'm extremely sorry for my actions, your honor." Giuliani, who was an attorney for and close adviser to Trump, took a $500,000 consulting fee to work on the project. He has not been charged and has said he was not aware of any impropriety related to the firm. Parnas entered his guilty plea without any plea agreement with the government, Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Roos said during the Friday hearing, held via videoconference. Oetken accepted the plea and set sentencing for Parnas for June 29. Parnas' attorney, Joseph Bondy, said after the hearing that his client is seeking to move on with his life. "He accepts responsibility for his conduct, and remains proud of his efforts to bring issues of national significance into the halls of Congress and the living rooms of all Americans. He looks forward to moving ahead," Bondy wrote on Twitter. Last October, a jury in Manhattan convicted Parnas of six campaign-finance related felonies, including a scheme to funnel money from a Russian oligarch, Andrey Muraviev, into U.S. political campaigns in a bid to get licenses for legal cannabis businesses. Prior to the trial, Oetken agreed with Parnas' attorneys that the "Fraud Guarantee" charge should be handled separately. Story continues One co-defendant in the case, Andrey Kukushkin, was found guilty on three felony counts at the same trial. Two other co-defendants, Igor Fruman and David Correia, had previously pleaded guilty in the case. The initial indictment alleged that Parnas and Fruman were part of a scheme to persuade U.S. officials to oust U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch from her post at the urging of an unnamed Ukrainian government official, and hid the source of political donations they made in order to further that goal. Prosecutors quietly dropped that claim from a later version of the indictment and it was not mentioned at the trial last year. During the trial, prosecutors identified the Russian oligarch behind much of the political donations as Muraviev. Last week, amid dramatically increased tensions between the U.S. and Russia over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, prosecutors announced that Muraviev was indicted more than a year ago in connection with the illegal donations. The prosecutions are tied to an FBI investigation of Giuliani's activities related to Ukraine, including potential violations of laws regulating lobbying of U.S. officials on behalf of foreign nationals. That probe led to a raid of Giuliani's home and office last April, where electronic devices were seized. Giuliani has denied violating any laws and has maintained that his client in his work related to Ukraine was Trump, not any foreigner. Oetken has overseen aspects of that investigation, but aside from the mention of Ukraine in the initial indictment of Parnas and his co-defendants, no other charges related to the Ukraine-focused efforts have been filed. Allegations that Trump abused his office by seeking a Ukrainian probe of Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden led to Trump's impeachment by the House in December 2019. The first article, abuse of power, was rejected 48 to 52, and the second, obstruction of Congress, was defeated 47 to 53. By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -General Motors Co said Friday it will idle for two weeks in April an assembly plant in Indiana that builds pickup trucks, over ongoing semiconductor chip shortages. The Detroit automaker said it will halt production at its Fort Wayne assembly plant, which builds the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, for two weeks starting April 4. "There is still uncertainty and unpredictability in the semiconductor supply base, and we are actively working with our suppliers to mitigate potential issues moving forward," GM said Friday. The automaker said this is its first semiconductor-related full-size truck production downtime since August. GM noted that overall it has "seen better consistency in semiconductor supply through the first quarter compared to last year as a whole. This has translated into improvement in our production and deliveries during the first three months of the year." GM Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra met with some lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week, including Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana. GM is backing a bill in Congress to provide $52 billion in government subsidies to boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing. GM said that legislation could help "alleviate the ongoing shortage that continues to impact U.S. automotive manufacturing." (Reporting by David Shepardson; editing by Jonathan Oatis) On March 20, Ambassador Qin Gang took an interview with Margaret Brennan of CBS Face the Nation and elaborated Chinas position on Ukraine. The Transcript is as follows: Margaret Brennan: Following their call on Friday, the White House said that President Biden had made it clear to President Xi what the consequences would be if China provides material support to Russia. Joining us now is China's Ambassador to the United States Qin Gang. Mr. Ambassador, good to see you. Good morning to you. Ambassador Qin: Good morning. Margaret Brennan: So President Biden asked Beijing not to provide any kind of support to Russia. Is it your intent to go ahead and give a lifeline to Vladimir Putin? Ambassador Qin: On Friday, President Xi Jinping and President Biden had a video call. It was candid, deep and constructive. President Xi Jinping gave China's position very clearly, that is China stands for peace, opposes war. China is a peace-loving country. We hate to see the situation in Ukraine come to today's, like this, and we call for immediate ceasefire. We are promoting peace talks and we are sending humanitarian assistance to-- Margaret Brennan: Will you send money and weapons to Russia, though? Ambassador Qin: Well, there's disinformation about China providing military assistance to Russia. We reject that. Margaret Brennan: You won't do so, Beijing will not? Ambassador Qin: What China is doing is sending foods, medicine, sleeping bags and baby formula, not weapons and ammunition to any party. We are against wars, as I said, we will do everything to de-escalate the crisis. Margaret Brennan: Russias foreign minister said yesterday that Moscow and Beijing will only get closer because of what's happening. Is he right? Ambassador Qin: China and Russia have trusted relations. It was built over many years. It was built on many issues. We have a long shared border, as long as over 4,000 kilometers. We have a lot of common interests. The trusted relations with Russia give us a unique position in the international efforts for peace talks. Margaret Brennan: Thats exactly what the White House is saying, that you are in such a position of power here to pick up the phone and call Vladimir Putin. Has Xi Jinping, your President, told Vladimir Putin to stop the invasion? Do you condemn it? Ambassador Qin: Actually, on the second day of Russias military operation, President Xi Jinping did talk to President Putin... Margaret Brennan: Was that their last phone call? Ambassador Qin: ...asking President Putin to think about resuming peace talks with Ukraine. President Putin listened to it, and we have seen four rounds of peace talks have happened. Let me continue. China's trusted relations with Russia is not a liability. Its an asset in the international efforts to solve the crisis in a peaceful way. China is part of the solution. Its not part of the problem. Margaret Brennan: So are you saying Beijing will not provide financial support to Moscow to prolong this war? Ambassador Qin: China has normal trade, economic, financial, energy cooperation with Russia, as I said just now. Margaret Brennan: So you're not changing your relationship. Ambassador Qin: These are normal business between two sovereign countries based on international laws, including WTO rules. Margaret Brennan: Lets talk about those international laws, because four days ago, the International Court of Justice ordered Russia to stop its military actions. China abstained from that, the votes 13 to 2. The only country that stood next to Russia was China. That sounds like you are condoning and not condemning. Ambassador Qin: China makes its observation and conclusion independently based on the merits of the matter itself. Margaret Brennan: United Nations Secretary-General said that Russia invaded Ukraine. Ambassador Qin: On one hand, China upholds the UN Charter purposes and principles, including respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, including Ukraine. On the other hand, we do see there's a complexity in the history of the Ukraine issue. Margaret Brennan: Would you be concerned if Russia amassed more than 150,000 troops at China's border? Ambassador Qin: Well, That's why we have good-friendly, good-neighborly relations with Russia. Margaret Brennan: But you would recognize its not good-friendly, neighborly relations with 150,000 troops on the border of the neighboring country and then to send those troops into that country. In those circumstances, why can't you condemn this as an invasion? Ambassador Qin: Let's not be naive. Margaret Brennan: It sounds naive to say that's not an invasion. Ambassador Qin: Condemnation doesn't solve the problem. I would be surprised if Russia will back down by condemnation. What is urgently needed is Margaret Brennan: Will they back down if your President asks Vladimir Putin to back down? Will your President ask Vladimir Putin to back down? Ambassador Qin: We have done so. And we will continue to promote peace talks and urge immediate ceasefire. Condemnation only doesn't help. We need wisdom. We need courage. And we need good diplomacy. Margaret Brennan: Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he would like to meet with Vladimir Putin. Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in a bunker. Vladimir Putin is at a political pro-war rally right now. You can't have diplomacy when it is only one country willing to actually negotiate. Ambassador Qin: China has good relations with Russia, has good relations with Ukraine. And China keeps close communications with the United States and with Europe. These enable China to reach to all parties concerned in the crisis. So China's unique role can help with the peaceful settlement of the crisis. Margaret Brennan: Tell me then- because I keep hearing you say that. I want to understand how China is helping, if you are not condemning, if you are not cutting off Vladimir Putin from continuing this war, this war that is roiling the entire global economy, sending food prices and energy prices spiking. China wants stability. But why not cut off Vladimir Putin? Ambassador Qin: We have already made it very clear that national sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, including Ukraine, should be respected and protected. But as I said, condemnation only cannot work. What we need is good diplomacy based on vision, wisdom, and courage. And looking ahead the enduring approach to the security issue in Europe... Margaret Brennan: I want to talk to you about one quick thing before we run out of time. You talked about how important the U.N. is and what respect you have for it. So a U.N. human rights panel said there are credible reports that a million Uighurs are in a massive internment camp shrouded in secrecy, and the High Commissioner for Refugees and Human Rights will go to China soon. Will you give them unlimited access? Ambassador Qin: I totally reject that. Margaret Brennan: Yes, you will give access or no you won't give access? Ambassador Qin: There's no so-called human rights violation. Margaret Brennan: So you will give access? Ambassador Qin: We are in talks with the Human Rights Special Commissioner. I understand there's a agreement. Margaret Brennan: We got to go. All right. Thank you very much, Ambassador. Ambassador Qin: Thank you for having me. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) both said Friday that Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) should resign from Congress in light of his being convicted on three felony charges connected to his statements to the FBI about illegal campaign contributions. "He had his day in court. I think if he wants to appeal, he can go do that as a private citizen," McCarthy said in a press conference Friday from House Republicans' annual policy retreat in Florida. McCarthy said he texted Fortenberry on Thursday night and plans to talk to him today. "I think when someone's convicted, it's time to resign," McCarthy said. A federal jury on Thursday found Fortenberry guilty on one count of falsifying and concealing material facts and two counts of making false statements to the FBI as agents investigated a $30,000 contribution to his campaign from Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury. Each count carries up to five years in prison. "Congressman Fortenberry's conviction represents a breach of the public trust and confidence in his ability to serve. No one is above the law," Pelosi said in a statement on Friday. "Congressman Fortenberry must resign from the House." Fortenberry plans to appeal, he told the Nebraska Examiner. Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) testified on Fortenberry's behalf during the trial, praising his character. Former Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) also testified on Fortenberry's behalf. Fortenberry stepped down from his committee posts in October after he was indicted. It is typical for members of Congress to resign after being convicted of a felony. Most recently, former Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) resigned from Congress in 2020 after pleading guilty to misusing campaign funds. Former President Trump later pardoned Hunter. If he chooses not to resign, Fortenberry could face disciplinary action up to and including being formally expelled from Congress. -Updated at 12:49 p.m. By Inti Landauro and Susana Vera MADRID (Reuters) -Truck drivers on Friday said they will continue a 12-day strike "indefinitely" after a meeting with Spain's transport minister ended in them rejecting a 1 billion euro ($1.10 billion) support package aimed at defusing the walkout over fuel prices that has caused sporadic goods shortages. Minister Raquel Sanchez announced the measures, which include a rebate of 0.20 euros per litre of fuel and a 1,200 euro bonus, after all-night talks with transport associations. But within hours, the Platform for the Defence of Transport, the unofficial truckers' group that launched the strike on March 14, and which was excluded from talks with government, rejected the proposal and began blocking Madrid's central La Castellana avenue. "Unfortunately we will continue with the strike," Manuel Hernandez, who was leading the protest, told reporters after meeting with Sanchez on Friday evening. He said the strike would continue "indefinitely" if government aid was not immediately implemented. "We don't have money to work because we don't cover our costs," he said. TVE reported that, according to Hernandez, the transport minister told him the aid truckers are demanding will be provided through a "draft law" in the coming months and that until then she cannot approve transitory measures to guarantee payment above costs. Minister Sanchez had agreed to meet the strike leaders, who she had initially dismissed as unrepresentative of truckers overall and linked to the far-right. "I have never had any problem meeting with them, but what we must celebrate today is this agreement...and that is what I am going to try to explain to them this afternoon," she told state broadcaster TVE. Sanchez said all the truckers' demands were included in the deal, so there was no reason to maintain the strike. Earlier on Friday, many of the protesters wore high-visibility jackets reminiscent of France's gilets jaunes protests. Demonstrators also blocked Barcelona's coastal ring road and burned tires at a border crossing with Portugal. Story continues The rebate on fuel prices, a quarter of which will be paid by oil companies, will also apply to other transport companies, Sanchez said. Bus, light truck, ambulance and taxi drivers will also receive - albeit smaller - bonuses. As part of the package, the government will approve a new yet unspecified line of state-backed credit lines with a 12 month-freeze on loan repayments, or so-called grace periods where companies are just required to pay interest and not the principal on a loan. To help companies and households cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Spanish government approved up to 140 billion euros ($154.1 billion) in ICO credit lines in 2020. On those existing lines, it will extend on a general basis maturities by between eight to 10 years and automatically extend grace periods by six months, the Transport Ministry said on Friday. ($1 = 0.9083 euros) (Additional reporting by Marco Trujillo, Nathan Allen, Belen Carreno, Jesus Aguado, Emma Pinedo, Christina Thykjaer and Jessica Jones; Editing by Angus MacSwan, Raissa Kasolowsky and Aurora Ellis) While President Biden and congressional Democrats try to impose tax hikes, a dozen state legislatures are in a race to phase down their state income tax to zero. Kentucky has now joined the list of states looking to become income-tax free: State Representative Jason Petrie (R) introduced House Bill 8 which reduces income tax rates as revenue increases from economic growth. Why the nationwide movement to end state income taxes? For starters, taxpayers in all 50 states have seen the success of the eight states that have no state income tax: Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming and Alaska. And New Hampshire, which does not tax wage income, will become the ninth no income tax state as soon as it completes a five-year phase-out of its tax on interest and dividends income. Over the last decade, millions of people and jobs have moved out of high-tax states and into low-tax and no-income-tax states. For the second year in a row, the U-Haul Growth Index finds Texas, Tennessee, and Florida three no income tax states had the greatest net gain of one-way U-Haul trucks in 2021. With a strong job market and low cost of living, its a no brainer. Texas doesnt have an income tax, so families get more for their money, explained U-Haul Company of South Austin president Kristina Ramos. The tax competition race is underway. Last year, 14 states enacted income tax cuts. This list includes Kentuckys neighbors Ohio, which reduced its top rate, the part of the income tax that is used to make decisions about investment, from 4.797% to 3.99%, and Missouri, which is phasing its top rate from 5.4% down to 4.8%. North Carolina is moving to a flat income tax rate of 3.99% over the next five years. That momentum has carried into this year. Nearly a dozen states, including Kentuckys neighbors West Virginia and Indiana, either already have or are currently working to reduce their income taxes. In Mississippi, for example, House Speaker Philip Gunns income tax phase out was approved by the state house by a vote of 107-4. Eliminating the state income tax is also a top priority for Gov. Tate Reeves. Story continues In Iowa, under the leadership of Gov. Kim Reynolds, Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver, and House Speaker Pat Grassley, Republicans delivered a plan that will move Iowa to a flat rate of 3.9%. Whitver and Senate Ways & Means Chairman Dan Dawson view moving to a low, flat income tax rate as a big step towards their goal of phasing out the state income tax altogether. Kentucky has a dismal rank of 38th in U-Hauls report. To become competitive, now is the time for lawmakers to begin reducing and phasing out the state income tax. Its top rate of 5% is currently higher than four of its neighbors Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee and will soon be higher than Missouris after its 2021 tax cut is fully implemented. Fortunately, Republican leaders refuse to sit back and allow Kentucky to continue to fall behind. They are committed to using the 2022 legislative session to deliver pro-growth income tax relief. Last week the House of Representatives approved Rep. Petries House Bill 8, which would reduce the state income tax from 5% to 4% in 2023 and then use revenue triggers to responsibly phase out the state income tax completely. Reducing and eliminating the income tax is also a priority for Senate President Robert Stivers. Allowing the hardworking people of Kentucky to keep more of their earnings will attract new jobs and opportunities to the Bluegrass State and create a brighter future for all. Grover Norquist is president of Americans for Tax Reform. Mar. 25SALISBURY A trio of new Old Colony Road families got a chance to celebrate their homeowner status when Essex County Habitat for Humanity hosted a dedication ceremony for them Wednesday afternoon. Essex County Habitat for Humanity has built three duplexes and a single-family home on Old Colony Road land donated by the Institution for Savings. The nonprofit organization has also recently been cleared by the town to begin construction on another duplex next to the homes on Old Colony Road. Three families have been chosen so far to occupy the completed homes and an outdoor ceremony was held on Old Colony Road to celebrate the achievement Wednesday afternoon. Willy Gerard is a single father who moved into his new home in December along with his 7-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter. The Haitian native had previously moved his family to Salisbury where he was renting after their home in Roslindale became overcrowded. Gerard said his new home on Old Colony Road has given his family a welcome sense of stability. "It's been great," Gerard said. "We had originally moved to Salisbury for better community and schools for the kids. Then I heard about Habitat for Humanity and applied." Gerard put in over 130 sweat equity hours working on the Salisbury construction site where he now lives, and said being a homeowner is the "greatest feeling in the world." "I am 48 years old and a single dad with two children. Not in my wildest dreams would I ever think that I would be here," Gerard said. "I'm still pinching myself." Single mother Jessica Rivera works 40 to 70 hours a week as the sole provider for her four kids. Rivera said she and her family occasionally found themselves homeless over the years, but their new home in Salisbury is a big step up from their three-bedroom apartment in Haverhill. "I'm living in the pot of gold at the end of the journey," Rivera said. Story continues People who find themselves homeless can often feel they are in an inescapable position, according to Rivera, who went on to say that she could always find someone who had it worse than her. "You look outside the windows of your vehicle and you see other families getting in line after walking a long distance to eat. I was lucky, I had a car and I could drive to my two jobs," she said. Finding adequate housing was a difficult journey for Rivera, but she said, "You can still get there." "There are a lot of people who will be negative and tell you that it is never going to happen. But it will," she said. "Hard work pays off and being good pays off, too." The third family did not wish to be identified but is comprised of two adults and a child. Members of the Board of Selectmen, Institution for Savings Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications Mary Anne Clancy and state Rep. Jim Kelcourse, R-Amesbury, were also in attendance for the ceremony Selectman Ronalee Ray-Parrott, a member of the town's affordable housing trust, said she had the pleasure of working a few build days on the new homes herself. "Just to know that everything is theirs is a moment for each of these families to be able to say, 'We did it, we have it, we own our houses,'" Ray-Parrott said. Essex County Habitat for Humanity board President Dick Sumberg made sure to thank recently deceased Newburyport architect Jonathan Woodman, who drew up the original designs for the new homes. Sumberg said he hoped Woodman was looking down at the ceremony and smiling from "wherever architects go." Staff writer Jim Sullivan covers Amesbury and Salisbury for The Daily News. He can be reached via email at jsullivan@newburyportnews.com or by phone at 978-961-3145. Follow him on Twitter @ndnsully. Staff writer Jim Sullivan covers Amesbury and Salisbury for The Daily News. He can be reached via email at jsullivan@newburyportnews.com or by phone at 978-961-3145. Follow him on Twitter @ndnsully. By Praveen Paramasivam (Reuters) - Workers at Hershey Co's second largest U.S. manufacturing plant voted against unionizing, even as unionization efforts have gained momentum among low-paid workers at large U.S. corporations. The Hershey plant, located at the foot of the Blue Ridge mountains in Stuarts Draft, Virginia, has around 1,400 employees and primarily makes products with peanuts, including Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and other candy bars like Almond Joy. Hershey in the lead up to the vote, whose counting and preliminary result were live-streamed by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Thursday, created a website to state it did not want a union at the 40-year-old plant. The website highlighted Hershey's perceived risks associated with unionization, including compromising its ability to recruit workers. It also pointed to the plants being open when a few rivals had furloughed employees during the pandemic. Two Hershey workers interviewed by Reuters, one of whom was recently fired after 14 years at the Virginia plant, said it was difficult to get time off work and they sometimes had to work seven days straight. One of the workers, who requested anonymity due to potential retaliation, said forming a union was not about money and benefits but being treated with respect and dignity. Hershey, whose two out of seven U.S. plants are unionized, also said most people who left the plant said they did so due to a lack of time-off rather than pay. It added its attendance policy "needed some work" and a team was looking at simplifying rules related to time-off and absences. Hershey and the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers' International Union (BCTGM) did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the result. A few Starbucks coffee shops, however, have unionized in the past few weeks, while workers at King Soopers and Kellogg's cereal plant have gone on strikes in recent months to secure better contracts. (Reporting by Praveen Paramasivam in Bengaluru; Editing by Vinay Dwivedi and Shailesh Kuber) Photo credit: ARIS MESSINIS / AFP There are three million residents of Ukraine and counting, who on February 23, 2022, were professors, hairdressers, housewives, students, bus drivers, retirees, and salesclerkswho are now refugees. Some Ukrainians have stayed to fight or provide other essential services. Whether they left or remained, the lives and livelihoods of all Ukrainian residents have changed. With disruption and danger on such a major scale, there is an increased threat of human trafficking. United Nations research conducted in 2017 and 2018 around conflicts in Syria and Libya demonstrated serious increases in trafficking and experts are seeing comparable circumstances in Ukraine, leading them to predict a similar outcome. Oprah Daily spoke with an expert on human trafficking, Claire Healy. Clare is a research officer and acting section head at the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime where she specializes in human trafficking and the smuggling of migrants. She answered our questions about what trafficking is, why conflicts like the one in Ukraine increase the danger of this kind of exploitation, and what can be done to protect those most vulnerable. How do armed conflicts, like the one in Ukraine, make trafficking more likely? There are various factors that increase peoples vulnerability to trafficking in a conflict situation and particular types of trafficking that are perpetrated in a conflict context. In a conflict, both children and adults, particularly boys and men, can be forced into the armed conflict itselfthats trafficking for the purposes of exploitation in the armed conflict. The second issue, then, is that people in the context of armed conflict have lost their livelihoodsa lot of people. There is desperation to find any means of income. And that may lead them to accept exploitative offers and end up being exploited for labor or sex. Some people may even be in such a desperate situation that the daughter of a large family is sold into a forced marriage to somebody or trafficked for sexual exploitation in prostitution, even involving their own family members. Because its one less mouth to feed, and it allows the rest of the family to survive. There are a couple of other important factors of vulnerability, such as lack of access to services, and obstacles to policing and enforcing law. Story continues What about people trying to escape the violence by traveling to another region? By now over three million people have left Ukraine, most of them are Ukrainian. Some of them are not. We know from other conflicts that fleeing violence makes people very vulnerable. The European countries bordering Ukraine that are receiving the most people fleeing the country right nowPoland, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Slovakiaare allowing Ukrainians to enter without requiring a visa. That means for those people, there is no migrant smuggling because theres no irregular entry; its legal movement. That makes a huge difference. On the second of March, the European Union activated the Temporary Protection Directive. Its a legal framework for the whole of the European Union to immediately provide a form of refugee status. It provides people with conditional access to the labor market, to basic services, and to education for the children. Why does entering a country legally affect human trafficking? People who arrived in Europe from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq, and continue to arrive, all had to travel irregularly, and many had to use migrant smugglers. And they all had to apply for asylum and wait a long time to be granted rights. The other issue thats very pressing is around the 470,000 non-Ukrainians who were residing in Ukraine at the outbreak of the conflict. [Editors note: Only some categories of non-Ukrainian citizens are eligible for temporary refugee protection.] And then everyone is psychologically traumatized, and that also in itself makes people quite vulnerable to deceptive or exploitative offers. According to Ukrainian law, men aged 18 to 60, and women whose job consists of providing services considered essential to the war effort, are not allowed to leave the country, in case they need to be mobilized. This means that the people who are leaving are women, children, elderly people, and people with disabilities and health conditions. This puts them in a situation of vulnerability. What were particularly concerned about is children traveling without their parents or guardians. Thats really, really worrying, and thats happening a lot. As you have said, there is always trafficking that goes undetected, but certain kinds of trafficking appear to be more prevalent in certain regions than others. There are regions around Ukraine where there is a record of trafficking of women and children for the sale of children into adoption. Is this conflict a context where the increased vulnerability for that occurs? Yes. The form you mentioned is a very specific form of trafficking where there are two victims. Theres a woman or a girl whos forced to get pregnant or who is recruited while shes pregnant in order to then sell the baby for illegal adoption. And then the baby is the second victim. I think in this context where women and children are traveling alone, there is a high risk of this kind of trafficking. Children fleeing Ukrainewho may be any age between zero and 18may also be targeted for trafficking for illegal adoption, as well as for other forms. What can people who are considering adoption do to avoid participating in this abuse? They can make the biggest effort possible in terms of due diligence to investigate every aspect of what youre dealing with, and where the money is going. And to do it absolutely within the legal framework for inter-country adoption. Is illegal adoption a bigger problem in this region because of a global sense of the desirability of Caucasian-complected children? Prior to the conflict, Ukraine was an important hub for surrogacy for Westerners, so, yes, I think for that reason, Ukrainian children are also extremely vulnerable to trafficking for illegal adoption, because certain cultures attach a higher value to children who look like them. Can bystanders learn to detect trafficking practices online? Its important to immediately report any online content that seems suspicious, particularly child sexual abuse imagery [child pornography], either to local law enforcement or there are mechanisms on some of the social media apps and so on to report. [Editors note: Even your local law enforcement should have the proper channels to report instances of international trafficking or suspicious behavior. That means your neighborhood police department.] Is Ukraine the region Americans should be most alert to right now for human trafficking? Every person who is trafficked is a crisis. Every person who is abused is a crisis. And every person affected by war and having to flee as a refugee is a crisis. The context, the numbers of refugees leaving Ukraine, its shocking. Its sudden. Its big. But its not unprecedented. Even right now. The context that we are experiencing in Central and Eastern Europe right now is similar to Turkey with Syrian refugees, Uganda with refugees from South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo, or Pakistan with Afghan refugees. What can Americans do to prevent human trafficking and support victims from Ukraine and elsewhere? The best way to protect people in this context from trafficking is making sure that they can travel regularly. Making sure that theyre safe and they have access to employment and education when they arrive. The most important thing is for the war to end, obviously. One of the most important ways to combat both human trafficking and migrant smuggling is ensuring that people can travel regularly and have regular status and the right to work and access services. People could write to their congressmen, write to their senators and argue for asylum status and a refugee status for... ...Increased safe resettlement of refugees to the U.S., improve the asylum procedure, look at implementing more legal programs for labor migration, and so on. We should all be lobbying for that. You Might Also Like By Greg Torode HONG KONG (Reuters) -Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam rejected a Bar Association nominee to a discreet panel that selects the city's judges and appointed the Bar's new chairman instead, the barristers' body said on Friday, announcing what was an unprecedented switch. The nomination of senior commercial barrister Victor Dawes, elected Bar chairman in January, was made after Hong Kong Chief Executive Lam in February sought another nominee instead of Neville Sarony, a veteran barrister put forward by the Bar in August last year, the Bar Association statement said. It was the first confirmation of the delay, also unprecedented, surrounding Sarony's nomination, reported by Reuters in January. (nL4N2TX1CJ) The work of the panel, known as the Judicial Officers Recommendation Commission (JORC), is being closely monitored by lawyers, scholars and diplomats amid concerns over judicial independence in the global financial hub. The Bar statement said Dawes was the best candidate and that "the Bar Council believes it is in the public interest for a member of the Bar to be appointed to JORC without further delay." Dawes did not comment separately. Sarony's nomination last year came amid intense criticism of the association by pro-Beijing forces, who accused it of being "anti-China" for questioning government moves such as a 2019 proposal to allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China for trial. While seen by his peers as non-partisan and a specialist in personal injury cases, Sarony, who is in his early 80s, has at times been critical of government policies in local newspaper columns. Dawes will take up his post on April 1, according to a Hong Kong government announcement on Friday. He is widely seen by other lawyers as someone who will lower the profile of the Bar, which had been headed by British-trained barrister Paul Harris, who was frequently targeted by pro-Beijing officials and media. Story continues Dawes did not immediately respond to Reuters' questions over the Bar's profile. The Hong Kong government did not respond to a request for comment on the appointment of Dawes rather than Sarony. The Hong Kong judiciary told Reuters it was "inappropriate" to comment on the appointment of any member of JORC as it was a decision of the city's leader, adding it is not involved in the consultation or appointment process of the commission. It is also illegal for the judiciary to disclose any information on meetings related to JORC, it added. Judicial independence is widely seen as vital to securing the future of the rule of law that underpins Hong Kong's commercial and social freedoms following its handover from British colonial rule to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. Nomination of judges by the commission is increasingly important as some of these jurists will rule on issues such as prosecutions under a sweeping national security law that Beijing imposed on the city in 2020 to punish subversion, secession and collusion with foreign forces. The work of the nine-member commission is secret and it is a crime to reveal its deliberations or attempt to interfere with them. The commission is headed by the city's top judge, Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, but the Chief Executive must approve appointments to it and its recommendations - powers that date back to the British colonial era but have until now not been used to reject nominees, lawyers and scholars have told Reuters. "Nothing like this has happened before," said one senior lawyer familiar with the commission's operations. "The Chief Executive is using powers, even if lawful, in a way that we've not seen...the reason for Sarony being rejected should be fully explained. The commission's work is vital to the future strength of Hong Kong's judiciary." Lam and Sarony did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. (Reporting by Greg Torode; Additional reporting by Jessie Pang; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell and Philippa Fletcher) An Idaho man who shot and killed an 11-year-old boy will spend his life in prison. An Ada County District judge sentenced Benjamin Poirier, 46, to life in prison after he pleaded guilty to first-degree murder as part of a plea agreement in October. In March 2020, the Emmett man was arrested after he walked into a Horseshoe Bend trailer park and began shooting at a trailer, hitting and killing the 11-year-old boy. Police previously said Poirier was heard yelling about the end of the world before opening fire. He later tried to drive away, but he drove into the trailer and was arrested by a Boise County sheriffs deputy nearby. In return for his plea, Boise County prosecutors withdrew their intent to seek the death penalty. Initially, prosecutors sought capital punishment and argued that the killing was especially heinous, atrocious or cruel, manifesting exceptional depravity. Poirier will have to pay $5,000 in restitution plus $245 in court fees, according to court records. He is currently in custody, as of Friday, at the Ada County Jail and will likely be transferred to an Idaho Department of Correction facility soon. Jon Dufresne, who owned the mobile home park at the time of the shooting, previously told the Idaho Statesman the boys family had lived there for about three years. He described the family as one of the best tenants in the entire park and the boy as one of the best kids in the entire school. Nothing like this has ever happened in Horseshoe Bend, Dufresne previously said. I thought I was doing everything in my power to protect the children here, and then the worst possible thing happened. Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, I would like to send warm congratulations to the opening of China-U.S. Agricultural Roundtable. I also express my thanks to the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the U.S. Heartland China Association for your longstanding efforts for the sub-national cooperation and friendly exchanges between China and the U.S. Both China and the U.S. are major agricultural producers and consumers. The U.S. is also the world's largest exporter of agricultural products, while China is the biggest importer. As a highlight of China-U.S. pragmatic cooperation, agricultural cooperation is well-grounded and highly-complementary between our two countries. Since the phase-one trade deal was signed in 2020, China has been faithfully fulfilling the agricultural procurement commitment. As a result, our agricultural trade registered a quick comeback from the pandemic and trade frictions, and rose to 46.54 billion dollars in 2021, with Chinas imports reaching 39.02 billion dollars, up by 64.2% year on year. China now takes up one-fifth of US agricultural exports, more than any other country or region, enabling Americas record-breaking agricultural exports last year. Last year, each American farmer exported more than 11,000 dollars of agricultural products to China on average. Agricultural cooperation best explains the win-win nature of our economic and trade relations. It also speaks to our highly complementary economic structures and deeply intertwined interests. Ladies and Gentlemen, Agriculture is an important part of the friendly cooperation between China and the U.S. As our agricultural production increasingly face the restraints from population, resources and the environment, and COVID-19 and climate change poses new challenges to global food security, deeper agricultural cooperation will not only benefit both countries agriculture and people, but also carry strong significance to global food security and agricultural development. As a Chinese saying goes, "the whole year's work depends on a good start in spring."As we fully embrace the spring, I hope you will take todays opportunity to share ideas on the innovative development and win-win cooperation of agriculture, so as to find new opportunities and inject new impetus to the sound and stable development of China-U.S. relations! Thank you. NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's foreign minister said after meeting his Chinese counterpart in New Delhi that ties between the countries cannot be normal as long as there is a huge deployment of troops along their disputed border. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told a news briefing after a three-hour meeting with China's Wang Yi that frictions and tensions on the border cannot be reconciled with normal relations. (Reporting by Devjyot Ghoshal and Krishna N. Das; editing by Philippa Fletcher) Investor purchases of single-family homes shot up this year, bringing more competition for the average homebuyer in an already tense housing market. Data from Redfin shows that investors bought anywhere between 16% to 27% of homes sold in South Florida during the fourth quarter of 2021. On a national level, they accounted for 18.4% of homes bought in that same time period, which is a record high. According to RedFin, investors might be individuals, others are registered under LLCs and some are larger multinational private firms. The local homebuyer is really in a pinch, said Sheharyar Bokhari, economist at RedFin. If someone is coming from New York that has more money and a bigger budget and there are investors coming buying in cash that will also outbid them, it makes it more difficult for the local buyer to compete. In West Palm Beach, 16.1% of homes sold in the fourth quarter went to investors, a 12% increase from the year before. In Fort Lauderdale, the number is 21%, a 44% increase from the year before. It was similar in Miami. Investors accounted for 27.5% of homes that were bought during the fourth quarter of last year, a whopping 56.4% increase from the year before. Where are they buying and why For investors, over 70% of their purchases are single-family homes, RedFin data shows. Not only are there just more single-family homes available, but the pandemic caused a shift where most consumers preferred single-family homes over condos due to more space and the ability to work remotely almost anywhere, explained Bokhari. For some folks, the goal is to flip the house and move on, but for others, its about renting the properties out. Despite the housing market soaring, purchasing a house as an investor is still a good investment, as the housing shortage is here to stay, Eli Beracha of Florida International Universitys Hollo School of Real Estate, said. The housing shortage isnt going away anytime soon. You can still borrow cheaply and it looks like inflation is going to stay higher than average for some time. You can increase rents at a faster pace than you do usually. And its a combination that allows investors to get good returns even though prices are not low, Beracha said. Story continues Also, many inventors believe that it will be a while before the South Florida market starts to cool down, making it a good place to invest, said Kaley Tuning, with Native Realty. For the most part, investors stay away from purchasing luxury or higher-end homes, instead buying ones that are lower- or mid-price, because the profit margin will be larger. And it shows in the data: The overall median sale price in the South Florida area is $405,000, according to numbers from RedFin. Yet the median sale price of a home purchased by an investor was lower in all three counties. In Miami it was $360,000; in Fort Lauderdale it was $307,000; and in West Palm Beach it was $365,000. There could be some benefits for renters who are looking to get into a single-family residence, as many are turned into rental properties at market rate, which opens up the pool of single-family homes that families could get into without having to buy. It benefits [renters] in terms of the selection that is available. With so many investors buying up single-family homes, it opens up that market, Beracha said. The affordability factor Its already hard for some buyers to compete in a market where inventory is dwindling and many out-of-state buyers are offering thousands over asking price. Many of the homes that investors purchased are on the lower- to mid-priced range, which adds more competition for the average middle-class buyer trying to by a home, first-time homebuyers, and buyers who have spent years trying to save up for a home. Investors either already have the cash or they already have the financing in place, and because they have a better chance of closing the deal, and they have a stronger offer with higher deposits and a faster closing, a seller would rather sell to those, Beracha said. Seeing a rise in cash offers Cash deals have taken off during the pandemic housing boom as well. According to the latest numbers from the Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors, cash deals soared 40% in February in Broward County, while cash offers jumped 13% in Palm Beach County. For buyers who fall into the lower- or moderate-income range, its difficult to compete in a market where cash deals are soaring, making it incredibly discouraging for families who are trying to get in to a home, experts said. Buyers whove spent years trying to cobble together enough money for a purchase often arent able to get the home theyve been hoping for, said Kirk Brown, the CEO of HANDY, a nonprofit in Broward County that works to meet the needs of foster care children and those who have been placed in relative/nonrelative care in Broward County. They are now forced to live as renters, said Brown. I think the common thing is that we are having to send people out the community to other places. Something they are seeing is that many investors are making the units they are buying unaffordable to the people who are living in those neighborhoods. When they do rent them, the units just arent affordable, added Linda Taylor, CEO of HOMES in Broward County. What inventory we do have just isnt affordable to the people making $40,000 a year. JERUSALEM On the surface, it seems like a doomed diplomatic gambit the untested leader of Israel, which is known for its unresolved conflict with the Palestinians and wars with its neighbors, tries to help end the most serious combat in Europe since the end of World War II. Thats what happened when Prime Minister Naftali Bennett flew to Moscow on Feb. 26, a Saturday, two days after Russia invaded Ukraine, despite being an observant Jew for whom travel on the Sabbath is forbidden unless its a matter of life and death. Once there, he met with President Vladimir Putin for three hours in a bid to help end the war. Leaders from other top negotiator countries NATO members France, Germany and Turkey have spoken with Putin only by phone, according to Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States. On Thursday, just before the start of an emergency NATO summit attended by President Joe Biden, Bennett again spoke with Putin, according to the Kremlin. Israel, which has failed to negotiate a two-state resolution with the Palestinians, could seem poorly cast as a diplomatic powerhouse in efforts to end Russias invasion of Ukraine. The close ally of Washington has also been criticized for not having taken a stronger stance and joining many of its Western allies in sanctioning Russia. But, according to former Israeli national security adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat, the fact that Israel, a country of 9 million people, is able to maintain a productive relationship with Russia while keeping close ties with the U.S. makes it effective as a mediator. Israels assets stem from the trust it enjoys from all parties involved in the conflict: Russia, Ukraine, the United States and NATO countries, said Ben-Shabbat, a researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies at Tel Aviv University He pointed in particular to a deconfliction mechanism Russia and Israel have established that allows the Israel Defense Forces to operate aerially in neighboring Syria against Iran and its proxies without harming Russias military. Story continues Damaged buildings in the town of Douma, the site of a suspected chemical weapons attack, near Damascus on April 16, 2018. (Hassan Ammar / AP file) Putins military intervention in the ongoing 11-year civil war in Syria saved President Bashar al-Assads government, enabling the latter to brutally reassert control over much of his country. Russian airstrikes hit hospitals, schools and markets, and the war killed around half a million people and sent more than 5 million fleeing to neighboring countries. Israel has for decades had warmer relations with Moscow than many Western nations partly because of the countrys large Russian-speaking community comprising some 15 percent of the population. According to Zvi Magen, who has served as Israels ambassador to Ukraine and Russia and is also a researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, Putin asked Israel to be an interlocutor because it is accepted by the international community ... and is not part of an anti-Russian bloc. France, Germany and Turkey are part of NATO, and for Putin, NATO is an enemy, Magen said. Bennett would also be willing to travel to besieged Kyiv, if necessary, once the talks have reached a serious level, according to a report confirmed by a spokeswoman for his office. Ukraine has also highlighted Israels role in the conflict, with the countrys ambassador to Ukraine, Yevgen Korniychuk, referring to Israels unique status as a mediator. Korniychuk separately has said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys Jewish roots gave him a special emotional tie to Israel. Kyiv, meanwhile, also feels an affinity with Israel because its home to many Ukrainian immigrants, while the Jewish community that remains in Ukraine dates back more than a millennium. But on Sunday, Zelenskyy himself called out Israel for not doing more to support his country. One can ask for a long time why we cant accept weapons from you or why Israel didnt impose sanctions against Russia, why you are not putting pressure on Russian business, he said in a speech to Israels parliament, echoing calls hes made to governments around the world. Mediation efforts should not come at the cost of a strong moral stance, Zelenskyy said, explaining mediation can be between states, not between good and evil. He later backtracked, praising Israels role as a negotiator and raising the prospect of Jerusalem as a venue for a Russia-Ukraine summit. The next day, Bennett defended his role as a mediator and said that some progress has been made toward resolving the conflict, but that the gaps were too large to ensure a resolution. Bennetts efforts to help end the war have been met with skepticism by some at home. Veteran journalist Nahum Barnea asked him earlier this week if the mediation efforts really have any significance. The prime minister has been accused in particular of over-inflating his negotiator status to magnify his political stature and to provide a fig leaf for policies of neutrality toward Russia, such as a refusal to send arms to Ukraine and a failure to join international sanctions. Meanwhile, Israels former consul-general in New York, Alon Pinkas, said he was skeptical of the entire negotiation process between Russia and Ukraine given his belief that significant progress could ultimately only be made between Moscow and Washington. Bennett is out of his element he said. Russia is not negotiating with Ukraine. Russia is interested in negotiating with NATO and the U.S. Anyone who thinks Russia wants to negotiate with Ukraine is missing the point on why Putin invaded. He doesnt recognize Ukraine. Both Zelenskyy and Putin are using Israel for their own gains, Pinkas said. Zelenskyy is talking to anyone who will listen, and Putin is using Bennett to score public relation points, he added. But it is Israels long-standing relationship with the U.S., which allows for openness and cooperation on delicate diplomatic issues, that may make it an effective mediator, according to U.S. officials. In this case, Israel has closely coordinated its mediation efforts with the Biden administration. Oren, who served as the Israeli ambassador from 2009-2013, said that during his time in Washington, Israel was a known channel to Russia. I would frequently be asked by Washington officials about Putins thinking and policies because Israel had far better communications with Putin than America did, he said. He gave an example of Israeli mediation between the two countries dating back to 2012 when Syrian President Bashar al-Assad used chemical weapons against his own people, ignoring then-President Barack Obamas red line. Israel negotiated with the Russians a deal where the Russians removed a large part of Assads chemical arsenal from Syria. We did that. We resolved that conflict. We didnt resolve it very well, because Assad then used chemical weapons [again]. We were able to do that because we had an open channel to Putin, Oren said. Trilateral summit of USA - Russia - Israel in Jerusalem (Kobi Gideon / Anadolu via Getty Images file) Israel has also served as a public venue for direct U.S.-Russia communications. In 2019, Russian national security adviser Nikolai Patrushev met with his U.S. and Israeli counterparts in Jerusalem, John Bolton and Ben-Shabbat, to discuss Irans presence in Syria. Then-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presided over the meeting, which communicated the unity of the three countries over Iran. Nevertheless, Oren said, he was worried that the risks could outweigh the benefits, noting that Bennett was now playing with the big leagues. The neutrality that is necessary for such a mediator role could give the perception that Israel is not standing strongly with Ukraine, the U.S. and the West, he said. At what price neutrality? he asked. How much is an open channel to Moscow worth? Israel cant afford to be seen as not standing by a democracy that is fighting for its freedom, to say nothing of one that is led by a fellow Jew, Oren said. Morally, politically and militarily, Israel cant afford to weaken its alliance with the West. TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan's Shionogi & Co has signed a basic agreement with the government to supply an oral COVID-19 treatment it is now developing, the firm said on Friday. The government is considering buying a million doses of the drug pending regulatory approval, the company added in a statement. Shares of the company surged as much as 3.9% on the news, versus a decline of 0.3% in Tokyo's benchmark index. Last month Shionogi sought approval of the pill, a protease inhibitor known as S-217622 that would become Japan's third antiviral approved for coronavirus patients, following those developed by Pfizer Inc and Merck & Co. The company has global aspirations for the pill, saying last week it would launch a Phase III trial worldwide with U.S. government support. Chief Executive Isao Teshirogi has said production could reach 10 million doses a year. (Reporting by Rocky Swift; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) Jenna Dewan just stunned fans with a photo of herself in a jaw-dropping dress. The Step Up actress took to Instagram on Friday to share several photos of herself in a slinky black and silver dress with a mesh panel to Vanity Fair's Future of Hollywood party. The event, which also included stars like Abbott Elementary's Quinta Brunson, Rumer Willis and Amanda Seyfried, was held at the Los Angeles restaurant Mother Wolf. Dewan, who had fiance Steve Kazee on her arm for the event, captioned her Instagram post, "Scenes from last night. @vanityfair you never disappoint, thank you for getting mom and dad out the house for such a fun and glamorous night out!" Followers of The Rookie actress gushed over the look in her comments. One wrote, "That dress is banging!" while another added, "OK Jenna you didn't have to hit us that hard today...now off to the gym I go." A third shared, "Just wow. Absolutely stunning and so classy!" Dewan, who shares her 8-year-old daughter Everly with her ex-husband Channing Tatum and her 2-year-old son Callum with Kazee, is no stranger to eye-catching trends. She recently appeared on the cover of New Beauty while sporting tweed shorts. In an Instagram post revealing her photos from the shoot, she wrote, "So honored to be on the cover of @newbeauty! We laughed, played, glammed and danced the entire shoot. Thank you to my dream team for always pulling this mama together." One thing that is always in style for Dewan is sustainable fashion. In fact, the American Horror Story alum, who got engaged to Kazee in February 2020, recently spoke with wedding website The Knot about her hopes for her dress when she walks down the aisle. "I think it would be really beautiful to have a sustainable wedding dress or work with a designer to create something that is sustainable," she said. "And I love the idea of recycled invites." Want lifestyle and wellness news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Lifes newsletter. Johnny Depp has suffered a setback in his ongoing $100m (76m) defamation battle with his ex-wife Amber Heard. Pirates of the Caribbean star Depp sued Heard for libel after The Washington Post published her 2018 opinion piece, in which she wrote about her experience of domestic violence. Depps lawyers claim the article which does not mention Depp by name falsely implies the Aquaman star was physically and sexually abused by Depp when they were married. On Thursday (24 March), a judge ruled that Heard can argue to a jury that she should be protected from a libel lawsuit because her article deals with a matter of public interest. At the court house in Fairfax County, Depps lawyers had sought a ruling that Heard could not, in her defence, argue that she was speaking about matters of public concern and would therefore be protected from a lawsuit. Depps lawyer said the law that allows this defence, known as an anti-Slapp (strategic lawsuit against public participation) provision, is not designed to be used within private disputes. The judge ruled against Depp, meaning Heard can use the public interest argument in her defence. Depp also faces a claim of defamation made by Heard, over statements Depps lawyer made about her. Depp and Heard (AP) The trial will commence on 11 April in Fairfax, and both Depp and Heard will testify in court. In 2020, Depp lost a similar lawsuit in the UK against The Sun over an article that claimed the actor was a wife beater. The judge ruled that Depp assaulted Heard and put her in fear for her life on numerous occasions. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, on 0808 2000 247, or visit their website here. Charley Gallay/Getty When Maude Apatow was first cast as Lexi on season 1 of HBOs Euphoria, she was widely known as Judd Apatows daughter. After the wildly popular and obsessed-over second season wrapped up last month, culminating with Lexi writing, directing and starring in the most expensive high school play of all time, Judd Apatow has officially become Maude Apatows dad. I went online and I looked at my Twitter feed and I saw that my name was trending and the first tweet was something like Judd Apatow is Maudes dad?! the legendary comedy director tells me in this preview from next weeks 150th episode of The Last Laugh podcast. And then someone else was like, Who the fuck is Judd Apatow? And then someone else was like, Hes a director! And then that person said, Well, I dont know every nerdy indie director. And then someone else was like, Hes not an indie director. He did Knocked Up! Among the first tweets to go viral on the topic was one that read, Wait I just found out that the actress that plays Lexie is a nepotism baby omg her mom is Leslie Mann and her dad is a movie director lol. Describing the situation as a fight between people who knew who I was and a much larger amount of people who didnt know who I was, Apatow thought to himself, Wow, Im the first person trending because no one knows who I am. And I took a lot of pride in that. Turning slightly more serious, Apatow says that becoming Maude Apatows dad was always the plan. Youre supposed to surpass your parents, he adds. You want to be the better version. So thats already happened and Im very excited for her. Once Apatow, who gave Maudeand her sister Iris, who co-stars in his new Netflix movie The Bubbleher first acting role in 2007s Knocked Up, starts actually talking about Euphoria and her performance on it, he instantly transforms into an embarrassingly proud parent. I mean, the show is incredible, he says. And I sat and watched it in a puddle of tears. She works so hard on it, but you dont really get a sense of what its going to be from how she talks about it when we see her. Because she just talks about the pressure of filming a scene and what she was trying to do and hoping it came across. And then you see it as a finished story and its so moving. Story continues Apatow also has high praise for the shows controversial creatorand fellow nepotism baby Sam Levinson. I just thought what he did in terms of paying off all the storylines for the last two years was pretty remarkable, he says. And then I just feel bad about myself that Im not a better director. Like, am I supposed to move the camera like that? Because I dont know how to do that! Maude Apatow as Lexi in the Season 2 finale of Euphoria HBO I just love the surreal nature of it and that it all became about grief and the trauma that had affected all of these kids and led to these different behaviors, Apatow continues. It was really powerful. And while Apatow jokingly expressed some concerns on his Instagram stories about Lexis budding romance with the sensitive but menacing drug dealer Fez, he has nothing but nice things to say about the actor who portrays him. They have such amazing chemistry together, he says of Maude and Angus Cloud. And theyre very close friends. So you really felt romance and she just did beautiful work. I was very proud of her. Subscribe to The Last Laugh podcast now to hear our full conversation with Judd Apatow about his new Netflix movie The Bubble, upcoming George Carlin documentary and more when it drops next Tuesday, March 29th. Euphorias Terrifying Villain Martha Kelly Is Actually a Self-Deprecating Comedian Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A jury has convicted a Kentucky man of killing three people and an unborn child. Jurors in Whitley County deliberated for about four hours Thursday before delivering the verdict against Paul Brock, 41, of Corbin in the 2018 slayings of Tiffany Myers, 33, who was pregnant; her husband, Aaron Biggs Byers, 45; and her grandmother, Mary Jackson, 74, the Corbin Times-Tribune reported. Brock was convicted of three counts of murder, one count of fetal homicide and one charge of tampering with evidence, the newspaper reported. Prosecutors said Brock killed all three, while the defense argued that Byers killed the two women and Brock killed Byers in self-defense. According to court records, a witness who was in the house when Myers and Jackson were shot told police he heard a man later identified as Brock talking to Myers and trying to buy pills from her, then heard what sounded like a firecracker. The witness didnt see what happened because he was in another room. The witness climbed out a window and heard two more shots as he fled, according to the statement included in court records. The bodies of Jackson and Myers were found at their residence on Feb. 17, 2018, and Byers body was found two days later in a shallow grave in a wooded area owned by Brock. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. The death penalty is a potential sentence, but defense attorneys have argued to exclude it. Oman, which ranked 18th in Global Foreign Direct Investment in 2021, received over 3.2 million international tourists in 2019. According to World Economic Forum, it is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. China and Oman celebrated over 40 years of diplomatic relations in 2018 and the traditional ties have a history of more than 1,200 years. Under Oman's new ruler Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, the relations are expected to reach a new height. China has become Oman's largest trading partner in recent years. China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and Oman's 2040 Vision have a high degree of compatibility. One of the economic pillars of Oman 2040 Economic Vision is to increase revenue from tourism. With this vision, Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism announced the launch of "Oman Tourism Forum 2022" to be held on May 10, 2022, at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) during Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022 in Dubai, UAE. The event is organized by Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), co-organized by International China Investment Forum and coordinated by China Travel Online. The forum is a high-level event that aims to gather industry leaders to explore tourism and partnership opportunities in Oman through dialogue and to explore some of the key areas where companies can be involved. Esteem speakers, including officials from the government of Oman and companies from China, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Oman, will be in attendance. "We are expecting 100-150 delegates," said Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. The event is to be officiated by Oman's Minister of Heritage and Tourism, with confirmed and invited VIP speakers including Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Oman Tourism Development Company, President & CEO, Rotana Hotel Group, Senior Vice-President, Minor Group, CEO, Oman Air, CEO, Oman Airport, GM, Beijing Spring Travel, CEO, Times Hotel Group and many more. Duchess of Cambridge; Princess Diana PA Images/Alamy Stock Photo; Anwar Hussein/Getty Images Princess Diana in 1981 and Kate Middleton in March 2022 wearing emerald green gala gowns Kate Middleton has been known to channel Princess Diana with her style choices and her latest homage might be her most regal to date. Kate and Prince William, who are currently on the sixth day of their eight-day tour of the Caribbean, attended a state dinner hosted by Jamaica's Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen, on Wednesday evening with Kate capturing the spotlight in a striking emerald green gown. The bespoke dress, with ruffled shoulders and full skirt by British designer Jenny Packham, has drawn comparisons to one Diana wore for her official engagement portraits in 1981. The look, designed by Graham Wren for Nettie Vogues, was almost identical in color to Kate's. Diana clearly loved it she wore it several times, including to a gala concert in Wales later that year. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge attend a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica Samir Hussein - Pool/WireImage The Duke And Duchess Of Cambridge in Jamaica - March 2022 Just as Diana did more than 40 years ago, Kate accessorized with emeralds and diamonds. While Diana chose a choker-style necklace, Kate opted for a bracelet and matching earrings on loan from Queen Elizabeth. Last seen on the Queen when she welcomed Barack Obama to the U.K in 2011, the jewelry is from the monarch's Emerald Tassel Suite (which also includes a necklace), first worn during a state visit from the United Arab Emirates in 1989. RELATED: Kate Middleton Debuts Her First Glam Tour Look in Hot Pink Gown in Belize Duchess of Cambridge; Princess Diana Charles And Diana At The Barbican 1982 As is the custom for state occasions, Kate also pinned her royal insignias to her gown, including her Royal Family Order, which includes a miniature portrait of the monarch, and her Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, which the Queen gifted to her in April 2019 on her eighth wedding anniversary. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge attends a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica Samir Hussein - Pool/WireImage Kate Middleton in Jamaica - March 2022 Story continues This was the second glam look of the tour so far, after Kate wore a metallic hot pink gown from celebrity-favorite The Vampire's Wife on Monday evening for a special reception at the Mayan ruins of Cahal Pech in Belize. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge Samir Hussein - Pool/WireImage Kate Middleton wearing her royal insignias in Jamaica 2022 Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Prince William, kate middleton Samir Hussein/WireImage Kate Middleton in a gown by The Vampire's Wife in Belize on March 21, 2022. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are continuing their tour, with multiple stops in Jamaica today before wrapping up in the Bahamas. Shane Farrington absconded from a prison in Warrington on Thursday (24 March), police said. (Cheshire Police) Members of the public are being urged not to approach a convicted killer who has escaped from prison for the second time and is on the run. Shane Farrington, 39, absconded from prison in Warrington on Thursday evening, sparking a manhunt by police. His escape comes just a day after a search sparked by the escape of another inmate from the prison. Cheshire Police urged anyone with any information on Farrington's whereabouts to get in touch, but urged people not to approach him. Farrington was convicted of manslaughter in 2009 after attacking and killing a prisoner in his cell at HMP Peterborough on September 11, 2008. He has escaped once before after fleeing from officers while being treated for a head injury in hospital in Norfolk in 2018. Farrington was last seen at HMP Thorn Cross in Appleton, Warrington. (Google Maps) Read more: Man dies while trying to land light aircraft at Suffolk airfield Cheshire Police said Farrington, who is known to have links within the Peterborough area, was last seen at HMP Thorn Cross in Appleton at 6.45pm on Thursday, 24 March. The force said officers are carrying out a number of enquiries in a bid to trace the killer, who was last seen wearing a dark top with white writing on the front, blue jeans, black shoes, a dark coat and has a dark rucksack. Superintendent Mike Evans said: "We currently have numerous officers carrying out a variety of searches to locate Farrington. "While our enquiries are ongoing were urging anyone who sees Farrington to not approach him but to instead call Cheshire Constabulary immediately on 999 quoting IML 1230000. "Officers will be maintaining a presence around the prison and in the local area to provide reassurance to the community. If you have any concerns please do speak to one of them." Anyone with information can contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Farrington's escape comes just a day after fellow inmate Jonathan Simpson absconded from the Category D prison on Wednesday. Traffic was stopped as police conducted a two-hour search on the M6 at junction 20 in Lymm, Cheshire, on Wednesday evening. Simpson was caught and arrested by police on Thursday after officers carried out a number of searches, including using police dogs. Russian forces in Ukraine appear to have shifted their focus from a ground offensive aimed at Kyiv to instead prioritizing what Moscow calls the liberation of the contested Donbas region, suggesting a new phase of the war. It appears too early to know whether this means President Vladimir Putin has scaled back his ambitions in Ukraine, but Russian military moves this week indicate a recognition of the surprisingly stout Ukrainian resistance. Russian-backed separatists have controlled part of the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine since 2014. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday again appealed to Russia to negotiate an end to the war, but he said Ukraine would not agree to give up any of its territory for the sake of peace. Putins forces are under great strain in many parts of the country, and the United States and other countries are accelerating their transfer of arms and supplies to Ukraine. In recent days, U.S. officials have said they see evidence of Ukrainian defenders going on the offensive in a limited way in some areas. Putting a positive face on it all, the deputy chief of the Russian general staff said his forces had largely achieved the main objectives of the first phase of what Moscow calls a special military operation in Ukraine. KEY DEVELOPMENTS IN THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR: The Associated Press has independently documented at least 34 assaults on Ukrainian medical facilities by Russian forces U.S. President Joe Biden visits American troops in Poland, a complex ally at Ukraines doorstep Russian President Vladimir Putin faces stark choices in Ukraine invasion as armed forces stall Ukraine says 300 dead in airstrike on theater in Mariupol; hunger stalking besieged areas Some prominent Russians quit jobs, refuse to support the war on Ukraine EU, US announce partnership to undercut Russian energy A vast apparatus is being built to gather and preserve evidence of potential violations of international laws of war for possible prosecutions Story continues Go to https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine for more coverage ___ OTHER DEVELOPMENTS: LVIV, Ukraine Even as the conflict rages, a vast apparatus is being built to gather and preserve evidence of potential war crimes. Less than a month after Putins order to drop the first bombs on his neighbor, the United States declared that Russian forces were violating international laws of war that were written after World War II. But it remains far from clear who will be held accountable and how. Possible war crimes that have been reported in Ukraine include destroying homes, firing on civilians as they evacuate through safe corridors, targeting hospitals, using indiscriminate weapons like cluster bombs in civilian areas, attacking nuclear power plants and intentionally blocking access to humanitarian aid or food and water. But intention matters. Destroying a hospital alone is not evidence of a war crime. Prosecutors would have to show that the attack was intentional or at least reckless. ___ LVIV, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys chief of staff is calling on the West to create a new lend-lease program for Ukraine, referring to the World War II effort that sent U.S. supplies to the Soviet Union to help it fight Nazi Germany. We need a full lend lease, Andriy Yermak said in an address late Friday. Today Ukraine is the holy grail of Europe, and without exaggeration Ukraine is reviving those principles that gave life to current Western civilization. He said what Ukraine needs most is real-time intelligence and heavy weapons. Yermak also repeated the Ukrainian presidents calls for help in closing the skies over Ukraine to stop Russian bombing and missile attacks. The West has refused to impose a no-fly zone for fear of widening the war. He said options include supplying Ukraine with air defense systems or fighter jets, or creating an air police force to protect civilian infrastructure. ___ LVIV, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has again appealed to Russia to negotiate an end to the war, but says Ukraine would not agree to give up any of its territory for the sake of peace. In his nightly video address to the nation Friday, Zelenskyy appeared to be responding to Col. Gen Sergei Rudskoi, deputy chief of the Russian general staff, who said Russian forces would now focus on the main goal, the liberation of Donbas. Russian-backed separatists have controlled part of the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine since 2014, and Russian forces have been battling to seize more of the region from Ukraine, including the besieged city of Mariupol. Rudskois statement also was a suggestion that Russia may be backing away from trying to take Kyiv and other major cities where its offensive has stalled. Zelenskyy noted that Russian forces have lost thousands of troops but still havent been able to take Kyiv or Kharkiv, the second-largest city. ___ LVIV, Ukraine The Associated Press has independently documented at least 34 assaults on Ukrainian medical facilities by Russian forces. AP journalists in Ukraine have seen firsthand the deadly results of Russian strikes on civilian targets, including the final moments of children whose bodies were shredded by shrapnel and dozens of corpses heaped into mass graves. AP journalists outside Ukraine have confirmed the details of other attacks by interviewing survivors and independently verifying war zone videos and photos posted online. The accounting is part of the War Crimes Watch Ukraine project, a broader effort by AP and PBS Frontline. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights confirms at least 1,035 civilians, including 90 children, have died and another 1,650 civilians have been wounded since the war started a month ago. Those numbers are certainly an undercount. ___ BRUSSELS French President Emmanuel Macron called unacceptable the publication on Twitter of propaganda caricatures by the Russian Embassy in Paris. Russias ambassador to France was summoned Friday to the French Foreign Ministry over the issue. The two posts have since been removed. It was a fault. It has been corrected. I hope it wont happen again, Macron said in a news conference in Brussels. One of the caricatures showed a character called Europe lying on a table while others representing the United States and the European Union were injecting the body with syringes marked Russophobia, Neo-Nazism and Sanctions. The other showed kneeling Europeans licking the buttocks of a man representing the U.S. ___ WASHINGTON A senior U.S. defense official says Russias military advance on Ukraines capital of Kyiv appears to have halted as it turns its focus to fighting elsewhere in the country. The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe an internal U.S. military assessment of the war, said Friday that Russia appears to be concentrating more on fighting for control of Ukraines eastern Donbas region rather than its ground offensive aimed at capturing Kyiv, at least for now. The Kremlin seemed to confirm the shift Friday. Col.-Gen Sergei Rudskoi, deputy chief of the Russian general staff, said that the main objective of the first stage of the operation reducing Ukraines fighting capacity has generally been accomplished, allowing Russian forces to focus on the main goal, liberation of Donbas. The Donbas is the largely Russian-speaking eastern industrial heartland of Ukraine where Russian-backed separatists have been fighting Ukrainian forces since 2014. AP Military writer Robert Burns ___ WARSAW, Poland Polish President Andrzej Duda says he regrets not being able to welcome U.S. President Joe Biden on his arrival to Poland because his plane malfunctioned and had to make an emergency landing. Duda was flying to Rzeszow airport, in southeastern Poland, on Friday to greet Biden but about ten minutes into the flight, the flight crew said there was a problem and the plane had to return to Warsaw. Duda and the delegation took another plane, but arrived in Rzeszow well after Biden had landed and there was no welcoming ceremony. Duda said he didnt question the pilots decision. A special commission for air incidents will look into the planes malfunction. In 2010, Polands then-president, Lech Kaczynski and a delegation of 95 were killed in a plane crash in Russia, as the pilots tried landing in poor visibility at a rudimentary airport. __ STOCKHOLM Spotify is halting its services in Russia in light of the countrys strict new censorship law, which it says puts its employees and possibly even listeners at risk. The Swedish music streaming companys move comes after other companies pulled out of Russia due to its censorship law. The statute imposes prison sentences of up to 15 years for those spreading information that goes against the Russian governments narrative on the war. Netflix and TikTok suspended most of their services in the country earlier this month. U.S. credit card companies Visa, Mastercard and American Express all said over the weekend they would cut service in Russia. South Koreas Samsung Electronics said it would halt product shipments to the country, joining other big tech companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Intel and Dell. __ ROME Pope Francis has presided over a special prayer for Ukraine that harked back to a century-old apocalyptic prophecy about peace and Russia. An estimated 3,500 people, including cardinals, ambassadors and pilgrims, attended the service at St. Peters Basilica on Friday. The special ritual of deep spiritual importance to many Catholics and a source of fascination to others was Francis latest effort to rally prayers for an end to the war. The pope has yet to publicly condemn Russia by name, though his denunciations have grown increasingly outraged. __ FRANKFURT, Germany -- More than 130 refugees from Ukraine have arrived at a German airport, the first of 2,500 due to arrive via Moldova. More than 376,000 people fleeing the war in Ukraine have arrived in Moldova, an influx that's been a challenge for the small, former Soviet republic, which is wedged between Ukraine and Romania. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has said Germany is working with allies to airlift refugees to countries farther away from the war. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said in a statement that Germany can be a hub for fair distribution in Europe of refugees. More than 3.7 million people have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion started a month ago. __ LONDON Author J.K. Rowling is pushing back after Russian President Vladimir Putin dragged her into a rant against Western efforts to cancel Russian culture. Critiques of Western cancel culture are possibly not best made by those currently slaughtering civilians for the crime of resistance, or who jail and poison their critics, the Harry Potter author said Friday in a tweet linked to an article about jailed Putin critic Alexei Navalny. Putin earlier compared recent Western criticism of Russia with efforts to cancel Rowling over her views on transgender issues. Rowling has been criticized after saying she supported transgender rights but did not believe in erasing the concept of biological sex. The notorious cancel culture has become a cancellation of culture. Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Rachmaninov are excluded from concert posters, and Russian writers and their books are also banned, Putin said during a videoconference with cultural figures. __ RZESZOW, Poland President Joe Biden has given a pep talk to U.S. troops stationed in Poland near the border with Ukraine. Biden said he wanted to visit Friday to thank members of the U.S. Armys 82nd Airborne Division for their service. The president told the fatigue-clad men and women that its not hyperbole when he says they are the finest fighting force in the world. Biden visited some troops at lunch at their temporary headquarters in Rzeszow and chowed down on pizza. He also visited others who were getting haircuts at the barbershop. Poland is the second stop on Bidens four-day trip to Europe. He's scheduled Saturday to meet separately with Polands president and Ukrainian refugees before he heads back to Washington. COPENHAGEN, Denmark Four Nordic energy companies say they are ready to help the three Baltic nations in the event Russia curbs or completely cuts electricity exports to its smaller neighbors. Denmarks Energinet, Statnett of Norway, Swedens Svenska kraftnat and Fingrid Oyj of Finland said in a statement theyve secured routines and identified eventual ambiguities in a scenario where the Baltics are disconnected from the Russian grid. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are still reliant on their Russian neighbor for much of their electricity needs. __ NEW YORK The deputy head of Russias military general staff says that 1,351 Russian soldiers have died in Ukraine. Col.-Gen. Sergei Rudskoi also said Friday that 3,825 have been wounded. NATO estimated on Wednesday that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in four weeks of war in Ukraine. The Russian figure did not appear to include the Moscow-backed separatists fighting in eastern Ukraine, and it was not clear whether the toll encompassed Russian forces not part of the Defense Ministry, such as the National Guard. ___ MEDYKA, Poland -- Refugees from the war in Ukraine are among those who will be watching the visit of U.S. President Joe Biden to Poland, which began on Friday afternoon with a stop in the eastern Polish city of Rzeszow. Some hope the visit might bring concrete steps to help their homeland as it is under attack. Lyra Syniavska, 42, from Lviv, said that Ukrainians expect more help than what they have received so far. We are getting a lot of help now, really a lot. But our people are still suffering, especially those who lives in the eastern part (of Ukraine), she said. Alina Sylkina, 26, from the eastern Luhansk region, says she wishes NATO would close the airspace over Ukraine -- though the alliance has said it wont take that step. During his visit to Rzeszow, Biden will be briefed on the humanitarian response to the refugees streaming out of Ukraine. He will also meet U.S. service members. Biden is due in Warsaw on Saturday. ___ VILNIUS, Lithuania An exhibition of photos of civilian victims and shelling in Kyiv and Mariupol has been put up at the Vilnius railway station so that travelers on trains crossing Lithuania for the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad will see the images. The Lithuanian railway said Friday that the 24 photographs were selected by the Lithuanian Press Photographers Club. A text on the photos says in Russian that President Vladimir Putin is killing innocent people in Ukraine today. Are you OK with that? Lithuanian Railways CEO Egidijus Lazauskas said that the exhibition is a symbolic show of support. ___ COPENHAGEN, Denmark Finlands national railway company says it will suspend services between Helsinki and the Russian city of St. Petersburg from this weekend, closing one of the last public transport routes for Russians who want to reach the European Union. The state-owned VR said only the morning train from Helsinki to St Petersburg will be operated on Sunday while the afternoon train will be cancelled. Both services from St Petersburg will be operated. After that, trains will be suspended until further notice. VR said customers can cancel their tickets at no cost. ___ GENEVA The U.N. human rights office says its strict methodology in counting casualties in Ukraines conflict has yielded very few confirmed casualties in Mariupol, largely because of difficulties getting access in and information out of the besieged port city. Matilda Bogner, who heads the rights offices Ukraine branch, noted that council leaders in Mariupol have estimated more than 2,000 civilian deaths in the city following Russias military invasion on Feb. 24. Overall, the rights office has counted at least 1,035 civilians killed in Ukraine and 1,650 injured but Bogner said it doesnt have a the full picture of locations that have seen intense fighting, in particular Mariupol and Volnovakha. The office has acknowledged that its tally is likely to underestimate the actual toll. ___ MOSCOW Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says Russia is facing total war declared by the West. Lavrov said at a meeting on Friday that a real hybrid war, total war was declared on us. He said the goal was to destroy, break, annihilate, strangle the Russian economy, and Russia on the whole. During the first month of what Russia describes as a special military operation in Ukraine, the West imposed tough measures targeting Russias economy and financial system as well as President Vladimir Putin and Russian oligarchs. Despite that, Lavrov said Russia was not isolated. We have many friends, allies, partners in the world, he said. ___ KYIV, Ukraine Mariupols city government says the Kremlin's main political party has opened a political office in a shopping mall on the outskirts of the besieged city. According to the post on the citys Telegram channel, the United Russia office is distributing promotional materials as well as mobile phone cards for an operator that functions in the nearby Russia-backed separatist regions. Mariupols communication links have been all but severed since the siege began in early March. Cell phone, television and radio towers have been targeted in Russian airstrikes and artillery barrages. ___ KYIV, Ukraine The government of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol says 300 people died in a Russian airstrike on March 16 on a theater being used as a bomb shelter. The post Friday on the city government Telegram channel cited eyewitnesses for the toll of about 300. It was not immediately clear whether emergency workers had finished excavating the site or how the eyewitnesses arrived at the horrific death toll. When the theater was struck, an enormous inscription reading CHILDREN was posted outside in Russian, intended to be visible from the skies above. Soon after the airstrike, Ludmyla Denisova, the Ukrainian Parliaments human rights commissioner, said more than 1,300 people had been sheltering in the building. ___ BRUSSELS The United States and the European Union have announced a new partnership to reduce Europes reliance on Russian energy. U.S. President Joe Biden asserted Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin uses energy to coerce and manipulate his neighbors and uses the profits from its sale to drive his war machine. Biden said the partnership he announced jointly with a top European Union official will cut Europes dependence on Russian energy sources, as well as the continents demand for gas overall. Under the plan, the U.S. and other nations will increase liquified natural gas exports to Europe by 15 billion cubic meters this year. Even larger shipments would be delivered in the future. At the same time, they will try to keep their climate goals on track by powering gas infrastructure with clean energy and reducing methane leaks that can worsen global warming. ___ ANKARA, Turkey Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ukraine and Russia appear to be making progress on four issues being negotiated for an end of the fighting but differences remain on two other key issues. Speaking to reporters on his return from a NATO summit late Thursday, Erdogan said Kyiv has expressed readiness to give up on its wish to join NATO, is ready to accept Russian as an official language, and can also accept certain concessions concerning disarmament and collective security. But Erdogan said Ukraine "is not so comfortable regarding Russian demands on Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, and the eastern Donbas region, where it has recognized separatist entities as independent. His comments were reported by Hurriyet newspaper and other Turkish media on Friday. NATO member Turkey has been trying to balance its relations with both Ukraine and Russia, positioning itself as a mediator between the two. ___ BERLIN Germanys economy minister says his country has forged contracts with new suppliers that will allow it to significantly reduce its reliance on Russian coal, gas and oil in the coming weeks. Robert Habeck told reporters in Berlin on Friday that Russian oil will account for about 25% of Germanys imports in the coming weeks, from currently about 35%. Habeck said imports of Russian coal will be halved from about 50% of Germanys total to 25% in the coming weeks. He said Germany also expects to be able to become almost entirely independent of Russian gas by mid-2024. To do this the government has secured the use of three floating terminals capable of regasifying LNG brought in by ship and is working hard to build permanent LNG terminals for long-term imports. ___ JERUSALEM A Ukrainian who fled the country with her daughter has finished first among women in this years Jerusalem marathon. Valentyna Veretska, 31, competed in Fridays race after fleeing with her 11-year-old daughter from the southern city of Mykolaiv shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. Her husband stayed behind. Organizers say Veretska finished the 26.2-mile (42.2-kilometer) race in two hours, 45 minutes and 54 seconds. Ageze Guadie, 33, from Israel, finished first in the mens category with a time of 2:37:17. Veretska, 31, is ranked 444th worldwide among female marathon runners and most recently finished first in the October 2021 Tirana Marathon, according to World Athletics. She was invited to take part in the Jerusalem marathon earlier this month. Organizers say around 40 Ukrainian immigrants and refugees competed among thousands of runners. ___ BUDAPEST, Hungary Hungarys prime minister on Friday rejected an emotional appeal from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to supply Ukraine with weapons and support sanctions on Russias energy sector. Prime Minister Viktor Orban said in a video posted to social media that Zelenskyys requests were against Hungarys interests. He said 85% of Hungarys gas and more than 60% of its oil comes from Russia, and that blocking Russian energy exports would force Hungarians to pay the price of the war. The rejection came after Zelenskyy on Thursday addressed a meeting of European Union leaders in Brussels where he specifically appealed to Orban, who is widely considered Russian President Vladimir Putins closest ally in the EU. Hungary, alone among EU countries bordering Ukraine, has declined to supply its neighbor with weapons and refused to allow weapons shipments to cross its border into Ukraine. ___ KHARKIV, Ukraine About half the population of the eastern city of Kharkiv has left, and food and other essentials are dwindling for those who stay behind. A line formed Thursday at an apartment block as neighbors waited for aid from the Red Cross. Among those who stayed, there are people who can walk on their own, but many who cannot walk, the elderly, said Hanna Spitsyna, who distributed the food to the sound of explosions behind her. Kharkiv has been under siege by Russian forces since the start of the invasion, with relentless shelling that has forced people to sleep in metro stations and in basements. Ukraines government said shelling on a group of people awaiting aid elsewhere in the city killed six people on Thursday. It was not immediately possible to verify the allegation. ___ DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Satellite photos from Planet Labs PBC analyzed by The Associated Press show thick black smoke rising Thursday over the port in the Ukrainian city of Berdyansk, with a large ship on fire. The timing of the photos correspond with what the Ukrainian navy described as a successful attack that saw a Russian landing craft ferrying armored vehicles to the city sink off the port. The image also corresponds to online videos purportedly showing the attack at the port in the city held by Russia on the Sea of Azov. ___ LVIV, Ukraine Russian forces fired two missiles late Thursday at a Ukrainian military unit on the outskirts of Dnipro, the fourth-largest city in the country, regional emergency services said. The strikes destroyed buildings and set off two fires, it said, while the number of those killed and wounded was still being established. Dnipro is west of the regions along the Russian border that have been controlled by Russian-backed separatists since 2014. ___ LVIV, Ukraine With the war headed into its second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke of hope and determination in his nighttime video address to the nation late Thursday. It is already night. But we are working, he said in a quiet voice. The country must move toward peace, move forward. With every day of our defense, we are getting closer to the peace that we need so much. We are getting closer to victory. We cant stop even for a minute. For every minute determines our fate, our future, whether we will live. He reported on his conversations that day with leaders of NATO and European Union countries gathered in Brussels, and their promises of even more sanctions on Russia. We need to look for peace, he said. Russia also needs to look for peace. ___ LVIV, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked EU leaders for working together to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia. But he lamented that these steps werent taken earlier, saying there was a chance Russia would have thought twice about invading. Zelenskyy, appearing by video from Kyiv, then appealed to the EU leaders, who had gathered Thursday in Brussels, to move quickly on Ukraines application to join the bloc. He appealed particularly to Hungary not to block Ukraines bid. Hungarian President Viktor Orban is widely considered to be Russian President Vladimir Putins closest ally among EU leaders. __ BRUSSELS European nations have reacted sharply to Russian President Vladimir Putins threat to have unfriendly countries pay for its natural gas exports only in rubles. Several EU leaders have come out saying it would be a gross violation of their contracts. From German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, they said they would not meet such demands. The EU imports 90% of the natural gas used to generate electricity, heat homes and supply industry, with Russia supplying almost 40% of it. Economists say Putins threat seems designed to try to bolster the ruble, which has collapsed against other currencies since Russia invaded Ukraine and Western countries responded with far-reaching sanctions against Moscow. (2/2/22) San Joaquin County Public District Attorney Tori Verber-Salazar speaks about charges against Robert Somerville who is accused of the killing Stockton Fire captain Max Fortuna while he was battling a blaze in downtown Stockton. On 3/24, Verber-Salazar's office announced that Robert Elmo Lee was found guilty of first-degree murder for the 2018 shooting of Lodi podiatrist Thomas Shock. CLIFFORD OTO/THE STOCKTON RECORD Robert Elmo Lee, 83, of Lodi was found guilty of first-degree murder Thursday for orchestrating the shooting of Lodi podiatrist Thomas Shock, the San Joaquin County District Attorney's office said. On the evening of Aug. 1, 2018, Shock was fatally shot at his home on Rivergate Drive, Lodi. Police responding to reports of shots fired found Shock, 67, with multiple gunshot wounds just inside his front door. Check out: Four plead not guilty in death of Lodi podiatrist Four men including Lee were arrested that year in connection with the alleged murder-for-hire scheme. Co-defendant Mallory Stewart pled guilty to first-degree murder with a weapons enhancement for his role as the shooter. Christopher Costello was also found guilty in 2021 for his role in the shooting. Raymond Jacquett IV was sentenced in 2019 for his role. More: Driver gets 15 years to life in death of podiatrist Thursday's verdict came with a special circumstance of murder for financial gain. Lee blamed Shock for his wife's death, according to a search warrant return. The complaint alleged Bonnie Lee had gone in to see Shock for an ingrown toenail, Lodi Police Detective Michael Hitchcock stated on the warrant return. The complaint said Shock provided Bonnie Lee with substandard care which eventually (led) to her foot being partially amputated in 2014." The case was closed in 2016 and Shock was disciplined by the (Medical Board of California). Later in 2016, Bonnie Lee died from an infection, however, it is unknown if Shocks treatment had anything to do with her death. Bonnie Lees husband is Robert Lee. Shock was a doctor with the Lodi Podiatry Group for 33 years until his retirement in June.He attended University of the Pacific, the University of California, Riverside, and California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco. Lee and Stewart are scheduled to be sentenced on May 16. Record reporter Aaron Leathley covers business, housing, and land use. She can be reached at aleathley@recordnet.com or on Twitter @LeathleyAaron. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at recordnet.com/subscribenow. This article originally appeared on The Record: Lee found guilty of first-degree murder for podiatrist Shock's death Mar. 24NEW LONDON The city has redesigned its Community Recreation Center to keep it within its $30 million budget and adjust to changing market conditions. The building's footprint is smaller and, because of the skyrocketing costs of steel, designers have opted for a brick and concrete structure rather than a steel curtain design. Felix Reyes, director of the city's Office of Development and Planning, presented the changes for the first time publicly at Monday's City Council meeting. He is part of a special task force meeting regularly with the project's design and construction teams. Reyes said the changes are a natural part of an evolution of the project that has moved from conceptual to design phase and come amid volatile market conditions. The downsized structure comes without sacrifice of any community needs, he said. "We have to truly understand what we can design and what we can build," Reyes said. "We can design the Taj Mahal ... but are we designing what we can afford and are we designing what the market can provide as far as materials?" The center is being designed by architectural firm Silver/Petrucelli + Associates under the guidance of construction manager Downes Construction Co. The management firm Brailsford & Dunlavey oversees the project. The community center will be located on a portion of two city-owned parcels totaling nearly 7 acres on the Fort Trumbull peninsula parcels 3B and 3C. Plans call for the center to be situated on one parcel and separated from a 100-space parking lot by an existing roadway. It's a change from initial conceptual plans that would have altered the course of the roadway to create a new entrance to the property. Keeping the road where it is now saves on costs of relocating utilities that already follow the roadway, Reyes said. What had been a 62,000-square-foot two-story building is now a 58,000-square-foot building. The downsizing was accomplished by a decrease in the size of three multi-purpose rooms, tightening of corridors and by slightly shrinking the size of locker rooms, fitness rooms, office spaces and the gymnasium, documents associated with the project show. Story continues Outside amenities are not included in the $30 million budget. The total project budget of $30 million had anticipated hard costs of construction to be roughly $22 million, leaving $8 million for soft costs and a contingency fund. The current hard cost estimates put the price tag closer to $26 million. The goal, Reyes said, is to get to a guaranteed maximum price of $25 million for construction costs. The state has contributed an additional $1.2 million toward the project for site work and environmental remediation through a Brownfield Remediation Program. That money is in addition to the $30 million approved by the City Council. The community recreation center will still have a two-court gymnasium, eight-lane pool, indoor track, workout and games rooms and a wing of the building dedicated to the headquarters for the city Recreation Department and its associated programs. That wing will include a community lounge, classroom space for early childhood program, instructional kitchen and other amenities. "We're still delivering what we promised to the community," Reyes said. There is also space for the future facilities manager, an outside firm expected to generate the programmatic requirements and memberships needed to meet the operational costs of the center. Early estimates put the costs of operating the community center at about $2.1 million per year. Council member John Satti, who was against the use of Fort Trumbull for the center, said about $500,000 annually is needed to cover the pool upkeep alone and questioned the city's plan for generating what amounts to $175,000 per month to meet operational costs. "How do you plan to come up with that $2.1 million a year? Is that something you're going to expect taxpayers to pay or that something this facility will be able to generate itself? If so, please explain how," Satti asked Reyes at Monday's meeting. Reyes reiterated that its has been a goal from the beginning to have a business plan with memberships, rental fees and sponsorships generating the needed revenue while providing an affordable income-based membership plan for residents. It may take up to four years, Reyes said, for the building to reach a point where its revenues match costs. The city will look to operate the center without a burden on taxpayers though the city does plan to pick up some maintenance costs associated with things like snow plowing and garbage pickup. "It's a new way of doing things, a new business model for the city," Reyes said. Final details of how the money will be generated have not yet been finalized. Reyes said the city expects that revenue to exceed operational costs in the future which will allow to chip away at debt incurred with the construction of the center. "It's important for the city to go after every dollar to help with debt service," Reyes said. Further updates on the progress of the community center planning are to be provided to the public at every other council meeting. Planning for another public meeting is also underway. Construction is slated to start later this year. g.smith@theday.com When you look at the major diplomatic events of the last thirty years, Derek Chollet has experienced them all. Hes worked with legends like James Baker, Strobe Talbott and Richard Holbrooke and served in some of the highest echelons of the White House, the Pentagon and the U.S. Department of State. From Bosnia to Syria and now Russia Chollet has helped to shape Americas approaches to its policy abroad. Today, Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza sits down with Chollet, whos currently the Counselor of the Department of State, to dig into Foggy Bottoms approach to helping Ukraine and handling Putin. Transcribed excerpts from that conversation are below, edited for length and readability. Ryan Lizza: Theres a famous memo that Mondale wrote about the vice presidency. I know Biden and Ron Klain, whos a student of the vice presidency, often talk about this. Anyone whos going to be vice president references back to the Mondale memo. Because Mondales advice for any incoming vice president was, You dont want to run anything. You just want to be an adviser to the president. You want to be the last person in the room. You dont want to be bogged down with bureaucratic bullshit of running White House you know... Thats whats unique about your position. As we get into the weeds on the Ukraine crisis, I wonder if one way to help us understand the perspective of you and Blinken is to take us through some of the major decisions that this administration has had to make since the start of the crisis. Maybe just start with saying what is the start of the crisis from your perspective. Is it when the first troops started going toward that border? Dont take us back 100 years. Counselor Derek Chollet: I vividly recall having a conversation with a colleague in October of last year that this could be a presidency-defining moment. Lizza: October of 2021? Chollet: October of 2021. Thats when we first started seeing indications of what the Russians were up to. And early on, none of this was public obviously and it wasnt yet getting picked up by commercial imagery to see Russian troop deployments. We were picking up through intelligence Story continues Lizza: You guys werent talking about it at all? Chollet: We werent talking about that yet at all. We started to talk about it in the end of October. In fact, it was at the G-20 Summit in Italy where Biden did a short meeting with the Chancellor of Germany, the Prime Minister of the U.K., the President of France, and it might have been the Italian Prime Minister. They talked about a variety of things but of them was these indications that we were starting to see. So we were watching it then. Of course, there were all kinds of warning signs. Nothing was foreordained. So this got our attention and we started to watch it build. Starting at the end of October, we started to talk to allies and partners about what we were seeing and progressively share more and more information. It was then in mid-November. I remember this because I was in Brussels in mid-November after meetings in Bosnia and coincidentally that day, Avril Haines was briefing the North Atlantic Council, NATOs governing body, on the intelligence. This is a long way of saying we understood early on that if what we were seeing turned out to be true, this would be a game changer. Of course, we also understood that we needed to do everything we could to prevent that from happening. Part of the diplomatic effort and the time we were given by having this early heads-up, and as we watched the evidence continue to build of what Russia was doing, we used that time to try to find a diplomatic off ramp. Blinken worked tirelessly with allies to try to engage the Russians in some meaningful way and really make it clear that we were trying our best to find some diplomatic way out and test whether the Russians were actually interested in any diplomacy. It turns out they werent. We had low expectations, whether they were, but we felt like we needed to get caught trying. Then in parallel, to make clear, that the consequences would be swift and severe if Russia were to act, and so to use that time to build up the coalition to impose sanctions if Russia were to act, to further their isolation. All of the things youve seen play out over the past several weeks were things that were put into train from November, December, January. Lizza: When did you decide to go very public with the intelligence? A lot of the story of this conflict from the American side is very quick declassification of very sensitive stuff. Putting it out in the public domain. Can you take us through that process a little bit or the sort of strategic thinking behind it? Chollet: There were a couple of purposes for it. First, all credit really needs to go to Haines, the Director of National Intelligence, Bill Burns, the Director of CIA, who really pushed their buildings to do things that are uncomfortable for them. Its no secret, no pun intended, why intelligence agencies arent necessarily enthusiasts of making this public in this way. You have to be very careful about even what you do make public. Lizza: Because any time youre disclosing intelligence Chollet: Theres always a risk that youre disclosing how that intelligence is gathered, right? I think there were a couple goals here. One was to clearly try to prepare the American people, our allies, the world for what was happening and to explain what we were seeing happening. Because the other interesting piece of this is some of this was in plain sight. I mean, you had commercial satellites releasing images of Russian troop deployments around Ukraine or inside Belarus. So to explain what we were seeing because of course the Russians were out there saying, Well, this is all just an exercise and we have no intention of doing anything. This is all just made up. I mean, really up until the day they invaded, they were saying that our claims were bogus, which obviously events have proven them to be very true. The other piece of it was to try to slow them down, to buy time, to get in their head a little bit. Lizza: How so? Chollet: Well, to the extent that when you can expose some of their playbook, it makes it harder for them to execute their playbook. And also it conditions everyone to understand whats happening given that we know Russias playbook its a well-established playbook and it goes back to Soviet times is to create false flags, to create pretext that then they use as a justification for their actions. Blinken gave a speech to the U.N. Security Council in February prior to the Russian invasion. It was something that we had decided to do, he had decided to do, the evening before, to deliver a speech in which he laid out in great detail the scenario in which we would expect to see Russia create a pretext for a possible invasion. If you go back and look at that speech and read it today, you see that it played out almost to the syllable in terms of what Russia did. Everything from a claim of some event inside Ukraine to a staged security council meeting of the Russian senior we saw that play out on TV. So that was an attempt both to show them we were onto them but it was a way to try to condition everyone to what was coming. Now, the venue for that speech was not lost on us. Lizza: For his speech. Chollet: For Blinkens speech. The historic horseshoe of the U.N. Security Council where were talking about sensitive intelligence about a possible military conflict. The venue was not lost on us, given another Secretary of State who had spoken there in 2003 in a very different context. Lizza: Youre talking about Chollet: Colin Powells speech to the U.N. Lizza: speech before the war. Chollet: Before the war in Iraq. Lizza: Where he held up the vial. Chollet: The famous speech. Blinken referenced that speech bleakly. He said Lizza: That wasnt Powells greatest moment. Chollet: He didnt say that. I think objectively thats probably true. But what he said is, I know you, the world, have heard from other Secretaries of State in this historic room talking about intelligence. He said some version of, I want to be wrong. This is something where the consequences would be so profound, we would be happy to be wrong. I remember talking to a colleague from Europe in the lead up to the invasion and this person had texted me to say they were worried of the consequences to American credibility and leadership if we were wrong about all of this. Again, remember, even up until the bombs started dropping, people were thinking, This cant be true. Putins not going to do this. And believe me, sometimes I was looking at the intelligence and thinking to myself, This cant be true. This seems socrazy. But nevertheless, we were reading what we were reading here. But this person said, I would be really worried about the blow to U.S. credibility if youre wrong. And I said, Look Lizza: If he what? If he doesnt go in? Chollet: If he doesnt go in, or if he goes in and its sort of a really small effort or something like that. I responded to this person saying, You know, I would accept that cost, that our credibility would take a hit if we turn out to be wrong. I dont think were wrong. Im 99 percent sure were right. But then when the invasion unfortunately happened the way we were thinking it would, I thought the reverse of that, which is, given all the United States has been through over last the several decades, unfortunately these terrible events have enhanced our leadership position because theres a lot of partners around the world who said, Hey, we were listening to everything you said. We took you on your word this was happening but we still didnt really believe it. Now its not only happened but its happened exactly the way you said. And its a huge intelligence triumph. I cant think of a parallel in American history where the intelligence community got it so right. Lizza: I was going to ask you about that. There was a sort of boy who cried wolf quality to the way not the rest of the world, but that some parts of the world were viewing this. I remember watching this as an outsider wondering Was this a strategic thing? They surely believe what the satellite imagery shows. But why was there so much skepticism and surprise, even in Ukraine? Some of the reports from southern and eastern Ukraine are of and I dont know if its just because theyre watching more Russian media people who really didnt know that this was coming. You see some of the reports from the cities, people fleeing. Ive heard some people say, Well, for all the praise that Zelenskyy gets, [theres] some criticism that he should have prepared Ukrainians more for this. But it wasnt just Ukraine. Germany seemed skeptical. Can you talk a little bit about that skepticism and what explains it? Chollet: I think theres several explanations for it. Obviously, not everyone had the full benefit of the information we had. We were sharing a lot, perhaps more than ever before, but we werent sharing everything. And even for those of us who were able to see everything in terms of our intelligence, there was still something unbelievable about all this. Because the thought, you know, why would a country launch an unproved premeditated attack in this way that is going to have clear massive consequences, not just for Ukraine but for Russia and destabilize the world. I get it. I get why people had a hard time sort of seeing. I mean, I think there were a lot of Russians who were really surprised by this, including Russian government officials who didnt think that this was going to unfold the way it did. I think part of it is not having the benefit of full information. Part of it is just the difficulty to imagine something like this happening. I mean, the fact that we are now living through what is the greatest security crisis in Europe since the Second World War, the greatest refugee crisis in Europe since the Second World War. Theres a lot of us who dont have that direct memory. Even if you think back to what weve lived through just in the last few years in terms of a one-in-a-century pandemic, an attack on the Capitol unlike any wed seen since 1812. These things can happen. Now a war in Europe, that we havent seen the likes of which since the Second World War. Lizza: Yeah. Every crazy thing has happened in the world so theres no reason to think that you know, were not immune to history. Chollet: Right. Lizza: We were talking about our kids before. I was having this conversation with my kids who are 15 and 13 and really trying to explain whats going on. And the 13-year-old said something like, Well, Dad, how come I never experience this kind of thing here? How come this doesnt affect me? He was really having trouble wrapping his mind around the fact that far away, bad things happen. But his life comfortable D.C. existence, absent his drum teacher who stormed the Capitol [this] doesnt affect him. Chollet: Yeah. But I think whats interesting about this Lizza: You probably have this conversation with your kids, too. Chollet: Sure, yeah. Lizza: Because youre in the business of trying to make bad situations better. Chollet: Yeah. Look, I think one of the things that shocked the world is, this was not in my view an accurate perception, but there was a perception that Europe was kind of fixed. Europe had had a terrible history in the 19th and 20th century, tremendous blood shed, but it was more or less at peace. Okay, yes, you had the Balkans. Yes, you certainly had Russias incursion, initial invasion in Ukraine eight years ago. There were pockets of instability, but in general Europe was fixed and the challenges were elsewhere. Post 9/11, it was the Middle East, it was Afghanistan. Certainly in the last several years, its been a lot of focus on Asia Pacific or Indo-Pacific, which I think is correct strategically. But the sense that this kind of thing wouldnt happen in Europe anymore. So I think thats part of whats shaken everyone. Also, its a reminder of how interconnected we are because theres not a corner of the world that is not affected by this, whether its measured by energy prices or a food security crisis that is likely coming because of the number of countries around the world from Europe to Africa to Latin America who rely a great deal on exports from Russia or Ukraine in terms of wheat and grain. Lizza: Help us think through what the most difficult decisions the administration has faced so far on this. Whats been the hardest call you think the presidents had to make with the help of folks like you and the Secretary? Chollet: Its sort of where to start when you think about hard calls. But I think the toughest line to navigate here, the presidents been very clear that the U.S. is not going to be militarily involved in Ukraine directly. The escalation threat and danger is real. At the same time, we want to do everything we can to support Ukraine, in terms of humanitarian assistance, economic assistance, political support, as well as military support. The United States and our partners are providing a tremendous amount of military support to the Ukrainians. Again, trying to think of historical parallels, I cannot think of a parallel where we have provided so much assistance in such a short period of time in a conflict in which we are not a combatant. Last week alone, the president allocated a billion dollars just in one week for security assistance. And thats on top of a billion dollars in the previous year. So a couple billion dollars of security assistance and thats anti-armor, anti-tank, anti-aircraft, ammunition. Again, thats not just the United States. Its us with other partners adding into what were providing. Lizza: So that balance drives every decision basically? How do you help the Ukrainians without starting a war with Russia? Chollet: Maintaining the escalation dynamic, right. You dont want to widen the war. Thats a fundamental kind of balance point that were all trying to navigate. Lizza: One thing we were talking about before we came over here as a discussion point is, watching from the outside, the drama that played out with the MiGs and that whole strange process versus whats been announced more recently with the S-300s that Slovakia is going to be back-filled. Now Slovakia is going to send these anti-aircraft weapons. Chollet: Which are Russian-made anti-aircraft weapons, which the Ukrainians can operate. Lizza: And were okay with that. In a balance, the escalatorywhat was the phrase you used? Chollet: Escalatory ladder. Lizza: Right. We are okay with that and these are systems that can take out Russian planes at high altitudes or force them to fly lower so that they can take them out with the shoulder-mounted rockets. Were okay with that. But the MiG deal, for whatever reason, we were not okay with, but which would have accomplished the same thing: a plane taking out a Russian plane. I guess what Im trying to get at is, none of these are clear-cut easy cases for you guys, but can you tell us a little bit about the distinction between those two cases? Chollet: So, first, to be clear, the United States does not have an inventory of Russian-made MiGs, the airplanes. So these are other countries who Lizza: Well, we get a say in some of these discussions. Chollet: Well, not necessarily. I mean, its sovereign decisions whether these countries want to provide this capability, as is the case with some of the countries providing the anti-aircraft capability. Theyre saying, These are protecting us, meaning if Im country X and Ive got a Soviet-made anti-aircraft capability that Im going to give up Lizza: Theyre not just in a warehouse theyre being used! Chollet: Yeah. Its actually being used. Its like protecting my country so I want to make sure Ive got something to backfill that because Im going to give this up for Ukraine. So theres nothing preventing any country from providing that capability. Thats thing one. Thing two is the judgment of our intelligence community and of our military was that that would be escalatory. Lizza: The MiGs would be escalatory? Chollet: And I think in part because of the power projection. Its the defense-offense difference in weaponry. Lizza: Got it. I see. Chollet: So defensive systems versus systems that could be offensive. Whats interesting too is what youre seeing on a lot of the Russian air attacks, and the Pentagons briefed a lot of this, is that a lot of the Russian air attacks is whats in the lingo called standoff. So theyre actually taking place not because theyre flying over Ukraine. The actual Russian air is still over Russian territory firing into Ukraine. And a lot of the air attacks weve seen, most of them are through missiles. These are things that MiGs or a no-fly zone actually wouldnt do much to prevent. Lizza: Right. Like that attack in western Ukraine was from Chollet: Was fired from an aircraft over Russian territory that lobbed into Ukraine. Lizza: So MiGs wouldnt have done anything. Chollet: So the way I kind of think about it I used to work at the Pentagon. In the Pentagon, you think of requirements. What are the requirements youre trying to meet? So yes, there is a threat from the air into Ukraine. Where is that threat coming from? What can we do to mitigate against that threat? The judgment right now and lets be clear, this is a dynamic conflict and war will take twists and turns that I cant predict yet. But right now, the principal threat from the air could be met by these anti-aircraft systems, either the ones that we are providing or the ones that our partners can provide, some of these Russian-made systems. Welcome back, Minneapolis! Here's a quick guide to the news for Saturday. First, today's weather: Mostly sunny and breezy. High: 32 Low: 13. Here are the top 4 stories today in Minneapolis: 1. Minneapolis Public Schools and the teachers union reached a tentative agreement Friday to end a weeks-long strike. Students are expected to return to class Monday, March 28. (KARE11) 2. A man was shot in the leg Thursday night in downtown Minneapolis, police said. The shooting happened around 7 p.m. near the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and South 8th Street. (CBS) 3. Statewide COVID-19 rates are reaching lows not seen since last summer, CBS Minnesota reports. There were 492 cases reported Friday, with seven additional deaths. (CBS) 4. Finalists were announced this week for Minnesota Teacher of the Year. A winner will be named on May 1. (Patch) Today in Minneapolis: The Bakken Museum celebrates women in science. (10 a.m.) Sample the citys best chili at the 2022 Chili Cook-Off at Midtown Global Market . (Noon) Check out Academy Award nominees Belfast, Licorice Pizza and more at Riverview Theater ahead of Sundays Oscar ceremony. (2 p.m.) Skylark Opera Theatre and The Russian Museum of Art present Eugene Onegin. (7:30 p.m.) From my notebook: Twin Cities business executive Yuliya (Julia) Li was shot and killed in St. Paul last month in what police called a random and unprovoked attack. She was 34. (Paid source: Star-Tribune ) The University of Minnesota is conducting research to increase cervical cancer screening rates in the Somali community. ( MinnPost ) Star Tribune is showcasing snapshots from the opening of Mall of America as it approaches its 30th anniversary. (Paid source: Star-Tribune ) Save the date for the Minnesota primary on Aug. 9. (Patch) More from our sponsors thanks for supporting local news! Events: Wartburg St Elizabeth Choral Spring Concert (March 26) Derby Party Rush Creek Elementary PTO's Spring Fundraiser open to the public (April 16) Add your event Story continues Loving the Minneapolis Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved: Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe Get your local business listed in front of readers Send me a news tip or suggestion at georgi.presecky@patch.com You're all caught up, Minneapolis! See you Tuesday for more local stories. Georgi Presecky About me: Georgi is a Chicago-based newsletter writer and partner content curator. She spent five years on the entertainment beat for FF2 Media covering film festivals across the U.S. Her feature articles have been recognized with awards from the Illinois Women's Press Association and National Federation of Press Women. As editor-in-chief of the Lewis University newspaper, she and her staff earned honors from the Associated Collegiate Press and American Scholastic Press Associations. She began working for Patch in 2019. This article originally appeared on the Minneapolis Patch A woman who managed a bed-and-breakfast in Georgia was sentenced to 51 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $500,000 from her employer, federal authorities said. Chiquita Blake, 47, worked as a manager for the B&B in Savannahs historic district from 2005 to 2020, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Georgia. The Foley House Inn is considered a haunted B&B after human remains were found in the walls of the inn during the 1980s, the inns website said. Federal authorities said Blake swindled money from the family-owned business from 2015 to 2020. The inns owner spotted discrepancies in the financial reports and an investigation discovered that Blake had swindled more than $500,000 from the inn, according to her plea agreement. Blake was charged with 14 counts of wire fraud, according to the indictment charging Blake. The money transfers ranged from $388 to $1,834. Blake transferred the funds to her bank and used the money to pay for personal purchases, prosecutors said. She also made payments to almost three dozen different personal credit card accounts. Blake provided false financial information to the owner of the inn to cover up the fraudulent transactions, prosecutors said. Chiquita Blake was a trusted employee of a family-owned business, and stole from her employer to fuel a lifestyle far beyond her means, David H. Estes, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, said in the news release. Shes now being held accountable for her unbridled greed. McClatchy News reached out to Blakes attorney for comment and did not receive an immediate response. Blakes guilty plea was accepted on March 24, according to court records. In addition to her sentence of 51 months in prison, Blake is ordered to pay $508,114.37 to the Foley House Inn in restitution, serve three years of supervised release and perform 40 hours of community service after she completes her prison term, according to a news release. Story continues Family will pay. GA man threatens executive with bloodbath over stocks, feds say Man accused of trafficking hundreds of stolen identities on dark web sentenced, feds say Group shipped $162K in guns from Georgia to California through USPS, feds say Unruly passenger attacks gate agent after hes booted from Southwest flight, cops say Guizhou's deputies to the NPC have enjoyed success in promoting the region's intangible cultural heritage. In 2019, just one year after Song Shuixian was elected as a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress and submitted a motion to establish a horsetail embroidery museum, a demonstration center for the national-level intangible cultural heritage was inaugurated in her hometown, where the craft originated, in Sandu county, Southwest China's Guizhou province. "Since then, my 'babies' have had a stable home," says Song, a national-level inheritor of the craft, referring to the tens of thousands of horsetail embroidery works she has collected and made, all of which are now showcased at the center. As both a craftswoman and NPC deputy, Song has worked hard over the past four years to spread knowledge of her craft, which has played an important role in the rural revitalization of Sandu. She is just one example of the Guizhou NPC deputies who have made contributions to their hometowns by promoting local cultural heritage. Shi Liping, a deputy to the NPC from Songtao county, is a provincial-level inheritor of the Miao ethnic group's embroidery, an intangible cultural heritage. Her work is about passing down to future generations not just the craft, but also the culture behind it. "I continue to dig into the cultural connotations contained within our craft, trying to tell people stories about it and the people who are engaged with it," says Shi, who, in 2020, wore an outfit featuring Miao embroidery to the Great Hall of the People as a representative of her fellow craftswomen. Her company selling embroidery products has offered jobs to more than 4,000 women in Songtao, enabling them to work at home and to be paid according to the number of products they produce. NPC deputy Wei Zuying has made a similar contribution. After working at a textile mill in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, for 10 years, the woman, who learned Miao embroidery during her childhood, returned to her hometown in Congjiang county, Guizhou, to open her own embroidery workshop. In 2018, the business generated an output value of more than 800,000 yuan ($126,000). In 2020, her embroidery company was established with the help of the local government. She then established a poverty alleviation workshop in a community of people who used to live in the mountains, and has employed 300 locals. "We work and live in the same apartment, and can earn at least 3,000 yuan each month. It is Wei who offers us employment and makes us realize our value," says Zhu Lanfeng, one of Wei's employees. Moreover, Wei, like Shi, pays attention to the inheritance of Miao embroidery, and organizes activities in schools to help more children learn about it. For Shi, as well as trying to impart the knowledge and skills of her craft to others, she also organizes training courses in local communities and villages. Her idea is echoed by Song, who, since last year, has cooperated with the Disabled Persons' Federation of Tongzhou district in Beijing, and organized lessons, teaching the horsetail embroidery craft to local disabled people. "It provides them with the opportunity to gain a skill and help them find jobs. At the same time, I can spread horsetail embroidery culture to others," says Song. NPC deputy Yang Changqin based in Chishui, a county-level city in Zunyi, Guizhou, is a provincial-level inheritor of Chishui bamboo-weaving. She has brought the intangible cultural heritage to campus. Her bamboo-weaving production and research base in Chishui has become an extracurricular practice center for many students in Zunyi since 2021. "The craft is part of local culture. I hope students can learn about it and inherit it, especially the craftsmanship spirit of the older generations," says Yang. Many of them try to combine their respective crafts with other industries. For example, Shi is exploring a combination of Miao embroidery and local medicine. She has rented an 18-hectare plot of land to cultivate medicinal plants, and plans to make Miao-style perfume sachets or pillows containing medicinal herbs. Song, meanwhile, is exploring avenues in fashion, developing cultural and creative products based on the embroidery style. Development of cultural industries also helps to boost tourism, says Song, who notes that some young people visit Sandu county to enjoy the landscape and local Sui ethnic group culture. Some of their motions to the NPC have been carried out. Yang says she proposed to specify that more developed cities provide partner assistance to Chishui, and in recent years, specific policies in industrial cooperation and talent cultivation have been carried out, making the assistance more effective. This year, she proposed to build a high-speed railway between Luzhou city, Sichuan province, and Zunyi, so that local products can be transported to other places more easily. "I have learned so many things since becoming a deputy to the NPC, and it has enhanced my sense of responsibility. I like to bring the voices of the grassroots to the two sessions (the annual sitting of China's national legislature and top political advisory body) and help people solve their problems," says Yang. Song, on the other hand, feels "extremely happy" when recalling what she has done over the past four years. The horsetail embroidery, a tradition of the Sui ethnic group, once only survived within the boundaries of Sandu, where Sui people live, and it was extremely hard to introduce it to the outside world. But after being elected as a deputy to the NPC, she has helped to bring much more publicity to the craft, and local people who are engaged with the industry can earn much more money than before. "Now our horsetail embroidery has built its own brand. I feel very pleased to see my efforts help spread the craft of our hometown, and increase the income of local people," says Song. Her enthusiasm for traditional culture urged her to propose the speeding up of the world heritage application of shuishu, the written language of the Sui ethnic group, during this year's two sessions. "As a pictographic language similar to Dongba writing (the writing used by the Naxi ethnic group), shuishu has a history of several thousand years. It is a calling card of the Sui ethnic group, and China," says Song. On Jan 26, the State Council, China's Cabinet, issued a document to support Guizhou in forging a new path in its development, and, as such, Shi sees more opportunities in the future. "Over the past four years, I have seen my efforts to promote Miao embroidery being supported by the country and society, which motivates me to continue, and gives me a lot of confidence. "The issuing of the document makes me believe Guizhou is welcoming a new golden decade. I will focus on how to seize the opportunity," Shi says. "And I hope more people will be attracted to invest here." MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexican airline Aeromexico has reached an agreement to rent nine Boeing planes, Air Lease Corporation said on Friday, expanding the carrier's fleet as it emerges from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Air Lease will provide Aeromexico with two new 737-8s and seven new 737-9s, which will arrive between July 2022 and August 2023, the aircraft leasing company said. The deal comes after Aeromexico said last week it would spend $5 billion over the next five years on upgrades, including revamping its fleet to reach 147 aircraft by the end of the year. "The 737 offers the most modern, fuel-efficient technology to enhance the global capabilities of Mexico's premier airline," Air Lease Corporation Executive Chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy said in a statement. Aeromexico declared bankruptcy in mid-2020 after travel demand plummeted following the coronavirus pandemic. The airline came to an agreement with debtors in a U.S. court in January, and then it recently carried out a forward stock split and subsequent reverse split to shuffle company control, formalizing its exit from bankruptcy. Aeromexico shares were up 8.45% Friday morning after a volatile week on Mexico's principal market. One analyst said shares would continue to behave erratically until traders had more information about the airline's financial situation. Shares in Air Lease were up some 1.35% on the New York Stock Exchange following the announcement. (Reporting by Noe Torres and Kylie Madry; Editing by Aurora Ellis) Mar. 25Masks are no longer required for students and staff in the Reading School District. The school board voted unanimously Wednesday to amend the district's health and safety plan. "For everyone who has been asking, wanting it to go mask optional, it will be mask optional," said Dr. Noahleen Betts, school board president. The changes, which were effective Thursday, include making optional the use of masks in district buildings and on school buses and vans. The changes were made in accordance with state requirements for schools and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the CDC's website, Berks County is ranked in the low-risk zone, and guidelines no longer require indoor masking and social distancing for the county. Other changes to the health and safety plan include making optional social distancing guidelines and barriers or dividers. Hand-sanitizing supplies will be maintained and available in all areas occupied by students and staff, including lavatories and rooms with sinks for handwashing. In other business the school board voted 7-1 to hold the high school prom on May 6 in the event tent at Green Valley Country Club, 160 Green Valley Road, Lower Heidelberg Township. Board member Jonathan Tinoco voted no. The venue was one of several considered based on availability on the selected date and the ability to offer outdoor options. Board member Mark Detterline said he was familiar with the country club's all-weather tent. He said it is weatherized and equipped with air conditioning, heating and restrooms. The venue was selected before the county was ranked in the low-risk zone and administrators were uncertain how the pandemic would progress by May, administrators said. Detterline asked if the tent, which has a maximum occupancy of 299, was large enough to accommodate the prom. The annual average of attendance in recent years has not exceeded that number, administrators said. Detterline and board members board members Tinoco, Patricia Wright and Patricia Law expressed concerns about the distance of the country club from the city and the difficulty of students getting there. Story continues "I am not comfortable that it is so far outside Reading," Wright said of the country club. "It's not like we offer a bus. Nobody wants to ride a bus to prom." Wright noted buses were used to transport student spectators to the high school's away basketball games. School administrators said students will be provided with directions and an informational video, which will include directions, also is planned. Those girls in need of prom dresses, shoes, accessories, and hair and makeup tips are invited to attend a prom party event, the board announced. The event at the Olivet Boys & Girls Club's Pendora Park location on April 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. is sponsored by the Girls Empowerment Movement, or GEM, a nonprofit founded by Reading personal development coach Aneasa Jordan. The event is open to all girls in Berks. Donations of gently worn, recently made gowns, shoes and accessories can be made at the Wyomissing Restaurant, 1245 Penn Ave., Wyomissing. Kamiyah Mobley is asking the court to show grace and mercy in support of her kidnappers request to the judge for a reduction of her prison sentence. Action News Jax reported in June 2018 when Gloria Williams, the woman convicted of kidnapping Mobley from a Jacksonville hospital in 1998, was sentenced to 18 years in prison. Authorities said Williams pretended to be a nurse when she took Mobley just hours after she was born at University Medical Center which is now UF Health Jacksonville and raised her as her own in South Carolina under the name Alexis Manigo. Tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led officials to Walterboro, South Carolina in 2017, where they found a young woman with the same date of birth but with a different name and fraudulent documents. After collecting her DNA, officials said the results came back as a match for Mobley. Though Mobley has since reunited with her biological mother and father, in a letter dated Sept. 30, 2021, Mobley wrote a letter to the court making it very clear that Williams is her mother. Authorities released a series of images of evidence in the Kamiyah Mobley case in 2018. In this photo, Mobley is pictured with Gloria Williams. I had a well-rounded life; and I am an independent, college educated, and deeply spiritual person, because of all my mom gave me. I am fully aware of how our lives came to be, what they are, and how my mom came to be my mom, Mobley wrote. I understand that none of this modifies the truth of the past, Nor does it justify my moms actions in any way, Mobley added. I ask for the courts grace and mercy, as I need my mother home, Mobley wrote. Kamiyah Mobley reunited with her biological parents in 2017. View the letter in its entirety below: Kamiyah Mobley's letter... by ActionNewsJax According to court documents filed in December 2021, Williams included Mobleys letter in her motion for the judge to consider modifying her sentence. In Williams letter addressed to Judge Marianne Aho, she prays that the court will enter an order granting her motion to modify her sentence to a split sentence term of nine years in prison to be followed by nine years on felony probation, or whatever relief this Court deems appropriate. Story continues She also mentions in the letter that shes been a model inmate, has completed a faith and character program, and that she is actively pursing the completion of her Masters degree in business administration. I have received no disciplinary reports whatsoever, and I have maintained an above satisfactory rating by both security and in my work assignment performance issued once a month by the Department of Corrections, Williams wrote. I understand that this in no way mollifies my actions, however, I ask this Court for mercy and grace in considering modifying/reducing my sentence to a split sentence... she added. Court records do not indicate whether her motion was granted. Williams full letter can be read below: Motion to Reduce and Modify Sentence by ActionNewsJax on Scribd Alexis Manigo (left) posted photos of herself and a woman thought to be Gloria Williams on Facebook. Manigo called her "Mama" on social media. The baby known as "Kamiyah" was on Jacksonville billboards as recently as 2014. Mobley (shown here in 1998) was discovered living in South Carolina. Manigo was named "Kamiyah Mobley" when she was abducted in Jacksonville in 1998. At the time, she was only a few hours old. Manigo also posted Snapchat images of Williams, who was found in South Carolina. (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) (Facebook) A Tennessee judge on Thursday sentenced a Nashville man to 17 years in prison in a federal firearm case that left his 3-year-old son shot in the head just over two years ago. Kendrick Ross, 29, pleaded guilty in December 2020 to drug distribution and firearms charges stemming from various 2018 and 2019 arrests, according to U.S. Attorney Mark H. Wildasin for the Middle District of Tennessee. While out on bond on state charges in May 2019, Ross had stolen guns, marijuana and methamphetamine in North Nashville's Cumberland View Public Housing. And on Sept. 9, 2019, Ross was in possession of a stolen handgun while in possession of methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. That gun, a Glock .40 caliber, was later found to be the same firearm Ross left unattended at a relative's house. That same day, prosecutors said, the toddler found the gun and shot himself in the head. The child suffered critical wounds at a duplex home in north Nashville, the Metro Nashville Police Department reported at the time, and was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The shooting was reported just after 10 a.m. at a home on Village Trail, just off Brick Church Pike. Ross and the boy's mother were in the home at the time of the shooting, police spokesman Don Aaron said. Prosecutors said that during the shooting investigation, Ross attempted to persuade his cousin to falsely claim that this firearm belonged to the cousins dead husband. Because of Rosss continued lifestyle of drug dealing and other criminal activity, an innocent child sustained life-altering injuries, Wildasin said. Too often, the reckless conduct of those involved in criminal activity results in tragic, unintended consequences as this case demonstrates." Natalie Neysa Alund is based in Nashville at The Tennessean and covers breaking news across the South for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at nalund@tennessean.com and follow her on Twitter @nataliealund. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville father gets 17 years in prison after toddler shot himself WASHINGTON The U.S. Navy and 26 partners and allies have concluded a final planning conference for this years Rim of the Pacific exercise, the largest international maritime exercise. The biennial RIMPAC exercise was scaled down in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. The event is meant to convene navies and armed forces from the Pacific region as well as others interested in operating in the area. It includes anti-submarine warfare exercises, amphibious operations, humanitarian assistance training, missile shots, ground forces drills and much more, with a focus on interoperability among forces that might work together in the future. U.S. 3rd Fleet hosted the final planning conference this week at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, where about 1,000 personnel from 27 nations reviewed the exercise plan. This conference represents one of the last steps to making this exercise a reality and is the perfect opportunity here in Hawaii to allow participants the opportunity to see where we will all be operating in July, RIMPAC Coordinator Royal Australian Navy Lt. Cmdr. James Dobson said in a U.S. Navy news release. The level of teamwork, planning and cooperation between participants has been fantastic, ensuring that this exercise will be executed safely and professionally. The exercise will take place in July and August in and around Hawaii. U.S. Marines push toward an objective on Pyramid Rock Beach during an amphibious landing demonstration as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise on Marine Corps Base Hawaii on July 29, 2018. (Lance Cpl. Adam Montera/U.S. Marine Corps) The 2020 iteration was limited to at-sea events only, whereas 2018 included extensive training ashore in Hawaii, as well as in-port meetings and cultural exchanges at Pearl Harbor. 2018s exercise also included a Southern California portion in a bid to attract additional participants from Pacific-facing Central and South American nations. The news release notes the 2022 iteration will look more like 2018 in size and scale, but will have COVID-19 mitigation measures in place. Though subject to change, the plan includes 41 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and nearly 25,000 personnel from 27 countries. For an exercise this massive, everyone needs to be on the same page, and thats what weve accomplished here this week, Royal Canadian Navy Commodore Christopher Robinson, deputy commander of RIMPAC 2022 Combined Task Force, said in the news release. Seeing all the leaders and staff members of these participating nations come together like this is truly inspiring. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has nominated Nicole Lee to replace Patrick Daley Thompson as the 11th Ward Alderman, potentially making her the first Asian American woman to serve in the City Council. Speaking at a media conference at Bridgeports Zhou B Art Centeron Thursday, Lightfoot announced Lee, who has deep roots in Chicagos Chinese American community, as the final candidate to replace Thompson. Nicole represents whats good and best about our city, Lightfoot said of Lee, the daughter of Gene Lee, a top aide of former Mayor Richard M. Daley who was convicted in 2014 for stealing from charities. Im ready to roll up my sleeves and move the 11th Ward in a new direction, Lee said at the conference. Lee was among the 27 candidates considered to replace Thompson, who resigned in February following his conviction on federal tax fraud charges. Some of the other candidates considered reportedly had connections to Daley. The pool of named candidates also included other members of the Asian American community and first responders. Before the nomination, Lee led fundraising campaigns for United Airlines and oversaw the airlines relationship with charities as a director. She has held similar roles while working for Premier Bank and BP America in the past. Lees other past experiences include leading the Chinese Mutual Aid Association, the Local School Council at Haines Elementary School in Chinatown and the Chicago chapter of the Organization of Chinese Americans. Lee has a masters degree in public policy from the University of Chicago and a bachelor of science in public affairs from Indiana University Bloomington, according to herLinkedIn profile. She also went to Whitney Young Magnet High School, a public magnet school in Chicago. Reporters on Thursday asked Lee about herfathers political history. The elder Lee pleaded guilty to embezzlement and tax fraud in 2014 for purportedly stealing thousands of dollars from the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association in 2007 and 2008. Lightfoot stepped in to set the tone and remind people that this is about Lee. I hope in asking her that, in asking the question, youre not asking her to say anything other than, I love you, Dad. I love you, Mom. She loves her kids, her brother and her family, Lightfoot said. This is about her. Her life. Her experience. And how shes going to do in leading this ward in this challenging time. So I hope the question is specific to her and not about anything else. Asked if she herself had any concerns, Lightfoot replied, None whatsoever. Nicoles her own person. Lee spoke about how her father tirelessly worked for the ward and served the public for 30 years, driving the streets, taking the long way home, checking the lights, making sure stuff was picked up, taking calls at all hours of the night. She added, He was somebody in our community that people could look to. Lee laid down her top three priorities for the 11th Ward as management of city services, improving public safety and doing everything we can to ensure that every child has great educational opportunities and that we dont lose more families to the suburbs. It is exciting and historic that the Mayor has appointed the first Alderman from the Chinese American community, said State Rep. Theresa Mah, a Democrat who represents Chinatown and the first Asian American elected to the Illinois General Assembly. I know Nicole, and I am confident that she has the right skill set to represent all 11th Ward residents well in City Council. If elected into the council, Lee would serve as the alderperson of the 11th Ward until the 2023 election. Story continues Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Texas Chef Threatens to Sue Vietnamese Woman for Correcting His Spelling of Banh Mi Man fatally shot by SF police allegedly told them hospital couldn't 'help' him, 'make sure you aim' NYC Mayor Announces Initiative, Partnership with Six Organizations to Tackle Hate Crimes Suspect in Brutal Vancouver Bus Attack Identified, Found Dead of Drug Overdose North Korea has released a bizarre, slow-mo video of Kim Jong-Un giving the go-ahead for the launch of a new ballistic missile On Thursday North Korea tested the Hwasong-17, a huge new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) dubbed the 'Monster' that is believed to be the largest in the nation's history. It marks the end of a self-imposed ban on long-range missile testing, following the previous test conducted in 2017. North Korean state media said Kim directly guided the missile himself, and released a video to mark the event. In it, Kim struts out from the hanger containing the enormous missile wearing a leather jacket, pair of wide leg trousers and black sunglasses, despite the seemingly overcast day. He then points at something off the horizon while flanked by the generals. Read more: North Korea fires suspected 'long range' ballistic missile Kim checks his watch as he waits for the right time to give the go ahead(KCNA) But not before ripping off his sunglasses and staring into the camera (KCNA) He checks his watch, before the camera pans to his two generals who do the same. The shots flick between the three men as they stare at their watches, before Kim tears off his sunglasses to look directly into the camera. He nods, giving the go ahead for the rocket launch, as one of the generals gives a thumbs up. 'Clear violation' South Korea called the launch a "clear violation" of UN Security Council resolutions, and launched drills of their own missiles from the land, sea and air in response to the test. The US also condemned the use of the Hwasong-17 - which analysts have called a "monster missile" - branding it a "brazen violation" of multiple UN Security Council resolutions. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres urged Pyongyang to "desist from taking any further counter-productive actions," his spokesman said. The launch was "another breach" of North Korea's "announced moratorium in 2018 on launches of this nature, and a clear violation of Security Council resolutions," Stephane Dujarric said in a statement. Story continues Only Kim opted for the sunglasses on what looked like an overcast day (KCNA) The weapon is North Korea's largest to date (KCNA) North Korea's resumption of long-range missile tests puts it closer than ever to having a reliable way of delivering multiple nuclear warheads anywhere in the United States, analysts say. Kim said the test was designed to demonstrate the might of its nuclear force and deter any US military moves. In words published by Pyongyangs official Korean Central News Agency, Kim vowed for North Korea's army to military to acquire formidable military and technical capabilities unperturbed by any military threat and blackmail and keep themselves fully ready for a long-standing confrontation with the US imperialists. The weapons flew for 677 miles, reaching a altitude of 3,882 miles before hitting a target in the sea between North Korea and Japan, KCNA said. People watch a TV at the Seoul Railway Station showing a file image of a North Korean missile launch on Thursday (Getty) It marks the first full-scale ICBM test launch since 2017. There were two launches in February that U.S. officials said were preliminary tests of the Hwasong-17. With a range that the Japanese government said probably exceeds 15,000 km (9,320 miles), the missile could strike targets anywhere in the world outside of a few countries in South America and parts of Antarctica. That range - and its massive size - suggest North Korea plans to tip it with multiple warheads that could hit several targets or deploy decoys to confuse defenders, analysts say. North Korea's smaller Hwasong-15 ICBM, tested in 2017, can reach any part of the United States, but cannot carry as large of a payload. "Since there aren't any good targets farther away, this missile is likely about carrying more weight in the form of multiple nuclear warheads," said Melissa Hanham, a researcher at Stanford University's Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC) in California. "This makes U.S. ballistic missile defence even more difficult to achieve." Legendary Italian designer's exhibition investigates the discoveries of life, in present and future forms. With a career spanning nearly six decades in architecture, interior and exterior design as well as urban planning, Italian visionary Gaetano Pesce has created a body of work renowned for a highly personalized style, often marked by intense colors and fantastic, sometimes imperfect, forms and anthropomorphic shapes. The designs are an expression of the 83-year-old's long-standing and unbounded curiosity, as well as his philosophical thinking from multiple perspectives. Pesce's innovative ideas have broken down the boundaries between art and design. And he dwells on social phenomena that are in need of improvement, rendering his work with a humanistic sensibility and inspiring thoughts of life in the future. "I believe our work is done to discover what the future holds. Doing the work I do, I allow the future to become the present. And then, at that moment, our work becomes something that is very innovative," Pesce says. The legendary designer's investigation into human mentality and the possibilities of life is vividly presented at Gaetano Pesce: Nobody's Perfect, an ongoing exhibition at the Today Art Museum in Beijing that examines his work dating back to the 1960s. On show are more than 50 pieces, including chairs, desks, lamps and cabinets, signature pieces in his oeuvre, as well as manuscripts, images and documents, to lead viewers into the whimsical world Pesce has constructed. The exhibition was unveiled in November at the Sea World Culture and Arts Center in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, jointly presented by Design Society and the Gaetano Pesce Office, before traveling to Beijing. It will run at the Today Art Museum until June 30. These days, Pesce lives and works in New York City, but he shares with his audience in China insights on design and how he works in the studio in several videos presented at the exhibition. Zhang Ran, the museum director, says Pesce's works evoke discussions on imperfections and differences which reveal the true diversity of the world, in which people will find love and be touched. Among the iconic designs on show are the Up 5-6 chairs, including an armchair, resembling a female silhouette, and a globe footrest. The items, unveiled in 1969, are considered among the most famous artistic furnishings of the 20th century. They are displayed with two photos showing Salvador Dali, the Spanish surrealist artist, and fashion designer Pierre Cardin among those admiring the chairs. Meanwhile, a 5.5-meter-high installation version of Up 5-6 is installed in the square outside the museum. Pesce's designs are not only functional and practical, but are also a statement of a human situation. He expresses in the Up chairs his gratitude to the women in his life, such as his mother and sisters, as well as his concerns with the status of females, hoping they will be free from prejudice and suppression. A 38-year-old nurse from Missouri sentenced Wednesday to 35 years in prison on charges he tried to have sex with a child and transporting child pornography, according to U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern Illinois District. Jason Dominik Tyler Rodriguez, 38, of East Prairie, MO, had been convicted of the charges in November 2021. He was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Benton. He wa charged after showing up to meet with a man who said he would let strangers have sex with his 8-year-old daughter in Southern Illinois. But the purported father was actually an FBI agent working in a sting operation, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Rodriguez chatted on an online dating application for four days and had a conversation with what he thought was a father who was willing to allow strangers to have sex with his daughter for $150, according to court documents and evidence presented during his federal trial. Rodriguez, in his conversations, indicated his interest in traveling to Marion, Illinois, from St. Louis to meet the father and the juvenile victim to engage in sexual acts with the girl, prosecutors said. On March 26, 2020, Rodriguez left St. Louis, where he worked as a nurse and arrived at a business in Marion. He was immediately arrested by police. Agents found $150 in cash on Rodriguez and an unopened bag of candy in his automobile. Rodriguez, according to federal documents, had been told previously that his juvenile victim would expect candy before having sex with him. The arresting agents also located a cellphone with over 20,000 videos and pictures of child pornography in Rodriguezs possession. U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said in a news release on Thursday, Federal law enforcement conducts these sting operations so that would-be child molesters are aggressively prosecuted after they take affirmative steps to abuse a child, but before they can do immeasurable damage. The FBI Springfield division and U.S. Marshals Service handled the investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. U.S. House candidate Abby Broyles Democratic Oklahoma House candidate Abby Broyles announced on Thursday she would be dropping her congressional bid following an incident last month at a Valentine's Day weekend sleepover in which she reportedly used profanities toward several girls. "Today, I am ending my campaign for Oklahoma's 5th Congressional District to focus on myself and my happiness. This decision hasn't been easy to make; I got into politics because I wanted to help people," Broyles said in a statement posted on Medium. The Oklahoma candidate said that she had been struggling with her mental health following news coverage of her reportedly using profanities toward several girls while at a sleepover, with reports saying she called one girl a "Hispanic f---er," another a "judgy f---er" and one other an "acne f---er" while intoxicated. She said that she had told a friend earlier this month that she "took whatever I had. I just wanted it all to end" and said that close to two weeks after the scandal broke, she had taken sleeping pills and "drank heavily" one morning in an effort to end her life. "I'd received death threats, got obliterated by cyber cowards hiding behind their computer screens and furiously typing on their keyboards, and got bombarded with prank calls (from people who found my number online) telling me to drop out of politics and go kill myself," Broyles wrote. "The public barrage was the result of a night I honestly can't remember that took place while I assisted in chaperoning a preteen sleepover with a close friend (now former) from law school." The Democratic candidate claimed that she did not remember what had happened the night of the sleepover and alleged her then-friend "threw me under a bus to superficially avoid further interrogation from her ex-husband during their custody battle." She said she would be dropping out of the Oklahoma congressional race to focus on her mental health and happiness, and said she checked herself into rehab several weeks ago. Broyles has previously apologized for the comments she made, but asserted in an interview with NBC affiliate KFOR, whom she once worked for as a journalist, that "I would never ever say anything hurtful. I've never, ever would say something hurtful like those things. And that's why I know I was not in my right mind." An Oklahoma woman is in custody in a 1993 cold case killing that rocked a California town and drew national attention after it was featured on the TV show "America's Most Wanted," authorities said Thursday. Rayna Hoffman-Ramos, 61, was arrested in the slaying of Shu Ming Tang, San Mateo County Sheriffs Office Lt. Jacob Trickett told reporters. Tang was found suffering from a single gunshot wound on April 26, 1993, at Devonshire Little Store, Trickett said. "This was a cold case for nearly three decades," Sheriff Carlos Bolanos said. "Today I can announce that we made an arrest, and justice for Mr. Tangs family is at hand." Sheriff Carlos G. Bolanos announces the successful closure of the cold case murder of Shu Min Tang, after nearly three decades. (@SMCSheriff via Twitter) San Carlos Mayor Sara McDowell described Tang as a husband, father and "beloved" shop owner who ran a decades-old corner store in the San Francisco Bay Area town of San Carlos. "His death shook the community," she said. Detectives at the time believed the killing was linked to a robbery gone wrong involving an adult woman, Trickett said. Later that year, Tang's killing appeared on "America's Most Wanted" but the case continued to elude authorities. In 2018, investigators and analysts with the San Mateo Sheriff's Office began reviewing the case and eventually identified Hoffman-Ramos, who lived in San Mateo at the time of the killing, as a suspect. Searches carried out earlier this month at two locations in Oklahoma and Sacramento, California, revealed "additional leads and evidence," Trickett said, adding that authorities in Oklahoma then arrested Hoffman-Ramos. It wasnt immediately clear if Hoffman-Ramos has a lawyer. She is being held in Washington County, Oklahoma, and is awaiting extradition on a no-bail warrant in Tangs death, Trickett said. Trickett declined to provide additional details about what led investigators to identify her as a suspect, saying he didn't want to compromise authorities' investigation. That investigation so far suggests that detectives' initial theory about a robbery gone wrong was correct, Trickett said. LOS ANGELES, CA Los Angeles County is seeing a sharp rise in the spread of the highly contagious omicron subvariant known as BA.2, county health officials confirmed Thursday. At the same time, overall cases continue to fall to levels not seen since July, creating a muddled picture of the pandemic's trajectory this spring in Southern California. BA. 2 accounted 14.7 percent of all specially sequenced cases as of the week ending March 5 more than double its share of cases just one week earlier. At this rate, BA.2 could overtake omicron as the dominant variant in Los Angeles in April. BA.2 is believed to be roughly 30 percent more contagious than omicron. Still, Los Angeles County has recorded more than 2.8 million COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, and 75 percent of eligible Angelenos are fully vaccinated. Health officials and county leaders will be watching to see if enough Los Angeles County residents possess the kind of immunity that could stave off a BA.2 surge. In the meantime, Department of Public Health officials urge caution. "Although most of our metrics continue to improve, the county continues to see substantial transmission," county Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said. "Along with the increasing circulation of the more-infectious BA.2 subvariant, everyone, especially those who are at elevated risk or live with someone at elevated risk, should wear a high-quality mask and get vaccinated and boosted." Mask-wearing mandates have been lifted in the county in outdoor and indoor settings, although face coverings remain strongly recommended particularly for people who are unvaccinated, are at heightened risk of severe illness from the virus or who regularly interact with vulnerable people. County health officials noted that the growing reach of the BA.2 subvariant mirrors trends being seen in some East Coast states and in Europe. The county on Thursday reported 27 new COVID-19 deaths, raising the overall death toll from the virus in the county to 31,561. Story continues Another 734 infections were also reported, giving the county a cumulative total of 2,827,802 from throughout the pandemic. According to state figures, there were 351 COVID-positive patients in county hospitals as of Thursday, down from 378 on Wednesday. The number of those patients being treated in intensive care was 52, down from 54 a day earlier. According to the county, as of last Thursday, 83 percent of eligible county residents age 5 and older had received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and 75 percent were fully vaccinated. However, only 30 percent of children age 5-11 have been fully vaccinated, the lowest rate of any age group. Among Black residents, only 55 percent are fully vaccinated, along with 59 percent of Latina/o residents, compared with 73 percent of white residents and 82 percent of Asians. City News Service and Patch Staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on the Los Angeles Patch Actor Demi Singleton, right, actor and producer Will Smith and actor Saniyya Sidney pose on the red carpet at a Nov. 17 screening of Oscar season is upon us. On Sunday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will honor what it deems to be the best films of 2021 during the 94th Academy Awards. After years of chastising the academy with the #OscarsSoWhite campaign, this year we have a whopping four Black acting nominees Will Smith (King Richard) and Denzel Washington (The Tragedy of Macbeth) for best actor, and Ariana DeBose (West Side Story) and Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard) for best supporting actress and one film with a predominantly Black cast nominated for best picture (King Richard)! Can you sense my sarcasm? Ive learned to temper my enthusiasm about Black folks winning Academy Awards. I have learned that the Oscars either dont care for Black art or simply dont know how to judge Black work. Still, either way, Ive learned what the Oscars have taught me: Black movies and those who work on them wont be recognized for their contributions to the art, all the while knowing that winning one can set a filmmaker or actor up for life. Lets look at what can happen to an actor after winning one of the coveted awards. To win an actual Oscar, the actor doesnt get anything. The statuette costs about $400 to make, and selling an Oscar in an auction will net you not much more than that. Yet, what can happen to a career is substantial. Money Nation estimated that an actor could get a boost of up to 60% on their average salary after winning one. For example, Brad Pitt did not get much of a bump after he won best supporting actor for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, but Halle Berry, who was Black famous in 2002 (but not yet famous-famous) when she won for lead actress in Monsters Ball, went from an average salary of $118,750 before her magical night to $6.5 million after. This means that winning an Oscar puts you in a very exclusive club. You make more money, your fame skyrockets and your projects can get easier to make. The streets of Hollywood are littered with pages of screenplays that never saw the light of day because the people who wanted to produce them could not get funding. Winning an Oscar can help with all that. Yet, there are not many people of color in the club. Story continues The fact that after hundreds of thousands of movies have included Black actors, only 20 Black actors have won an Academy Award. Though winning the coveted Oscar is often considered the high mark of ones career, there are many examples of when the academy failed to recognize the best film made in a given year or even the best actor nominated. I will never forgive the academy for failing to nominate Do the Right Thing for best picture. That year, the Oscar went to Driving Miss Daisy. (Ugh.) And who could forget the year that Al Pacino won for Scent of a Woman over the transfixing Denzel Washington as Malcolm X? Further, the Oscars have a history of recognizing films like Green Book, The Blind Side and The Help that place white people as the moral center of the stories, which are actually about Black people. I have also grown wary of placing too much weight on the white assessment of Black expression. As we have learned in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement (that was not just actively calling attention to the killing of Black folk by the police but also advocating for Black self-actualization), when we need the approval and validation of the dominant group for us to see our work as valuable, we engage in a vicious form of internalized racism one that centers whiteness even as we engage in the subversive work of expressing Black brilliance. We are consistently outraged when white institutions do what they were created to do: marginalize people of color. That is what artistic institutions like this have always done. Never forget that the Oscars didnt recognize Denzel Washingtons brilliance until he played a dirty cop in Training Day, for which he won for best lead actor. Put simply, I dont trust the Oscars to celebrate Black art. There will always be a preference given to white directors, white writers, white actors and white artisans. I would have no problem if the playing field were level, but an actor like Will Smith (who will most likely win for lead actor this year) or Viola Davis (who should have won for lead actress last year for Ma Raineys Black Bottom) has to give outstanding performances to be recognized, while all that people like Daniel Day-Lewis or Meryl Streep need to do is yawn in a movie and the academy will trip over itself to nominate them. Even last year, when the Oscars tried to set Chadwick Boseman up for the win, the voters got it wrong and gave it to Anthony Hopkins. That year, the Oscars closed the show with the lead actor award. They usually end with the best picture. Everyone assumed that was because the Oscar would be awarded posthumously to Boseman for his performance in Ma Raineys Black Bottom. Even Hopkins took a moment to acknowledge Boseman in a video shared on his social media accounts a day after the award show. At 83 years of age, I did not expect to get this award. I really didnt, Hopkins said. Im very grateful to the Academy. Thank you. I want to pay tribute to Chadwick Boseman, who was taken from us far too early. And again, thank you all very much. I really did not expect this, so I feel very privileged and honored, thank you. As we learned from the #OscarsSoWhite campaign, there have historically been significant issues about the voting body that decides Oscar winners. A 2012 Los Angeles Times report let America in on an open secret: 94% of Oscar voters at that time were white, and 77% of them were male. They have since changed that and invited more than 600 new members to join their ranks. This means there are more people of color (in 2020, the percentage was 84% white and 16% minority), but things are far from fixed. With this in mind, I dont trust the Oscars to get it right when it comes to honoring Black films. I am reminded of the words W.E.B. Du Bois reportedly wrote to eulogize Carter G. Woodson, the great African American scientist: No white university ever recognized his work; no white scientific society ever honored him. Perhaps this was his greatest honor. Its nice to be recognized, but if white institutions fail to appreciate the work of Black folks, we should not be outraged. We should consider it an honor. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Related... NEW ORLEANS (AP) With its president saying it had racist origins, the New Orleans school board has unanimously reversed a little known but century-old ban on jazz in schools in a city which played a huge role in developing jazz and where it is still played nightly at various venues. Im very glad that we can rescind this policy. I want to acknowledge it. It was rooted in racism, Orleans Parish School Board President Olin Parker said during the meeting Thursday night. And I also want to acknowledge the tremendous contributions of our students and especially of our band directors, whose legacy continues from 1922 through present day. The boards resolution said it wanted to correct the previous action of the School Board and to encourage jazz music and jazz dance in schools. Board minutes from March 24, 1922, said it was decided that jazz music and jazz dancing would be abolished in the public schools. One member who walked out on a special meeting called at the end of the session because reporters were not allowed to cover it abstained from voting on jazz. Officials told The Times Picayune / The New Orleans Advocate that the 1922 board members were trying to distance students from a genre with African American origins. A copy of a news clipping from 1922, posted on the newspapers website, did not mention race. It quoted the resolutions sponsor, Mrs. A. Baumgartner, as saying she had seen a lot of rough dancing at after-school events. This cheek-to-cheek dancing is terrible," she said. Ken Ducote, executive director of the Greater New Orleans Collaborative of Charter Schools, brought the policy to the boards attention after reading about it in Al Kennedys book Chord Changes on the Chalkboard: How Public School Teachers Shaped Jazz and the Music of New Orleans. It was just one of those things that was buried in the books, board member Carlos Zervigon said Friday. Obviously it was ridiculous and never really applied. But what an opportunity to be able to go back and reverse it on the 100th anniversary of its passage and acknowledge what our schools played in the formation and development of music in our classrooms. The earlier board's vote on March 24, 1922, was passed without prior policy development, analysis, or debate, and the proposal had not been on the agenda, the current board noted. Were glad that the policy was ignored by our schools, because our schools played a major role in the development of jazz, said member Katherine Baudouin. PENNSYVLANIA Residents of Pennsylvania who dont have health insurance can soon expect to pay for COVID-19 tests and treatment, as a federal program that reimbursed providers for virus-related care ended earlier this week. One of the immediate implications of the expiration of the Trump-era provider relief program: People in Pennsylvania and elsewhere who havent received their COVID-19 booster shots, or even the first in the vaccination series, should do so before April 5, the last day the Uninsured Program will accept vaccination claims. The program has already stopped accepting claims for testing and treatment. The reimbursement program was launched in 2020 with $100 billion in funding, and another $78 billion was appropriated later. The White Houses decision to end the program due to a lack of funding also means that, after the end of April, hospitals and other health care providers in Pennsylvania can no longer bill the government for things such as administering COVID-19 vaccines to people who dont have health insurance. The provider relief funding is ending as the numbers of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths continue to decline across the country. But a new surge in cases in Western Europe has health officials and experts worried that cases may again go up in the U.S. as well. Cases in Pennsylvania have been steadily plunging for weeks, despite spikes in other communities as a new subvariant spreads. The state saw a pandemic-high of cases during the recent surge due to the omicron variant, but has fallen now to just over 3,000 cases a week. The percent positivity rate is all the way down to 2.9. The nation has come too far in its fight against COVID-19 to back away now, according to Dr. Michael Mina, a former Harvard University epidemiologist and now the chief science officer for eMed, a startup that makes at-home COVID-19 tests. When you have the time and space to breathe, that's when you prepare and make sure everyone's being taken care of, not when more and more people are dying every day, he told NBC News, recalling how the government was caught unprepared with COVID-19 tests as omicron cases surged around the holidays last winter. Story continues You don't go to a race and start training and preparing the day of the race, Mina said. That would be a massive mistake. The Biden administration and Democrats in Congress are urging lawmakers to approve a new round of funding in the nations fight against COVID-19. The White House wanted $22.5 billion in coronavirus funding in the $1.5 trillion omnibus spending bill passed by Congress earlier this month, but Democrats dropped the request amid disputes that threatened other priorities. Among the points of contention: Republicans wanted to reallocate coronavirus aid previously allocated to states. Health advocates say continued funding is critical for about 28 million Americans who dont have health insurance. Enrollment in Medicaid and childrens health insurance programs rose sharply during the pandemic to about 85 million people last fall, according to an analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Elimination of the provider relief fund deals a strong blow to those who have the greatest risks, due to lower resources and less access to usual care, Dr. Howard Forman, a professor of public health at the Yale School of Medicine, told NBC News. Even people who have insurance may find themselves questioning if they can afford to get care, Forman added. Think about the person with a large deductible who would readily access a free monoclonal antibody clinic or testing site for testing and early treatment, but who might be afraid of large bills if they went to a private physician or even a hospital, he told NBC. The elimination of coronavirus spending in the omnibus bill has left the Biden administration's new COVID-19 road map in some doubt. The decision to save the fight for later underscores the deep partisan divides over the pandemic and the government's response to it but also shows the pandemic is no longer the government's top priority. Without an infusion of cash in a provider relief program, COVID-19 patients without insurance likely will have to depend on their local hospitals charity and financial assistance programs, which can vary greatly and can be difficult to navigate, according to Kaiser Health News. The American Hospital Association, a trade industry group, said in a letter to congressional leaders Wednesday that it supports the Biden administrations request for more COVID-19 assistance, including that earmarked for the provider relief program. While the nation remains weary and is eager to move past this pandemic, the virus continues to evolve and pose a threat to our nations health care system, the hospital group said. The recent surge of cases and hospitalizations abroad fueled by the Omicron variant known as BA.2 serves as a critical warning: The battle is not over, and hospitals and health systems continue to need resources and flexibilities to care for patients and protect communities. This article originally appeared on the Across Pennsylvania Patch Kayley Shoup of Carlsbad fears that when oil is at a premium, so too are breathing and reproductive problems, along with cancer. Shes an organizer with Citizens Caring for the Future, a local group of environmentalists that recently began attempting to piece together the correlation between high fossil fuel development and health issues. More: Oil and gas companies face $275K in fines for not reporting methane pollution in New Mexico Data shows that air-polluting emissions like methane and volatile organic compounds spike when oil and gas production grows, and with the Permian Basin leading the U.S.' production of fossil fuels, the problem could get worse after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The worlds second-largest producer of oil, after the U.S., Russias actions led to almost unanimous condemnation from world leaders and the eastern European nations removal from the global market. The price of oil climbed into triple digits in the weeks since, and gasoline prices shot up above $4 a gallon throughout New Mexico and the country. More: Permian Basin oil and gas could fill gap left by Russia's removal from global market Prices go up when demand is high, and that higher demand could mean more extraction in Shoup's native Permian Basin region and more air pollution. Its harrowing living here in this region, she said. I find it quite depressing. It seems like the region is taken advantage of. These big corporations are coming into our community and are taking way more away from us than they are giving. They are creating systemic issues. More: Air pollution from oil and gas to be restricted by New Mexico's new rules Shoup said her concerns, albeit troubling, were vindicated by a recent study from Stanford University showing almost 10 percent of gas produced through fossil fuel development on the New Mexico side of the Permian is emitted into the atmosphere, polluting the air locals breathe. You know that theyre astronomical and its nice to see it in a concrete form, she said of the emissions. Its good were getting a more accurate picture. Story continues 'A more accurate' picture of oil and gas' environmental impact The study published Wednesday used several aircraft equipped with monitoring technology that flew over the area in 2018 and 2019, a year of record-breaking growth in production. More: Why are oil prices spiking? How does it affect New Mexicans, Permian Basin? They flew over oil and gas operations throughout the basin, calculating emissions from 90 percent of well sites, pipelines and other infrastructure throughout the region, Evan Sherwin, a post-doctoral research fellow in energy resource engineering and co-author of the research, said the results were surprising. He said the planes, used through a partnership with Kairos Aerospace, flew over each location about four times, tracking about 2,000 emissions from about 1,000 sources. More: Russian oil under assault by New Mexico congresspeople amid Ukraine invasion Calculations showed an about 9.4 percent loss rate, meaning that fraction of natural gas produced in the region was released into the air. The gas main component methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, with about 25 to 30 times the global warming impact as carbon dioxide in a 100-year timeline, Sherwin said, or 80 percent higher in a 20-year scale. Some of the locations surveyed in the study emitted up to 10 tons of methane per hour, he said. More: Oil industry urges support from Biden as energy costs soar in the wake of Russia conflict The study did not include names of operators emitting the air pollution, Sherwin said, but revealed energy companies were releasing more pollutants than previously believed. Its very high loss rate compared to other estimates weve seen for the Permian Basin. There are several reasons to think this was a particularly high emission time, Sherwin said. In 2019, there was rapid growth particularly for oil. The prices were very low. The normal profit incentives to capture that gas was very low. New Mexico calls for pollution controls, but is it enough? Sherwin said he hoped recently-enacted state regulations would sway operators toward capturing more gas. More: $1 billion land sale targets Permian Basin amid continued growth in oil and gas markets Last year, New Mexicos Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) through its Oil Conservation Division enacted new policy requiring operators capture 98 percent of produced gas by 2026. A separate rulemaking by the New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED) is ongoing to increase leak reporting and repairs, targeting volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which create cancer-causing, ground-level ozone. The regulation hadnt gone into effect yet, Sherwin said of 2019. The operators are presumably planning for that and have hopefully reduced emissions accordingly. More: Oil prices continue to climb amid Russia-Ukraine conflict, adding pressure to Permian Basin But even though EMNRDs rulemaking, along with policy to ban routine flaring the burning off of natural gas did take effect since the data was gathered, Shoup said shes seen little difference along U.S. Highway 285, a main oil and gas thoroughfare that connects Carlsbad to Artesia. The side of the road is still dotted with burning flares, Shoup said, bringing a host of health and social problems to the community. And emissions from neighboring Texas, unregulated by New Mexicos new policies, could be even more concerning, Shoup said, as her hometown is only about an hours drive to the State line. More: Oil boom feeds NM budget, but environmental agencies left wanting That means the federal government should step in, she said, to enact stronger emission controls that apply to all states through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency I dont feel like theres been a ton of change as far as the flaring going on. It underscores the EPA needs to take action and ban routine flaring federally, Shoup said. Were right on the border with Texas and were suffering their emissions as well. "Its a whole different ball game over there. Its important the federal government steps up for states like New Mexico. More: 'A long way to go' to reduce oil and gas' pollution in the Permian, despite company efforts An economic incentive to capture oil and gas emissions Aside from the regulatory push for more gas capture, he said investors are also trending toward a greater emphasis on environmental performance as calls from the scientific community to reduce climate change became increasingly dire in recent years. There is also interest in the investment community that companies have higher environment, social and governance (ESG) ratings, Sherwin said. They really want to know that these companies have their emissions under control. Capturing gas as a marketable product could also prove lucrative, he said, even for smaller operators many industry leaders worried would be priced out of the industry by new regulations as the cost of compliance rose. More: Oil and gas companies join fight against nuclear waste facilities in the Permian Basin If operators take steps now, theyll be able to reduce costs in the future, Sherwin said. The small operators could be in better shape than they would be if they didnt take these actions. I hope operators will take these results as a sign they have these very powerful tools at their disposal. There are many ways that industry can find these very large emissions and flag them for repair. These repairs can really pay off even just for revenue. Yuanlei Chen, a Stanford doctoral student and co-author of the study, said the research should encourage operators to quickly repair leaks, retrofitting valves and doing what they can to curb air pollution. More: Forest Service seeks 20-year block on oil and gas in cave system The aerially-detectable point sources, including a surprisingly large number of point sources from pipelines, account for the vast majority of total methane emissions in the study area, Chen said. These point sources are from a small fraction of the facilities in the area and present large methane mitigation opportunities. Chen said cutting methane emissions is one of the most cost-effective paths for oil companies to reduce their environmental impact, and the use of aircraft which could be shared by small operators will ensure better accuracy. Rapidly finding and fixing the large emission sources is important for cutting methane emissions, Chen said. Regular aerial screening presents an inexpensive and accurate approach for pinpointing the high-consequence sources, although the current ground-based monitoring approaches are still important for smaller emissions. Reducing methane emissions is often one of the most cost-effective ways for oil and gas companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. More: Global climate change report has implications for New Mexico drought, oil and gas The economics of air pollution could become even more important as the U.S. is poised for another increase in its oil and gas production in the wake of Russias invasion of Ukraine. The conflict exacerbated the need for stronger regulations, Shoup said, and a potential shift away from the worlds reliance on fossil fuel. There has to be a managed downturn at some point, Shoup said. We know that this development brings more emissions. I worry a lot of new development is going to be justified by what is going on in the world. "With the newfound demand for oil with the Russia situation, I worry the Permian might become the sacrificial lamb for the energy needs of the world. Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter. This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Permian Basin oil and gas pollution could boom amid Russia conflict Chinese acupuncture has become a bridge of friendship between India and China, with more and more Indians accepting the form of traditional Chinese medicine over the past few decades, experts said. Acupuncture, a technique to cure various ailments, was first introduced to India in 1959 by Dr. B.K. Basu in the eastern city of Kolkata, capital of West Bengal state, according to Dr. Mrigendranath Gantait, president of the Acupuncture Association of India. Over the past six decades it has spread to rural, semi-urban and urban areas in India, particularly in the states of West Bengal, Maharashtra and Punjab. While the state governments of West Bengal and Maharashtra have officially recognized acupuncture as a way of treatment, the Indian central government recognized it in the year 2019 as a "system of healthcare." Acupuncture is a complementary medical practice that entails stimulating certain points on the body, usually with needles penetrating the skin, to alleviate pain or help treat various health conditions. Efforts are also on to popularize it even more in the South Asian nation, experts said. Dr. Gantait told Xinhua that acupuncture has been a "strong bridge" of friendship between the two populous countries. Acupuncture therapy in India is related to the story of the Indian Medical Mission (IMM) that was dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Dr. Basu, as a colleague of Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis (widely known as Dr. Ke Dihua in China) and a torchbearer of the IMM, stayed in China for nearly five years during 1938-1943 as an IMM member, and later had worked for another 43 years for the IMM in India until his death in 1986. In 1958-1959, Dr. Basu stayed in China for six months to learn acupuncture before introducing the needle techniques to India. In 1973, Dr. Basu was invited to China to learn newly-developed acupuncture anesthesia. From the very beginning Dr. Basu tried to spread acupuncture to doctors by free teaching and disseminate science for broad masses of people. Dr. Basu, who established Dr. Kotnis Memorial Committee (DKMC) and the Acupuncture Association of India to preach the ideals of the medical mission, even donated his house and savings to the government of West Bengal state for the purpose of development of acupuncture. Under the leadership of the DKMC, free health service clinics have been set up where acupuncture is taken as the main treatment modality, because the cost of acupuncture treatment is very much low, and acupuncture is effective in many ailments. The DKMC has also produced many barefoot acupuncturists who run these clinics without taking any remuneration, according to Dr. Gantait. "Acupuncture has played a unique role to promote people's friendship between India and China," he said. "When Dr. Basu returned to India after learning acupuncture anesthesia, the Indian media described it as acupuncture diplomacy, and it was highly praised in the country. Dr. Inderjeet Singh Dhingra, who is an ace acupuncture practitioner in India's northern state of Punjab, runs a small acupuncture hospital in the industrial town of Ludhiana curing people with tiny needles. He said acupuncture can cure as many as 338 diseases, including body pains, gynecological problems, paralytic dysfunctions and arthritis pains. Each day, there are 60 to 70 patients coming to see the doctor in his hospital. Police say a mass shooting that left one person dead and six injured in Philadelphia last September was the result of a hired hit carried out on a busy street in the middle of the afternoon, reports CBS Philadelphia. Philadelphia Police Lt. Hamilton Marshmond says 26-year-old Steven Jones was standing on a crowded sidewalk when the shooter opened fire from inside a car. Jones was killed, and half a dozen more were hospitalized. "There are so many people dropping down to the ground, dodging bullets," Marshmond said. "For someone to do that, broad daylight, kids are coming home from school, and to just shoot into a crowd of people like that, that person needs to be caught." Steven Jones / Credit: CBS "The person that did this just didn't care about anyone," Philadelphia Police Lt. Hamilton Marshmond said. Detectives say Jones' family is hopeful for justice. One person has already been arrested, Vanessa Singletary-Selby. The 28-year-old was arrested Feb. 20 and charged with homicide and conspiracy. She was denied bail and is being held in a Philadelphia jail. Vanessa Singletary-Selby / Credit: CBS Philadelphia Police say Singletary-Selby ordered a hit in retaliation for a dispute with one of the victims who was wounded in the shooting. But police say Singletary-Selby has not been cooperative, and the identity of the shooter remains a mystery. An attorney for Singletary-Selby said Friday that she has not yet entered a plea in the case. Apps that can help families save money amid rising prices "48 Hours" investigates the kidnapping and murder of a California entrepreneur People of Kyiv going about their everyday lives one month into Ukraine's war Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson raises her hand in oath Anti-abortion supporters speak with supporters of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson outside the U.S. Supreme Court on the first day of her Senate Confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., on March 21. Bonnie Cash/UPI Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is sworn in during her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on March 21. Greg Nash Derrick Lamb holds his son up to smell the cherry blossom trees at the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., on March 22. Anna Rose Layden Tourists and locals enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., on March 22. Anna Rose Layden Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson answers questions during the second day of her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on March 22. Greg Nash Patrick Jackson, husband of Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, wears Benjamin Franklin socks to the second day of his wife's confirmation hearing with the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 22. Anna Rose Layden Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) questions Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson about critical race theory during the third day of her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on March 23. Anna Rose Layden People stand around a giant peace sign with the message "Stop Putin's Oil," put up by demonstrators ahead of a European Union and NATO summit in Brussels on March 22. Protesters called on EU leaders to impose a full ban on Russian fuels and to hold one minute of silence to honor the victims of war in Ukraine. Associated Press/Geert Vanden Wijngaert Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) hugs Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) after asking questions of Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson during the third day of her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on March 23. Anna Rose Layden Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson tears up as her daughter, Leila Jackson, looks on while Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) speaks during the third day of Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings on March 23. Anna Rose Layden Story continues Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is embraced by her husband, Patrick Jackson, following the third day of her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on March 23. Greg Nash President Biden, from left, talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they arrive at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on March 24. Brendan Smialowski/Pool/AP Artists from the Our Voice cultural movement perform during a march marking the 46th anniversary of the military coup in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on March 24. Associated Press/Natacha Pisarenko More than 1,100 fake body bags are placed on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., by activists to demand change to gun control laws on the fourth anniversary of the March for Our Lives demonstration on March 24. Anna Rose Layden Oscar statues are moved to their respective positions as preparations are underway for the 94th annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles on March 24. The awards will be held on Sunday, March 27. Jim Ruymen/UPI Photo A refugee fleeing the war from neighboring Ukraine holds her dog after crossing the border by ferry at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing in Romania on March 24. Associated Press/Andreea Alexandru A man rides a bicycle as black smoke rises from a fuel storage unit owned by the Ukrainian army following a Russian attack on the outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine, on March 25. Associated Press/Rodrigo Abd Demonstrators of the Fridays For Future movement perform in Milan on March 25. Climate activists staged a series of worldwide protests to demand leaders take stronger action against climate change, with some linking their environmental message to calls for an end to the war in Ukraine. Associated Press/Luca Bruno Truck drivers in Madrid protest against the high price of fuel on March 25. Spain's government and the country's main trucking federations have reached an agreement on financial help for the sector that is hurting from high gas prices. But self-employed truckers said Friday they would continue their 12-day strike. Associated Press/Manu Fernandez Photos curated by Greg Nash, Anna Rose Layden and Madeline Monroe. Mar. 24Robert Fowerbaugh, 51, 411 W. Main St., Apt. 1, Syracuse, was arrested by Syracuse police on charges of possession of child pornography, possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana after a search warrant was served at his home Tuesday. During the search, child pornography, approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine and marijuana were located inside the residence, according to a police report. He was transported to the Kosciusko County jail. Anyone with additional information related to the case is asked to contact the Syracuse Police Department at 574-457-5333. ARRESTSJessie Vanwormer, 31, 213 Queen St., #A, Goshen, was arrested by Goshen police on charges of theft from a motor vehicle and residential entry while at 424 N. First St., Goshen, at 4:26 a.m. Wednesday. A student at Goshen Junior High School, 1216 S. Indiana Ave., Goshen, was arrested by Goshen police on a charge of possession of marijuana while at the school at 11:32 a.m. Wednesday. The student was transported to the Elkhart County Juvenile Detention Center. Coleman Hamilton-Garver, 25, Goshen, was arrested by Goshen police on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, false informing, driving with a suspended driver's license and receiving stolen parts following a traffic stop in the area of North Main Street and Mill Street at 6:52 p.m. Wednesday. He was transported to the Elkhart County jail. A 13-year-old Middlebury girl was arrested by Elkhart County deputies on charges of battery and intimidation while in the 13000 block of C.R. 12 at 1:25 p.m. Monday. She was transported to the Elkhart County Juvenile Detention Center. Austin Rink Hairell, 27, 28467 Alfred Court, Elkhart, was arrested by Elkhart County deputies on a charge of resisting law enforcement while in the area of Ind. 19 and Sturdy Oaks Drive at 4:13 a.m. Wednesday. He was transported to the Elkhart County jail. Aidan Stokes, 21, 28197 Fieldhouse Ave., Lot 42, Elkhart, was arrested by Elkhart County deputies on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and two outstanding warrants following an investigation at his home at 12:25 a.m. Wednesday. He was transported to the Elkhart County jail. Story continues Crystal Briscoe, 47, 1301 Bay St., Elkhart, was arrested by Elkhart County deputies on a charge of theft while at Walmart, 30830 Old U.S. 20, Elkhart, at 12:09 p.m. Wednesday. She was cited and released pending a court date. THEFTS Brent St. Germain, Goshen, contacted Goshen police at 6:04 p.m. Wednesday to report that someone cut the catalytic converter off of a box truck that was parked at Spacemaker Self Storage, 2508 College Ave., Goshen, on Saturday. Joshua Smoker contacted Elkhart County deputies at 11:24 a.m. Wednesday to report that medications and a wallet were stolen from a lunch box in the break room of Dutchmen Plant 845, 72440 Ind. 13, Syracuse, sometime between 4:15 and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. BURGLARY Julie Charles, 314 Park Ave., Goshen, contacted Goshen police at 5 p.m. Wednesday to report that her home had been burglarized sometime earlier that day. HIT-AND-RUN Chris Ramirez, South Bend, told Goshen police his vehicle was struck by another vehicle while in the area of Pike and Fifth streets at 3:21 a.m. Thursday. The driver of the vehicle then left the scene without exchanging information, according to police. FRAUD Fern Brunner, Goshen, told Goshen police she discovered she was the victim of fraud at 8:44 a.m. Wednesday. Tracie Spry, Elkhart, contacted Elkhart County deputies at noon Tuesday to report that fraud was committed between 10:11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. March 1. Police on Friday asked for help finding a white Dodge Charger that may have been involved in Tuesdays fatal shooting of a 19-year-old father on Interstate 85 in Gaston County. Uriah Diondreus McCree of Kings Mountain was pronounced dead at a hospital, according to the Gaston County Police Department. NC teen dies after being shot multiple times in a car on Interstate 85, police say Police said its still unclear what led to the shooting at about 5:45 p.m. on southbound I-85 near exit 13, Edgewood Road. Thats about 30 miles west of Charlotte. Someone fired shots into the car, WSOC reported. On Friday, police released a stock photo of the type of Dodge Charger they asked the public to help them find. Police in Gaston County are asking for the publics help in finding a white Dodge Charger, similar to this one. The vehicle may have been involved in a fatal shooting on Interstate 85. The car is a 2012 or later model with dark tinted windows, spoiler and possibly factory chrome rims, according to a news release by the Gaston County Police Department. The car was southbound on I-85 before leaving the interstate onto exit 10 toward Kings Mountain and Shelby on U.S. 74, police said. Police said they hope the public will help tell them identify the occupants of the car, although they released no details on how many passengers they believe were in the Charger. In this screen capture from WSOC-TV video, a Gaston County Police vehicle blocks a road near Interstate 85 following a shooting on the highway on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. Police are searching for a white Dodge Charger in the case. Officers found McCree suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, according to the news release. McCrees mother, Christina Michaels, told WSOC she is desperate to find the killer. I want to look at them, I want to know who killed my son, she said. McCree had a 1-year-old child, Queen City News reported. He had his whole life ahead of him, friend Erica Livingston told QCN. Its just really sad. A $1,000 Crimestoppers award is being offered for information that leads to an arrest in the shooting, police said. Police urge anyone with information to call Bessemer City police Detective J. L. Henderson at 704-629-2235 or Detective Stacey Brogdon at 704-866-3320. Information also can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers tip line, 704-861-8000. Mar. 25A man has been charged with felonious assault after he allegedly stabbed a man in the neck this afternoon on Crawford Street in Middletown. Middletown dispatchers said the stabbing was reported at 4:42 p.m. The man told Middletown police he and the victim met in jail and "exchanged words" today. He also told police he accidentally stabbed the man in the neck. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non life-threatening injuries, police said. Police have accused Yessenia Cardenas, 25, of trying to give her baby away to pedestrians in Corpus Christi, Texas (KOAA) A mother in Texas has been arrested after she allegedly tried to give her baby away to strangers on a street. Police say the bizarre incident took place on Sunday morning in Corpus Christi, where witnesses saw Yessenia Cardenas, 25, walking down Comanche Street with her two-week-old baby in her arms, offering her to pedestrians. The reporting parties told officers that they stopped to speak with Yessenia, and it was at this time that she offered the infant to them, the Corpus Christi Police Department said in a statement. The witnesses took possession of the child and immediately called 911. Thanks to that concerned stranger, the baby is now in Child Protective Services, and Ms Cardenas is in jail. She has been charged with abandoning or endangering a child, a state jail felony. Ms Cardenas has not been convicted of any wrongdoing, and is presumed innocent until proven guilty. It was not immediately clear whether she has a lawyer who could comment on her behalf. Police say when they arrested Ms Cardenas, she appeared to be on drugs. The officers contacted a medic unit to check on the welfare of the infant and as well as Yessenia, as she appeared to be under the influence of an unknown narcotic, the CCPD said. According to KOAA, the good Samaritan who called 911 was Claudia Canales, who was driving down Comanche Street when she saw Ms Cardenas with a baby hanging on her arm. Ms Canales told the station she turned her car around to see if the woman needed help. Right away, Ms Cardenas handed her the baby. According to Ms Canales, the young mother said shed just smoked marijuana and couldnt remember the last time the baby had eaten. At this point, Ms Canales called the police. This is a column by John A. Tures, a professor of political science at LaGrange College. He is a regular contributor to the Savannah Morning News. At the beginning of the movie Selma, Annie Lee Cooper, played by Oprah Winfrey, is denied the right to vote with a Jim Crow-era impossible political quiz to solve. With the recent controversy over the record number of ballot applications rejected in Texas, my students investigated whether absentee or mail-in ballot application denials are a partisan affair. Texas has had rejections for a high number of applications for mail-in ballots, thanks to changes adopted by the legislature in Senate Bill 1. Republicans in the state Legislature overhauled Texas election code last year .voters are now asked to include some form of identification - such as a drivers license number - on mail ballot applications and the envelope they use to return their completed mail ballots. The law also limited early voting hours and empowered partisan poll watchers, reported Jane C. Timm and Anjali Huynh with NBC News. That huge overhaul came despite scant evidence of voter fraud in 2020. The Houston Chronicle found only 16 minor cases among millions of votes cast, according to Timm and Hyunh. More opinions on voting restrictions: Nearly 60 years after Voting Rights Act, some voter protections still undermined It made me wonder whether absentee mail-in ballots in 2020 were more likely to be rejected by states that voted for the Republicans, instead of the Democratic Party in the presidential contest. My students, Gabriel Cofield, Cooper Dolhancyk, Caleb Fuller, Roderick Kirkland, Jackson Lamb, Shedrick Lindsey, Malachi Parker, Ukari Parkmond and Bryant Sanchez Mora joined me in looking at the politics of such ballot rejections. And this is what we found. Rejected mail-in ballots sit in a box as members of the canvassing board verify signatures on ballots at the Miami-Dade County Elections Department during the 2018 midterm elections. Ballotpedia reveals that the five states with the highest rates of rejected absentee or mail-in ballots were Arkansas, New Mexico, New York, Mississippi and Oklahoma. Two of those states voted Democratic and the other three voted Republican. Among the states that rejected the fewest absentee or mail-in ballots (Rhode Island, Maryland, North Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming), half voted Republican and the other half voted Democratic in 2020. Story continues We also looked at trends, such as increases in such ballot rejections between 2016 and 2020. Among those that increased their rejection rate, four of the five voted Republican, though New Mexico, which voted for Biden in 2020, topped the list. Of those that decreased their number of such rejected ballots, half picked Trump (Kentucky, West Virginia, Alaska) while the other half, which rejected fewer ballots, opted for Biden (Georgia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island). More from John Tures: For lessons on Russia vs. Ukraine, look at the USSR's invasion of Hungary in 1956 At this point, the class was mostly done, and my U.S. Government class could have left early on Friday. But what about those states which passed tougher voter ID laws? two asked (one of the two wore a Reagan-Bush 84 cap to class because he knows I like political paraphernalia). Nobody in person or online moved from their computer screens, as the two shared NCSL data on such laws. Again, they found a mix of state identification laws, including Mississippis which has a tough voter ID law, but also permits a path for those who have religious objections to being photographed! We found reasons for refusals other than the voter ID, such as signature matches and incomplete applications, so even states without voter ID laws can be tough on applicants too. Our LaGrange College researchers wound up rejecting the hypothesis that mail-in or absentee ballot snubs were more likely to be conducted by Republican-leaning states more than Democratic-leaning states. John Tures But in giving up some of their free time on a Friday, they were able to extend their findings to voter ID laws, learning a lesson almost as important as our research topic: the importance of testing arguments, going beyond the original assignment to get some more answers, demonstrating great enthusiasm about the science of elections and voting. Overall, they saw the importance of testing assumptions, not just making them, about elections. This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Are Democrats or Republicans more likely to reject mail-in ballots? By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis led the world's Catholic bishops on Friday in praying for peace between Russia and Ukraine, saying the world had forgotten the tragedies of the 20th century and was still menaced by nuclear war. Francis presided at a service in St. Peter's Basilica in which he entrusted the protection of all humanity, "especially Russia and Ukraine," to Mary, who Christians believe is the Mother of God and who can intercede with him in heaven. At about the same time, thousands of bishops in cathedrals and chapels around the world were reading the same prayer in local languages, resulting in one of the most precisely coordinated global Church event in living memory. In a separate homily before reciting the prayer, Francis spoke of "scenes of death" in which "bombs are destroying the homes of many of our defenceless Ukrainian brothers and sisters" and of "a cruel and senseless war that threatens our world". Both the Ukrainian and Russian ambassadors to the Vatican attended, sitting on separate sides of the aisle. Since Russia invaded its neighbour on Feb. 24 in what it calls a "special military operation", the pope has implicitly criticised Moscow, strongly condemning what he has called an "unjustified aggression" and denouncing "atrocities," but he had not mentioned Russia by name. He used the words Russia and Russians on Friday, albeit as part of a prayer and a homily. "We have forgotten the lesson learned from the tragedies of the last century, the sacrifice of the millions who fell in two world wars ... we have closed ourselves in nationalist interests," the pope said in the prayer, whose formal title was "An Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary". The act denounced the stockpiling of weapons, the destruction of the environment, greed and the spread of abortion. It asked Mary to "eliminate hatred and the thirst for revenge, and teach us forgiveness, free us from war, protect our world from the menace of nuclear weapons". Story continues Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Vatican ambassador who has remained in Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion last month, said before Friday's event he would read the prayer from a makeshift altar in a kitchen in a safe room in the embassy in Kyiv. LINK WITH FATIMA In the Portuguese town of Fatima, papal envoy Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, one of the pope's closest aides, read the same prayer near the spot where Mary is said to have appeared repeatedly in 1917 to three shepherd children. The link with Fatima is essential to understanding the religious and political significance of Friday's consecration. The Church says that in the apparition of July 13, 1917, Mary asked that Russia be consecrated to her, otherwise it would "spread her errors throughout the world, causing wars and persecutions of the Church" and that "various nations will be annihilated". After the 1917 Russian revolution and during the Cold War between the West and the Soviet Union, the "Message of Fatima" became a rallying point for anti-communism in Christianity. Similar acts of consecration of the world were performed by past popes in 1942, 1952, 1964, 1981, 1982 and 1984. The pope's decision to carry out Friday's consecration was welcomed by some Church traditionalists who generally oppose Francis. They say some or all of the previous consecrations may not have been valid because they did not adhere precisely to Mary's instructions to the visionary children. (Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Frances Kerry) Workers make bamboo baskets at a "pairing assistance" workshop in Xincheng County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Dec. 8, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua] China will step up efforts this year to stabilize employment of people who have been lifted out of poverty, as part of the work to consolidate the achievements made in poverty alleviation, according to a circular. China will ensure that no less than 30 million people who have shaken off poverty are employed this year, preventing a large-scale return to impoverishment, said the circular co-released by five government organs, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. Measures to be unveiled include boosting labor-service cooperation between eastern and western regions and creating job opportunities near homes of the people concerned, according to the circular. In 2021, some 31.45 million people lifted out of poverty found jobs, 1.26 million higher than the level in 2020, according to the National Rural Revitalization Administration. Home on the range: Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil Burbank in The Power of the Dog' (Netflix) Sam Elliott might not have enjoyed the simmering sexual tension and grand, glorious vistas of The Power of the Dog, but the veteran actor is pretty much the only one. Jane Campions first full-length feature in 12 years ruthlessly did away with the gung-ho tropes of traditional westerns and replaced them with something altogether more subtle and tense. The fascination of The Power of the Dog lies in its ambiguity and its depth of characterisation, wrote Geoffrey Macnab in The Independents review back in September 2021. Nothing is obvious here, not even the title. Such complexity allowed both Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst to turn in career-best performances, while newcomer Kodi Smit-McPhee scored himself a well-deserved nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of a troubled young man coming to terms with the suicide of his father and teased for his effeminacy. One of those adaptations seemingly destined to never get made, Thomas Savages 1967 novel had been optioned five times by various producers over the past 50 years. At one point Paul Newman had intended to bring the book to the big screen, but it was Campion that finally got the project over the line, working on the screenplay while in correspondence with author Annie Proulx, whose 1997 short story, Brokeback Mountain which went on to become a successful film in 2005 drew heavily from Savages original novel. Like the long-awaited adaptation itself, The Power of the Dog is a film that takes its time. What at first might be mistaken for a rather plodding pace is in fact Campion flexing her Frank Lloyd Wright muscles, using compression and release in the same way as the acclaimed architect did with his grand 1920s homes. Its sort of a post-western, like a ranch story, Campion told IndieWire. Nobodys got a gun. The film grapples with masculinity and sexuality in a quiet, contemplative way. It was this that Elliot star of 1993s Tombstone was evidently not so keen on. Wheres the western in this western? he huffed. I mean, Cumberbatch never got out of his f****** chaps every f****** time he would walk in from somewhere he never was on a horse hed walk in to the f****** house, storm up the f****** stairs, go lay in his bed, in his chaps and play the banjo. Instead of cowboys riding through the plains and shooting at each other, we see Cumberbatchs moody Phil Burbank vulnerable and swimming naked in a stream, stashing magazines of muscle men in the woods and stroking his prized saddle, given to him by the man he loved. Rather than gussied-up good-time gals swinging around the bedposts of a bordello, we have Dunsts Rose Gordon, a newly remarried widow swiftly succumbing to alcoholism. Nobody in The Power of the Dog is happy. Everybody is lonely and everybody wants something they cant have and know they will never get. If this all sounds a bit bleak, well, thats because it is. But Ari Wegners incredible eye lends the morose proceedings a certain lushness. The second woman ever to be nominated for Best Cinematography and at 37, one of the youngest Wegner was inspired by British pioneering photographer Evelyn Camerons sweeping, turn-of-the-century shots of Montana. But despite its American West setting, the film was actually shot in Campions native New Zealand. For a movie so wrapped up in the trials of toxic masculinity, The Power of the Dog has enviable feminist credentials, making Campion the first woman to be nominated twice for the Academy Award for Best Director. She lost out with The Piano in 1993 to Steven Spielberg and Schindlers List, but 2022 looks set to finally be Campions year. (AP) President Joe Biden is following a day of diplomacy with a visit to Poland to discuss aid for refugees and to meet with U.S. troops stationed near the border with Ukraine. His first stop was mingling with the troops and helping himself to a slice of their pizza. The White House says the president will be briefed on the humanitarian response to the millions of Ukrainians who are fleeing to Poland to escape the Russian assault on their homeland. Biden will holds talks Saturday with Poland's president and address the Polish people before he returns to Washington. Mar. 25Residents came with jeers and questions for Boone County Commissioners Thursday night and left with few answers and heightened frustration. They hoped to learn the plans for a state-sponsored project slated for agricultural land northwest of Lebanon and locally referred to as "the land grab." But there were no maps, no artist's renderings, no industry leaders to greet them, just commissioners Jeff Wolfe, Don Lawson and Tom Santelli, and their attorney, Robert Clutter, at a table on the Western Boone Jr.-Sr. High School gym floor. Commissioners found it difficult to hear community speakers at the microphone, and shouts ranging from a suggestion to get hearing aids, to curse words flung from the bleachers, did little to improve understanding in the packed gym. Community frustration was coming to a head after months of speculation that has landowners and neighbors at odds. And commissioners had few specifics, despite their efforts to get them, they said. Commissioners only recently received confirmation of the Indiana Department of Economic Development project, and quickly scheduled a public forum to share what they know and hear their constituents' concerns. Wolfe, the commissioner president, said he tried last week to schedule meetings with the IEDC to learn more, but they did not cooperate. Commissioners even invited state officials to participate in Thursday's meeting, but the state did not participate. IEDC Vice President of Communications Erin Sweitzer did not return calls and emails requesting comment. "We do know a broker has been working on making contact with landowners and trying to get land under option," Wolfe said, adding that an estimated 4,000 to 7,000 acres are involved at present. The state has provided no boundaries for the project. A commercial property broker has been negotiating for months with farmers, homeowners and owners of property northwest of Lebanon to get their land under contract. One man shared with a reporter this week that the broker told him all his neighbors are already under contract and that he "did not want to be near what they were going to build." Story continues Property owners are reporting anecdotally that their land is under contract but not yet sold, although Molly Whitehead, executive director of the Boone Economic Development Commission, said she's been unable to determine if some of the land has been sold outright. Homeowners and neighbors of the properties in question want to know what the state intends to do there. They are worried about quality-of-life, who will pay for increased public safety, and increased traffic on already busy Ind. 32 and U.S. 52. Wolfe said costs for public safety, road maintenance and other expenses can be passed on to the developer as part of the county's negotiations. Others asked where they could live and where their children would go to school if they must leave their homes. They grew up in that area or moved to it specifically for a pastoral lifestyle and to enroll their children in the Western Boone Community School District, they said. Commissioners had no answers because they said they don't yet know what the state proposes, but promised they'd keep the crowd's concerns in mind as they work with the IEDC. One man pointed out that very few homes are available for sale in the district. Others said homeowners aren't being offered enough for their homes to find a comparable home. Several said they don't want to sell their property, but they fear their home's value will plummet if an industrial building pops up just beyond their yards. They also fear the state will take the homes they've worked their whole lives to pay off through imminent domain. Imminent domain can be used only for public works, installing a sewer line, for instance, Whitehead said. But it cannot be used for economic development projects. Editor's note: This is a large topic and additional stories will be forthcoming in The Lebanon Reporter. Kevin Dietsch/UPI/Shutterstock It feels like we just went through an election, and yet the 2024 presidential showdown isn't that far away. Many politicians have already discussed the potential of running for president in the next election, which will take place November 5, 2024. The U.S. president earns $400,000 a year, which might be a pay cut for some of these White House hopefuls and a huge pay bump for others. See: How Rich Are Mike Krzyzewski and Other Top-Paid College Basketball Coaches? Find: 20 Genius Things Mark Cuban Says To Do With Your Money Let's take a look at the net worth of those who are likely candidates or have openly discussed running for president in the 2024 election. Patrick Semansky / AP President Joe Biden Net Worth: $9 Million President Joe Biden has said he has every intention of running for reelection in 2024. Biden served as former President Barack Obama's vice president from 2009-2017. Before that, he served as a Delaware senator from 1973 until he took office as VP. In addition to his political salary, it's reported Biden made $11 million from book advances in 2017. John Raoux/AP/Shutterstock Donald Trump Net Worth: $2.4 Billion The former Republican president has strongly hinted at the possibility of running again. Before he was president, Trump was a media personality and businessman. His net worth reportedly dropped $700 million in his last year of his presidency, and has dropped $600 million since leaving office. Related: Just How Rich Are Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and These Other Big Names? Michael Brochstein/SOPA Image Stacey Abrams Net Worth: $500,000 Abrams served in the Georgia House of Representatives for 10 years and has since founded Fair Fight Action, an organization with the goal of fighting voter suppression. Abrams, a Democrat, is now turning her sights to the 2022 governor's race after losing the same race in 2018 to Republican Brian Kemp. She talked about running for president in 2020, but ultimately decided against it. However, she lobbied to be President Joe Biden's running mate which ultimately went to Vice President Kamala Harris in 2020, so a run for president in 2024 isn't out of the question. Story continues John Raoux/AP/Shutterstock Ron DeSantis Net Worth: $500,000 Florida Governor Ron DeSantis had said in fall of last year that he was not considering a run for president in 2024, but insiders beg to differ. Supporters say that Republican DeSantis could win even if Trump decides to run again, which is what they believe makes him a very viable candidate. MediaPunch / Shutterstock.com Pete Buttigieg Net Worth: $250,000 Buttigieg is a Democrat currently serving as the United States Secretary of Transportation. Before that, he served as the mayor of South Bend, Indiana. Buttigieg unsuccessfully ran for president in 2020. Though President Biden has said he will run for reelection, if his plans were to change, it seems like Buttigieg could take a second run for the office. This would be a pay increase for Buttigieg, who currently makes $221,400 a year in his position. Check Out: 45 Richest Child Stars of All Time Keiko Hiromi/AFLO/Shutterstock Mike Pence Net Worth: $1 Million The former Republican vice president is polling third for potential nominees behind DeSantis and Trump respectively. Trump has said he would not have Pence as his running mate again, which opens the door for Pence to run for president on his own. Pence was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 2001-2013 before becoming the governor of Indiana from 2013-2017. Kevin Dietsch/AP/Shutterstock Elizabeth Warren Net Worth: $8 Million Warren made a run for president in 2020 and eventually finished third, so she might be looking to finish on top come 2024. After the election, she returned to serving as a senator from Massachusetts, a position she's held since 2013. She currently makes $194,000 a year as a senior senator, but has reportedly made her fortune from from writing, lecturing and consulting. Meg Kinnard/AP/Shutterstock Nikki Haley Net Worth: $2 Million Haley served as the first female governor of South Carolina from 2011-2017. The Republican also served as an ambassador to the United Nations from 2017-2019. She has previously said that she has yet to decide whether or not she will be running for president, but Trump running will have no influence on her final decision. Andrew Harnik/AP Amy Klobuchar Net Worth: $1.5 Million Klobuchar is currently serving as a Democratic senior senator from Minnesota. Like many on this list, she also ran for president in 2020 before endorsing President Joe Biden. If Biden were not to run again in 2024, she might throw her hat in the ring. Reports show she has investment accounts totaling more than $400,000. On top of that, she earns $194,000 as a senior senator. Demetrius Freeman/AP/Shutterstock Ted Cruz Net Worth: $4 Million Cruz previously ran for president in 2016, and called it "the most fun I've ever had in my life," adding that he "absolutely" would run again in 2024. Cruz has served as the junior United States senator for Texas since 2013. As a senator he earns an annual salary of $174,000, but he reportedly made a lot of money before his political career as a private appellate attorney, and has a lot of assets in the form of stocks and bonds. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Rich Are Biden, Trump and These Other Potential 2024 Presidential Candidates? Engine wreckage pieces of China's crashed plane recovered: official Xinhua) 07:55, March 25, 2022 Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at a plane crash site in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) NANNING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Pieces of engine wreckage from the passenger plane that crashed in south China's Guangxi earlier this week have been found, an official told a press briefing on Thursday. The main impact point of the plane crash has been basically determined, said Zhu Tao, head of the aviation safety office of the Civil Aviation Administration of China. Most of the plane wreckage was scattered within a radius of about 30 meters of the main impact point and the depth from the surface extends to about 20 meters underground, Zhu said. A suspected wreckage piece, 1.3 meters long and 10 cm at its widest, was also found in farmland around 10 km away from the crash site, said Zheng Xi, head of the fire brigade of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. As of 4 p.m. Thursday, a total of 183 pieces of aircraft wreckage, some remains of victims and 21 pieces of belongings of victims have been found and handed over to the investigation team, Zheng said. Rescuers expanded the search area on Thursday despite persistent rain that has complicated rescue efforts over the past days, Zheng said. Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at a plane crash site in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. (CAAC News/Handout via Xinhua) Rain caused waterlogging at the core crash site and increased the risk of small-scale landslides. Large rescue vehicles and equipment was not able to reach the area due to the narrow and slippery mountain road, he said. The area east of the core crash site is mainly virgin mountain forest and the steep and heavily-wooded terrain increased the difficulty of the search-and-rescue effort, Zheng said. "We will work to shorten the search-and-rescue time and improve the efficiency of search and rescue as much as possible, with enough being done to ensure the safety of our rescue staff," he said. The Boeing 737-800 plane with 132 aboard crashed Monday in a village in Tengxian County in the city of Wuzhou. No survivors have been found so far. One black box from the plane has been recovered. The recovered black box was sent to a decoding laboratory in Beijing on Wednesday night, and the data downloading and analysis work is underway, Zhu told reporters. One of the two black boxes of the crashed plane is recovered in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 23, 2022. (Photo by Xu Dong/Xinhua) The possibility that the data storage unit of the cockpit voice recorder was damaged cannot be ruled out at present, Zhu said, adding that the rescuers are going all out to locate the second black box, or the flight-data recorder. Following the crash, China Eastern Airlines and its subsidiaries temporarily grounded 223 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, and the airline has launched a sweeping safety overhaul, Liu Xiaodong, head of the airline's publicity department, told the press briefing. All grounded aircraft are undergoing checks and maintenance according to the highest safety standards to ensure that they meet the airworthiness requirements, Liu said. Liu added that 305 family members of 56 passengers aboard the crashed plane had arrived in the city of Wuzhou by Thursday morning, with over 200 family members having been to the crash site. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) The European Union (EU) countries and EU lawmakers on Thursday reached an agreement on an unprecedented law to curb the market dominance of the biggest tech companies such as Alphabet's Google, Meta, Amazon and Apple. The law, called the Digital Markets Act (DMA), is aimed at stopping the largest tech platforms from using their interlocking services and considerable resources to box in users and squash emerging rivals, giving new entrants a better chance to survive against the world's powerful tech juggernauts. "DMA. 3 letters -- and a lot of work done for fair & open digital markets," European Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton said in a tweet. "And with tonight's agreement, soon a reality. Because no one should be 'too big to care'." Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age Margrethe Vestager also confirmed in a tweet that there was a deal on the law. Rightmove plc (LON:RMV) has announced that it will be increasing its dividend on the 27th of May to UK0.048. This makes the dividend yield 1.2%, which is above the industry average. See our latest analysis for Rightmove Rightmove's Dividend Is Well Covered By Earnings A big dividend yield for a few years doesn't mean much if it can't be sustained. However, Rightmove's earnings easily cover the dividend. As a result, a large proportion of what it earned was being reinvested back into the business. Over the next year, EPS is forecast to expand by 9.6%. If the dividend continues along recent trends, we estimate the payout ratio will be 33%, which is in the range that makes us comfortable with the sustainability of the dividend. Dividend Volatility Although the company has a long dividend history, it has been cut at least once in the last 10 years. The dividend has gone from UK0.014 in 2012 to the most recent annual payment of UK0.096. This implies that the company grew its distributions at a yearly rate of about 21% over that duration. Dividends have grown rapidly over this time, but with cuts in the past we are not certain that this stock will be a reliable source of income in the future. We Could See Rightmove's Dividend Growing Given that the dividend has been cut in the past, we need to check if earnings are growing and if that might lead to stronger dividends in the future. Rightmove has impressed us by growing EPS at 9.5% per year over the past five years. A low payout ratio and decent growth suggests that the company is reinvesting well, and it also has plenty of room to increase the dividend over time. We Really Like Rightmove's Dividend In summary, it is always positive to see the dividend being increased, and we are particularly pleased with its overall sustainability. Distributions are quite easily covered by earnings, which are also being converted to cash flows. Taking this all into consideration, this looks like it could be a good dividend opportunity. Market movements attest to how highly valued a consistent dividend policy is compared to one which is more unpredictable. At the same time, there are other factors our readers should be conscious of before pouring capital into a stock. Earnings growth generally bodes well for the future value of company dividend payments. See if the 20 Rightmove analysts we track are forecasting continued growth with our free report on analyst estimates for the company. Looking for more high-yielding dividend ideas? Try our collection of strong dividend payers. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. NEW YORK (AP) An associate of Rudy Giuliani pleaded guilty Friday to a conspiracy charge alleging that he defrauded investors in a company supposedly created to prevent people from being defrauded. Lev Parnas, 50, entered the plea to conspiring to commit wire fraud during a remotely held electronic proceeding in Manhattan federal court. Parnas told Judge J. Paul Oetken that he conspired between 2012 and 2019 with another person to give investors false information about a Florida-based business, Fraud Guarantee. He said he was wrong at the time and I am truly sorry for my actions, your honor. Fraud Guarantee was promoted as a company that could protect investors against fraud. The plea came months after the Soviet-born businessman was convicted of campaign finance crimes at a Manhattan trial. The judge set sentencing for June 29. In October 2020, codefendant David Correia, a former golf professional, pleaded guilty in connection with the same fraud. Prior to Correia's sentencing, prosecutors said Correia and Parnas used false claims to induce at least seven investors between 2012 and 2019 to contribute between $200,000 and $500,000, saying the money would be used only for business interests and nothing personal. The majority of the money from investors, though, was withdrawn as cash and spent on rent, luxury cars and retail stores by Parnas, prosecutors said. During the fraud, Correia and Parnas agreed to pay Giuliani, a former New York City mayor who served as Donald Trump's personal lawyer during part of his presidency, a $500,000 consulting fee to work with Fraud Guarantee. Correia was sentenced last year to a year in prison. Parnas several years ago also worked with Giuliani to try to get Ukrainian officials to investigate the son of Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. Giuliani has said he knew nothing about the crimes of Parnas and others. Giuliani has not been criminally charged, though federal authorities have acknowledged that he is being investigated to determine whether he violated a federal law that governs lobbying on behalf of foreign countries or entities. In October, Parnas was convicted of six charges alleging that he made illegal donations in 2018 to jump-start a new energy company and used the wealth of a Russian financier to donate to politicians who might aid the launch of a legal, recreational marijuana business. He awaits sentencing in that case. Ukrainian emergency employees and volunteers carry an injured pregnant woman from a maternity hospital that was damaged by shelling in Mariupol, Ukraine, March 9, 2022. Evgeniy Maloletka/AP Russian forces have bombed Ukrainian hospitals at least 34 times, a new independent analysis shows. The Associated Press tracked the attacks daily as part of a larger project with PBS series "Frontline." If proven to be deliberate by prosecutors, the attacks constitute war crimes, the AP reported. Russian forces have attacked Ukrainian hospitals and medical facilities at least 34 times since the war began last month, according to a new analysis by the Associated Press. On February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale military assault on Ukraine, and in the weeks since, during the fighting Russian forces have bombed a maternity ward, targeted attacks on civilian towns, and killed journalists amid the ongoing conflict. As part of the "War Crimes Watch Ukraine" project with PBS series "Frontline," the AP independently documented the Russian attacks on a daily basis since the war began and said that the attacks could constitute evidence of war crimes. The pattern of attacks "shows evidence of a consistent and relentless onslaught against the very civilian infrastructure designed to save lives and provide safe haven to Ukraine's most vulnerable," the report said. Read the original article on Business Insider (Reuters) - Russia's armed forces destroyed a major fuel depot outside Kyiv in a missile strike, Russia's defence ministry said on Friday. Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov told a briefing that the strike happened on Thursday evening, using Kalibr cruise missiles fired from the sea. Konashenkov said the depot was used to supply Ukraine's armed forces in the centre of the country. Reuters was not able to independently verify Konashenkov's remarks. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Alex Richardson) (Independent) A Russian brigade commander has been killed by his own troops in Ukraine, Western officials have said, adding they believed the act was deliberate. It is thought troops staged the rebellion due to the significant number of losses in their unit. That just gives an insight into some of the moral challenges that Russian forces are having, the official noted. More follows... A group of South Carolina workers have sued several companies alleging they were exposed to toxic levels of carbon monoxide while on the job in Elloree, South Carolina. The workers, represented by the law firm Morgan & Morgan, are accusing Sunbelt Rentals, Industrial Mechanical Group, Inc. and Clauger USA, LLC of negligence after the companies allegedly failed to protect them against carbon monoxide exposure. None of the companies have so far filed a response, but Industrial Mechanical Groups owner, Gary Gilley, cast doubt on the claims. Anybody can sue anybody in this day and time, Gilley told The State, referring further questions to his attorney. Industrial Mechanical Group and Clauger USA workers were working at the Food Lion Distribution Center in Elloree using welding equipment obtained through Sunbelt Rentals on March 17, 2021, according to the lawsuit filed by Food Lion Distribution Center employees. In their suit, the employees said they were near the equipment and that the equipment was meant for outdoor use only, but lacked the proper labeling. When the welding equipment was used indoors, the Food Lion employees allege they were exposed to dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide, according to the suit. The employees said they had to seek medical attention after the carbon dioxide exposure, and are still suffering health effects because of it, according to the suit. A close up of the Suns surface and corona (Nasa) Scientists have developed a new, unified theory of why the Sun is hot or more specifically, why its upper atmosphere is so hot when its furthest from our stars core. The new theory could help scientists better understand solar wind, the charged particles streaming from the suns upper atmosphere, which can interfere with satellites and transfer energy into Earths magnetic field. In a new paper published Thursday in the journal Nature Astronomy, scientists at the University of Otago propose a new process to explain why a solar astronomy puzzle: Why is the Suns upper atmosphere so much hotter than its surface? As the outer edge of a massive ball of gas superheated by thermonuclear reactions fusing hydrogen atoms into helium atoms, the surface of the Sun is extremely hot a blistering 6,000 degrees Celsius. The Suns surface is relatively temperate compared with the Suns upper atmosphere, or corona, the wispy tendrils of plasma seen around the edge of the Moon during a total eclipse and ranging from a few hundred kilometers to five million kilometers above the surface. Temperatures in the corona regularly measure more than 1 million degrees Celsius, and scientists believe that the process that generates this intense heat so far from the Suns core may govern how powerfully the solar wind flows from the Sun. We know from measurements and theory that the sudden temperature jump is related to magnetic fields which thread out of the Suns surface, the lead author of the study, Jonathan Squire, said in a statement. Astrophysicists have several different ideas about how the magnetic-field energy could be converted into heat to explain the heating, but most have difficulty explaining some aspect of observations. Hypotheses involving a form of turbulence known as low-frequency Alfvenic turbulence are supported by observations by spacecraft and would explain the transportation of energy outwards from the Sun. But they dont fit observations that ions the cores of hydrogen, helium and oxygen atoms stripped of their electrons become superheated while electrons remain relatively cool in the corona. Story continues A hypothesis involving a sort of magnetic wave known as high-frequency ion-cyclotron waves can explain the differential heating between ions and electrons, but scientists havent found a clear source for such waves. But in the new paper, Dr Squire and his colleagues argue that both turbulent and magnetic waves are two components of a larger, unified process of coronal heating. Through a phenomenon they call the helicity barrier, they theorize that the low-frequency turbulence process diverts electrons energy into the creation of ion-cyclotron waves, which then heat the ions. The researchers then tested the hypothesis using six-dimensional computer simulations and found the magnetic field structures and coronal gas eddies generated hewed close to observations of the actual solar corona made by Nasas Parker Solar Probe spacecraft, which first flew through the Suns corona in December. And beyond gaining a better understanding of solar coronal physics for its own sake, said study co-author Dr Romain Meyrand, scientists will better understand and be able to predict space weather events that can affect spacecraft near Earth. The solar coronas dynamics can have profound impacts on Earth, he said in a statement. Perhaps, with a better understanding of its basic physics, we will be able to build better models to predict space weather in the future, thus allowing the implementation of protection strategies that could head off literally billions of dollars of damage. State Grid Corp of China started construction of two ultrahigh voltage power transmission projects on Thursday to further facilitate the country's ongoing green energy transition. With a total investment of 10.9 billion yuan ($1.7 billion), the projectsan ultrahigh voltage power transmission line linking Fuzhou with Xiamen in Fujian province and a line linking Zhumadian in Henan province with Wuhan in Hubei provinceare expected to be put into operation by 2023, said the company on Thursday during a news conference. Ultrahigh voltage transmission lines refer to power transmission cables operating at greater than 800 kilovolts direct-current or 1,000 kV alternating-current. Compared with traditional transmission lines, the new lines will not only increase transmission capacity and extend transmission distances, but also reduce transmission losses. China vows to continue accelerating domestic grid network construction this year with a focus on ultrahigh-voltage power transmission networks amid efforts to further ensure power supply stability and boost green power consumption in the country. Analysts said the projects will further ensure China meets its carbon neutrality target. Luo Zuoxian, head of intelligence and research at the Sinopec Economics and Development Research Institute, said long-distance power transmission plays a key role in the country in ensuring sufficient power supply as the nation's power supply and demand are not evenly distributed. With green power in China's solar and wind-rich regions expected to increase on a large scale in the futureincluding in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and Qinghai provinceit is likely that more green power will be transmitted and the technology of ultrahigh voltage power transmission will play a key role, Luo said. The country has pledged to build a new electric power system with a higher share of new energy resources so as to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Wei Hanyang, a power market analyst at research firm BloombergNEF, said demand for ultrahigh-voltage transmission lines in the country is expected to be further lifted as China has been developing clean energy on a large scale. It promised to invest 473 billion yuan last year in grid network infrastructure. Total investment in grid network construction during the 2021-25 period is expected to reach 2.23 trillion yuan. The company said it has constructed 29 ultrahigh voltage projects so far with total length of lines in operation or under construction reaching 46,000 kilometers. All the projects have transmitted more than 2.5 trillion kilowatt-hours as of Thursday. The company expects its cross-provincial power transmission capacity will gain further momentum from the current 240 million kWh to 370 million kWh, which will provide strong grid support for the country's rapid development of clean energy while ensuring sufficient power supply. According to State Grid, the Fujian-Xiamen ultrahigh voltage transmission project, with a total investment of 7.1 billion yuan, will further improve the main grid frame structure in Fujian while effectively improving power supply capacity and stability in the country's coastal regions. It expects clean energy installed capacity, including wind and nuclear power, will account for around 80 percent by 2030, and the projectonce put into operationcan well ensure clean power transmission from the region to load centers in southern areas, which will in turn substantially boost large-scale consumption of clean energy. The two ultrahigh voltage transmission lines both adopt the country's world-leading self-developed ultrahigh voltage transmission technology, it said. China launched the world's first 1,100-kV ultrahigh-voltage direct-current transmission network in 2019, and has been investing in high-voltage electricity transmission lines for more than a decade. Its advantages in better transmission capacity, long-distance operability and low losses during transmission are especially obvious for cross-provincial transmission networks and can better meet the increasing demand for electricity in the central parts of China during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25). CONCORD, NH Here are some share-worthy stories from the New Hampshire Patch network to talk about tonight. PM Patch NH features stories and info published during the past 24 hours. Thank you for reading Patch in New Hampshire. Have a great weekend! Adam Montgomery was indicted on an assault charge, accused of striking Harmony Montgomery; Kayla Montgomery was indicted on a theft charge. Woman indicted on drug dispense, possess charges; Concord man faces stolen car, drug, weapon charges; Mass. man indicted on robbery charge. Manchester man indicted on insurance fraud; man indicted on drug dealing charges in Milford, Greenville; Merrimack woman faces drug charges. Derry man faces mischief charge after hospital vandalism incident; Florida habitual offender indicted on Hampton charge; theft indictments. 43 Lockes Hill Road in Gilford, New Hampshire, is a late-1970s Ranch with a huge deck, garages, and subdivision potential, too. James McKenzie was accused by police of forcibly fondling an employee who was under 18 at an establishment on Lafayette Road in Portsmouth. Residents interested in registering to vote can do so on Tuesday and April 16 before the charter commission election. NH Fire Marshal, state police, attorney general's office are investigating a fire on Centennial Street after a woman and dog were killed. Developers could reap millions with legislative garage project; truck strikes pedestrian, flees scene; Alltown Fresh comes to NH; orchids. Story continues Also Read Got a news tip? Send it to tony.schinella@patch.com. View videos on Tony Schinella's YouTube.com channel or Rumble.com channel. This article originally appeared on the Concord Patch SINGAPORE While most Singaporeans are feeling positive about the upcoming relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, about one-third of them remained concerned about the effects of the easing-up of rules, according to a survey done by online research company YouGov. The firm said in a media release on Friday (25 March) that, according to data gathered from 1,048 Singaporeans, 38 per cent of them felt happy, 31 per cent felt relieved, and 29 per cent of them felt concerned about the easing of community safe management measures in Singapore. Office workers in the Raffles Place financial business district in Singapore. (PHOTO: Roslan Rahman/AFP via Getty Images) There is also some disparity in how men and women feel about the issue, with men significantly more likely to express positive sentiment of relief (35 per cent), happiness (42 per cent) and excitement (30 per cent), and women more likely to resonate with the negative sentiment of concern (33 per cent). INFOGRAPHIC: YouGov Of the various safe management measures that are to be eased from next Tuesday, the survey revealed that Singaporeans are most anticipative of resuming larger-scale social gatherings, with seven in 10 (75 per cent) looking forward to the increase in group sizes from five to 10 persons. In particular, those above the age of 55 are significantly more likely to say they are looking forward to the increased group sizes, with eight in ten expressing anticipation (81 per cent). The removal of the mandatory requirement to wear masks outdoors (63 per cent) and reduction of quarantine rules for travel (52 per cent) also came up tops in the minds of Singaporeans, with full-time working adults most looking forward to the increased ease of travel (58 per cent). INFOGRAPHIC: YouGov YouGov said in its media release that young adults are especially looking forward to the lifting of restrictions on alcohol and live entertainment, with half of those aged 18 to 24 anticipating the resumption of live music and screening of live broadcast programmes at F&B establishments (51 per cent), and four in 10 of those aged 25 to 34 looking forward to consuming alcohol beyond 10.30pm (38 per cent). Story continues Stay in the know on-the-go: Join Yahoo Singapore's Telegram channel at http://t.me/YahooSingapore Watch more videos on Yahoo Southeast Asia's YouTube channel: Snoop Dogg performs during the Super Bowl Halftime Show in Inglewood. (Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press) Rapper Snoop Dogg is trying to put an end to a lawsuit alleging that he and his associates committed sex trafficking and sexual harassment, assault and battery. The famed Long Beach rapper had his legal team file a motion for dismissal on Thursday, arguing that the woman who sued him in February failed to state a legitimate claim against him under federal rules of civil procedure. The woman's lawsuit, which also accuses Snoop and the other defendants of defamation, false light and intentional and negligent inflictions of emotional distress, as well a number of labor code violations, "alleges virtually no supporting facts," his attorneys argued. The 50-year-old musician, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, has denied the allegations made by the woman, identified as Jane Doe in the filings, and previously said that her lawsuit was an attempt to extort him before his high-profile Super Bowl LVI performance. "She provides no allegations of any statement by Mr. Broadus that he would help her career, no offers or promises whatsoever, and no allegations of any statement about how Mr. Broadus might advance her career," said the motion, obtained Thursday by The Times. It also accused her of failing to establish an employment relationship at any time with any of the defendants. According to the complaint, the woman is a professional dancer, model, host and spokesmodel who has worked for years for the "Drop It Like It's Hot" rapper and a number of his businesses, including the Broadus Collection and his cannabis companies, Casa Verde Capital and Merry Jane Events, which are also named in the lawsuit. However, Snoop's team disputes that she was ever employed by the rapper or his companies. "The plaintiff has named Mr. Broaduss companies as defendants in part of this alleged scheme, including repeated claims that they 'assaulted' and tried to 'prostitute' her. However, none of these companies existed at the time of the alleged incident," a spokesperson for the rapper said in an email to The Times. Story continues "You cannot sue a person or entity for something that happened before they existed," the spokesperson added. "The lack of their existence at the time of the alleged incident is readily discoverable in the public domain. Nonetheless, plaintiff and her counsel continue to make these false allegations, which only undermine their own credibility." She also said she worked as a stage dancer at shows for Snoop and his co-defendant, rapper and former pimp Don Magic Juan (born Donald Campbell), and accused them of engaging in "a common scheme of recruiting, enticing and harboring" her and others to engage in sexual activities in exchange for access to employment with them. The incidents in question allegedly occurred in 2013, and she accuses both Broadus and Campbell of coercing her into oral sex on separate occasions. Her civil lawsuit makes one federal claim under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and 11 state law claims including violations of California's Labor Code and retaliation and harassment claims that they violated the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) all of which Broadus is trying to have dismissed. Snoop's motion for dismissal was filed Thursday following a March 16 conference between their lawyers. Before that, attempts to mediate the dispute in early February were unsuccessful. The case is set to be heard on April 21, when the musician's attorneys plan to argue for dismissal in front of a judge. Matt Finkelberg, the attorney representing Jane Doe, declined to comment on the the rapper's latest motion and referred The Times to statements made on behalf of his client in their first amended complaint. The motion cited three main reasons for dismissal: because the woman "failed to state a claim for relief," meaning she did not say what kind of redress she sought from the defendants; that she was supposed to bring her time-barred state law claims within one to two years of the alleged 2013 incident and exceeded California's statutes of limitations by waiting nearly nine; and because her first amended complaint, and its "conclusory, threadbare allegations," failed to state a claim. The woman's first amended complaint, filed March 10, sought unspecified monetary and punitive damages and a jury trial, as well as attorney fees, costs of the lawsuit and "other and further relief as the Court may deem just and proper." It also alleged that the rapper's Instagram post saying "Gold digger season is here" was retaliatory and that she was defamed when a spokesperson for Snoop identified her by her real name in a statement characterizing the lawsuit as a "self-enrichment shakedown scheme." The version of that statement obtained by The Times did not including Doe's real name. However, her name was revealed in a state Department of Fair Employment and Housing complaint filed in December 2021 by her attorney. According to her lawsuit, the woman alleged that she was taken to Campbell's home against her wishes in May 2013 after attending one of the rapper's shows at Club Heat Ultra Lounge in Anaheim. She alleged that Campbell forced his penis in her face and into her mouth at his home. Later, Campbell allegedly claimed that he would see if Broadus would make her a weather girl on GGN: Snoop Doggs Double G News Network and took her to the recording studio where Snoop films "GGN." There, the lawsuit alleged, Broadus accosted her in a bathroom and demanded "a commercial sex act." She complied because she was afraid for her safety and life, the lawsuit said. Doe claims in the lawsuit that she wasnt hired afterward because she didnt willingly and enthusiastically give Broadus oral sex. In his motion to dismiss, the rapper's attorneys argued that her allegations lack any proposed quid pro quo. She also alleged that she has suffered from various ailments since the events, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress, depression, nightmares, sleep disorders, headaches, emotional distress and more. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Pegasus, a 1-year-old colt, grazes with his mother in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona Pegasus, a 1-year-old colt, grazes with his mother in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona Credit - Bryan Schutmaat for TIME Winter had frozen over the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in late January 2019 when Betty Nixon saw the dead stallion, known to locals as Raven. His right leg bone was shattered by a bullet, and near him lay a red-coated pregnant mare, Sparrow, who had been shot in her belly and neck. Nearby, behind a stand of junipers, the mares filly stood alone, lost. As Nixon approached, the filly took off, racing past the dead bodies of Raven and her mother. Three years later, Nixon has chronicled the shootings of at least 40 wild horses in this forest in northeastern Arizona, where several hundred of the Heber herd, named for the unincorporated town surrounded by the forest, roam. Each day she sets out on often miles-long treks, recording the live horses she sees and the ones she finds too late. The most recent shootings that anyone knows of were in late December, when three dead wild horses were found. So far, necropsies have yielded few clues. I just dont understand who would shoot a horse and leave it there, says Jeffrey Todd, a spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Its strange. After the December killings, the Forest Service announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Wild horses are federally protected, and killing one on public land is punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,000 fine under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971. But in the 51 years since the law passed, it has proved difficult to enforce. Most killings or abuse of the animals occur in remote areas, far from public view, and survivors cant describe their assailants. And some people might be reluctant to turn in a shooter as population growth, climate change, and success in replenishing wild horse herds across the West heighten tensions between humans and beasts sharing the land. Story continues Prosecutions happen, but they rarely result in much jail time. Two Nevada men were sentenced to six months in federal prison and one year of supervised release in 2010 for shooting five wild horses with an AR-15 rifle. In 2005, two men in Utah were convicted of shooting nine horses and sentenced to five months in jail, followed by five months of house arrest, and ordered to pay restitution of $2,005. In another Nevada case, two men were each sentenced in 2002 to 60 days in jail, fined $2,000, for shooting a horse, one of 33 mustangs that had been shot dead four years earlier in the same area. Betty Nixon has documented 40 horse killings since 2018 in the forest Bryan Schutmaat for TIME "The shooter wants these horses to suffer." The debate over wild horses Ranchers, hunters, horse advocates, and forest officials in Arizona have been struggling for years over how to manage the growing Heber herd, which Todd estimates could number up to 500. Now, someone may have taken it upon themselves. Defenders of the free-roaming horses say they play an important role in the ecosystem, breaking ice over water sources so they and other animals can drink in winter, and helping trim down brush and grasses. Others say the horses are ecosystem invaders, little more than a misplaced symbol of freedom in the West. Theres only so much food in the forest, says John Koleszar, a hunter and former president of the Arizona Deer Association and Arizona Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation. He compares the situation to hosting a dinner party for eight guests, with a turkey and a ham, and having 100 people show up. But Koleszar describes the killings as appalling. We dont in any way, shape, or form approve of that activity. The debate has pitted neighbor against neighbor, in a setting cherished by all. Whether youre for the horses or against them, Nixon says, these are horrific crimes, and they need to stop. The skeletal remains of a 3-year-old filly found shot to death in January 2020 in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Bryan Schutmaat for TIME "Sometimes the public thinks that all police work is an episode of CSI or FBI. We know that that's not reality." The sun casts a silver glow across tall, sleepy Ponderosa pines on a February morning as you near the forest, home to the officially designated territory of the Heber herd. The 2002 Rodeo-Chediski fire, one of the worst in state history, has left many of the pines charred and drooping. Nixon grew up in Arizona but became familiar with the wilderness area after shed moved to Kansas and would drive to Apache Junction, Ariz., southwest of the forest, to visit her mother. The sound of the breeze in those towering trees, the solitude, and, perhaps more than anything, the wildlife, drew Nixon, 66, to retire here in 2018 from suburban Kansas City. It didnt take long for her to discover the wild horses, which would appear silently and suddenly as she hiked in the woods. This is my sanctuary, says Nixon, who as a kid would gallop around on the playground, pretending to be a horse or on a horse. Ive been horse-crazy all my life. I love horses and just watching them. Then the killings began: two stallions were shot in October 2018; a month later, two more horses were gunned down. Then, in January 2019, Nixon saw it up close for the first time with Raven and his mare after a friend told her of their deaths. According to Nixons records, 14 horses were killed in the forest in 2019, 15 in 2020, and seven in 2021. The moment she saw Raven and Sparrow, Nixon was determined to help find the killer. Its vicious cruelty. Its somebody that hates these horses with a vengeance, she says, noting that several horses were shot in the face. Shooting something in the face is personal, Nixon says. The shooter wants these horses to suffer. Nixon compares what shes doing now to her years as an insurance claims investigator, studying motorcycle, snowmobile, car, and ATV accidents, and examining scenes in which faces were burned off or bodies were hit by trains. Later, she specialized in medical fraud rings, working with law enforcement to investigate organized crimes. She trained in evidence collection, background searches, and social media analysis. Before that, Nixon was an Army intelligence officer, stationed at a listening post in West Berlin from 1982 to 1985 and trained to intercept radio and telephone communications. These skill sets are ingrained in me, in my DNA, she says of her knack for investigative work. Nixon spends a majority of her week driving and hiking portions of the forest Bryan Schutmaat for TIME Conflict with wildlife is hardly new. Black bears, white sharks, wild horses, gray wolves, and other species nationwide are bumping up against human concerns that theyre becoming intrusive and endangering humans and livestock. The clashes raise questions that resonate beyond the Arizona forests: What does it mean for an animal to be free, and can the law truly protect that freedom? Karrigan S. Bork, acting professor of law at the University of California, Davis, who has written extensively about wildlife and the law, attributes rising tensions over wildlife incursions in large part to wildfires, droughts, and storms nationwide that have dramatically changed animal and plant life. This has led to a rise in the view, toward some wild animals, of how inconvenient they can be to humans sharing the battered land, Bork says. Its creating more conflict; there are so many species we have to think about. But nobody knows the motive for the Arizona killings, and past attacks on wild horses and burros have been blamed on everything from trigger-happy passersby to hunters using the smelly carcasses of slain horses to lure bears. "We're looking to create a thriving ecological balance. The horse is not the only animal out there." Koleszar says the killer is misguided or a psychotic wacko. Nixon suspects the shootings are tied to the bigger debate over land use. She, and many locals, have been critical of the Forest Service law enforcements response, questioning why the horse shootings continue after more than three years. I do sympathize with their frustration, says James Alford, the special agent in charge of the Forest Services southwestern region, but Alford says the challenges to fighting crime in a wilderness area covering more than 2 million acres might not be apparent to critics. Sometimes the public thinks that all police work is an episode of CSI or an episode of FBI, he says. We know that thats not reality. Out here, there are no homes with doorbell cameras, no buildings with video cameras trained on surrounding areas, and little human traffic of any kind, vehicular or pedestrian. Horses are shot in very remote areas with no witnesses. They can remain undiscovered for days or weeks. The horses could have walked miles from where they were initially shot, Alford says. By the time we find the horses, sometimes they are in an advanced state of decomposition, or their carcasses could be scattered by predators or scavengers. Alford says law enforcement officers are patrolling the area and following up on all tips and leads they receive. A wild horse in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Bryan Schutmaat for TIME There are members of the public and people within the communitiesthey know the persons responsible for committing these crimesand with their help and with our thorough investigations, were going to be able to solve these cases, he says. Not the retirement she planned All Nixon knows is that what began as a relaxing retirement hobby of tracking the bands, or families, of wild horses has become a grim task of searching for dead ones and sharing her information with law enforcement in hopes something cracks the case. She spends about 40 to 50 hours a week driving and hiking the south-central part of the forest, where the killings have occurred. Sometimes, she hikes as much as five to seven miles along rocky, winding terrain. She keeps a photo and video library of all of her records on each horse and its band. Despite the seeming tranquility, Nixon knows danger stalks the forest. She carries two guns, bear spray, and a knife, and she parks her pickup truck in a way that would enable her to get away quickly. Also in her truck: an ax, fire extinguisher, snake-bite kit, shovel, bungee cords, jugs of water, extra socks, binoculars, fence-repair kit, and wire. In winter, when it can get as low as 20 degrees, she layers up and adds gloves and an ear-covering headband to her gear. Even though she knows whats out there, each discovery, each new reminder of whats happening in the wild, is jarring. While out walking on a quiet, chilly morning, Nixon suddenly stops. She looks down and points to the hip and pelvis bones of a stallion known as Big Daddy, all thats left of the horse shot in the face in January 2019. A dead mare once lay next to him, and a second mare, Angel, was shot and crippled not too far away. Forest officials later euthanized Angel. The sinister scene hangs in the air. Then, the sun peeks through the tall pines. From her truck, Nixon spots two young male horsesbachelors she calls Fan and Dracoone a shiny blood bay and the other a buckskin, each with a black mane and tail. They bask in the light, swishing their tails. Nixon knows shes always on the brink of heartbreak out here. The sight of ravens, a bald eagle, or, in the warmer months, a buzzard, makes her grow tense. Her mantra to calm down begins: One bird does not a dead horse make. One bird does not a dead horse make. But then her senses take over. You can hear the birds eating the carcasses. You can hear the coyotes, Nixon says. As she approaches, the birds always fly away. The scene has become all too familiar. And yet, Nixon wants to be there. She wants to know who was killed and how. Another mantra echoes through her mind: Lord, if theres something for me to see, let me see it. If theres something to hear, let me hear it. On the morning of Jan. 7, 2021, Nixon and a friend were driving around the forest when they saw birds hovering. We knew something was dead, Nixon says. When they reached the site, they saw the body of a blood bay mare by the side of the road. They knew hershe was part of a band led by a black stallion known as Midnight. The mare had been shot in the face; wildlife had been eating away at her back end. Midnight and a pregnant black mare were also there, dead. The bay mares filly was crippled, her eyes blinking. A few hours later, a Forest Service official would shoot the filly to end her suffering. Soon, the blood bay mare would just be a skeleton. Her skull would show where the bullet hit her in the face. Nixons work doesnt end with the deaths. Then the search for survivors begins. Youre just frantically looking for them. Are they OK? When Nixon finds a dead horse, she photographs and records everything at the site and looks for shell casings and tracks left by feet or vehicles. She calls law enforcement and shares what shes found with them. Nixon also takes down license-plate numbers of vehicles she sees as she drives along the forest roads. They could be potential witnesses to a crime. Im hoping to be a deterrent to somebody that would come out here and shoot horsesa presence out in the forest, Nixon tells me as we walk among tall weeds and trees. If there is a dead horse out here, I want to be the first to find it. And I want to find it quickly because if you dont find it within the first day or two, the evidence will be consumed. The skull of a mare, that was part of a band led by a black stallion known as Midnight, shows a bullet hole directly in the middle of its head Bryan Schutmaat for TIME "Shooting something in the face is personal." The history of wild horses in America Conquistadores brought wild horses, originally known as mustangs, from Spain in the 1500s. Todays wild horses in Arizona may be descendants of the Spanish mustangs, but many have bred with ranch and farm horses. The 1971 law to protect them and other wild-horse herds and burros grew out of a movement started by Velma Wild Horse Annie Bronn Johnston, a Nevadan who in the early 1950s became outraged at the rounding up and slaughter of horses for dog food and fertilizer. She launched a grassroots movement to protect the horses, whose numbers were declining, according to Wild Horse Country: The History, Myth, and Future of the Mustang, by David Philipps. The law created herd management areas for wild horses and burros where they were found on public lands in the West. Today, the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service together manage 230 wild-horse territories on about 30 million acres of public lands in 10 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. The BLM alone oversees about 86,000 wild horseswho can live into their 20sand burros on public lands, more than triple the 27,000 the bureau says the land can sustain. Forest officials say the Heber herd began with six mares and one stallion but over the years has grown to hundreds. There is a Forest Service proposal to whittle the herd down to as few as 50 and no more than 104, using contraceptives and removal of horses; the 146-page draft management plan, originally set to take effect in the spring, has been pushed back for final review until the end of the year. Were looking to create a thriving ecological balance, says Tolani Francisco, the wild-horse and burro coordinator with the Forest Services southwestern regional office, located in Albuquerque, N.M. The horse is not the only animal out there. But Francisco says the horses are paying the price for a two-legged problem, humans arguing over whose land-use rights take precedence. The horses lose the most, says Francisco, who has horses of her own and says the shootings make her extremely angry. It makes all of us infuriatingly mad that someone would do this. The skeletal remains of a horse which Nixon found dead in the forest in January 2019 Bryan Schutmaat for TIME The wild-horse shootings, like the horses themselves, have divided the community. Most locals say they want the shootings to stop, but some people have cheered the horses deaths or accused defenders of the horses of falsely pointing fingers at cattle ranchers. Legend is the name I gave the shooter. I dont drink and Id go have a beer with the man/woman/alien that wont back down to the feral horse crap, one person wrote in a social media post. Some have questioned whether the horses should fall under the protection of the 1971 law, since some domesticated animals are also known to roam the forest. Business owners worry about the impact on their livelihoods if people who visit the wilderness area to camp, hike, and fish are scared off by news of the shootings. Even some locals say theyre scared of the forest now. The issue has become politically charged in this small community. Just the words horse shootings drive people into their respective corners, invoking everything from Second Amendment rights to the mythological symbolism of horses. "If I'm going to have a ranch 50 years from now, it's got to support all the wildlife, if it's going to be good for my cattle." For ranchers, the outcome could mean the difference between economic survival and insolvency. Nelson Shirley pays for a permit for his cattle to graze on the land but says the horses have decimated some stretches. The horses are scouring it down to the dirt, says Shirley. I cant graze my cattle if I dont have that piece of habitat intact If Im going to have a ranch 50 years from now, its got to support all the wildlife, if its going to be good for my cattle. The Forest Service says its analysis shows that 104 horses is the most the Heber territory can handle to ensure enough food for all the animals grazing there. Nixon, though, fears that number is not genetically viable for a healthy herd; theyll start inbreeding, which leads to disease and abnormalities. Wild horses graze in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Bryan Schutmaat for TIME As the weather warms up, if history is any indication, the horse killings may subside for a while. The shootings generally happen in winter, when the area population drops to about 3,000 from a summer high of 18,000, making it easier for an assailant to operate unnoticed. Alford, with support from the Navajo County sheriffs office, says the investigation continues. And while Nixon has accused the Forest Service of being slow to respond to crime scenes and collect evidence, she and law enforcement officials have no choice but to work together until the shootings are solved. Bettys helping us patrol the area, Alford says. Shes giving us more eyes out there to identify problems. In the forest, Nixon continues her watch. The sight of a horse on its hind legs in play, sparring with another horse, or of a band relaxing in the sun, still leaves her awestruck. When she comes upon a survivor orphaned in a shooting, Nixon marvels at its resilience. All the survivors are my favorites to see, she says. Im watching them grow up. I love them all. They include the palomino filly dubbed Little Orphan Annie, who ran off after Raven and her mother were shot and killed in 2019. Last year, Little Orphan Annie had her own foal, a buckskin. Nixon named her Fawn. MADRID (AP) Spains government and the countrys main trucking federations have reached an agreement on financial help for an industry hurt by high gas prices, but self-employed truckers said Friday they would continue a 12-day strike. Russias war in Ukraine has helped drive gas prices higher in Europe, making it more expensive for truckers to fuel their vehicles. After 12 hours of negotiations that ended after midnight, Spain's Socialist-led government announced it is discounting 0.20 euros per liter of gas (the equivalent of $.83 per gallon) for truckers as part of a package of measures worth more than 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion). A liter of gas for truckers currently costs around 1.80 euros (the equivalent of $7.50 a gallon) Spanish Transport Minister Raquel Sanchez said the discount would translate into savings of around 700 euros ($771) a month per truck. The government said it would also provide 450 million euros ($495 million) in direct financial aid to road haulage businesses, as well as special credit terms. The Platform for the Defense of the Road Transport Sector, a group that is not affiliated with Spain's larger national trucking associations or road haulage companies and does not sit at the sectors negotiating table with the government, called on its members to continue their strike and to attend a street protest in Madrid on Friday. The group said it would not budge from its demands, which go beyond gas prices. It claims that large distribution companies engage in unfair competition, forcing down the prices for freight, and is seeking better working conditions for truckers, including being allowed to retire at 60. After 12 days were not going to throw in the towel. Its now or never, the Platform said on its Facebook page. The strike has disrupted supply chains and brought scattered shortages at stores of fresh products, such as vegetables, milk and fish. Thousands of police have escorted truck convoys and arrested picketers trying to stop working truckers. ___ Follow all AP stories on the effects of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. Spotify announced on Friday that it would fully suspend services in Russia because of the country's new, restrictive law limiting journalism coverage. The company, which hosts political and social commentary podcasts on its streaming platform, told The Hill it expects services to be fully suspended by early April. In a statement, a Spotify spokesperson cited Russia's new law passed earlier this month, which prohibits news agencies and people from publishing "fake" news about the invasion of Ukraine. "Spotify has continued to believe that it's critically important to try and keep our service operational in Russia to provide trusted, independent news and information in the region," the spokesperson said. "Unfortunately, recently enacted legislation further restricting access to information, eliminating free expression, and criminalizing certain types of news puts the safety of Spotify's employees and possibly even our listeners at risk." Earlier this month, Spotify joined a growing list of companies cutting back services in Russia. The streaming company stopped premium services in the country and closed its Russian office. But Friday's decision amounts to a full suspension of services in the country, which the spokesperson called a "difficult decision" to make. Russia's media law restricts outlets and people from even referring to the invasion of Ukraine as a war; instead, they must use the term "special military operation" or face up to 15 years in prison. Because of the law, The Washington Post began removing bylines and The New York Times said it was pulling its journalists out of the country. A Russian journalist who spoke out against the war this month was fined more than $250 and could face further charges. The U.S. Coast Guard on Wednesday rescued a man 15 miles out to sea off the Florida Keys stranded on a windsurf board, and federal authorities said Thursday he is a migrant who was attempting to flee Cuba. A crew from Coast Guard Station Islamorada found him on the surfboard wearing a life jacket and carrying a global positioning satellite device and several cell phones, the agency said in a statement on Twitter. The Border Patrol on Thursday confirmed he was attempting a maritime migration from Cuba. The Coast Guard transferred the man to medics, who took him to a local hospital where he was treated for dehydration, Coast Guard spokeswoman Petty Officer Nicole Groll said. He was released from the hospital the next day, and the Border Patrol took him into custody, Adam Hoffner, division chief for U.S. Customs and Border Protections Miami operations, said Thursday afternoon. A U.S. Coast Guard crew approaches a man stranded on a windsurf board about 15 miles off the Florida Keys Wednesday, March 23, 2022. Despite the mans harrowing journey, he is likely to be sent back to Cuba, like most migrants trying to leave the island country have ever since the end of the wet foot, dry foot policy in early 2017. Under that U.S. immigration policy, those caught at sea were returned to Cuba, but those who set foot on U.S. soil above the high-water mark were allowed to stay and apply for permanent residency after a year. Maritime migration from Cuba slowed dramatically in the months after the Obama administration ended wet foot, dry foot. However, in the past two years, it has spiked due to deteriorating political and economic conditions within the island country. On Thursday alone, three groups of Cuban migrants arrived in separate landings throughout the Florida Keys. DNASolves.com Two state transportation workers found the womans body off to the side of Interstate 59 in Georgia, close to the Alabama border, in 1988. She had on Calvin Klein jeans, a blue thermal shirt, and a pinkie ring topped with a heart. She had been strangled to death. For years after the young woman was buried in an unmarked grave under the name Jane Doe, investigators worked to figure out who she was and who killed her. Forensic artists produced sketches of what she would look like, and clay was used to create a rendering of her head. The FBI created a DNA profile that was added to a national missing persons database. But for 34 years, the woman known as Rising Fawn Jane Doe remained nameless. That changed recently when the Georgia Bureau of Investigation decided to once again take a fresh look at the case, this time using a relatively new investigative technique called genealogical DNA, which has cracked dozens and dozens of mysteries. We realized as science changes we knew of a new process, Joe Montgomery of the GBI said at a news conference on Thursday. Georgia Bureau of Investigation Experts were able to compare Jane Does DNA profile against millions of samples of DNA that now exist in databases thanks to services like Ancestry.com and create a likely family tree. That led them to a family in Norton Shores, Michigan, where a fingerprint match was used to confirm that Jane Doe was Stacey Lyn Chahorski, who had been reported missing in 1989. A few months earlier, Chahorski had called her mother, Mary Beth Smith, to say that she was in North Carolina and was making her way back to Michigan. She never arrived, and her mother never heard from her again. Once the identification was made, FBI Agent Tim Burke and other law enforcement traveled to Norton Shore to inform Smith and bring her a little bit of peace. They were also able to give her the jewelry that Jane Doe had been wearing when she was killed. And soon, her body will be returned to Michigan for burial closer to home. Story continues A rendering of Jane Doe. Georgia Bureau of Investigation Police said their work is not done, though. Today marks the day where we hunt for the killer now, Montgomery said, adding that he is hopeful investigators can find that person. We had no identification for the victim, so we had no starting point. Now we have a starting point. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Associate Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and his wife and conservative activist Virginia Thomas arrive at the Heritage Foundation on October 21, 2021. Drew Angerer/Getty Image Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' wife called GOP lawmakers who didn't challenge the 2020 election results "pathetic." Ginni Thomas texted then-White House chief of staff Meadows, expressing frustration about the lack of rallying behind Trump. "Where the heck are all those who benefited by Presidents coattails?!!!" Thomas wrote. Virginia "Ginni" Thomas, a longtime conservative activist and wife to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, called Republican lawmakers who didn't challenge the 2020 election results "pathetic," The Washington Post reported Thursday. In a November 10, 2020, text to then-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, Thomas expressed frustration at the lack of Republicans uniting behind President Donald Trump and his claims that the 2020 election was stolen and rigged because of widespread voter fraud. There is no evidence to support the claims, and federal, state, and local officials have repeatedly said the 2020 race was fair and accurate. In the aftermath of the election, Trump and his close Republican allies had launched legal challenges to overturn the results in several states, which ultimately failed. "House and Senate guys are pathetic too... only 4 GOP House members seen out in street rallies with grassroots... Gohmert, Jordan, Gosar, and Roy," Thomas texted Meadows, seemingly referencing GOP Reps. Louie Gohmert of Texas, Jim Jordan of Ohio, Paul Gosar of Arizona, and Chip Roy of Texas, per The Post. Each of the lawmakers later voted to object to the certification of the 2020 election results on January 6, 2021, except Roy, who criticized Trump in the wake of the Capitol riot. "Where the heck are all those who benefited by Presidents coattails?!!!" Thomas wrote to Meadows. The text messages are among the thousands that the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot received from Meadows as part of its probe, CNN first reported on Thursday. The committee has a total of 29 texts exchanged between Thomas and Meadows between November 2020 and January 2021. In the messages, Thomas had repeatedly urged Meadows not to let Trump concede the election and to pursue efforts to overturn it. Story continues The newly revealed texts come after Thomas recently acknowledged in an interview with the Washington Free Beacon that she attended the January 6, 2021 "Stop the Steal" rally at the Ellipse near the White House. Yet, she said she got cold and left early before Trump gave his speech and his supporters eventually stormed the Capitol. Thomas in that same interview said she and her husband Clarence "have our own separate careers and our own ideas and opinions too." "Clarence doesn't discuss his work with me, and I don't involve him in my work," she said. Read the original article on Business Insider You are here: China Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has stressed the importance of spring farming in guaranteeing the country's grain security and stabilizing economic and social development. Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at a symposium during an inspection of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Wednesday. Facing complicated and grim international circumstances, sharp price rises, and increasing volatility in the agricultural product market, China's development and agricultural production face new challenges, said Li. China has sufficient inventories and supplies of grain and important agricultural products. Yet ensuring China's grain security based on the country's own efforts should be kept firmly in mind, said Li, calling for guaranteeing stable domestic production and supply to cope with uncertainties in the external environment. He urged efforts to advance spring farming to ensure that China's grain output for 2022 stays above 650 billion kg. Noting price rises of farming supplies such as fertilizers, pesticides, and diesel oil, Li underscored support for enterprises' efforts in increasing production by reducing tax and fees and supplying raw materials. To protect grain planters from rising prices of farming supplies, China has also provided another 20 billion yuan (about 3.14 billion U.S. dollars) worth of subsidies to grain producers. Efforts should also be made to continuously promote modernization of the agricultural sector, consolidate poverty alleviation achievements, promote rural revitalization, and develop high-standard farmland, said Li. After spending a week in the hospital with an infection unrelated to Covid-19, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been discharged. The court said nothing further about the circumstances of his condition. Thomas was admitted to Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. on Friday with an unspecified illness, a spokesman for the court told Reuters earlier this week. He underwent tests, was diagnosed with an infection, and is being treated with intravenous antibiotics. His symptoms are abating, he is resting comfortably, and he expects to be released from the hospital in a day or two, a statement from the Supreme Court read. On Thursday, soon-to-be-retired liberal Justice Stephen Breyer said his colleague was doing fine and not in serious peril while speaking to TMZ outside Cafe Milano in Georgetown, our Jim Geraghty noted. Because of his hospitalization, Thomas missed opening arguments on five cases at the Supreme Court. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. announced on Wednesday that Justice Thomas is unable to be present today but that he would participate remotely by referring to briefs and transcripts of the hearings. Thomas absence also coincided with the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, who President Biden nominated to replace Breyer, fulfilling his campaign pledge to nominate a black woman. Thomas presumably has returned to good health and can resume his duties on the bench soon. At 73 years old, he will become the oldest justice on the High Court once Breyer officially retires at the end of the current term. More from National Review WASHINGTON Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas was released from the hospital Friday after being treated for nearly a week for an infection, a Supreme Court spokeswoman said. Thomas, the most senior associate justice on the high court, was admitted to a hospital in Washington on March 18 after experiencing flu-like symptoms and was treated with intravenous antibiotics, the court said. Thomas did not have COVID-19, the court said. President George H.W. Bush nominated Thomas in 1991 to fill the seat that had been held by Associate Justice Thurgood Marshall. Thomas, who is 73 and the only African American on the Supreme Court, was previously a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Thomas: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas admitted to hospital with infection 30 years: Justice Thomas celebrates three decades on the Supreme Court Several of the justices have had health run-ins during this term, mainly due to the coronavirus pandemic. Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh tested positive for COVID-19 days before the justices returned to the courtroom in the fall. In November, Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch called in sick with a stomach bug. Clarence Thomas speaks on Sept. 16, 2021 at the University of Notre Dame. The details of Thomas' infection were not clear. Thomas sat out oral arguments at the court this week but the court said he would take part in those cases based on audio recordings of the discussions. The court did not immediately respond to a question about whether Thomas will attend oral arguments next week. Thomas, a stalwart of the court's conservative wing, celebrated his 30-year anniversary on the Supreme Court last fall. His supporters say that the 6-3 advantage conservatives now enjoy on the court has meant the high court is just beginning to catch up with some of his positions on guns, abortion and other hot-button issues. The Washington Post, CBS and other outlets reported Thursday night that Thomas' wife, Ginni Thomas, repeatedly pressed top White House officials in President Donald Trumps administration to overturn the 2020 election. Story continues Reports: Jan. 6 committee reviewing texts between Virginia Thomas and Mark Meadows The text messages, which are being reviewed by the House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, underscore the access Ginni Thomas had with the Trump administration. Some of the messages were between Thomas and then-White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and are dated from early November 2020 to mid-January 2021, various outlets reported Thursday. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Justice Clarence Thomas released from hospital after infection (Reuters) -Virginia Thomas, the wife of conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, urged former Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to work to overturn the results of the 2020 election in a series of text messages, the Washington Post and CBS News reported on Thursday. The messages, sent in the weeks following the Nov. 3 presidential election, show that Thomas advised Meadows to "make a plan" and "release the Kraken" in a bid to preserve Donald Trump's presidency, the Post and CBS News reported. Virginia Thomas, a conservative activist and attorney, could not immediately be reached for comment. Now-President Joe Biden was projected to win the race on Nov. 7, 2020. "Sounds like Sidney and her team are getting inundated with evidence of fraud. Make a plan. Release the Kraken and save us from the left taking America down," she said in one of 29 messages shared between the two, according to the Post. Sidney Powell, who represented Trump's campaign when he sought to overturn the election result, filed lawsuits challenging counts in multiple states in support of Trump's false claims of widespread election fraud. She had previously vowed to "release the Kraken" to expose the alleged fraud, a reference to the sea monster of Scandinavian folklore. The messages were handed over to the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, according to the Post and CBS, who said, without elaborating, that they had obtained copies of the messages. Reuters could not independently verify the reports. A spokesperson for the Jan. 6 committee declined to comment. Reuters sought comment from Meadows at the Conservative Partnership Institute, an organization that helps elect conservatives to office where Meadows now serves as partner, but was unable to immediately reach him. An attorney for Meadows did not return a request for comment. The messages do not directly reference Thomas's husband or the Supreme Court, according to the Post. Story continues Trump's campaign distanced itself from Powell after she claimed without evidence at a Nov. 19, 2020 news conference that electronic voting systems had switched millions of ballots to Biden. The news comes almost a week after Justice Thomas was admitted to a Washington hospital. The status of Thomas's health was not immediately clear. (Reporting by Tyler Clifford;Editing by Noeleen Walder and Rosalba O'Brien) Update: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law on Monday, March 28. Some of America's most highly regarded teachers are speaking out against Florida's "Parental Rights in Education" bill, and a growing number of LGBTQ teachers and allies across the country are worried about the impact this and similar legislation could have on students. Florida's House Bill 1557 known by critics as the "Don't Say Gay" bill prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, or in older grades in "a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate." Kentucky's 2022 Teacher of the Year, Willie Carver, drafted an open letter, signed by more than 200 teachers who've been honored by their state as a current or former Teacher of the Year, condemning policies that place "politics, misconceptions, teacher comfort, and other concepts above the needs of students." The signatories represent about 50 states and territories. An excerpt from the letter states that they "stand firmly against any practice or legislation that silences or opposes references to LGBTQIA+ people or to their access to care, such as is occurring in Florida and Texas." Carver told CBS News, "There's a whole host of bills that are very problematic. Florida's is the most brazen. It is very specifically outlawing what it calls 'discussions,' which is a pretty vague term, of LGBTQ people through third grade." Even though Kentucky hasn't passed such legislation yet, Carver says he's seeing a negative effect on students. "I think the first thing that I'm seeing is a lot of heartache and a lot of fear," Carver said. "School is, for many of them, the singular place where they can experience any modicum of freedom to be their authentic self or even to try to figure out what their authentic self is." Story continues Carver teaches English and French at Montgomery County High School in rural Kentucky. He is gay and is also the faculty adviser for Open Light, a student-run group that stands up for LGBTQ student issues. Carver says he didn't feel protected growing up, so now he is helping students feel valued and use their voices. "There's a thirst for advocacy, for others and for themselves," Carver said. "What has inspired me over the years generally, and what I've seen specifically happening in this case, is they (the kids) want to help. They want to write letters. They want to prevent it from happening here. The kids have asked, to whom do we address our letters? Whom do we speak to?" Supporters gather for a rally to push back against Florida's Parental Rights in Education bill, also known as the Jonte Lee, a nationally recognized high school science teacher in Washington, D.C., wasn't involved in the letter but shares its sentiment. He says it's commonplace for today's kids to see LGBTQ representation in the media and discuss these topics outside school. "The major networks have TV shows with LGBTQ characters," Lee told CBS News. "The movies have it. They see that, so are you now going as far as to ban everything? You can't." Lee came out in 2003 after graduating from Southeastern Louisiana University. Up to that point, there was only one gay male image Lee identified with in the mainstream media. When "America's Next Top Model" aired on UPN that year, viewers like Lee were introduced to Jay Manuel, a creative director on the show, for the first time. "It said something to me," Lee recalled. "You can be professional. Being gay and professional is possible." Nearly 20 years later, Lee has become a role model himself. The chemistry and physics teacher was named a STEM Ambassador by the Department of Defense, honored for transforming his kitchen into a virtual chemistry lab during the pandemic. Even though the term "gay" does not appear in Florida's bill, which recently passed in the state legislature, the limitation on what can be talked about troubles educators like Lee. He doesn't think the policy will impede students' curiosity. "The law cannot stop this. They have the internet, they can Google anything that they want," he said. "Saying, 'Oh, let's not have it in the schools' you think that's going to stop kids from being curious and looking it up?" Moreover, he says, the bill is unclear on what language would be acceptable. "What if a kid has two dads? They can't bring that up," Lee questioned. "When they ask me, 'Hey, Mr. Lee, are you married?' Am I supposed to lie? So it's confusing, because where is the line?" The Florida bill is one of many recent attempts by state lawmakers to restrict the teaching of certain topics in schools. According to PEN America, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting free expression in the United States and worldwide, around two dozen legislatures introduced over 50 "educational gag orders" during the first nine months of 2021. Most of the proposals targeted discussions of race, racism, gender or how American history is taught in K-12 schools, public universities, and in trainings in workplace settings. Florida state senators vote on a the Since the start of 2022, a PEN America tally shows roughly 100 more such measures have been proposed from prohibiting public school libraries in Oklahoma from holding or promoting books focusing on sex, gender or sexuality in a manner that a "reasonable parent" would not approve of, to banning public K-12 schools in Missouri from including certain ideas related to race or sex in their curricula. Republican State Representative Joe Harding sponsored the Florida bill. He told CBS News in February that he wants core education topics to be the focus in classrooms. "We want the focus to be on those basic, fundamental things. The reading, the writing, the math. And when discussions come up as a dad of four kids, children ask questions. Discussions are going to come up. We can't ban a conversation. We can't ban a discussion. That's not what we're doing," Harding said. "I think the schools are a safe place, and they need to continue to be a safe place," he added. "This doesn't change a school being a safe place." A recent Politico/Morning Consult poll found 51% of Americans surveyed said they support "banning the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity from kindergarten through third grade," while 35% opposed it. Florida's Republican Governor Ron DeSantis is also a vocal supporter. He is calling 2022 the "year of the parent," and is expected to sign the bill into law in the coming days. It is a growing GOP refrain, inspired in part by the winning campaign of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who rallied voters at "Parents Matter" events last fall. Youngkin's slogan has been adopted by other GOP governors, including Iowa's Kim Reynolds and Texas' Greg Abbott. Cassie Bailey, who teaches fifth grade at a public magnet school about an hour north of Tampa, believes parents and politicians shouldn't be dictating teaching decisions. According to Bailey, LGBTQ discussions aren't the norm for classes at her school. "Those types of topics don't typically come up, especially in a K-to-three classroom," said Bailey. "It gets a little bit more talked about, not necessarily by the teacher, but by the students as they get older because they're trying to figure out who they are." Assessing China's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict CBS News correspondent Holly Williams describes experience dodging possible Russian attack in Ukraine Residents in Kyiv use sandbags to protect monuments as they anticipate attacks Boris Johnson - Henry Nicholls/Pool/Getty Images Boris Johnson told Xi Jinping, the Chinese president, to urge Vladimir Putin to pull out of Ukraine during a "frank and candid" 50-minute call on Friday. Mr Johnson is understood to have set out the UK's position on Ukraine during the call and said pressure should be put on Putin to withdraw his troops. In a read-out of the call issued later, Number 10 said: "The leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including the situation in Ukraine. It was a frank and candid conversation lasting almost an hour. They agreed to speak again soon." It came after Joe Biden, the US president, reiterated his warning to China against coming to Russia's aid in Ukraine. He said he had made clear that such assistance would incur "consequences" when he spoke to President Xi. Mr Biden said he told President Xi that "he'd be putting himself at significant jeopardy" in his efforts to strengthen economic ties with the US and Europe if China were to move forward with aid to Russia. The twin approach by Mr Johnson and Mr Biden comes at a potentially critical moment in the war in Ukraine, with Russia's offensive appearing to have stalled and the country seeking support to help cope with severe economic hardship caused by the West's sanctions. Washington has been warning Beijing against helping Moscow for weeks amid reports that Russia has requested military assistance from China. The last time Mr Johnson spoke to President Xi was in October when they discussed a range of issues, including action to address the climate crisis, global trade and economic cooperation, and security and human rights. Number 10 added that the Prime Minister had expressed sympathy for the victims of the China Eastern Airlines jet crash earlier this week. President Xi asked him to convey his "best wishes" to the Queen on her Platinum Jubilee. Earlier, a spokesman said: "Obviously, the Prime Minister has been talking with a lot of world leaders and quite regularly throughout the course of what has happened in Ukraine. "This is part of the Prime Minister's wider engagement with world leaders so he can set out our position on where we think the current situation is." Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on Feb 24, China has taken a neutral stance publicly, backing talks to end the conflict while urging "maximum restraint" and de-escalation. NEW BEDFORD Fired Deputy Fire Chief Paul Coderre Jr shook his head as he sat in the online audience watching the New Bedford Retirement Board vote 3-2 to hold a hearing relative to the boards initial granting of his pension back in January. Coderre was terminated from his job on the fire department by Mayor Jon Mitchell in January based on dishonesty and untruthfulness in connection with alleged work-related injuries. A surveillance video showing Coderre lifting a heavy smoker grill from the back of his truck while out injured resulted in his firing. The retirement board had approved the superannuation retirement of Coderre back on Jan. 27, but the mayor shot back claiming that Coderre didn't meet the criteria for retirement and urged the board to reconsider its approval. New Bedford seeks AG's help: Former deputy fire chief involved in possible disability insurance fraud When the retirement board opened its public meeting on March 21, it quickly entered into closed session for the purpose of discussing the Coderre matter. After 30 minutes, the board came back into open session. Upon returning to open session, board member Susan Mandra Thompson motioned to honor the citys request for reconsideration and move forward with the hearing... That motion passed on a 3-2 vote with Chair Leonard Baillargeon and board member James Allen being the two dissenting votes. Property Transfers: Fairhaven boyhood home of famous American industrialist sold Thompson then made a motion to appoint the boards attorney Michael Sacco as the hearing office. That motion passed unanimously. Baillargeon told those present at the online meeting, which included Coderre and his attorney James Quirk, that they would be notified by Sacco of the next step in the process. When contacted by the Standard-Times, Sacco clarified the possible logistics of the hearing. The Board will be conducting a hearing to review all the evidence submitted and to be submitted, allow for witness testimony and likely allow the City and Mr. Coderre to submit written legal memoranda post-hearing to address the legal issues raised, Sacco said by email. Story continues Sacco noted that Coderre can choose whether or not to attend the hearing but said the hearing can proceed without him. 'Expect the unexpected': These SouthCoast restaurants made permanent changes amid pandemic Asked if the hearing would be open to the public, Sacco stated, Since it is anticipated that there will be a discussion of medical issues, the hearing will be in executive session unless Mr. Coderre requests an open hearing, which is also his right. A hearing date has not yet been set. Also during its March 21 meeting, the retirement board voted unanimously to change the date of Coderres superannuation retirement from Jan. 27, 2022 to Jan. 25, 2022. Thompson made that motion saying the Jan. 25 date reflected the last day Coderre was paid by the city. It was also the day Mitchell fired him. The city claims that Coderre received $208,574 in tax free, injured-on-duty benefits while he was on injury leave during the 16-month period from August 2020 through the end of 2021. His annual salary as acting chief was approximately $150,000. Since the Jan. 27 meeting when the retirement board voted 3-2 to approve Coderre's retirement, the board continued with a series of split votes. Jan. 27, 2022 - Motion to approve all superannuation retirements submitted. Coderre on that list. In favor: James Allen, Leonard Baillargeon and Susan Mandra Thompson Opposed: Angela Natho and Brennan Morsette Feb. 24, 2022 - Motion to suspend Corderre's pension until board decides whether to have a reconsideration hearing. In favor: Natho and Morsette Opposed: Allen, Baillargeon and Thompson March 21, 2022 - Motion to hold reconsideration hearing on Coderre pension In favor: Natho, Morsette, and Thompson Opposed: Allen, Baillargeon Should the board vote not to reconsider its initial approval of Coderre's pension at the conclusion of its hearing, the city is not without appeal options. However, city spokesperson Mike Lawrence said if the retirement board votes to keep Coderre's pension intact, the city would have to consult its attorney, Nicholas Poser, regarding an appeal. Standard-Times digital producer Linda Roy can be reached at lroy@s-t.com Follow her on Twitter at @LindaRoy_SCT. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times. This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Fired New Bedford deputy chief: Retirement Board hearing on pension Two high-ranking prosecutors leading the Manhattan District Attorney's investigation into Donald Trump abruptly resigned about a month ago, after the newly-elected DA indicated that he had doubts about moving forward with a case against Trump. Now, The New York Times has published the resignation letter of one of these attorneys, special assistant district attorney Mark Pomerantz, who believes the former president is guilty of numerous felony violations of the penal law. MSNBC legal analyst Glenn Kirschner joins Joy Reid on this development, and texts showing that Ginni Thomas, wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, promoted somehow keeping Donald Trump in office after President Biden was elected to the former presidents chief of staff. The main impact site of the crashed China Eastern Airlines passenger jet has been located and over 180 pieces of wreckage have been found, authorities said on Thursday. Most wreckage is scattered within 30 meters of the main point and some are buried up to 20 meters underground, said Zhu Tao, head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China's aviation safety office, in a news conference on Thursday. Among the big pieces that have been found are engine fan blades and turbines, he noted. Investigators have also found remnants of items from the cockpit, including escape ropes and operations manuals. Flight MU5735 left Kunming, the Yunnan provincial capital, at 1:11 pm on Monday and was scheduled to arrive in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, at 3:05 pm. It crashed in Tengxian county in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region at around 2:20 pm. The flight was carrying 123 passengers and nine crew members, all Chinese nationals. No survivors have yet been found. Zheng Xi, head of the Guangxi Fire and Rescue Brigade, said rescuers have found 183 pieces of wreckage and 21 pieces of victims' belongings as of 4 pm Thursday. Some human remains were also found. All discoveries have been handed to investigation teams, he said. Aside from search work, rescuers have been tasked with providing communication support and disinfecting personnel and facilities involved in the mission, he said. They have also helped investigators drain water from areas near the main crash site, he noted. Monitoring for flammable gas has been carried out regularly. The steep and densely vegetated terrain near the main impact point has posed some challenges to his team as they enlarged the scope of the search on Thursday, he said. Firefighters have to carve their way through with shovels and sometimes climb over big stones to proceed, he said. They are also often troubled by snakes and insects after heavy rainfall. Donald Trump Jr, Donald Trump and Ivanka Trump during the filming of the live final tv episode of The Celebrity Apprentice on May 16 2010 in New York City. Bill Tompkins/Getty Images Former President Donald Trump is scheduled to sit for another deposition. It's for a case where he's accused of promoting a scam multi-level marketing scheme on "The Celebrity Apprentice." Eric and Donald Trump Jr. are also scheduled for depositions, with one pending for Ivanka Trump. Former President Donald Trump and his two eldest sons, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., are scheduled to sit for depositions for a civil lawsuit alleging they promoted a scam multi-level marketing scheme. The ex-president is scheduled to sit for the deposition on June 16. Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump will sit for their own on May 10 and May 12 respectively, according to a new court filing, which was signed by attorneys representing the Trump family members. The parties have not yet agreed on a deposition date for Ivanka Trump, also a defendant in the lawsuit. The Trump family members will take the depositions as part of a long-running lawsuit against them, the Trump Organization, and a multi-level marketing company called ACN. As Insider's Yelena Dzhanova reported, four plaintiffs sued after saying they lost thousands of dollars from joining ACN and trying to sell its telephones with video capabilities. Trump and his family members had promoted ACN extensively on "The Celebrity Apprentice" in 2009 and 2011 years after the release of the iPhone and had done numerous live events and promotional interviews. The deal with ACN, and the work Trump did on the show, had helped Trump survive financial ruin, according to a New York Times analysis of his tax records. Donald Trump and the ACN videophone, used in the class-action lawsuit as an example of the company's promotional material. ACN ACN and Trump have denied wrongdoing and say the lawsuit is politically motivated. As with many lawsuits filed against Trump, the one against ACN and his family had stalled during his presidency. Since he left office in 2021, it has moved slowly through the discovery phase. The new filing is a status update on the discovery phase from attorneys representing both the plaintiffs and the Trump family members. It says that MGM, which produced "The Celebrity Apprentice," gave the former ACN members' lawyers unaired footage from the show to use in the lawsuit. Story continues "Plaintiffs have completed their on-site review of unaired footage from two episodes of The Celebrity Apprentice, and have designated certain footage (under 50% of the total footage) that Plaintiffs believe is relevant for copying, with Plaintiffs bearing the reasonable costs," the lawyers wrote. "Nonparties Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. and JMBP, LLC have copied and provided in full the media assets designated by Plaintiffs during the initial phase of their review." Trump has sat for only one deposition since leaving office, in October, for a lawsuit alleging his security guards roughed up protesters outside of Trump Tower in 2015. The New York Attorney General's office has also subpoenaed him and his eldest children for its civil investigation into whether the Trump Organization broke financial laws by misrepresenting property values. The Trump Organization is appealing a judge's decision ordering them to sit for depositions in that case. Read the original article on Business Insider Former President Donald Trump speaking at a rally in Wellington, Ohio, on June 26, 2021. REUTERS/Gaelen Morse/File Photo Former Manhattan DA prosecutor Mark Pomerantz left a blistering resignation letter, saying the DA should have brought criminal charges against Donald Trump. Ron Fischetti, his former law partner and Trump's lawyer told Insider he's disappointed by the letter. Fischetti said it was inappropriate to write the letter while the investigation continues. In the 1980s and 1990s, Ron Fischetti and Mark Pomerantz ran a law firm together. The legendary attorneys' practice defended mobsters and politicians, making them among the most prominent criminal defense lawyers in New York. In recent years, they've been on opposite sides of the table. Pomerantz who was also one of the top prosecutors in the US Attorney's office in Manhattan left private practice in early 2021 to help lead the Manhattan District Attorney's office's investigation into the Trump Organization's finances. Former President Donald Trump hired Fischetti to represent him personally. When the New York Times on Wednesday published Pomerantz's letter of resignation from the DA's office, Fischetti felt disappointed in his former partner, he told Insider. He praised Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, who took office in January, for rejecting Pomerantz's argument that prosecutors had collected enough evidence for a grand jury to bring criminal charges against Trump for "numerous felony violations." "Quite frankly, I was surprised and disappointed that he left, and left a letter like that with regard to dealing with the district attorney, Mr. Bragg," Fischetti told Insider. "He has this reason for giving it, I'm sure. But I don't agree with them at all. And I don't believe he should have left the way he did." Pomerantz resigned in February along with Carey Dunne, a former top deputy to now-former Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance Jr. The investigation into whether the Trump Organization misrepresented its finances in a way that amounted to tax, bank, and insurance fraud began under Vance's administration in 2019, and continues under Bragg. Story continues Prosecutors in July brought one set of charges against the Trump Organization and its Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg, who they alleged evaded tax payments on millions of dollars in benefits. Lawyers for Weisselberg and the company have denied wrongdoing. Fischetti told Insider that he and Pomerantz last spoke in late June, shortly before the charges were brought against Weisselberg and the Trump Organization. At the time, Fischetti said, Pomerantz said the DA's office did not plan to imminently bring charges against Trump. Pomerantz also said, according to Fischetti, that he'd talk to him personally if criminal charges were coming. "I haven't spoken to him since June. We were on different sides arguing about whether or not Trump should be charged. And we had an agreement that Mark, if they made a decision to charge him, he would talk to me," Fischetti said. Fischetti hasn't heard from anyone in the DA's office at all since that June meeting, he told Insider. Pomerantz accused Trump of crimes as the investigation continues Pomerantz and Dunne believed they had enough evidence to bring grand jury charges against Trump personally, according to the New York Times. Vance had also believed the evidence was ready, Pomerantz said in his letter. When Bragg turned them down, saying the evidence against Trump wasn't yet sufficient, Pomerantz and Dunne walked. "I and others believe that your decision not to authorize prosecution now will doom any future prospects that Mr. Trump will be prosecuted for the criminal conduct we have been investigating," Pomerantz wrote. "I fear that your decision means that Mr. Trump will not be held fully accountable for his crimes. I have worked too hard as a lawyer, and for too long, now to become a passive participant in what I believe to be a grave failure of justice." The Trump Organization's Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg, center, awaits a car after leaving a courtroom appearance in New York on September 20, 2021. AP Photo/Craig Ruttle The Manhattan DA's office office has declined to comment on specifics about the investigation because it is ongoing. Bragg hired Susan Hoffinger, another experienced white-collar criminal attorney, to take over the case. "The investigation is ongoing. It's not over. And then he just picked up and wrote this letter," Fischetti said. "It's not the right thing to do. I think he's wrong for doing this. And it's very disappointing." Before the publication of Pomerantz's letter by the Times, a records official for the DA's office told Insider that the letter could not be released under the state Freedom of Information Law because it reflected "internal deliberations and opinions." A representative for the Manhattan DA's office didn't immediately respond to Insider's questions about the publication of Pomerantz's letter and whether it affects the investigation. Fischetti has separately been battling the office of New York Attorney General Letitia James, which is conducting a parallel, civil investigation into the Trump Organization's finances. He has sought to stop her office from deposing Trump, arguing in court that it's unfair to obtain his testimony while her office is also collaborating with the Manhattan DA's criminal investigation. In the late 1990s, Pomerantz was in charge of the criminal division of the US Attorney's office in Manhattan. Part of that job, Fischetti said, involved reviewing evidence from other prosecutors and deciding if it was enough to bring criminal charges. If one of those prosecutors wrote a letter blasting him for turning down their case, Fischetti said, Pomerantz probably wouldn't appreciate it. "I don't think he'd like that," Fischetti said. So I don't think he should have done what he did, quite frankly." Read the original article on Business Insider TUNIS (Reuters) - A Tunisian judge released on Friday a journalist who refused to reveal his sources and who was imprisoned for a week, the country's main journalism union said. The anti-terrorism police detained last week Khelifa Guesmi, a radio reporter, for refusing to reveal his sources on a story about militants. The reporter's imprisonment sparked widespread anger among human rights organizations, which warned of a serious threat to press freedom. The journalists' union has said freedom is seriously threatened adding that state media will go on strike next week because of what it called attempts by President Kais Saied to control state television. Freedom of speech and press was a key gain for Tunisians after the 2011 revolution that ended the rule of former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and triggered the Arab spring protests. However, the democratic system adopted after the uprising is in deep crisis after Saied last year suspended the parliament, seized executive power and brushed aside the constitution to rule by decree. Saied has promised to uphold rights and freedoms won in the revolution, but his critics say his actions, which also include replacing a body that guaranteed judicial independence, show he is determined to cement one-man rule (Reporting by Tarek Amara; editing by Jonathan Oatis) Two men charged with killing the former president and CEO of the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Phil Trenary, faced a judge Friday morning at 201 Poplar. Quandarius Richardson and McKinney Wright have been locked up in jail since 2018. The pair were indicted on first-degree murder and other charges in connection with the shooting death of Trenary in downtown Memphis. MORE: 2 men indicted for murder of prominent Memphis city leader Last month, a judge denied a motion stating Wright wasnt competent enough to stand trial. Wrights lawyer has been arguing his client isnt competent to stand trial for four years. FOX13s Jeremy Pierre sat in a 2 1/2 hour hearing listening to the series of tests specialists put Wright through. His lawyer even told the judge he isnt able to comprehend during conversations when they meet. Wrights lawyer said its been an ongoing process to prove his client is incompetent to stand trial. A trial date has been set for Dec. 5. Lawyers for the men said theyll continue gathering evidence to prepare. Download the FOX13 Memphis app to receive alerts from breaking news in your neighborhood. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD Trending stories: By Jan Wolfe WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. jury on Thursday convicted U.S. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, a Republican from Nebraska, of lying to FBI investigators about illegal contributions to his 2016 re-election campaign. Following a trial in Los Angeles federal court, the jury found Fortenberry guilty of scheming to falsify and conceal material facts, along with two counts of making false statements to federal investigators. Prosecutors accused Fortenberry of lying to investigators during two interviews in 2019 about $30,000 in campaign contributions he received in 2016 from Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury. Federal law prohibits foreign nationals from donating to federal election campaigns. Fortenberry's lawyers said he did not mean to mislead FBI agents but was caught off-guard by their interview request and suffered from a faulty memory. Prosecutors alleged that an associate who hosted a 2016 fundraiser for Fortenberry told him in a 2018 telephone call that the donations in question probably did come from Gilbert Chagoury" but were routed through intermediaries to avoid individual donor limits. According to the U.S. Justice Department, when FBI agents quizzed Fortenberry about the campaign contributions he denied being aware of any illegal donations. "If we want to expect anyone to follow the law, ultimately it starts with the law-makers," Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Jenkins told media outside the courthouse after the verdict was announced. "I think that's even more paramount when the investigation itself goes to election integrity." Fortenberry, 61, has served in Congress since 2005. The three felony charges each carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 28 before U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld in Los Angeles. (Reporting by Jan Wolfe; Editing by Robert Birsel) Russian state-sponsored hackers pose a serious and persistent threat to critical infrastructure both in the United States and around the world, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said in a statement. (Photo: Heinz-Jorg Kretschmer / EyeEm via Getty Images) The United States charged four Russian government employees in major hacking efforts targeting nuclear power plants, power companies, and oil and gas firms around the world, according to indictments made public Thursday by the Department of Justice. The indictments have been under seal since mid-2021 but were made public to bolster growing concerns that Russia may unleash cyberattacks against the U.S., Europe and other nations that have opposed its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. In one indictment from August 2021, Justice Department officials said three hackers from Russias federal security service (FSB), the Kremlins spy agency, worked to target and compromise the energy sector so it could disrupt and damage such computer systems at a future time of its choosing. The hacking took place between 2012 and 2017, and targeted thousands of computers, at hundreds of companies and organizations, in approximately 135 countries, officials alleged. A second indictment from June 2021 homed in on an employee of Russias ministry of defense and his co-conspirators, alleging Evgeny Viktorovich Gladkikh hacked a multinational energy company in 2017. Officials said the hackers installed malware that interfered with a refinerys safety systems. Gladkikh spent six months in 2018 researching how he could deploy a similar effort at U.S. refineries. Today, @TheJusticeDept unsealed charges against four Russian government actors for their roles in separate malicious #cyber campaigns targeting the U.S. energy sector. https://t.co/VoLQEHVGUv FBI (@FBI) March 24, 2022 Russian state-sponsored hackers pose a serious and persistent threat to critical infrastructure both in the United States and around the world, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said in a statement. Although the criminal charges unsealed today reflect past activity, they make crystal clear the urgent ongoing need for American businesses to harden their defenses and remain vigilant. Story continues The four Russians are not in U.S. custody, but a Justice Department official told The Guardian that the benefit of revealing the results of the investigation now outweighs the likelihood of arrests in the future. Russia does not extradite defendants to the United States, so the citizens will likely not be brought to trial. President Joe Biden has warned about the growing potential for Russian cyberattacks in recent days, saying he believed Russian President Vladimir Putin could soon turn to such tactics. The more Putins back is against the wall, the greater the severity of the tactics he may employ one of the tools hes most likely to use, in my view, in our view, is cyberattacks, Biden told reporters on Monday. The magnitude of Russias cyber capacity is fairly consequential, and its coming. This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated. Related... You are here: China A cargo plane of Sichuan Airlines, which departed from southwest China's Chongqing Municipality to Moscow, returned to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport safely after reporting mechanical failure on Friday. By Pete Schroeder WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A group of U.S. Senate Democrats is pressing large U.S. banks to scrap or significantly reduce overdraft and other fees they charge customers with insufficient funds. In a letter sent to seven large firms Thursday, the group of five lawmakers -- including Senate Banking Chairman Sherrod Brown -- called for a "fairer and more transparent" fee structure. Democratic lawmakers and regulators are placing heightened scrutiny on bank fees. The group cited recent research from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which found nearly 80% of such fees are charged to only 9% of accounts. The CFPB is currently soliciting public feedback on ways to potentially curtail overdraft and other "junk fees," and a House Financial Services subcommittee will hold a hearing Thursday on the fees. Under political and regulatory pressure, several large banks, including some that received letters, have taken steps to curtail such fees. In February, Citigroup announced it would eliminate overdraft fees by this summer. JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo & Co and US Bancorp have moved to give customers extra time to bring their account balances above zero. Bank of America said it would reduce overdraft fees to $10 from $35 beginning in May and eliminate its "nonsufficient fund" fees. JPMorgan had already taken other steps requested in the letter, such as eliminating nonsufficient fund fees, according to a spokeswoman. But banking groups are resisting government efforts to eliminate overdraft fees, arguing they serve a useful purpose. "A majority of consumers who use the product do so knowingly and count on it when unexpected expenses arise. As a result, contrary to what is stated in the letter, the Consumer Bankers Association believes taking action that would dramatically restrict overdraft could force many families out of the well-regulated, well-supervised banking and toward predatory payday lenders," said CBA spokesperson Lauren Bair Bianchi. Story continues Copies of the letter were sent to chief executives at JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, Truist Financial Corp, PNC Financial Services Group, US Bancorp and Charles Schwab Corp. Spokespeople for the other banks either declined to comment or did not respond to a request for comment. (Reporting by Pete Schroeder; Editing by David Gregorio) Mourners bid farewell to Boris Romantschenko, who survived forced labor and detention in four concentration camps during World War II, only to be killed in his apartment in Kharkiv, Ukraine. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) In a city stalked by death and bombardment, only four mourners gathered Thursday in a blustery chill for a final farewell to Boris Romantschenko. But in the six days since the 96-year-old survivor of Nazi concentration camps was killed by a Russian missile strike in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, the world came to know his story. As Hitlers darkness descended on Europe in the 1940s, Romantschenko, still a teenager, was captured by the Nazis and deported from Ukraine to Germany as a forced laborer. An attempted escape yielded capture and incarceration at Buchenwald the first of four concentration camps in which he would be imprisoned. He saw many around him die of hunger, privation and other cruelties. Boris Romantschenko's grave marker is propped up in the cemetery as an Orthodox priest performs his funeral. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Yet in later years as a father, grandfather and great-grandfather he possessed a lightness of spirit that defied the horrors of his past, according to his 34-year-old granddaughter, Julia Romantschenko. He loved to dance. He loved his little dacha, a rustic hut outside the city. Ukrainian Holocaust survivor Boris Romantschenko, center front, with his family. He was 96. (The Romantschenko family) He was a patient person, she said. He was a joyful person. He was supportive of everyone around him. His funeral, at a roadside cemetery on the citys southern edge, was simple, stark and held in haste. It was too windy to light candles. The stiff breeze quickly dried tears. The bearded young Orthodox priest was bundled in a parka. Surrounded by black tombstones and makeshift wooden crosses, the little group of mourners his son, Igor Romantschenko, 60; his daughter-in-law, Liubov Romantschenko, 62; Julia, their daughter; and a family friend clustered around Romantschenkos coffin, set on a stand and draped with a gold-trimmed maroon cloth. Everyone wept. A piece of history was gone. A boy who had survived the worst of human nature died an old man in a fresh atrocity. Igor Romantschenko, one of just four mourners who ventured outside for a hasty funeral, takes a moment at his father's casket. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) The young priest prayed and swung his censer. The mourners made the sign of the cross. The cemetery workers hammered the coffin shut. When it had been lowered into the ground, the mourners tossed in handfuls of dirt, then watched as the workers swiftly filled the hole with soil. When a concrete frame was placed around the grave, his family carefully brushed the dirt off, trying to make it tidy. Story continues As Russian bombing has escalated in intensity, tens of thousands of people have fled Kharkiv. But Romantschenko, despite his familys urging, had no desire to escape the city, his granddaughter said. He had always considered Ukraines northeast, close to the Russian border, his home. He was born about 130 miles away from Kharkiv, in Bondari, near the northern city of Sumy. He didnt want to leave Kharkiv, and he didnt want to leave his apartment," Julia Romantschenko said in a telephone interview after the funeral. We strongly suggested that he leave together with us. He didnt want to, and he wanted to stay optimistic. The missile that slammed into his eighth-floor apartment building on Friday was only one among the rocket and artillery strikes that have targeted the city, destroying hundreds of structures. Large swaths of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, lie in ruins, reminiscent of the destruction wrought across Europe more than half a century ago. Workers fill in Boris Romantschenko's grave after members of the small mourning party threw in handfuls of soil. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Romantschenko had stayed mainly inside during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Julia, who spoke with him often by phone, believes he could not have mustered the strength to try to get downstairs even if he heard warning sirens. She last saw him a little over two weeks ago. Id been calling him asking him if he could hear any shots or explosions, she said. But his hearing was not good. He could sometimes hear something, but he says it was all too far away. When she learned that his building had been hit, nighttime curfew had already started, and she had to wait until morning to rush there. Then I saw the awful scene. He really didnt deserve to die this way," she said. After World War II ended, Romantschenko found solace in remembrance. He was active in memorial organizations dedicated to ensuring that Nazi cruelties were not forgotten. It was one of those groups, the Buchenwald and Mittelbau-Dora Memorials Foundation in Germany, that announced his death after being alerted by the family. "We mourn for our dear friend, the group wrote on its website. The German Parliament commemorated his death, as did Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, and tributes rolled in from around the world. The weight of history, and its inescapably cyclical nature, colors the conflict of today. Kharkiv, like Ukraine as a whole, suffered enormously in World War II, changing hands several times between the Soviet Union and Germany. When the Russians invaded and Ukrainians rushed to try to repulse them, Romantschenko couldnt believe it, his granddaughter said. Because he was a survivor, he knew with absolute certainty what war was like, she said. He couldnt believe that people were again capable of doing something similar destroying lives, civilians, houses, and a peaceful society. Granddaughter Julia Romantschenko, left; her mother, Liubov Romantschenko, right; and a family friend take a moment at Boris Romantschenko's grave after his burial during a break in the Russian bombardment of Kharkiv, Ukraine. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Since the war's outbreak a little more than a month ago, Kharkivs dead number at least 500, officials have said, but a full accounting will probably be considerably higher. As Romantschenko was being laid to rest, other funerals were taking place, also hurriedly. But on this day, the bereaved were spared: The boom of bombardment was stilled, at least for a time. As the mourners were driving away, the lull ended: this time, the sound of outgoing artillery. The war spun on. Yam reported from Kharviv and King from Washington. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. This live blog has now ended. You can follow the latest updates here. The city of Kherson in southern Ukraine near Russian-occupied Crimea is "contested territory again," a U.S. Defense Department official said. If the city is retaken, it would represent a major setback for Russia. The battlefield development came as Ukrainian officials, citing eyewitnesses, said some 300 people had died after Russian forces bombed a theater where more than 1,000 had taken refuge in the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol. NBC News was not able to independently confirm the claim, which involved an attack that has become an emblem of Russia's indiscriminate bombardment of civilian targets. Speaking Friday on the state-owned news channel Russia-24, Col. Gen. Sergei Rudskoy, deputy chief of staff of Russias armed forces, said the "first stage" of what Russian President Vladimir Putin has called a "special military operation" is complete and the military will now focus on the complete liberation of the separatist Donbas region. The announcements Friday came as President Joe Biden traveled to Poland for the second leg of an emergency trip to Europe to fortify the West's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Biden was briefed on the humanitarian response to the war, which has forced more than 3.6 million people to flee Ukraine to neighboring countries, with more than 2.1 million seeking refuge in Poland. See full coverage here. By Gleb Garanich and Natalia Zinets BUCHA/LVIV, Ukraine (Reuters) - Moscow signalled on Friday it was scaling back its ambitions in Ukraine to focus on territory claimed by Russian-backed separatists in the East as Ukrainian forces went on the offensive to recapture towns outside the capital Kyiv. In an announcement that appeared to indicate more limited goals, the Russian Defence Ministry said a first phase of its operation was mostly complete and it would now focus on the eastern Donbass region, which has pro-Russia separatist enclaves. "The combat potential of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been considerably reduced, which ... makes it possible to focus our core efforts on achieving the main goal, the liberation of Donbass," said Sergei Rudskoi, head of the Russian General Staff's Main Operational Directorate. Reframing Russia's goals may make it easier for President Vladimir Putin to claim a face-saving victory, military analysts said. Moscow had said its goals included demilitarising Ukraine. Western officials dismiss this as a baseless pretext for a war they say is aimed at toppling Ukraine's government. Facing stiff resistance, Russian troops have failed to capture any major city in the month since invading Ukraine. Instead, they have bombarded cities, laid waste to urban areas and driven a quarter of Ukraine's 44 million people from their homes. More than 3.7 million of them have fled abroad, half to neighbouring Poland, where U.S. President Joe Biden met soldiers from the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division bolstering the NATO alliance's eastern flank. "Hundreds of thousands of people are being cut off from help by Russian forces and are besieged in places like Mariupol," Biden said, referring to the besieged southeastern port. "It's like something out of a science fiction movie." Battlelines near Kyiv have been frozen for weeks with two main Russian armoured columns stuck northwest and east of the capital. A British intelligence report described a Ukrainian counter-offensive that had pushed Russians back in the east. Story continues "Ukrainian counter-attacks, and Russian forces falling back on overextended supply lines, have allowed Ukraine to reoccupy towns and defensive positions up to 35 km east of Kyiv," the report said. Both the United States and Britain have given Ukraine arms. 'UNPREPARED TROOPS' Russia's defence ministry said 1,351 Russian soldiers had been killed 3,825 wounded, the Interfax news agency reported. Ukraine says 15,000 Russian soldiers have died. Volodymyr Borysenko, mayor of Boryspol, an eastern suburb where Kyiv's main airport is located, said 20,000 civilians had evacuated the area, answering a call to clear out so Ukrainian troops could counter-attack. Ukrainian forces recaptured a nearby village the previous day and would have pushed on but halted to avoid putting civilians in danger, Borysenko said. On the other main front outside Kyiv, to the capital's northwest, Ukrainian forces have been trying to encircle Russian troops in the suburbs of Irpin, Bucha and Hostomel, reduced to ruins by heavy fighting. In Bucha, 25 km (15 miles) northwest of Kyiv, a small group of Ukrainian troops armed with anti-tank missiles was digging foxholes. A Ukrainian soldier who identified himself only as Andriy told Reuters he enlisted as soon as the invasion began. "I told my wife to grab the children and to hide in the basement, and I went to the drafting station and joined my unit straight away," he said. In the Vinnytsia area west of Kyiv, the Ukrainian Air Force said Russian cruise missiles hit several buildings while attempting to strike the Air Force's command in the area. The United Nations said it had confirmed 1,081 civilian deaths and 1,707 injuries in Ukraine since the Feb. 24 invasion, adding that the real toll was likely higher. Mariupol, a city of 400,000 before the war, has been among the worst hit by the Russian bombardment. Tens of thousands of people are still believed to be trapped with little access to food, power or heat. Local officials, citing witness accounts, said they estimated that 300 people were killed in the bombing of a theatre in Mariupol on March 16. The city council had not previously provided a toll and made clear it was not possible to determine an exact figure after the incident. Russia has denied bombing the theatre. The governor of Ukraine's Donetsk region, Pavlo Kyrylenko, said Ukrainian forces still controlled Mariupol. Around 65,000 people had fled but efforts to organise mass evacuations under ceasefires had mostly failed. The cities of Chernihiv, Kharkiv and Sumy in the east have also endured devastating bombardment. Chernihiv was effectively surrounded by Russian forces, its governor said. CULTURE WAR? Weeks of on-and-off peace talks have failed to make significant progress. In a video address late Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said his troops' resistance had dealt Russia "powerful blows". "Our defenders are leading the Russian leadership to a simple and logical idea: we must talk, talk meaningfully, urgently and fairly," Zelenskiy said. Western sanctions have isolated Russia from global trade. President Vladimir Putin accused the West of trying to "cancel" Russian culture, including composers Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Sergei Rachmaninov, comparing it to actions by Nazi Germany in the 1930s. China is the biggest power not to have condemned the Russian invasion and has repeatedly voiced opposition to the sanctions. But in the first big sign that Western sanctions on Moscow were hurting investment from China, sources said state-run Sinopec Group, Asia's biggest oil refiner, halted talks on a petrochemical investment and a venture to market Russian gas. "Companies will rigidly follow Beijing's foreign policy in this crisis," said an executive at a Chinese state oil company. "There's no room whatsoever for companies to take any initiatives in terms of new investment." (Reporting by a Reuters journalist in Mariupol, Natalia Zinets and Maria Starkova in Lviv and Reuters bureaus worldwide; Writing by Peter Graff, Nick Macfie and Rami Ayyub; Editing by Angus MacSwan, Andrew Cawthorne, Frances Kerry and Cynthia Osterman) Prince William denounced slavery during a dinner with Jamaican officials on March 23, but advocates who called for an apology and reparations from the royal family and the British government for years of enslavement and colonization said it was insufficient. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the nation island as part of a week-long tour to celebrate Queen Elizabeth IIs 70th anniversary of her coronation. The visit to Jamaica was upended by protests on March 22 and a letter demanding the prince apologizes and compensates Jamaicas African diaspora. The letter from The Advocates Network was accompanied with a list of 60 reasons why reparations and an apology are warranted. Prince William, Duke of Cambridge speaks on stage during a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica at Kings House on March 23 in Kingston, Jamaica. (Photo: Samir Hussein Pool/WireImage) I strongly agree with my father, the Prince of Wales, who said in Barbados last year that the appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains our history, William said during the dinner hosted by Jamaicas governor general. I want to express my profound sorrow. Slavery was abhorrent, and it should never have happened. According to reports, about 600,000 Africans were enslaved in Jamaica under more than 300 years of British rule. Williams father, Prince Charles, made the formal apology during a speech at a ceremony in November marking the smaller Caribbean islands transition to a republic. Research shows more than 300,000 Africans were enslaved in Barbados. One hundred members of The Advocates Network wanted William to apologize for slavery in Jamaica and its residual effects on the descendants of the enslaved and the diaspora. The group said the princes remarks were tone-deaf. He was not remorseful or apologetic, and it took little effort to repeat his fathers words, the group added. The biggest blow, the advocates said, was there was no mention of reparations. Those seeking reparations argue Britain and the royal family financially. benefited from the free labor and the hardship of enslave Africans. Britain borrowed 20 million to reimburse slaveowners for the lost of human property when slavery was abolished. British taxpayers, including descendants enslaved Africans, did not pay off the loan until 2015. It is equivalent to 17bn or $18.7 billion in todays money, according to historian David Olusoga. Story continues Read the open letter and join the Advocates Network call for apologies and reparations for the atrocities of slavery and colonialism. Add your name to the list here:https://t.co/RsgfDcyS4X#SehYuhSorry #ReparationsNow #Jamaica60 pic.twitter.com/AHjeaxzzKd Advocates Network Jamaica (@Advocatesnetja) March 24, 2022 Prince Williams statement is not an apology! The expression of profound sorrow is unacceptable, the group said in a statement. It is merely an acknowledgment that slavery was abhorrent. A bad thing that all well-thinking persons would condemn. There was no responsibility taken! No call out of centuries of British bloody conquest and plunder. No call out of the dehumanization and exploitation. The Advocates Network said Williams response to its demands has strengthened the groups push for Jamaica to cut ties with the British monarchy. This must be on terms that will put power in the hands of the Jamaican people and complete the decolonization process, the group said. Jamaica gained its independence from Britain in August 1962 and is considered a constitutional monarchy, where the country makes it own laws and hold elections. Its parliamentary and legal system mirrors the British and the queen is the head of state. She is represented on the island by the countrys governor general. Converting to a republic removes the queen as the executive authority. Jamaica will most likely select a president as head of state and eliminate the governor general, according to political pundits. Jamaican-American social commentator Richard Blackford said Jamaica has been considering the transition at least as far back as the 1970s when the island was at the height of consciousness. We had a quasi-Democratic socialist government through Michael Manley who seemed to have been heading in the direction of getting rid of the monarchy, Blackford said. At that time, the proposal including replacing the judicial system with a Caribbean Court. Blackford said being under the British monarchy provides limited benefits for Jamaicans and is redundant. As a country being independent, youre saying to your people, were responsible for ourselves, Blackford said. Were subject to the same people who enslaved us and made so much money off our backs. Theres no reason why youre saying youre an independent country, but your political system still answers to that system. Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the countrys intention to become a republic to William ahead of the formal dinner. Holness has appointed a former attorney general to oversee the process. Jamaicas National Council on Reparation is also working on a plan. The prime ministers office told reporters that there is disagreement among political leaders about a presidents role under a republic. Jamaica is a very free and liberal country, and the people are very expressive. And I am certain that you would have seen the spectrum of expression yesterday, Holness said. There are issues here which are, as you would know, unresolved, but your presence gives an opportunity for those issues to be placed in context, put front and center and to be addressed as best as we can. We are moving on, he said. We intend to attain in short order our developing goals and fulfill our true ambitions and destiny as an independent, developed, prosperous country. Former-colony wants full independence from the British crown After 60 years of political independence, it is inevitable that #Jamaica will move on from its past as a #British colony & become a republic, PM Andrew Holness told Prince William & his wife Kate pic.twitter.com/3uXw7An0H8 Sarwar (@ferozwala) March 24, 2022 The Jamaican Parliament would have to approve the transition with a two-thirds vote in both houses. A bomb threat has shut down portions of Leavenworth, according to a Facebook post from Chelan County Emergency Management. 9:05 p.m. update All locations have been cleared. No devices were found. All roads are being reopened to foot and vehicle traffic. 8:58 p.m. update A Public Safety Alert was sent out at 8:52 p.m. advising people to continue to shelter in place and avoid the immediate downtown Leavenworth area. 8:14 p.m. update Responders are continuing to hold a perimeter around the scene as they wait for Washington State Patrol resources to arrive. People are asked to continue to avoid the area and residents are asked to shelter in place. Original information UPDATE 7:15 PM: Highway 2 is closed from the Chumstick Highway to Icicle Road. Eastbound traffic should use Icicle and... Posted by Chelan County Emergency Management on Thursday, March 24, 2022 The 700 block of Highway 2 near downtown Leavenworth near the gazebo - was closed. Additionally, US 2 was closed in both directions. Closure on US 2 both directions. EB is closed at Icicle road, and WB is closed at East Leavenworth road. A detour is in place. WSDOT East (@WSDOT_East) March 25, 2022 Authorities warned people to avoid the area. Motorists travelling in and out of Leavenworth are asked to use East Leavenworth and Icicle Roads as a detour. All live webcams in Leavenworth were taken offline for precautionary reasons. WASHINGTON The U.S. Air Force expects to improve research and training around information warfare with a new organization established March 22 by Air Combat Command. The Information Warfare Training and Research Initiative Detachment is a hybrid wing-level organization designed to connect airmen from multiple locations as they accelerate readiness. It is a subordinate unit of the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. The wing provides intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, communications, and nuclear command and control. The new detachment, also known as Detachment 1, will conduct training and research events to help prepare the Air Force for operations in the information environment and electromagnetic spectrum. It will also operate out of the 67th Cyberspace Wing at Joint Base San Antonio in Texas. The detachment is the result of three years of experimenting by Air Combat Command, the Air Force Research Laboratory, Secretary of the Air Force Concepts, Development and Management office, and academic groups to improve the services approach to information warfare training and research. Those teams collaborated to conduct 22 information warfare events all over the world, helping them develop its new model. Weve adapted a build, learn, correct, repeat model, Col. Christopher Budde, chief of ACCs information warfare division, said in a statement. We are experimenting with sustainable processes and events in quick succession to scale conceptual ideas, operationally test them, then integrate these processes across the larger federated enterprise. The new model allows the Air Force to conduct training events more often while integrating personnel from all over the globe. The groups most recent event saw airmen from 34 organizations spread across 23 locations collaborating on an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission. The distributed nature of the events means they can be conducted more frequently, can be ongoing, and members can participate in multiple iterations, Budde said. If a unit is unable to participate in an event, they can jump back into a future iteration when available, but the challenges in the information environment continue, and the teams have to respond with the capabilities available. WASHINGTON (AP) Federal officials are extending pandemic relief that helps big airlines keep coveted takeoff and landing rights for international flights this summer at busy airports in New York City and Washington, D.C. The move by the Federal Aviation Administration will let leading airlines keep their dominant positions at major airports into late October, even if they drop some international flights. Normally, airlines that fail to use their assigned rights, or slots, at John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia airports in New York, and Reagan National Airport outside Washington, risk losing them. However, regulators waived that rule in March 2020 when airlines cut flights due to the pandemic. The FAA has extended the slot-use waiver four times, with the last grace period set to expire Sunday. Instead, the FAA will extend the waiver for international flights only through Oct. 29, it said in a decision scheduled to be published in the Federal Register next week. The agency cited the evolving and highly unpredictable situation globally around COVID-19. The FAA will also extend relaxed rules regarding flight schedules at Newark (New Jersey) Liberty Airport, Chicago OHare, Los Angeles International and San Francisco International. The waivers were supported by the trade group for large U.S. airlines plus Lufthansa, British Airways and other big international carriers. Smaller airlines often oppose such measures, which they say make it harder for them to grow at the busiest airports. The FAAs action comes as U.S. air travel edges closer to pre-pandemic levels. More than 2 million people per day have passed through airport security checkpoints in March, a decline of 13% from the same month in 2019, according to government figures. Trade group Airlines for America says international travel to and from the U.S. is down 42% from 2019. Flash The death toll from Wednesday's suicide attacks in the central Somali town of Beledweyne rose to 48 while 108 others were wounded, a senior regional official said on Thursday. President of Somalia's Hirshabelle State Ali Gulawe Hussein said the toll could still rise since several people who were wounded during the Wednesday night attack are in serious conditions. "We have lost lives and many properties in the disastrous attacks on Wednesday evening, 48 people were killed and some 108 others injured in the twin terrorist attacks. We wish the injured quick recovery and we will take those with serious wounds for specialized treatment abroad," Hussein said in a statement issued in Beledweyne, the capital of Somalia's Hiran region. He called on the police to reinforce the security Lamagalaay military base where the elections for the Lower House are taking place, about 300 kilometers north of the Somalia capital, Mogadishu. "Al-Shabab militant group is the enemy of the Somali people and they targeted prominent people in the community," Hussein said and called for the security forces to conduct thorough investigation into the matter. Among those killed in the attack include outspoken female lawmaker Amina Mohamed, who was killed as she approached a polling station in the town. The lawmaker, a vocal government critic, was in the town to campaign for her re-election in a vote which was due later this week. Former Minister of Education, Abdirahman Dahir Osman was also wounded in the attack. Al-Shabab militants claimed responsibility for the attack, saying they targeted government officials in Beledweyne town who were taking part in the elections. The Beledweyene attack came a few hours after Somali security forces killed two terrorists in a foiled attack on a Halane military base in Mogadishu. Spring is here in Vermont, meaning farmers markets will soon begin again. Most of the markets in the state begin in the mid-spring or early summer and last until autumn. Some markets, like those in Middlebury and Montpelier, have been holding weekly events throughout the winter and will continue to do so through most of April. Most spring and summer farmers markets have announced their opening days for the 2022 season as of late March. Check each market's website for schedule updates; lists of farms, artists and other vendors; and information about any COVID-19 pandemic restrictions that may be required. Mud season is fast approaching: Vermont may be leaving winter hiking behind with the melting snow Tips you can use: Spring is the best time to view waterfalls in Vermont. Here's how to avoid the mud Cuteness overload: Vermont farms share their baby animal pictures on social media Pre-coronavirus: Shoppers and vendors mingle at the Shelburne Farmers Market on Aug. 17, 2013. Chittenden County farmers market dates and locations Here are the opening dates announced so far for farmers markets throughout Chittenden County: Burlington Farmers Market: Opens Saturday, May 7, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Will take place every Saturday until Oct. 29 at 345 Pine St., Burlington. More information: burlingtonfarmersmarket.org. Isham Family Farm Farmers Market: Opens Tuesday, June 7, 2022, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Will take place each Tuesday through Sept. 27 at 3515 Oak Hill Rd., Williston. Hours will change to 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in mid-August. More information: ishamfamilyfarm.com/blog/about. Jericho Farmers Market: Opens Thursday, May 26, 2022, from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Will take place each Thursday through Oct. 6 at Mills Riverside Park in Jericho. More information: jerichofarmersmarket.com. Old North End (ONE) Farmers Market: No 2022 season dates announced as of March 22. The 2021 season was held on Tuesday afternoons at Dewey Park in Burlington from June 22 to Oct. 26. More information: onefarmersmarket.com. Richmond Farmers Market: Opens Friday, June 3, 2022, from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Will take place each Friday through Oct. 14 on the Volunteers Green in Richmond. More information: richmondfarmersmarketvt.org. Shelburne Farmers Market: Opens in May 2022, though no start date specified. Will be held each Saturday until Oct. 22, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 12 Church Street in Shelburne. More information: sbpavt.org/the-market. Winooski Farmers Market: Opens Sunday, May 29, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Will take place each Sunday through October 2022 on Winooski Falls Way in Winooski. More information: downtownwinooski.org/winooski-farmers-market. Story continues Shoppers check out the stalls at the Burlington Farmers Market on Pine Street in Burlington on the market's opening day for the year, Saturday, May 8, 2021. Other farmers markets near Chittenden County Here are some other markets near Chittenden County that residents may consider visiting: Capital City Farmers Market: Opens in May 2022, but no more specific date announced. Held every Saturday through October 2022 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 133 State St., Montpelier. More information: capitalcityfarmersmarket.com. Champlain Islands Farmers Market: Opens Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Markets are held each Saturday through Oct. 29 at St. Joseph's Church on U.S. 2 in Grand Isle County, and each Wednesday from May 25 through Sept. 14 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church on U.S. 2 in South Hero. More information: champlainislandsfarmersmarket.org. Middlebury Farmers Market: No summer dates yet announced, but held each Saturday at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7823 at 530 Exchange St., Middlebury. More information: middleburyfarmersmarket.org. Northwest Farmers Market: Opens Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Held every Saturday through Oct. 29 on the center green at Taylor Park in St. Albans. More information: northwestfarmersmarket.org/home. Stowe Farmers Market: Opens in May 2022, but no more specific date announced. Held every Sunday through October from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2043 Mountain Road, Stowe. More information: stowefarmersmarket.com. Waterbury Farmers Market: Opens Thursday, May 26, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Held every Thursday through Sept. 8 at Rusty Parker Memorial Park in Waterbury. More information: facebook.com/waterburyfarmersmarket. A masked customer waits with his gloves and bag before entering the Capital City Farmers Market in Montpelier on Saturday, May 2, 2020. Contact Elizabeth Murray at 802-310-8585 or emurray@freepressmedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @LizMurrayBFP. This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Vermont's 2022 farmers market season: Opening dates and locations Victoria Coren Mitchell and comedian Leo Kearse have clashed on social media over remarks that he made about Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe on GB News. After six years, jailed charity worker Zaghari-Ratcliffe was finally returned to the UK from Iran earlier this month, after the government agreed to settle a 393.8m debt relating to a decades-old arms deal. Following a press conference Zaghari-Ratcliffe gave upon her release, she has been accused by internet trolls of being ungrateful to the UK government for paying the debt. On GB Newss The Headliners show, comedians Kearse and Diane Spencer suggested Zaghari-Ratcliffe was acting ungrateful after she returned home to her husband and her seven-year-old daughter. Zaghari-Radcliffe missed most of her daughters childhood due to her imprisonment. Only Connect host Coren Mitchell shared a trailer promoting the show on Wednesday (23 March), writing: My word. Im not one to criticise other peoples attempts at TV I write a column in which basically every week I say that somethings brilliant. But if this stumbly, cackling, racist incompetence is what GB News puts out as a TRAILER what on earth is the rest of it like?! In the clip, Spencer can be heard saying: We dont know what has been whispered in [Zaghari-Ratcliffes] ear for the last six years, she may have been sitting there alone, or she may have had someone coming in everyday. 'Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe is Iranian for ungrateful.' The Headliners panel react to Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe condemning the Government over her delayed release from Iran. Subscribe to GB News on YouTube https://t.co/Wa58gYGZwF pic.twitter.com/5DtCrzrtwF GB News (@GBNEWS) March 21, 2022 Kearse then suggested Zaghari-Ratcliffe had been radicalised and said that her name was Iranian for ungrateful. Story continues Following Coren Mitchells tweet, Kearse posted: According to @VictoriaCoren, my comments about Nazanin Zaghari-Markle are racist. Could anyone explain this? Even putting myself in the mindset of an overthinking self-loathing white saviour wokeist I cant stretch to find the racism. Coren Mitchell then hit back with: Zaghari-Markle? I dont know whether the irony is greater if you meant that deliberately or if you typed it by mistake! Look, Im sorry if I hurt your feelings. Im very pro-comedy and I respect your freedom to say whatever you want. I just thought the programme looked s***. In more tweets on Thursday (24 March), Coren Mitchell explained exactly why she perceived the clip to contain racist remarks. When approached for comment by The Independent, Kearse said that Coren Mitchells explanation was incoherent. He added: She says I associate the concept of being Iranian with ungrateful which is negative and therefore racist. But I dont, I clearly criticise a person, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, for being ungrateful to a country that paid 400m for her release, and for directing none of her ire towards the Iranian regime that actually imprisoned her. In a long statement that has been paraphrased, he said that smearing someone as racist without evidence or justification should be classed as a hate crime as it stirs up hatred and violence against that person. He defended his colleague Diane, saying she is fantastic, adding: Regardless of whether anyone agrees with my joke or not, its a valid comment that represents the opinions of people who arent typically seen or heard in mainstream comedy. It worked as a joke because people found it funny. Not everyone has to find a joke funny for it to be funny. Meanwhile, on Twitter, Coren Mitchell addressed claims that she is a hypocrite for calling out Kearse. There is literally nothing I can say or do, here, that would stop people saying Im a hypocrite, Im a fascist, I want to ban you, I wouldnt say the same about [x] or [y] those are just Twitter tropes, infecting the medium like bacteria, she said. I have publicly defended Jeremy Clarksons joke about shooting strikers, Ive written in support of Jim Davidson, Ive surrounded this whole thing with a constant celebration of your freedom they accuse me of hypocritical lefty tribalism anyway. Still, its not something I suffer from Coren Mitchell drew criticism last month for speaking out in support of Jimmy Carr, when a joke he made about the traveller community and the Holocaust caused outrage. The Independent has contacted GB News and Coren Mitchell for comment. A group of Georgia voters is challenging U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greenes eligibility to run for reelection, saying she helped facilitate the riot that disrupted Congress from certifying Joe Bidens presidential election victory. The challenge filed Thursday with the Georgia secretary of states office says its being brought by a group of registered voters in Greenes congressional district. It alleges that Green, a Republican, is ineligible under the 14th Amendment, saying that before, on, and after January 6, 2021, Greene voluntarily aided and engaged in an insurrection to obstruct the peaceful transfer of presidential power, disqualifying her from serving as a Member of Congress. The 14th Amendment says no one can serve in Congress who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress . . . to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same. Ratified shortly after the Civil War, it was meant in part to keep representatives who had fought for the Confederacy from returning to Congress. Greene forcefully rejected the challenge in an emailed statement, saying shes being targeted because shes effective and will not bow to the DC machine. Ive never encouraged political violence and never will, she said. The voters are represented by Free Speech for People, a national election and campaign finance reform group, which has filed a similar challenge against U.S. Rep. Madison Cawthorn in North Carolina that has been blocked by a federal judge. But a federal appeals court last week opened up the possibility for voters challenging Cawthorns candidacy to participate in a lawsuit the Republican congressman filed against state election officials and make their own legal arguments about why his Jan. 6 activities should be scrutinized. RELATED STORIES: Story continues In Indiana, the state election commission last month rejected an attempt to remove Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Banks from the ballot after a long-shot Democratic challenger alleged Banks violated the Constitution by supporting the Capitol insurrection. An attorney for Banks argued the allegations were baseless. The Georgia complaint cites tweets and statements made by Greene before, during and since the riot. It says she either helped plan the riot or helped plan the demonstration held before the riot and/or the march on the Capitol, knowing that it was substantially likely to lead to the attack, and otherwise voluntarily aided the insurrection. While private citizens discussing the overthrow of the government over a few beers does not amount to engaging in insurrection, when a Member of Congress publicly encourages her supporters to engage in insurrection, as the evidence shows Greene did, she has provided useful support to the insurrection and therefore engaged in insurrection, the complaint says. Georgia law says any voter who is eligible to vote for a candidate may challenge that candidates qualifications by filing a written complaint within two weeks after the deadline for qualifying, which was March 11. The secretary of state must then notify the candidate of the challenge and request a hearing before an administrative law judge. After holding a hearing, the administrative law judge presents findings to the secretary of state, who then must determine whether the candidate is qualified. Free Speech for People said in a news release that the challengers intend to issue subpoenas to Greene and take her deposition under oath as part of the process. ___ Associated Press writer Gary D. Robertson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report. RELATED NEWS: By Cooper Inveen ACCRA (Reuters) -West Africa's main political and economic bloc said on Friday it would give Mali's military transitional government 12 to 16 months to arrange elections and offered Guinea's ruling junta a month to propose a democratic transition timeline. After a summit in Accra, leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also agreed to ask Burkina Faso's interim leaders to reduce a proposed transition of 36 months to a "more acceptable timeline," the bloc's Commission President Jean Claude Kassi Brou told a news conference. West Africa has been rocked by two coups in Mali, one in Guinea and one in Burkina Faso since August 2020, tarnishing its reputation as a model of democratic progress in Africa. The 15-nation ECOWAS has repeatedly condemned the putsches and is trying to bring power back into civilian hands. "Our democratic values must be preserved," Kassi Brou said. "Some countries are going through challenges, but we must address those challenges collectively." ECOWAS has already imposed sanctions on Guinea and Mali for dragging their feet on restoring constitutional order. Kassi Brou said those measures would be gradually lifted in Mali if its leaders respected the 12- to 16-month ultimatum. Harsher penalties will hit Guinea if it misses its own April 25 deadline, he warned. "We have no idea when the transition [in Guinea] will end and this creates tensions in the region and inside the country," he said. Mali's interim government failed on a promise to hold elections in February and first said it would keep ruling until at least 2025, which was then revised down to 24 months. Guinea, whose ex-President Alpha Conde was overthrown in September, has yet to lay out handover plans. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso's junta, which took over in January, has proposed relinquishing power after three years, raising eyebrows in ECOWAS. Story continues Before Friday's meeting the bloc's chair, Ghanaian President Akufo-Addo, said it was "time to take stock of where we are with our three recalcitrant member states." Sanctions in Mali have already severed the country's access to regional financial markets, caused job losses and contributed to its default on about $180 million in debt payments. Burkina Faso, which has so far been spared, will also face sanctions if the junta does not release ex-President Roch Kabore from house arrest within the next month, Kassi Brou said. (Reporting by Cooper Inveen and Christian Akorlie; Writing by Sofia Christensen; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Richard Chang) Whoopi Goldberg has demanded that the British Royal Family apologise for its history of slavery. The actor and presenter, 66, said on her talk show The View: We cannot ignore the fact that Britain ran roughshod over India for years Let us not forget, when we talk about what needs to happen, all the folks that need to apologise. Listen, this is not new. I suspect Charles, when he was in Barbados [in 2021], had some idea because he went on and apologised as he was releasing the hold that Britain has. So perhaps somebody is listening, and its the new group of folks I dont know if its Charles, William, but one of them is supposed to be the person. Goldbergs remarks come in the wake of Prince William and Kate Middletons charm offensive in Jamaica, where Prince William described the slave trade as abhorrent and expressed profound sorrow, but stopped short of apologising for his ancestors role in it. The Cambridges arrived in the Caribbean nation on Tuesday (22 March) to calls from some quarters for the country to drop the Queen as head of state and become a republic. Kate Middleton and Prince William play the drums in Jamaica (Getty Images) Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the British High Commission in the Jamaican capital Kingston urging the monarchy to pay reparations for its role in the Transatlantic slave trade. (L-R) Whoopi Goldberg, and Kate Middleton and Prince William. D Dipasupil/Getty Images; Samir Hussein/Getty Images Whoopi Goldberg has called on the royal family to apologize for Britain's involvement in slavery. "The View" co-host urged "Charles [or] William" to apologize on behalf of the royal family. "We cannot ignore the fact that Britain ran roughshod over India for years," Goldberg said. Whoopi Goldberg has called on the royal family to apologize for Britain's historic involvement in slavery. "The View" co-host spoke in reference to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's royal tour of Belize, Jamaica, and the Bahamas where Prince William expressed "profound sorrow" over the history of slavery at a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica. "We cannot ignore the fact that Britain ran ramshod over India for years," Goldberg said on Wednesday's episode of "The View" (her comments start around the two-minute mark). "Let us not forget, when we talk about what needs to happen, all the folks that need to apologize." "Listen, this is not new. I suspect Charles, when he was in Barbados, had some idea because he went on and apologized as he was releasing the hold that Britain has," she continued, referencing the Prince of Wales' November 2021 speech, which acknowledged the "appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our history." "So perhaps somebody is listening, and it's the new group of folks I don't know if it's Charles, William, but one of them is supposed to be the person," Goldberg said. Prince William, Duke of Cambridge speaks at a dinner in Kingston, Jamaica. Samir Hussein - Pool/WireImage The Duke of Cambridge's Wednesday speech followed an anti-colonial demonstration outside the British High Commission. Around 350 protesters called for an apology for Britain's role in slavery, though Prince William did not apologize in his speech. The royal couple's tour has faced numerous protests, even forcing them to cancel the first stop on their trip. Additionally, Jamaica has reportedly begun the process to remove Queen Elizabeth II as the country's head of state. Story continues The history of Britain's involvement in the slave trade is extensive. While slavery was abolished in the UK in 1833, the British government spent 20 million the equivalent to 20 billion or $26.4 billion today to compensate slave owners for the "loss of their 'property,'" according to the BBC. The debts amounted by the government were only paid off in 2015 and records have shown that the descendants of public figures like former Prime Minister David Cameron and author George Orwell benefited from these compensations. "Slavery was abhorrent and it never should have happened," William said. "I strongly agree with my father, the Prince of Wales, who said in Barbados last year that the appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains our history." He acknowledged the country's "courage and fortitude" and referenced its "invincible spirit" among the Windrush generation, which describes Caribbean immigrants who arrived in the UK between 1948 and 1971. Read the original article on Insider Flash China welcomes any initiative and measure that can help alleviate and resolve the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, a Chinese envoy said Thursday. "China's fundamental starting point is to promote the international community and the UN to attach great importance to the humanitarian situation in Ukraine," China's permanent representative to the United Nations Zhang Jun told the UN General Assembly Special Emergency Session on Ukraine. Zhang added that China calls on the parties concerned to strengthen coordination on the humanitarian issue, effectively protect the safety of civilians, especially vulnerable groups such as women and children, and facilitate the personnel evacuation and humanitarian relief operations. "Based on the current situation, when dealing with the humanitarian issue of Ukraine, the principles of humanity, neutrality and impartiality established by General Assembly resolution 46/182 should be strictly observed to prevent the politicization of humanitarian issues," said the ambassador. On the current humanitarian situation in Ukraine, the envoy said that "it is heart-wrenching to see the continued deterioration of humanitarian situation in Ukraine, as well as the civilian casualties and massive displacement of people caused by the conflict." "The top priority now is for the parties concerned to maintain maximum restraints, avoid more civilian casualties, and reach a negotiated ceasefire as soon as possible, especially to prevent a larger-scale humanitarian crisis," he said. Referring to the draft resolution on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine put forward by France, Mexico and others, which was adopted at the General Assembly, the ambassador said that "China recognizes the purpose of the draft resolution, and appreciates the efforts made by France, Mexico and relevant countries in promoting consensus." However, he pointed out that "it is clear that some elements of the draft resolution go beyond the humanitarian context and some issues are so complex that can only be solved through political negotiations between the parties concerned." "The draft resolution proposed by South Africa focuses on the humanitarian issue, and addresses the important aspects of the current situation in Ukraine, while emphasizing that the cessation of hostilities is a key first step towards improving the humanitarian situation," he said, adding that "we believe that, under the current conditions, the draft resolution proposed by South Africa is more conducive to promoting the unity of the UN membership and to opening the door for further dialogue and negotiation and a diplomatic solution." "Therefore, China has co-sponsored the draft resolution proposed by South Africa," the ambassador noted. On the impact of the Ukraine crisis, Zhang underscored that "the spillover effects of the Ukraine crisis have further brought about global impacts." "The world is yet to emerge from the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ever-escalating implementation of sweeping, non-discriminatory sanctions have caused and will further cause a huge impact on global economy, trade, finance, energy, food and industrial and supply chains, seriously affecting the normal lives of people in all countries, and making the already difficult world economy even worse," he said. "Developing countries, which make up the majority of the world, are not parties to this conflict. They should not be drawn into the issue and forced to suffer the consequences of geopolitical conflicts and major power rivalry," he said. The ambassador stressed that in addressing international and regional hotspot issues, there cannot be only two options, namely the use of force and sanctions. "In the face of complex situations, all countries have the right to independently and autonomously decide their own foreign policies. Relevant countries should not adopt a simplistic approach of either friend or foe, black or white, and should not force any country to pick a side." "Respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries is a basic norm governing international relations that applies to all countries and all situations. There should be no exceptions, still less double standards," he added. Zhang underlined the importance of dialogue and negotiation, noting that is "the only way out for the Ukraine crisis." "China strongly calls on the international community to remain rational, strengthen unity and make unremitting efforts for ceasefire and peace. China will continue its constructive role in facilitating peace talks," said the ambassador. Rayna Hoffman-Ramos was arrested last week and charged with the first-degree murder of Shu Ming Tang (San Mateo County Sheriff's Office) A 61-year-old woman has been arrested for the 1993 cold case murder of a California store owner who was shot dead in what investigators believe was a daylight robbery gone wrong. Rayna Hoffman-Ramos was taken into custody in Oklahoma last week and charged with the first-degree murder of Shu Ming Tang. Mr Ming Tang, a Taiwanese immigrant who ran the Devonshire Little Store in San Carlos, was fatally shot while working in his shop back on 26 April 1983. Police were called to reports of a shooting at the store at around 1pm that afternoon to find Mr Ming Tang suffering from a single gunshot wound to the chest. He was rushed to hospital but died from his injuries. His murder sent shockwaves around the San Carlos community where the store owner was a well-known figure. At the time, investigators learned that a woman had been seen leaving the scene soon after the shooting and they believed Mr Ming Tang was the victim of a robbery gone wrong. But the case went cold and remained unsolved for the next 29 years. The cold case was later reopened in 2018 and, thanks to new forensic technology, officials announced on Thursday that an arrest had finally been made in the case. San Mateo County Sheriffs Office Lt Jacob Trickett said at a press conference that developments in the investigation had led police to a person of interest connected to two locations in Sacramento, California, and Washington County, Oklahoma. Detectives then carried out simultaneous operations at the two addresses on 16 March before arresting Ms Hoffman-Ramos in Oklahoma. Shu Ming Tang had moved from Taiwan to California for a better life for his family (San Mateo County Sheriff's Office) The 61-year-old, who investigators said has a criminal record, is believed to have acted alone. She was a resident in San Mateo at the time of the fatal shooting but has been living in Oklahoma in recent years. San Carlos Mayor Sara McDowell said at Thursday press conferences that Mr Ming Tang had moved from Taiwan to the US to open the shop and build a better life for his family. Mr Tang was a husband, a father and a friend who came to the United States to provide a better life for his family, she said. Story continues His death shook the community of San Carlos and has remained a topic of discussion over the years. San Mateo County Sheriff Carlos Bolanos said that he hopes Mr Ming Tangs family will finally get the justice and closure that you deserve. Ms Hoffman-Ramos is currently being held in jail in Washington County while she awaits extradition to California on the murder charge. BOGOTA (Reuters) - Colombia will receive two loans totalling $830 million from the World Bank to fund COVID-19 pandemic recovery and education efforts, the country's government and the bank said on Thursday. "Through these two loans, which are greatly relevant to Colombia, the World Bank will contribute to the general national budget and the budget of the national education ministry," Colombia's national director of planning Alejandra Botero said in a World Bank statement. The funds will help the education system and economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, she added. The first loan, for $750 million, will be used to reduce employment barriers faced by women and fund climate change adaptation efforts and biodiversity initiatives, the bank said. The second, for $80 million, will be used to improve education strategies and improve coordination between teachers and local governments to help vulnerable students, the statement said. "Both loans will support government efforts to promote more equitable access to opportunities for the most vulnerable groups amid the pandemic," said Mark R. Thomas, World Bank director for Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela. (Reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell) YouTube removed videos from the CPAC conservative conference featuring former President Donald Trump and a number of other GOP lawmakers after the footage violated the service's "election integrity policy. Ivy Choi, YouTube's policy communications manager, spoke with The Hill about the removals. We removed content from the CPAC channel for violating our election integrity policy, she said. Our policies apply to everyone, regardless of the uploaders political views, and while we do allow content that provides additional context such as countervailing views, the content we removed from this channel was footage that did not provide sufficient context. Judging by the number of videos removed from the conservative conference's page, it seems that context was severely lacking; nearly half of the four-day event's videos were removed. Among those videos was an address made by Mr Trump. Congressman Andy Biggs claimed in a Twitter post that the conference was only told its videos had been flagged for "misinformation, and that no additional details were provided. "We appealed and recently learned that all of our appeals have been 'rejected,'" he wrote. Matt Schlapp, the chairman of the American Conservative Union which hosts CPAC every year told The Washington Examiner he only realised the extent of the videos removed after he noticed that Mr Trump's speech was missing. He went on to say he would be supportive of "the policies that would be most destructive of their companies, despite ostensibly believing in the free market and small government. Another supposed free market champion, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, also complained that her speech had been removed and that YouTube was out of line by policing content posted on the platform. "Youtube's censorship has become COMPLETELY out of hand," she said. "Two entire days of CPAC were just ripped off the website including my speech." Story continues YouTube is a private company, and can place any limits on content that it wants so long as its application of its guidelines is not discriminatory. The company's guidelines prohibit "misleading or deceptive content with serious risk of egregious harm," which includes "certain types of misinformation that can cause real-world harm, like certain types of technically manipulated content, and content interfering with democratic processes." Under the "election integrity" section of its community guidelines, "content that advances false claims that widespread fraud, errors, or glitches changed the outcome of select past national elections, after final election results are officially certified," is subject to removal. The company says it "may allow content that violates the election integrity policy noted on this page if the content includes additional context in the video, audio, title, or description," but it appears the CPAC speeches failed to meet YouTube's standards for exemption. RaDonda Vaught has spent more than four years in limbo. A few more hours wasn't going to bother her much. The former ICU nurse spoke with The Tennessean outside a Nashville criminal courtroom on Friday morning while behind closed doors a jury deliberated on her fate. They ultimately found her guilty of criminally negligent homicide and abuse of an impaired adult. She is set to be sentenced on May 13. "Knowing what I know now even if the jury finds me guilty, even if Judge Smith decides that prison time is the appropriate sentencing for this and it's the maximum amount of time I have zero regrets about telling the truth," Vaught told The Tennessean on Friday morning. She will live with the weight of what happened in late December 2017 for the rest of her life. It's a heavy burden. More: RaDonda Vaught faces years in prison after conviction Vaught, 38, was indicted in 2019 on two charges, reckless homicide and impaired adult abuse, in the death of Murphey at Vanderbilt University Medical Center just after Christmas 2017. VERDICT: Ex-nurse RaDonda Vaught found guilty on two charges in death of patient RELATED: Nurses watching the RaDonda Vaught trial worry the case has already limited patient safety Murphey, 75, was admitted to Vanderbilt with a brain bleed and was being treated in the ICU. She died after Vaught injected her with the wrong medication, a paralytic called vecuronium bromide that likely stopped her breathing. From the outset, Vaught has taken responsibility for the mistake. She pulled the incorrect drug from an automated dispensing cabinet and failed to catch the mistake before giving it to Murphey. Foremost in Vaught's mind this week is Murphey and her family, even as she herself may be facing years behind bars. RaDonda Vaught weeps while she speaks about her experience while waiting for the jury to finish deliberating her case at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 25, 2022. "We have not forgotten about Miss Murphey and her family. Not at all. Not at all. This is about creating a safer environment so that things like this don't happen again," she said. Story continues Vaught was investigated by the nursing licensing board in the months after Murphey's death and was not recommended to lose her license or be suspended. But nearly a year after the event, an anonymous tip, a surprise inspection and state and federal investigations led to threatened sanctions for VUMC and a a criminal indictment for Vaught. MORE: Ex-nurse RaDonda Vaught's trial reveals medication access problems at Vanderbilt in 2017 Precisely why Vaught became a cause celebre, as her attorney Peter Strianse termed it, is still unclear. "I think people deserve some answers to those (questions), and they didn't get them in the courtroom," Vaught said. The case has drawn national attention, especially from health care workers. RaDonda Vaught speaks about her experience while waiting for the jury to finish deliberating her case at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 25, 2022. It sits on a knife edge of precedent on handling medical errors like this one in criminal court, not civil courts or before licensing boards where they are more commonly heard. Everyone agrees there was no intent to harm Murphey in this case, raising questions about why Vaught was charged with homicide. "The nursing community is really angry and frustrated," Vaught said. "Nurses have found their voice and they're...pissed about this, as they should be. "Where's the accountability? Where? All this all this says is that you as a nurse are disposable." Medical errors are not unknown to the industry. One witness in this week's trial testified they happen in hospitals every day. The mistakes may not always contribute to the death of a patient, but they're still part of the high-stakes, life-or-death work done by clinicians daily. OPINION: I'm a former hospital administrator; prosecuting RaDonda Vaught may worsen safety Vaught and her colleagues worry the threat of criminal charges for mistakes will undo decades of work to create open and honest communication "There were a lot of missed opportunities, failed to acknowledge this until they were at risk for losing a lot of money," Vaught said. "I think it was embarrassing. "Not for me. For them." Her defense circled on whether systemic issues at Vanderbilt significantly contributed to how she missed safeguards before the mistaken dose. RaDonda Vaught speaks about her experience while waiting for the jury to finish deliberating her case at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 25, 2022. She feels the hospital system not only should have acted before that December day to fix the problems, but also waited unconscionably long after the event to implement the changes later recommended by a federal body reviewing the case. But now, she said, someone still has to pay the price. "A complaint doesn't wind up in the hands of a criminal investigating body and just end with being swept under the rug," she said. "Someone has to pay a price and it was really easy for them to say, 'well, let's just let her do it.'" Vaught, surrounded by friends and supporters all week, still tried each day to put herself in the shoes of Murphey's family as they, too, sat in the courtroom. She spoke quietly through her tears when she thought of how incredibly kind to her she feels they've been. Vaught crossed paths with a grandson of Murphey's at a Tractor Supply, chatting over baby chicks. It took a few minutes before the casual conversation circled closer to the realization of their tragic connection. "It's been very humbling. I don't think you know humility any better than when the grandson of the patient that you probably killed is standing there in the middle of his work, patting you on the shoulder saying, 'It's okay. You take care of yourself,'" she remembered. Witnesses for both the state and the defense said Vaught was a talented, caring, compassionate nurse who was trusted with leadership roles even though she was still new to the field. She was stripped of her nursing license in July and it's unclear whether she will ever be able to return to her former profession, whatever the jury decides. Getting to know the families of her patients used to be her favorite part. "You don't do this job and not be worried. You may leave that hospital, but you take those patients home with you every day. You take their families home with you every day," she said. "I did not have that opportunity with Miss Murphey or her family then, but I will say now they have been incredibly kind." RaDonda Vaught speaks about her experience while waiting for the jury to finish deliberating her case at Justice A.A. Birch Building in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 25, 2022. But for the district attorneys office prosecuting the case, she had harsh words. She slammed Assistant District Attorney Chad Jackson's comments during his closing arguments that this wasn't an indictment of nursing as a whole. "(They" berated around the courtroom yesterday in a spectacular show of lies and deceit. That is the difference between the career field that I worked in, and the career field that they worked in. And I hope that people in the public see that," she said. Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms@tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @MariahTimms. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: RaDonda Vaught, guilty of criminally negligent homicide, speaks out A Lynchburg student was arrested Thursday after police found a handgun in a backpack, police said. No injuries were reported and no shots were fired, but the incident prompted lockdowns and significant police presences at E.C. Glass High School and the Lynchburg City Schools Empowerment Academy, an alternative education environment for high schoolers. Stephon Dewitt Smith, 18, is charged with possession of a firearm while on school property and possession of a concealed weapon, the Lynchburg Police Department said in a news release. Thursday afternoon, Roanoke police told Lynchburg police of a social media video showing a student with a handgun in what appeared to be a school bathroom, according to the news release. Officers first believed the student was at E.C. Glass, but while searching the school, police received information that redirected their search to the Empowerment Academy at 701 Thomas Road. Officers located the student there and took him into custody without incident, police said. In a separate news release, the school system said counselors will be on site Friday at E.C. Glass and the Empowerment Academy to provide support as needed. Police ask anyone with information about this incident to contact the Lynchburg Police Department at (434) 455-6041 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter a tip online at p3tips.com or use the P3 app on a mobile device. From staff reports Nikole Hannah-Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and creator of The 1619 Project, spoke Thursday at University of Lynchburg, discussing topics such as racial and socioeconomic inequalities, how racism affected the development of American society and institutions, and why defending democracy is more important now than ever. About 1,000 people reserved a place in UL's Turner Gymnasium to hear Hannah-Jones speak for the school's 31st annual Rosel Schewel Lecture in Education and Human Diversity: Truth, History, and The 1619 Project. The 1619 Project is a collaborative work led by Hannah-Jones with writers from The New York Times Magazine. It reexamines United States history through the lens of slavery and racism, offering the perspective and experiences of the nations non-white population. Available for purchase as a book, the project consists of a collection of essays, poems and short stories originally published in 2019, the 400-year anniversary of the first slave ship to arrive at the then-British colony of Virginia, predating the arrival of the Mayflower. The project has garnered widespread praise and resistance alike, sparking dialogue and debates since it was published. The 1619 Project seeks to highlight the contributions of Black Americans particularly their contributions to democracy, which was a special focus for Hannah-Jones and broaden and reframe the understanding of U.S. history by offering a fuller picture from the perspective of a population that, despite its significant effects on the nation and value as human beings, has continually been oppressed, persecuted and stifled. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Hannah-Jones shared with attendees how The 1619 Project and the material it covers relates to present-day society and shaped the institutions of power that govern the nation, giving rise to social problems that reach beyond the confines of color and race to issues such as socioeconomic disparities. Structuring a society around oppression, she said, has further-reaching consequences that hurt everyone in the long run. Fighting to defend democracy and make the founding ideals of America a reality for everyone requires grappling with racial injustice and collectively working to learn from mistakes of the past. When George Floyd, a Black man, was murdered by police in 2020, a surge in racial justice activism and awareness occurred, Hannah-Jones said. As many sought to understand why a society could allow something like this to happen, The 1619 Project became a lexicon that helped explain what was identified as a structural problem in the nation, she said. A time of racial reckoning followed over the next year or so. Polling around the time showed higher numbers of people acknowledging racism was a major problem in society, and also showed record numbers of people involved with racial justice activism on a multi-generational, multi-racial scale, Hannah-Jones said. We had not seen polling like that before, she said. By learning about the history of slavery and racism, highlighting ways society and government were formed around this institution, Hannah-Jones said, this helped propel awareness of the project and of a dark part of U.S. history to the forefront. With that attention came opposition as well as praise, triggering something of a domino effect. On the heels of The 1619 Projects rise in popularity came conversations about critical race theory, or CRT, which Hannah-Jones said was mainly found in specialized courses of study in higher education. Anti-CRT legislation or, as Hannah-Jones called it, anti-history legislation was quick to follow, ultimately seeking to ban educators in K-12 schools from supplementing their curriculums with this information about historic racial inequalities and inequity. From federal to local levels, the sentiment has been evidenced. For example, the Campbell County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote in April on a proposed resolution condemning critical race theory, despite no regional school systems teaching it. The proposed anti-CRT resolution would specifically ban educators in Campbell County Public Schools from using The 1619 Project as a supplement in teaching, citing it as "divisive." The proposed resolution is related to Gov. Glenn Youngkins Executive Order One that bans "inherently divisive concepts" from being taught, including critical race theory. The 1619 Project could not, and should not, replace other history curriculums, Hannah-Jones said, responding to claims CRT and The 1619 Project are divisive and seek to rewrite history. The information presented is made to be a supplement if educators wish to use it, giving more attention to this perspective instead of treating slavery and racism as an asterisk. Its one thing if you dont like the project, you dont have to like the project. If you dont think it should be taught, educators certainly are free to not teach it. But to have the state saying it is illegal, theres a prohibition on teaching it, thats not something you do in a free society, Hannah-Jones said. To that end, Hannah-Jones warned of a greater need than ever to protect democracy. More legislation mainly targeting marginalized groups, including voter suppression laws such as those passed in Georgia, movements to ban certain books from school libraries, a bill known as the dont say gay bill in Florida that would further marginalize the LGBTQ+ community, and continued anti-history legislation threaten to erode democracy and human rights in the entire nation, she said. Right now, we are banning books, we are pulling books from library shelves. We are banning what can be taught in the classroom, and I dont see the popular uprising against this that one would expect from a free society. That is troublesome, because what we know is that healthy societies do not ban books, Hannah-Jones said. Local pushes by some school boards and community members to ban and censor certain books from school libraries have been ongoing in recent months. Most challenged books are authored by people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community or other marginalized groups. Locally, the Bedford County School Board last November received requests to pull a total of 11 books from any school libraries the titles were found in. After reviewing the challenged books, BCPS administrators said in the March school board meeting the review committees found no reason to pull any of the books in question, and reiterated the schools existing policy of how a concerned parent can request their individual child not to access a certain book. BCPS administrators said in a presentation that parents can decide what their own children may or may not read, but cannot decide this for all children. Hannah-Jones examined why history is targeted in these sorts of movements. We target history, because how we teach history is how we think about ourselves as a country, she said. Historys not just what happened on what day in history. Historys about our collective memory. How do we think about our society? How do we understand who we are? And weve been taught a history that doesnt expose abuse of power. Black people, Hannah-Jones said, fought especially hard for democracy. Until the Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965, people of color faced such obstacles trying to vote that in some regions, they rarely could participate in the process. Hannah-Jones, 45, said she is a first-generation woman of color to legally have full civil and human rights in the history of the country. We were a democracy that was predicated on exclusion. We functioned based on the exclusion of large percentages of our population, she said. Sprawling effects of injustice from formative chapters of U.S. history are felt still in issues such as lack of access to affordable health care and inadequate paid maternity leave, Hannah-Jones said. Hannah-Jones shared statistics that showed the U.S. ranking lower than other comparable Western world democracies on every indicator of wellbeing. It enslaves all of us, not just Black people. Black people suffer the most, but we all suffer, she said. Hannah-Jones challenged the audience to fight for democracy, push against legislation that erodes democracy, and work to make the founding ideals of America a reality for everyone. We have power, Hannah-Jones said. There is collective power in this community, if we say that we refuse to be the country of our past, and we are going to work together to become the country of our highest ideals. Following Thursday nights lecture, the tradition of which is meant to educate citizens and focus discussion on a topic that is important to all Americans, Emma Savage-Davis, dean of the College of Education, Leadership Studies, and Counseling at Lynchburg, said she hoped people would be inspired to work toward a more inclusive society, no matter a persons background or race, and build a collectively better world where everyone has representation and an opportunity for success. That responsibility rests on everyone. I have taught in various different states, and not one child Ive ever interacted with did not want that dream, that success. Not one parent did not want that for their children, Savage-Davis said. But they have to see themselves in order to see that dream as a possibility, and when they dont see themselves, or see themselves being marginalized, then how can that dream be attainable for them? Im hoping that we look at that, and believe that everybody has that equal opportunity to that dream, and have equal access to that dream. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. PLATTSMOUTH Jim Grotrian announced on Monday, March 21, his candidacy for the OPPD Board of Directors Subdivision 4, representing southern Sarpy, Cass, Otoe, Johnson, Nemaha, Pawnee, and Richardson counties. I am a proud fourth generation southeast Nebraskan dedicated to serving our community, Grotrian said in a statement. I can continue this work on the OPPD Board of Directors by providing affordable energy and transparent leadership in this changing energy environment. His campaign press release said Grotrian is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He has more than 30 years involvement in higher education, including work at Metropolitan Community College and Bellevue University. His experience includes public and media relations, strategic partnerships, public policy, governance, community development and agriculture. He has served on the Childrens Hospital Foundation Board, the advisory committees of community organizations and elected to the Sanitary and Improvement District 5 Board in Cass County. Grotrian currently runs his own consulting firm. He is also involved with his familys farming operation. I think Jim will be a great addition to the OPPD Board, said John Winkler, general manager of the Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District. He has the experience to hit the ground running and represent the entire fourth district. Papillion Mayor David Black had also endorsed Grotrian. I have enjoyed working with Jim over the years and know he will do a good job on the board, Black said. Grotrian faces Matt Core of Papillion, Randy J. Davis of Louisville and Gary Lynn Rogge of Auburn in the May 10 primary. The OPPD Board of Directors is a non-partisan race. For more information visit www.jimgrotrian.com or jimg4oppd@gmail.com. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. You are here: World Flash The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Thursday testfired what was believed to be an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) off its east coast, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. The JCS said in a statement that it detected one ICBM launched toward the eastern waters from the Sunan area in Pyongyang at about 2:34 p.m. local time (0534 GMT). The missile was fired on a lofted trajectory, traveling about 1,080 km at a top altitude of over 6,200 km. The intelligence authorities of South Korea and the United States are making a precision analysis on further details, the JCS noted. It marked the DPRK's first known ICBM test-launch in over four years since November 2017 when Pyongyang tested Hwasong-15. In response to the DPRK's ICBM test-firing, the South Korean military launched five missiles from ground, sea and air off its east coast from 4:25 p.m. local time (0725 GMT), the JCS said. Mobilized in the live-fire exercise are one Hyunmoo-II ground-to-ground missile, one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile, one Haesung-II ship-to-ground missile and two JDAM air-to-surface missiles. The JCS added that the South Korean military was closely monitoring the moves of the DPRK forces while maintaining its full readiness posture in close cooperation with the United States. South Korean President Moon Jae-in convened an emergency meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) over the DPRK's ICBM launch, the presidential Blue House said in a statement. During the meeting, Moon said the DPRK renounced a self-imposed moratorium on ICBM tests, saying the ICBM launch posed serious threats to the Korean Peninsula, the region and the international community. Moon ordered officials to thoroughly devise all countermeasures in close cooperation with relevant countries and the international community. The president urged Pyongyang to immediately stop acts which create tensions, and rapidly return to the path of diplomatic solutions through dialogue. The transition team of South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol said in a statement that the DPRK's ICBM launch threatens the South Korean security. Yoon is scheduled to be sworn in as the president on May 10. In 2022, the DPRK conducted 12 tests of missiles and projectiles, including the ICBM, according to the South Korean military. South Korea said the DPRK tested a new ICBM system on Feb. 27 and March 5, but the DPRK said those were the reconnaissance satellite development tests. The Spanish governments support to Moroccos Autonomy Plan for the Sahara, as being the most serious, realistic and credible basis for the settlement of the conflict, falls within the framework of the United Nations, said Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs. The position of Spain, which has opted to support the autonomy proposed by Morocco, is always within the framework of the UN and the resolutions of the UN Security Council, said the head of European diplomacy in an interview Thursday with Television Espanola (TVE), Spains state-owned broadcaster. The historical change in the Spanish position on the Sahara conflict was clearly and officially expressed in a letter sent to King Mohammed VI by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on March 18. In the letter, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced Spains support for the Morocco-proposed autonomy proposal and the Spanish Government Presidency later that day issued a statement vowing commitment to the North African Kingdoms sovereignty and territorial integrity. Borrell noted that the support expressed by Pedro Sanchezs government to the Moroccan initiative is similar to that adopted by Germany and France, and all these positions meet the UN Charter, which advocates a negotiated solution between the parties involved. The EU continues to advocate the same approach, namely a negotiated solution between the parties, he said, adding that the EU had welcomed, on Monday, the positive development of relations between Morocco and Spain, calling it beneficial for the implementation of the Euro-Moroccan partnership as a whole. The European position is aligned with that of the UN which favors pragmatism, realism, sustainability and the spirit of compromise. It thus enshrines the pre-eminence of the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the most credible, realistic and viable solution to the artificial regional conflict over the Moroccan Sahara. The United States has transferred to the Royal Moroccan Navy two 11-meter Metal Shark interceptor boats. The transfer ceremony took place at the port of Agadir on Thursday, on the sidelines of the final planning event for African Lion 2022, AFRICOMs premier military exercise the largest on the African continent, held annually in partnership between the USA and Morocco. Todays handover ceremony is yet another milestone in the strong security partnership between our two countries, focused on maintaining regional peace and stability, Lt. Col. Teremuura Shamel, Chief of the Security Cooperation Office at the U.S. Embassy in Morocco, said. Our two navies have a long history of working together to secure the high seas, and especially the short 13 kilometres of the Strait of Gibraltar, against crime, terrorism, drug smuggling and human trafficking. These issues do not respect international borders and require collaboration to combat them effectively, he said. The two boats, valued at $970,000, are aimed at enhancing the Royal Moroccan Navys capacity to stop illicit trafficking in regional waters and are part of the broader military partnership between Morocco and the United States, said a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Morocco. High-level officials from the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces and their American counterparts met at the FARs southern zone headquarters, to discuss preparations for African Lion 2022, which will take place across the Kingdom in the second half of June, the statement said. Portions of the exercise will also take place in Tunisia, Senegal, and Ghana. The 2021 exercise was the largest since the annual training event started in 2004, with more than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO. AL22 is the premiere joint multinational exercise in the AFRICOM area of responsibility, Lt. Col. Shamel said, stressing that it demonstrates our long-term commitment to Morocco and all of Africa in recognition of the continents strategic importance to the United States. The boat transfer and African Lion planning event follow high-level staff talks last month in Casablanca, involving leadership of the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/Sixth Fleet and the Royal Moroccan Navy, focused on future maritime interoperability and the strengthening of bilateral relationship, the statement noted. In recent weeks, Moroccan military personnel have been participating in the latest round of ongoing Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training, organized by the U.S. Marines and Utah National Guard, said the US Embassy. Morocco is a critical U.S. ally on a range of security issues. It participates with the United States in more than 100 military exercises and events annually, including multilateral and bilateral exercises such as African Lion, Obangame Express, Phoenix Express, Lightening Handshake and Atlas Handshake. In October of 2020, the two countries signed a ten-year Roadmap for Defense Cooperation that guides cooperation in priority areas, including bolstering the Royal Moroccan Navys coastal radar and surveillance capabilities to advance regional maritime security, the statement said. Germany supports the reforms undertaken by Morocco over the past two decades, which have led to significant political, economic and social progress under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, underlined a Joint statement issued on Thursday following video talks between Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Svenja Schulze. The talks, the first between the two ministers, enshrined the shared interest to further intensify development cooperation in a spirit of global partnership and mutual respect, the joint statement said. Germany and Morocco are bound by long-standing development cooperation, marked by trust in the areas of economic development and employment, sustainable development, climate, renewable energy and water, according to the document. The two ministers praised the great potential of bilateral relations, reaffirming their shared resolve to give them an additional impetus to meet the challenges and requirements of the post-Covid recovery. Regarding development cooperation, the two parties agreed, among other things, to resume the impetus given to Moroccos New Development Model (NMD), while promoting post-Covid-19 economic recovery. Both ministers welcomed the fact that German development cooperation aims to support, even more than before, the transition to renewable energy in Morocco. They also praised the great potential of development cooperation between Morocco and Germany in the perspective of cooperation in sectors of the future, such as the development of a green hydrogen economy, reaffirming the shared interest to intensify cooperation in this area in particular. To this end, bilateral development cooperation will use all instruments and tools involving all stakeholders. The German development cooperation also contributes to strengthening the strategic, multidimensional and privileged relationship between the European Union and Morocco. In the coming weeks, the aim will be to develop a common vision of priorities and appropriate opportunities for the implementation of this cooperation over the coming years, with a view to deepening dialogue and cooperation and contributing to a joint effort to face up future regional and global challenges, the Joint Statement added. Tunisias central bank, BCT, Thursday said it overcame a cyberattack that hijacked its system and website on Wednesday. The attack according to the bank caused some perturbations to its services and its website which was out of service until Thursday morning. It however quickly came under control thanks to coordination between services of the institution and those of the National Agency for Computer Security (ANSI), the bank added. The bank reassured the public on the continuity of services related to the national and international banking system. President Kais Saied receiving the ICT Minister Nizar Ben Neji for consultation, on Thursday, branded the attack a terrorist attack. Terrorist organizations do not hesitate to use such attacks to undermine state institutions, he said. Morocco announced, Thursday in Rabat, the official implementation of the recommendation of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on the ethics of artificial intelligence adopted on the sidelines of the 41st session of the General Conference of UNESCO held in November 2021 in Paris. The announcement, made by Minister of National Education, Chakib Benmoussa, makes Morocco one of the first countries to align with the recommendation of the UN body on the ethics of artificial intelligence. Morocco was one of the first countries to respond present on the 193 member states during the adoption of the recommendation on the ethics of artificial intelligence, said the Director General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, stressing that the kingdom is now one of the first countries to implement this recommendation. The Director-General of UNESCO is paying a working visit to Morocco within the framework of the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the listing of the city of Rabat as a world heritage site. Her visit was marked by the signing of an agreement between UNESCO and the National Education Ministry, related to the International Conference on Adult Education, CONFINTEA VII, scheduled to take place in Marrakech next June 15 to 17. The UNESCO chief expressed willingness to be at the side of Morocco and accompany it in this dynamic, welcoming in this regard, the establishment by the Kingdom of a commission dedicated to AI, and its commitment to put AI at the service of the common good. Benmoussa underlined Moroccos commitment to implementing the provisions of the UNESCO recommendation, which aims to take advantage of the technology and reduce the risks associated with it. He noted that the recommendation overlaps in substance the strategic axes of Moroccos New Development Model (NMD). The NMD, he added, focuses on the digital as a main vector of transformation and a real lever for change and development and an effective way to ensure transparency and resilience in management, able to strengthen the confidence of citizens, businesses and public service. Mrs Azoulay who conferred with the Head of government, Aziz Akhannouch, and with Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, told reporters that Morocco is among the pioneer countries in the implementation of UNESCOs recommendations on the common values and principles necessary to ensure the development of artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence is a new axis in our existing cooperation with Morocco, she added, praising the richness of cultural cooperation between the Kingdom and UNESCO, especially in the areas of heritage, cultural life, education, science, and the preservation of the biosphere. She also expressed thanks and appreciation for the support that UNESCO enjoys in Morocco while pledging to work together with the Kingdom on many programs in which Morocco has an interest. UNESCO established its multi-country office in Rabat in 1991 to cover the five Maghreb countries. Authorities are looking for a 37-year-old North Platte man who they feared was inside a burning building along Rodeo Road late Thursday into early Friday. The North Platte Police Department said late Friday that Jerome F. Vieyra has been listed as an endangered missing person in the National Crime Information Center after fire crews did not find Vieyra inside the remains of the burned-out Vieyras Metal Works business at 1900 Rodeo Road. Vieyra is 5-foot, 10-nches tall, has brown eyes and black hair, police said. If you have information, call the police department at 308-535-6789. Earlier Friday, Reeves said in a press release: The North Platte 911 Center received reports about 10:48 p.m. of gunshots near Rodeo Road and Carr Avenue. Multiple callers reported hearing gunshots as well as fireworks. Police officers responded and found an individual at Vieyras Metal Works. A person was inside the building near an open overhead garage door. There was a small fire inside the building. The officers ordered the man out of the building, but he refused and retreated into the building. The North Platte Fire Department was dispatched and assistance was requested from the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office and the Nebraska State Patrol. The officers secured the building after receiving information that a large amount of fireworks was inside. By 11:50 p.m., the building was reported to be fully engulfed. The man police contacted was last seen inside the building. The incident is being investigated by the state fire marshals office, the North Platte fire marshals office and the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office. Flash Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki in Islamabad, Pakistan, March 23, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua] Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Islamabad on Wednesday with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki, saying China will continue to stand firmly together with the Palestinian people. They had an in-depth exchange of views on the sidelines of the 48th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in the Pakistani capital. Wang said China fully agreed to the calls made at the OIC meeting on the Palestinian issue, noting that the issue should not be marginalized nor forgotten, and the injustice lasting over 50 years should not continue. Wang called on the international community to disapprove of the long-term indifference by Western countries to the Palestinian issue, while stressing that China will continue to stand firmly with the Palestinians. China will not cease its support for the just cause of the Palestinian people until the Palestinian issue is resolved, he noted. Wang said that China will stick to the four-point proposal it has made on resolving the Palestinian issue, and reiterated the specific approaches China has put forward to the issue. China believes that the authority of the Palestinian National Authority should be enhanced, and that the Palestinian factions should be supported for greater unity, whereby they can achieve a real internal reconciliation, Wang said. China also considers it necessary to hold an extensive, authoritative and influential international peace conference with the participation by the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and all stakeholders in the Middle East peace process in seeking an effective way to find a political solution of the Palestinian issue, Wang said. China will continue to call on the international community to increase its attention and input, and play a constructive role for the fundamental settlement of the Palestinian issue, he said. China is ready to continue to provide anti-epidemic and humanitarian assistance to Palestine and help its refugees outside Palestine through the UN channels, Wang added. Al-Maliki highly appreciated China's four-point proposal on the Palestinian issue. The Palestinian foreign minister thanked China for always upholding fairness and justice on the Palestinian issue and supporting Palestine in alleviating its humanitarian plight. He looked forward to China's continued support for a fundamental solution of the Palestinian issue and the achievement of lasting peace in the Middle East. The Palestinian side fully endorses the convening of an international peace conference and hopes that the upgraded conference will be held at an early date, said Al-Maliki. Wang arrived here on Monday to attend the OIC foreign ministers' meeting and for a visit to Pakistan. Writer Beer & Society There is nothing that cannot be discussed and worked out over a beer. Join me as I explore local beer, breweries and how they can civilize us. Firefighters douse a fire in a shopping mall after a Russian attack on Kyiv. Photo: Aris Messinis/AFP via Getty Images One week ago, it looked as if spring might bring peace to Ukraine. Headlines hailed significant progress in talks between Kyiv and Moscow. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russias demands were becoming more realistic. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov declared that the two sides were close to agreement on specific formulations for an independent but neutral Ukraine. Cautious optimists dreamed of an imminent cease-fire; incautious ones, of Russian withdrawal by May. Such hopes now seem misplaced. A week of Russian war crimes and intransigence has called the sincerity of the Kremlins diplomacy into question. Far from granting a cease-fire, Moscow has refused to even forswear attacks on humanitarian corridors in the besieged and bombed-out city of Mariupol. Russian diplomats still make some noises about progress. But their statements may be for promotional use only. To retain the Russian publics support for war, Moscow may feel compelled to telegraph a fraudulent interest in peace. Even if Russia is negotiating in earnest, its official demands are far from modest. The Kremlin has backed down from its quixotic calls for regime change in Kyiv and the full dissolution of the Ukrainian military. But it is still asking the Zelenskyy government to commit to neutrality between Russia and the West and to recognize both Russian sovereignty over Crimea and the independence of the separatist republics in eastern Ukraine. Kyiv deems such concessions beyond the pale. And Moscows actual territorial ambitions likely outstrip its ostensible ones. Russias brutal campaign against Mariupol is likely aimed at securing a continuous stretch of land from Crimea to Russia. According to U.S. officials, Vladimir Putins plan B if conquering Kyiv proves impossible is to annex the large slice of eastern Ukraine made up of the bulk of the Donbas region and almost all of Ukraines Black Sea coastline. Ukraine would concede such territory only under extreme duress. Yet Putin is unlikely to hand back the Donbas unless his army came under the same. The costs of the Russian leaders adventure are already exorbitant whether measured in blood, money, or strategic imperatives. An estimated 40,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded. Western sanctions have plunged the Russian economy into its deepest recession since the 1990s. And some of that economic damage will be irreversible. Russia is a petro-state that finances 40 percent of its federal budget with fossil-fuel revenues. Europe has been its best customer, consuming 70 percent of Russias natural-gas exports. Now the E.U. is racing to wean itself off Russian fuel by decades end. And that consumer demand cannot be easily replaced since transporting natural gas to other regions will require the construction of expensive new pipeline infrastructure. Meanwhile, the NATO allies defense spending is poised to increase, and anti-Russian sentiment has become ubiquitous in Ukraine. In a sense, then, Putins war is already lost. Russia will emerge from this conflict weaker in economic, martial, and strategic terms. To spin his fiasco as a victory, whether to himself or his public, Putin will want land. The Donbas is his consolation prize. A mere stalemate wont persuade him to settle for less. If Putins maximalism is the primary obstacle to peace, it is hardly the only one. Ukraines leadership has its own reasons to resist compromise. Before the war, Zelenskyy was deeply unpopular. His fearless defiance of Russian aggression won him the confidence of his constituents. Whether he can retain their support while making bitter concessions to Putin is far from clear. And even if this were not a concern, Zelenskyys legal capacity to grant even Russias least controversial requests is uncertain. Zelenskyy has voiced his willingness to forfeit NATO membership. Yet Ukraines NATO aspirations are embedded in its constitution; removing that provision would require supermajority support in the nations parliament. In any case, Zelenskyy feels so insecure in his authority that he has said any peace agreement with Russia would need to be ratified in a nationwide referendum. In a poll taken early this month, 80 percent of Ukrainians said they were not ready to accept Russian sovereignty over the Donbas even if doing so guaranteed an immediate end to the war, while 56 percent were not prepared to trade the right to pursue NATO membership for instant peace. The West also seems reluctant to accept the compromises necessary for a negotiated settlement. Ukraine has signaled willingness to commit to neutrality but only if this is paired with security guarantees: If Ukraine is going to forswear any military alliance with the West, it demands some other form of protection against Russian aggression. The Zelenskyy government is not interested in any peace deal that merely enables Russia to consolidate its gains and take another stab at conquering Kyiv in a few years time. Therefore, it has said it will not forfeit NATO membership unless Germany, Turkey, and the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council the United States, United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia itself all commit to its defense in the event its security is threatened by any outside power in the future. In other words, it will trade hypothetical NATO membership for actual security guarantees functionally identical to those associated with NATO membership. Under the Ukrainian proposal, were Russia to invade it again, the United States would be compelled to go to war with the worlds other nuclear superpower. Western officials were reportedly blindsided by this proposal and reluctant to concede to such a huge undertaking. One U.S. defense official told the Financial Times the request was impossible. After all, why would Russia have made all this war mess if it was willing to accept a Ukraine with Washingtons full military backing? Separately, Russia is sure to insist that any peace agreement includes sanctions relief. But if that agreement includes territorial concessions, the NATO allies may be reluctant to end their economic war on Russia. Nations on the alliances eastern flank have argued that should Putin gain anything from his war in Ukraine, his appetite for imperial expansion will only grow. In such a circumstance, facilitating the reconstruction of Russias war machine through trade normalization will be a tough pill for Poles, Estonians, and hawkish members of the U.S. Congress to swallow. Thus, there is a little hope for an imminent diplomatic resolution of the conflict. And there is little prospect of a military one either. Ukraine has arrested Russias progress toward Kyiv, but Putins army is making gradual gains in the Donbas. A war of attrition looms. Each side has cause for believing it will gain leverage through a protracted conflict. Ukraines forces are fighting for their nations existence; Russias are merely fighting for a single sociopaths wounded pride. And the former have already put a dent in the Russian armys manpower and morale. Yet Russia retains overwhelming military advantages. And Ukraines unexpected martial strength rests on a crumbling foundation. To this point, Ukraine has managed to deny Russia dominance of its airspace. This feat has been critical to the nations resistance. Were Russia to secure control of the Ukrainian sky, it could easily destroy the Turkish-made drones Ukraine has been using to demolish Russian tanks and artillery. The only thing standing in the way of that outcome is a Ukrainian air force that currently commands just 55 fighter jets, a tiny fraction of Russias fleet. Without resupply, Dave Deptula, a former lieutenant general in the U.S. Air Force, told the New York Times, they will run out of airplanes before they run out of pilots. One month into Putins war, both sides have lost all hope of total victory. Russia will exit this conflict a weaker power; Ukraine will leave it bloodied and broken. But Ukraines will to defend its sovereignty is intact. And Putins capacity to stymie all dissent against his self-destructive war crimes is the same. By all appearances, this catastrophe has only just begun. The Lee County Justice Center will start selecting jury members on Monday for trials next week. Kristen Mayes, operation assistant for the district attorneys office, said the judges will have jurors spread out in the court room and will enforce social distancing. Mayes said there are two cases going forward for jury trial: the case involving Derrill Ennis, who is charged with capital murder-burglary, and, tentatively, the case involving Rodrecius Ford, who is charged with first-degree rape. Derrill Richard Rick Ennis is a capital murder suspect in a cold case related to the 2006 disappearance of Lori Ann Slesinski of Auburn. Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty for Ennis. According to earlier reports, Slesinski was last seen on June 10, 2006, and was reported missing by her mother on June 13 after she didnt show up to a friends party on June 10, didnt show up to work the next day and couldnt be reached by family or friends. On June 14, 2006, reports said police found Slesinskis vehicle on fire at the dead end of Dekalb Street in Auburn. In a news conference in 2018, police said Ennis was an acquaintance of Slesinski and lived in Auburn. He became a person of interest during the investigation and moved from the Auburn area after being questioned by police, reports said. Ennis was taken into custody early August 2018 in Pilot, Montgomery County, Virginia, on grand jury indictments and was extradited back to Lee County later that month, according to reports. In August 2018, Ennis pleaded not guilty in court at the Lee County Justice Center, and his next court appearance will be for jury trial next week. Washington, PA (15301) Today Cloudy with rain developing after midnight. Low 56F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.. Tonight Cloudy with rain developing after midnight. Low 56F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Staff Writer Brad Hundt came to the Observer-Reporter in 1998 after stints at newspapers in Georgia and Michigan. He serves as editorial page editor, and has covered the arts and entertainment and worked as a municipal beat reporter. Kyiv based organization that allows you to donate to directly support the Ukrainian soldiers with immediate necessities, food, suppliesIn agreement with Zene za Zene International, our affiliate in Bosnia & Herzegovina, we support their solidarity response for Ukraine. Our Director, Seida, who herself lived through the siege of Sarajevo and built up a highly effective program for survivors of war in Bosnia, is now leading our assessment of the needs of marginalized women in this conflict.for Ukraine https://razomforukraine.org/ The nonprofit is collecting donations for its emergency response project to provide medical supplies, humanitarian aid and support volunteers on the ground.This organization, also known as Medecins Sans Frontieres, provides medical care during humanitarian crises, and still has workers in Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict. Donations will fund these services as well as mass casualty kits, emergency medicine and preparedness training for local hospitals and more.Ukrainian Yuliia Sachuks organization, Fight for Right, promotes and protects the human rights of people living with disabilities in her community. In response to the crisis, Fight for Right is coordinating accessible shelter, evacuations, and emergency servicesensuring those living with disabilities arent left out of the humanitarian efforts.Andras Lederer and his team at the Hungarian Helsinki Committee have been helping provide free-of-charge legal assistance and representation to refugees in Hungary for decades. Right now, they are focused on helping asylum seekers from Ukraine find professional and free legal assistance.Following reports that a number of African and Indian students have faced discrimination and racism at the border of Poland while trying to escape to safety, Fundacja Ocalenie has stepped in to provide support.The Kyiv Independent, an English-language media outlet, was launched three months ago and was created on the principles of independent journalism and free-press. The goal of their Go Fund Me campaign is to keep the accurate news coming.This Polish organization is offering a free crisis hotline to assist people who are being affected by the Ukrainian crisis, including individuals who have fled the country, families worried about the well-being of their children, and those who have relatives in Ukraine and are feeling a sense of hopelessness.A Hungarian nonprofit that has experience helping severely traumatized asylum seekers, refugees, and their family members. They provide counseling and advanced psychiatric support.The Urgent Action Fund is helping support women, transgender, and nonbinary activists on the ground in and around Ukraine, by providing flexible funding, access to communication channels, and medical support.IOM is scaling up its humanitarian operations in Ukraine and neighboring countries, providing emergency services in health, shelter, winter supplies, and protection.This Polish NGO has been providing pro bono legal work for migrants and refugees since 2005. Due to the rapidly changing rules and individual cases of those fleeing Ukraine, the Association for Legal Intervention just launched a dedicated legal portal to provide prompt legal advice.supports people and animals https://greatergood.org/crisis-in-ukraine-send-aid-now Organization focuses on health services support, including primary and secondary healthcare, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, supplemental food for malnourished children, clean water and hygiene education, mental health and psychosocial care, women's and children's health (including assistance for survivors of gender-based violence), and emergency response and preparedness.Helps children affected by providing psychological and psychosocial support to children. It helps them overcome the consequences of armed conflict and develop. Her poor hairline... Reply Thread Link That's how it is for the Airbender tattoos but it is a little unfortunate for the people with long hair lol Reply Parent Thread Link No I get the tattoo but they couldn't have given her a better hairline? I mean I can probably see that arrow regardless of how much of it is shown. Or does it have to not be covered for it to be full power? I'm just making shit up lol Or if another Avatar is a dude, does it always have to go bald then? Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I knowwww damn lmao the Air tribe is BRUTAL Reply Parent Thread Link Tbh they should just have the women shave their heads completely too Reply Parent Thread Link its probably inspied by the queue hairstyle in manchuria. but it was worn by men Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lol I bought the Colourpop x ATLA eyeshadow palette, the two lipstains, the eyeliner bundle, the lip mask and the Appa compact mirror. Self-control? I don't know her. Reply Thread Link god I hope we get it at Ulta. totally buying my sister the Appa mirror. Reply Parent Thread Link Also as someone who loved ATLA (... barring like the last 5 mins of the finale for petty shipping reasons) but peaced out of Korra early in season 2 and hasn't read any of the comics or anything, would you recommend the Chronicles of the Avatar books? Reply Thread Link Oh yes! It's mostly self contained bc they take place about 200 years ago with Kyoshi. You see Toph and Zuko's ancestors, but that's about it. Reply Parent Thread Link Depends - at his best, Yee's really good at extrapolating backwards and imagining what the Avatar world would've been like hundreds of years before Aang. At the same time, Kyoshi has some of that YA Girl Protagonist Syndrome where she's constantly failing and doing the wrong thing, which for me was what killed my interest in Korra. She gets better eventually, but it takes a while Reply Parent Thread Link I was pleasantly surprised by how well done the Kyoshi books are. The premise is really cool because it starts with the world thinking someone else is the avatar, not Kyoshi because she's pretty bad at bending. The second book has a lot more focus on the fire nation too so you finally get to see more of their culture and how their societies work. I also didn't expect the books to get so dark. The spirit they introduce early in the first book is really fucking cool and gross at the same time. Reply Parent Thread Link i recommend going back to korra, seasons 3 & 4 were really good. i also struggled with season 2 (i think most fans did), but book 3 of korra is now my second favorite season of avatar as a whole, with book 3 of atla being the first. Reply Parent Thread Link lol maybe one day i just didn't like any of the characters really... and hahaha part of me hates that Korra firmly establishes a post ATLA canon for the Gaang when I'd rather make up my own post ATLA Gaang canon. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link that palette is soooo disappointing (baby poop green? really?) but the packaging is cool I guess Reply Thread Link I'm surprised there weren't stronger greens. Reply Parent Thread Link mte! those aren't the shades I think of when I think of the earth kingdom lol the gold is fine but that green is so off to me I wouldn't use the blues either but at least those are accurate Reply Parent Thread Link Oh okay, the water and earth mask set is kinda desirable Reply Thread Link i know nothing about avatar, but i think i need that eyeshadow palette Reply Thread Link I wish companies would stop collabing with Colour Pop because their packaging is so trash. Reply Thread Link Well, it looks kid friendly in different ways. Reply Thread Link Feeling slightly cheated because Yee's second Kyoshi book ends before she really gets to be the Kyoshi that we see on the show, but I really liked his take on the world of the Four Nations and how Kyoshi's era was as defined by Kuruk and Yangchen as Aang's was by Roku's. Looking forward to more of that Reply Thread Link See that's what I said!! Like .... WE don't see her when she's a badass. Let's see her create the Dai Li knowing how much of an issue they would be come, thinking she's past the mistakes of her youth. Let' see her fight Chin the Conqueror. Let's see her meet Sozin's father as a child! Let me see a 110 Year old Kyoshi fighting alongside her 60 year old daughter and still remembering Rangi. Edited at 2022-03-25 09:11 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link I guess I kind of understand Yee not wanting to do Chin/Dai Li because it'd be yet another Avatar war story? But that's also arguably Kyoshi at her most impressive, and it would've been really cool to see that. Also, I'm really, really hoping that blurb describing Yangchen as an "uncertain young woman" doesn't mean she's going to be another YA Girl Protagonist Who Hates Herself, because boy howdy does that wear thin fast Reply Parent Thread Link I'm excited for the book. I was hoping they'd have that author write more. Reply Thread Link I'm fairly new to the Avatar world and I finished Legend of Korra Book 3 the other day and it brought me to tears. Sure, The Last Airbender had plenty of moments (mostly Iroh) where I welled up but there was something about Korra's state of being which resonated with me two years into this pandemic. I can't see how they'll top Book 3 but I'm ready to start final season. I'm trying to get as many people as possible to start watching ATLA and LoK but struggling. There's just so much good TV out right now. Reply Thread Link I don't rewwatch the first two seasons of Korra but I love the last 2. A good way to get people on board will probably be the Netflix show; Or point out that there's a reason this show still has fans 17 years later. There's a reason it's being remade. Reply Parent Thread Link that final scene of book 3 always makes me tear up. korra's exhaustion and depression contrasted with a resurgent air nation and jinora's ceremony is so well done. Reply Parent Thread Link Big tears every time edit: that music! Edited at 2022-03-25 10:54 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link immediate tears! Reply Parent Thread Link I prefer Korra to AtLA. Though I think AtLA is beautifully paced, Korra hit a far deeper emotional resonance. Also that the Gaang turned out differently than the perfect way everyone had individually in their heads? *chef kiss* One thing that always frustrated me was that people misunderstood the conflict between Bumi, Kya, and Tenzin like it somehow meant that Aang was a bad father. But the actual conflict is that even when your parents are amazing, you are still jealous of the specialized attention your siblings got.. Reply Parent Thread Link Fuckthe makeup looks good, might make some unfortunate purchases Reply Thread Link do it!! join me in making unfortunate purchases! Reply Parent Thread Link Looking forward to this! The Kyosi novels were better written than most of Legend of Korra tbh. I just finished the Turf Wars Korra comics, and although the art was lovely the entire work just emphasized how shallow and bland Team Avatar 2.0 is. The writers still couldnt find a personality for Asami. Reply Thread Link how shallow and bland Team Avatar 2.0 is. The writers still couldnt find a personality for Asami. yeah this is why I gave up on Korra early season 2. Most of the characters were just so flat. Reply Parent Thread Link They could have done so much more with Asami and Team Avatar in general. The love triangle bullshit really didnt help with that either /sad Reply Parent Thread Link I was always interested in her after the Aang Advice Meetup where she was unexpectedly like "kill that hoe" lol, so im happy for this Reply Thread Link reminds me of uncle iroh zuko: i know what you're going to say. she's my sister and I have to learn to get along with her. iroh: no. she's crazy and she has to go down. Reply Parent Thread Link Flash A Chinese military spokesperson Thursday denounced the claim that China had prior knowledge of Russia's military operation in Ukraine as disinformation. The spread of such disinformation by the United States is intended to shirk responsibility and smear China, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense. "We believe that to resolve the current crisis, we must uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and respect and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," said Wu. It is crucial to adhere to the principle of indivisible security and accommodate the legitimate security concerns of the parties involved, Wu added. He stressed the need to settle disputes by peaceful means through dialogue and negotiation, and keep in mind the long-term peace and stability of the region and put in place a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. "What China has done is in stark contrast to that of the United States, which has created and shifted crisis to others, and reaped gains from it," Wu said. Germany wants to reduce its Russian oil imports by half by this summer, the country's economy minister Robert Habeck told media today, as quoted by the AFP. German companies importing oil from Russia are letting their contracts with their suppliers expire and turning to other suppliers, Habeck explained, and this has already declined, with the decline expected to accelerate to half of the previous rates of delivery by the middle of the year. Reuters had earlier cited a report by Germany Spiegel that quoted a government memo along the same lines. A direct embargo, however, was not on the table. "Despite the progress, an immediate embargo would still have too serious economic and social consequences," economy ministry sources told the German magazine on Thursday. European Union governments earlier this week met to discuss an embargo on Russian oil, but the discussions have so far unsurprisingly failed to produce an agreement on such a move. Russia supplies a quarter of the crude oil the EU consumes, and banning it would be too much like the EU shooting itself in the foot, which various European officials have said the union is trying to avoid in its actions towards Russia. Discussions are continuing, CNBC reported earlier this week, with a decision unlikely to be reached soon as some EU members openly admit they are too dependent on Russian oil and natural gas, as well. Germany, meanwhile, has stepped up its LNG import plans. According to the memo cited by Spiegel, the government now plans to build not two but three LNG import terminals, planning to have some of them operational by next winter season. "The German government is currently examining possible locations on the North Sea and Baltic Sea where these can be used in the short term - in some cases already for the winter of 2022/23," the memo said, according to the German magazine. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: - Most of the cases have been reported in Shanghai, Shandong, and Guangdong, accounting for 27% of Chinas oil consumption last year, meaning China should see weaker demand than expected in 2022. - Chinas daily COVID-19 count reached almost 5,000 cases on Friday as the rapid spread of the Omicron variant has triggered movement restrictions in cities across 20 provinces. - Iraq is a peculiar case in point, with its exports stagnating for four months already at 3.2 million b/d and production set to decline this month, coming on the back of a previous month-on-month drop in February. - Hence, OPEC producers could enjoy high prices with a limited effort to boost production, not risking their spare production capacity arguably the reason why OPEC told the EU not to ban Russian oil from the markets. - Saudi Arabia is the only major OPEC producer to pull off a tangible export hike over the past months in February outflows jumped to 7.15 million b/d however with Iraq and Kuwait faltering, the net effect has been lower than assumed. - The Russia-Ukraine war has taken OPEC heavyweights out of the public limelight, somewhat concealing the fact that the 400,000 b/d monthly increments of OPEC+ routinely end up underproduced. 1. OPEC Exports Underwhelm Despite High Prices Source: Kpler. - The Russia-Ukraine war has taken OPEC heavyweights out of the public limelight, somewhat concealing the fact that the 400,000 b/d monthly increments of OPEC+ routinely end up underproduced. - Saudi Arabia is the only major OPEC producer to pull off a tangible export hike over the past months in February outflows jumped to 7.15 million b/d however with Iraq and Kuwait faltering, the net effect has been lower than assumed. - Hence, OPEC producers could enjoy high prices with a limited effort to boost production, not risking their spare production capacity arguably the reason why OPEC told the EU not to ban Russian oil from the markets. - Iraq is a peculiar case in point, with its exports stagnating for four months already at 3.2 million b/d and production set to decline this month, coming on the back of a previous month-on-month drop in February. 2. COVID-19 Reappearance Puts Chinese Rebound into Question - Chinas daily COVID-19 count reached almost 5,000 cases on Friday as the rapid spread of the Omicron variant has triggered movement restrictions in cities across 20 provinces. - Most of the cases have been reported in Shanghai, Shandong, and Guangdong, accounting for 27% of Chinas oil consumption last year, meaning China should see weaker demand than expected in 2022. - S&P Platts expects movement restrictions to ease in May, with coronavirus-triggered demand destruction reaching its peak in March standing at 650,000 b/d. - Consequently, China will see a rather meager demand growth of 200,000 b/d this year, ceding the place of the worlds most rapidly growing market to India. 3. US Gasoline Trend Finally Reacts to High Prices - As gasoline prices have settled comfortably above the $4 per gallon mark across the US, fuel demand might finally see behavior-driven changes, with 37% calling high prices a very serious problem. - The four-week average of nationwide gasoline demand has been trending sideways at 8.82 million b/d in a period when driving activity should be seasonally ticking up. - The halt in demand growth has coincided with a marked increase in gasoline production, with the latest IEA data indicating gasoline output levels of 9.5 million b/d. - At the same time, gasoline stocks across the country have so far been declining for seven consecutive weeks, settling at 238 million barrels in the week ending 18 March. 4. Europes Gas Woes Take Confront Rouble Dilemma - Russias President Vladimir Putin indicated long-term gas supply contracts will be converted into roubles, as the West declared economic war on Moscow, warning that the shift is only days away. - Whilst it is still unclear whether Russia would force its contracts into force majeure to accommodate the currency change, Brussels has concurrently required EU member states to ensure their underground gas storages are filled to at least 80% of capacity by 1 November. - With the new EU legislation stipulating that EU storage sites should be 63% full by 1 August already, the pull on Russian gas might be even stronger over the upcoming months. - Meanwhile, the US Administration pledged to supply 15 billion cubic meters of liquefied natural gas to Europe, but that is equivalent to only 10% of Gazproms European sales. 5. Things Can Only Get Worse for Aluminium - After Russias aluminum industry was cut off from Australian alumina flows, the second-largest source for the countrys plentiful smelters, Russia has been courting China to provide it with the required feedstock. - The Australian sanctions are upending usual trade flows as Russias Rusal owned 20% of Queensland Aluminium and received 19% of its alumina from Down Under rumor has it that Chinese firms will become mediators in the same transaction chain. - Hypothetically, China could also sell its own alumina production, but the marginal benefit would be in re-trading third-party flows to Russia. - Aluminium prices surged 10% over the past week, with the 3-month LME contract trading at 3,675 per metric ton, a situation aggravated by stocks hitting a 15-year low. 6. Europe Doubles Down on Green Hydrogen - Soaring natural gas prices and consequently weaker profitability on gray hydrogen projects are improving the feasibility of green hydrogen plants across Europe, Rystad Energy reports. - Even though green hydrogen still boasts a global capacity of less than 1 GW, the cost surge of green hydrogen from $8 per kg to $12-13 per kg, coming on the back of the Russia-Ukraine war, provided a much-needed boost. - Even considering the ambitious green hydrogen targets of Germany and Spain, Europe would need about 54 million tons of hydrogen by 2030 to supplant gas and coal as of today, it is likely to replace only 5% with hydrogen. - Spain has so far emerged as the most commercially attractive outlet for green hydrogen projects, with production costs as low as $4 per kg. 7. Lithium Prices Cannot Stop Soaring - Lithium prices are continuing their wild ride, having already risen fivefold last year, they have almost doubled already in 2022, with Chinese lithium carbonate pricing at 497,500 per metric tonne ($78,000/mt). - This has prompted the Chinese government, traditionally seeking to add scientific grounds to commodity trading, to tell electric battery producers that it expects lithium prices to return to sustainable levels. - For the first time in many years, lithium demand surpassed supply in 2021 and the short-to-mid-term outlook for lithium production remains dubious, with many projects delayed or outright canceled (such as Rio Tintos Jadar license). - Lithium prices were also boosted by the announcement of leading electric vehicle producer Tesla that they would switch to LFP battery (lithium iron phosphate) for all standard-range cars, not just those produced in China. The European Union and the United States have announced a deal for more U.S. liquefied natural gas exports to the EU as the latter seeks to replace Russian supplies, on which it is dependent. According to the terms of the deal, the United States will deliver at least 15 billion cubic meters of liquefied natural gas to the EU this year more than previously planned, the White House said in a fact sheet. For context, Russia exported over 59 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Germany alone last year, a record high. "The European Commission will work with EU Member States toward the goal of ensuring, until at least 2030, demand for approximately 50 bcm/year of additional U.S. LNG that is consistent with our shared net-zero goals. This also will be done on the understanding that prices should reflect long-term market fundamentals and stability of supply and demand," the fact sheet also said. Meanwhile, U.S. LNG exports to the continent have increased drastically, with as much as 70 percent of them going to Europe in the past two months, up from a previous 30-percent share, according to Evercore ISI. "The recently announced EU energy supply reconfiguration could be the largest change in European energy consumption since the end of the Second World War," said Evercore ISI analyst Sean Morgan earlier this week, as quoted by American Shipper. According to other analysts, U.S. LNG producers cannot produce all the LNG Europe will need, so they will need to redirect cargo from other buyers to satisfy Europe's gas demand. "We expect near-term measures to support European LNG imports to rely on the reallocation of existing supply," Goldman Sachs said in a recent report cited by Reuters, adding that "such a relocation to Europe is already happening." The reallocation was made possible by record-high gas prices in Europe, which have also made U.S. LNG competitive with pipeline gas. Yet a lot of U.S. LNG is already contracted, one analyst noted, so European buyers will have to pay even higher prices. "But almost all of it [LNG] in the U.S. already belongs to somebody. It is under contract," the head of business development at energy and shipbrokers Poten & Partners told Reuters. "If Europe wants more LNG, they are going to have to pay for it," Jason Feer said. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Canada plans to boost its crude oil exports as Western importers turn away from Russian crude. The country could increase oil exports by some 200,000 bpd from current rates, the Canadian minister of natural resources said this week, as quoted by Bloomberg. It could also boost natural gas exports by the equivalent of 100,000 barrels daily, both by the end of the year. "Canada indicated to our European friends that we will work to help them in the current situation that they find themselves," Jonathan Wilkinson said. The official also said discussions are underway for supplies of liquefied natural gas from Canada to Europe, even though the country has no LNG terminals yet, and the first one is scheduled for completion by 2025. "Canada is very open to discussion about how we can help, but help in a manner that is consistent with long-term climate objectives," Wilkinson also said. Both Canada and the European Union have ambitious energy transition programs. The Canadian natural resources minister mentioned earlier this month that Canada was looking for ways to increase deliveries of Canadian crude to Europe. "Both our liquids and natural gas systems are at or near capacity but we're exploring options that may be taken to provide more energy to the U.S. and Europe. That includes using export facilities on the Gulf Coast for crude and natural gas," Wilkinson explained two weeks ago. Canada is currently exporting crude oil to the United States at record rates. From the Gulf Coast, Canadian crude heads for other markets. Last year, the rate of Canadian oil exports from the Gulf Coast reached 180,000 bpd. Meanwhile, as oil prices remain high, a growing number of Canadian producers are considering production increases. Suncor's chief executive said this month that the Canadian oil industry could quickly add 200,000 bpd to its total output. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Soaring lithium prices are threatening energy transition efforts as EV battery makers will be forced to hike the prices for their products by as much as 25 percent, Morgan Stanley has warned. Over the past 12 months, the bank said, as quoted by Bloomberg, the price of lithium carbonate, which is a key ingredient in electric vehicle batteries, has jumped five times. This may force EV manufacturers to hike prices by up to 15 percent, hurting demand. The news comes at a bad time for EVs. Rising retail fuel prices in some parts of the world, such as the United States, are driving higher EV demand, but carmakers are already finding it hard to satisfy it amid persistent supply chain problems and the rising prices of most raw materials. The conclusions of Morgan Stanley analysts echo those of a Chinese EV manufacturer. Earlier this week, Li Auto Incs chief executive Li Xiang said on social media that The cost of batteries in the second quarter rose by a very ridiculous amount. Because of the rising costs of raw materials, the worlds largest EV manufacturer CATL has already said it would be raising the prices for some of its products. Tesla, meanwhile, raised the prices for its cars for the U.S. and Chinese markets twice in a single week. Historically, the battery price cost curve had been declining at a pace of 3% to 7% annually for so many years in a row it almost seemed inevitable, Morgan Stanley analysts said in their note this week. But molecules dont play by the same rules as Moores Law. The world has changed, and along with it is a new paradigm of input costs. The electrification of transport is one of the pillars on which energy transition plans stand, along with a buildup in renewable energy generation capacity and hydrogen. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Russia is considering digital currencies as one of its accepted means of payment for oil and gas, the BBC has reported, citing a Russian lawmaker. According to Pavel Zavalny, head of the parliamentary energy committee, friendly countries that buy oil from Russia could pay in their local currencies or in cryptocurrencies. For the unfriendly ones, President Vladimir Putin said earlier this week that Russia will demand payment for gas in rubles. China and Turkey were among the friendly countries that could switch to local currencies, Zavalny also said. "We have been proposing to China for a long time to switch to settlements in national currencies for roubles and yuan," Zavalny said, as quoted by Russian media. "With Turkey, it will be lira and roubles." "You can also trade bitcoins," Zavalny also said. The BBC quoted an energy researcher as noting that bitcoin could be an alternative to fiat currencies in payments for Russian oil and gas, but it is a highly volatile alternative. "Russia is very quickly feeling the impact of unprecedented sanctions," David Broadstock, senior research fellow at the Energy Studies Institute in Singapore, told the BBC. "There is a need to shore up the economy and in many ways, Bitcoin is seen as a high growth asset." He then went on to note that the value of the digital currency has experienced swings of as much as 30 percent since the start of the year, compared with just 5 percent for the U.S. dollar. Earlier this week, President Vladimir Putin said that Russia would demand payment in rubles for its gas deliveries to Europe. "I have taken a decision to switch to ruble payments for our natural gas supplies to the so-called hostile states, stop using the compromised currencies in such transactions," Putin said. Separately, the Russian president said that "At the same time, I want to emphasize that Russia will definitely continue to supply natural gas in line with the volumes and prices, pricing mechanisms set forth in the existing contracts." European governments have balked at the demand, saying it would constitute a breach of contract. "This would be a unilateral decision and a clear breach of contract, and it would be an attempt to circumvent the sanctions," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said following the news. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A fire that broke out as a result of a Houthi missile strike on a Saudi Aramco oil storage facility in Jeddah earlier today is now under control, according to Saudi officials, with experts indicating that any potential damage to this domestic-use storage facility and distribution plant will have no impact on the Kingdoms crude oil exports. According to media reports, a huge plume of smoke was seen above the oil facility after the attack, which was part of a larger barrage of missiles. The Saudi Aramco facility on fire in Jeddah appears to be the companys so-called North Jeddah Bulk Point thats a storage and fuel distribution center for the Saudi domestic refined products market and wont affect export, Javier Blas, energy and commodities columnist at Bloomberg, said on Twitter. In an official statement, the Saudi-led coalition on Yemen claimed that Saudi Arabias air defense forces destroyed seven drones and missiles launched by the Houthis. A Houthi spokesperson said that its comment about the attack would be issued in the coming hours. As of the time of writing at 01:56 am EST, Brent crude rose at $119.12 with WTI Crude at $112.62. The attack apparently took place near the Formula One circuit, which is gearing up for a race on Sunday. This strike is the second such strike launched by Yemens Iran-backed Houthi militia in the last five days on Aramcos facilities in Saudi Arabia. The Houthis used missiles and drones to target at least six Aramcos sites on Sunday, prompting Riyadh to state that it is not responsible for high oil prices and suggesting that OPEC has no intention of raising production beyond what has already been agreed to by the cartel. Earlier this week, the Saudis warned of an escalation targeting oil facilities, Bloomberg reported. On Monday, Aramco CEO Amin Nasser noted: That type of escalation at a time when the market is really tight is a real concern for the world. Saudi Aramco facilities were also subjected to a major attack by Houthis In September 2019, The targets at that time were the Abqaiq and Khurais oil facilities, with a capacity of more than 7 million barrels per day. By Damir Kaletovic for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Omaha native Kevyn Morrow loves his job. As an actor, hes worked all over the world including New York City, Los Angeles, London and Paris, to name a few. Hes worked on stage, in virtually all kinds of television and in movies. He also brings his passion back to Omaha and Nebraska to teach master performance classes a couple of times a year to help the next generation of aspiring actors. On Tuesday, Morrow will take the stage at the Orpheum Theater as Hades in the Broadway National Tour of the musical Hadestown. Winner of eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical, Hadestown is based on the Greek tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Orpheus descent into the underworld to save his love. Though Hades is typically considered a villain in mythology, Morrow who is now in his ninth Broadway show said he tries to make the character more three-dimensional. Hes no just a villain or bad guy, or an evil Greek god, but I try to make him a man with emotions, both good and bad, jealousy, hatred, love, Morrow said. All the things that we as people go through. Morrows love for the theater started early on, and he recalled that it was sibling rivalry that ignited the fire. He watched his older brother perform in a junior theater production. When he was in sixth grade, Morrow auditioned for the same company but was not selected. At the time, his piano teacher Claudette Valentine was also doing musical direction for various shows at the Omaha Community Playhouse. Morrow said she would let him come and watch rehearsals, and eventually, he started getting into plays. He would later dance for the Omaha Ballet and received a scholarship to the Joffrey Ballets summer programming in New York City before his senior year at Northwest High School. It seemed everyone was pushing me in the direction of becoming the next Arthur Mitchell because he was the most popular Black ballet dancer, he said. I had this natural ability or so it seemed. I was pretty good. At the end of the summer program, he was invited to continue his education as an apprentice with Joffrey. But the Broadway bug had bitten him during his time in the Big Apple. I thought Yeah, this is what it is, he said. I had to come back and break some hearts in the ballet community, and scare my parents who were going How are you going to do this? I was fortunate and blessed enough as far as support, even though I was not going to become the next Arthur Mitchell. I think they are OK with the way I turned out. In the early 1980s, Morrow got his taste of the big screen starting off as an extra dancer in Staying Alive, the 1983 sequel to Saturday Night Fever starring John Travolta and directed by Sylvester Stallone. He said the experience opened an unexpected door for him. During shooting, Stallone was talking to the extra dancers individually, and when he got to Morrow, he gave him a very specific line. I cant say that line to you it ended up on the cutting room floor because they wanted to get a PG rating, the first cut of the film was rated R, Morrow explained. But in that moment, I became a (Screen Actors Guild) member because I had a line. So I thank Sylvester Stallone for that. My salary bumped up tremendously for the next six weeks and it was great. He would go on to perform in other films including Barbershop (2002) starring Ice Cube and Cedric the Entertainer. He also had roles in numerous television shows over the last 30 years, including Murphy Brown, Hope & Faith, Elementary and One Life to Live. He said while he hopes to do more television and film in the future, the stage will always be his first love and passion. He added that Hadestown is not your typical musical. There is R&B, there is gospel, bluegrass, little bit of country and a New Orleans vibe, he said. Its not your typical Oklahoma!, you know where were just going to stand up there and tell you a story. Were going to tell you a story, but you are going to be involved. Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Xiconomics: China's vision on economic governance inspiration for global development Xinhua) 07:57, March 25, 2022 A general view shows the city's skyline in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Wang Jianhua) BEIJING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- How to best handle the relationship between the "visible hand" of the government and the "invisible hand" of the market is a challenge facing policymakers in China and beyond. When the "invisible hand" fails to move the economy forward, as observed in some Western countries, China has adopted a "two-hands" approach to drive growth. The economic philosophy of Chinese President Xi Jinping, widely known as "Xiconomics," emphasizes the market's decisive role in allocating resources; at the same time, Xiconomics allows the government to perform its functions better. Guided by Xiconomics, China has promoted the sound interaction between an efficient market and a capable government, offering inspiration to economies worldwide struggling to improve governance. Photo taken on Nov. 9, 2021 shows a view of the south square of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the 4th China International Import Expo (CIIE), in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Wu Huiwo) "THE INVISIBLE HAND" When chairing a symposium with entrepreneurs on July 21, 2020, Xi urged efforts to spur the vitality of market entities and promote entrepreneurship and called for more efforts to enable enterprises to play a bigger role and achieve greater development. Under the guidance of Xi's economic philosophy, China's business environment has continued to improve, and the country has become an increasingly popular global investment destination. In 2021, China's actual use of foreign capital exceeded 1.1 trillion yuan (about 173.31 billion U.S. dollars), a year-on-year increase of 14.9 percent. High-tech industries and the service sector saw inflows of foreign direct investment jump 17.1 percent and 16.7 percent, respectively, from a year earlier. Bambang Suryono, chairman of the Indonesian think tank Asia Innovation Study Center, said policy support and other advantages make China the world's most suitable country for innovative business investments and development, which offers inspiration to other developing countries. From advancing the construction of 21 pilot free trade zones and implementing the Foreign Investment Law, to shortening the negative list for foreign investment and facilitating the entry into force of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, China has laid out favorable policies to make its market more promising. Mao Xuxin, principal economist at the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, a London-based economic think tank, said China has provided a favorable investment environment by adopting market opening-up measures. The open, inclusive and diversified Chinese market will further increase its attractiveness to foreign investment, said Mao. Women work at a poverty relief workshop of a relocation site in Fugong County of Lisu Autonomous Prefecture of Nujiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 2, 2020. (Xinhua/Hu Chao) "THE VISIBLE HAND" Over the past few decades, some Western countries have failed to strike a balance between the functions of the government and the role of the market and slipped into economic and financial crises that dragged down the global economy. Xi's insights offer some clues on how economies could allow the "visible hand" to perform its functions better. "To ensure that the government better performs its functions, we should transform government functions, further the reform of the administrative system, use new administrative methods, improve the macro-control system and enhance the monitoring of market activities," the Chinese president said at a collective study of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee in 2014. "We should strengthen and improve public services, and promote social fairness, justice and stability, as well as common prosperity," Xi added. China has been stepping up efforts to push forward supply-side structural reforms; carry out fiscal, taxation and financial reforms; enhance property rights protection; and improve anti-monopoly regulations. With such measures, the country has continuously promoted the high-quality development of its socialist market economy, which creates a sound environment for businesses and effectively prevents disorder and failure of the market. As observed by Director of Brazil's Lula Institute Marcio Pochmann, China leads economic development through national planning and policy commitments. In 2020, the global population in extreme poverty grew for the first time in more than 20 years as disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic compounded the impact of climate disasters. However, in the same year, China met the poverty reduction target set by the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule. For a developing country with a large population and a vast territory, the ability to overcome various impacts and difficulties in a limited period and accomplish the goal of eliminating absolute poverty on schedule is ultimately due to having a government that governs efficiently, Suryono in Indonesia said. Robotic arms assemble engines on an assembly line at a workshop of the Weichai Power Co., Ltd. in Weifang City, east China's Shandong Province, April 22, 2021. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei) THE CHINESE INSPIRATION In 2020, China was the only major economy that registered positive growth, with its gross domestic product crossing the 100-trillion-yuan (about 15.75 trillion dollars) threshold. In 2021, China's economic growth rate continued to rank among the top of the world's major economies. As the Chinese president has expounded, a key factor for the great success of China's economic development is the skilled fusion of both market economy strengths with the advantages of a socialist system. According to overseas observers, despite the uncertainty troubling the global economy, China's economy has been growing steadily because China gives full play to the strengths of its socialist system and allows the "invisible hand" and the "visible hand" to play their respective roles to energize growth. Unlike the economics of the West that places one-sided emphasis on market mechanisms, Xi's economic philosophy is based on China's national conditions and has greatly enriched the Marxist political economy, said Yu Hong, senior research fellow at the East Asian Institute of the National University of Singapore, adding that the governance wisdom it contains is globally inspiring. China's economic practices have withstood the fallout from the pandemic. The country has successfully contained the pandemic and maintained production simultaneously, demonstrating the advantages of its system and the effectiveness of its governance. China's experience has proved that in a socialist market economy, it is possible to coordinate the efficiency of economic development and social governance, which is needed for global economic recovery in the post-pandemic era, said Alexander Petrov, a professor of St. Petersburg State University. By integrating the basic socialist economic system with the market economy, China has created a synergy between the "invisible hand" and the "visible hand." China's unique economic philosophy and practice have broadened humanity's understanding of economic laws and offered guidance for countries worldwide to bolster sustainable growth. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Flash NASA's upcoming SPHEREx mission will be able to scan the entire sky every six months and create a map of the cosmos unlike any before, according to a plan the agency unveiled on Thursday. Scheduled to launch no later than April 2025, the SPHEREx mission will probe what happened within the first second after the big bang, how galaxies form and evolve, and the prevalence of molecules critical to the formation of life, according to NASA. To answer big questions about the universe, scientists need to look at the sky in different ways. Many telescopes, like NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, are built to focus on individual stars, galaxies, or other cosmic objects, and to study them in detail. But SPHEREx, which stands for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer, belongs to another class of space telescopes that quickly observe large portions of the sky, surveying many objects in a short period of time, said NASA. SPHEREx will scan over 99 percent of the sky every six months. By contrast, Hubble has observed about 0.1 percent of the sky in more than 30 years of operations, according to NASA. The SPHEREx mission will have some similarities with the James Webb Space Telescope. But the two observatories will take dramatically different approaches to studying the sky, according to NASA. Three children were injured Thursday evening after they were forced into a car at knifepoint, and the driver later crashed the car into a city bus near Midtown Crossing. Omaha police said the incident began with a domestic disturbance around 7:10 p.m. near 49th and Dodge Streets. A 32-year-old man forced his wife and three children into a vehicle at knifepoint. He drove the vehicle east on Dodge Street, and as he left the area, he struck three parked cars, police said. Near 36th Street, the man put the car into reverse and struck an Omaha Rapid Bus Transit bus. First responders did not know how fast the vehicle was traveling when it struck the bus, but reported it was significant, as the vehicles rear had been crushed several inches. The children suffered injuries as a result of a prior assault and the crash, during which some were not wearing seat belts, emergency dispatchers said. The children were taken to the Nebraska Medical Center for treatment. Police took the man into custody and booked him into the Douglas County Jail on suspicion of false imprisonment, terroristic threats, use of a weapon to commit a felony, felony child abuse, willful reckless driving, obstructing, resisting arrest and domestic violence assault. The Sarpy County Assessors Office posted preliminary 2022 property valuations this week, more than two months late due to computer upgrade delays, but county and state officials say its not too late for taxpayers to provide information that could lead to changes. Sarpy County Assessor Dan Pittman is urging homeowners and other property taxpayers to go online and check their valuations. They can be found by using the property search tool on the Sarpy County website, www.sarpy.gov. Please look at it, Pittman said. The website includes information about peoples homes and business buildings, sales in their area and valuation changes to surrounding properties. If Sarpy County taxpayers have any questions about their valuations, or corrections that should be made to their property information, they should call the Sarpy Assessors Office at (402) 593-2122, or email Pittman at assessor@sarpy.gov. I would very much like to talk about it if they have any concerns, Pittman said. Its too late to change a preliminary valuation. Nebraska counties must turn in their proposed valuations to the State Department of Revenue on Friday, March 25. Taxpayers who wish to challenge their valuations would have to file a protest with their county board of equalization between June 1 and June 30. But if taxpayers give Pittmans office information that shows the preliminary valuation is incorrect, he can make a recommendation that the Sarpy County Board of Equalization change the valuation when they receive the protest. The taxpayer will file a protest and my recommendation will be sitting there in the file, Pittman said. So the referee can say, it looks like the assessor has already talked to you and theres been some agreement that this needed to be adjusted. Theres also a second option besides filing a protest, State Property Tax Administrator Ruth A. Sorensen said. If the assessors office file has incorrect information about a property, the taxpayer could correct it and ask the assessor to submit an undervalued/overvalued report to the County Board. Counties must send formal notices of changes in valuations to taxpayers by June 1. State law requires Sarpy, Douglas and Lancaster to provide property taxpayers with preliminary valuations by Jan. 15 of each year. The property owners then can meet with the county assessors office to review the preliminary valuations from Jan. 15 to March 1. In Sarpy, however, a computer software upgrade that took longer than expected caused Pittman to miss that deadline, and thus the informal hearings with taxpayers. It also delayed his staffs process of computing the preliminary valuations, although Pittman said Thursday that he will make todays deadline for submitting his abstract to the state. Pittman notified Sorensen in December that his office was unlikely to meet the Jan. 15 deadline of notifying taxpayers by mail or on its website. He posted a video and otherwise reached out to taxpayers asking them to submit information. Asked whether Sarpy County is facing sanctions for missing the deadline, Sorensen said no. If you look at (Nebraska) Statute 77-1301, it just says this has to be done, she said. Its silent on what happens if its not done. The Douglas County Assessors Office posted its preliminary valuations on time in January. About 650 Douglas County property owners scheduled preliminary meetings, down substantially from the year before, County Assessor Diane Battiato said. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday afternoon held a phone conversation with South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol. Xi once again extended congratulations to Yoon on his election as South Korean president. He pointed out that China and South Korea are permanent close neighbors that cannot move away, and are also inseparable partners, adding that China always attaches importance to its relations with South Korea. With the joint efforts from both sides, bilateral relations have developed rapidly in an all-round way, and the two countries have become strategic partners, Xi said. Facts have proved that the development of China-South Korea relations conforms to the fundamental interests of the two countries and their people, and promotes regional peace and development, he added. Noting that this year marks the 30th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations, Xi said the two sides should take it as an opportunity to uphold mutual respect, strengthen political mutual trust, enhance people-to-people friendship and push for steady and long-term development of China-South Korea relations. Xi stressed that at present, the international community is facing multiple challenges, saying that China and South Korea bear a responsibility in maintaining regional peace and promoting world prosperity. The Chinese side is ready to work with South Korea in strengthening international and regional cooperation, and making active efforts to ensure the stability and smoothness of the global industrial and supply chains, he said. He also called for safeguarding the UN-centered international system and the international order based on international law, and promoting the construction of a more fair and rational global governance system. For his part, Yoon congratulated China on the successful convening of the "two sessions" and on the country's major development achievements made under the leadership of President Xi. South Korea and China enjoy a long history of friendly exchanges, Yoon said, noting that over the 30 years since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties, the two countries have made great achievements in bilateral cooperation in various fields, bringing tangible benefits to people of the two countries. Strengthening cooperation between the two countries is conducive to the realization of their respective development, benefits their people, and will also contribute to regional peace and stability in the Northeast Asia, he continued. South Korea is ready to keep close high-level exchanges with China to enhance mutual trust, promote people-to-people friendship and push bilateral relations to a higher level, Yoon said. LOS ANGELES History hit Jeff Fortenberry with a devastating blow Thursday. A federal jury deliberated less than two hours before convicting the nine-term Nebraska congressman on one count of concealing conduit campaign contributions and two counts of lying to federal agents. Fortenberry, a 61-year-old Republican, is the highest-ranking elected official to be convicted of a felony in Nebraska history. Fortenberry betrayed little emotion as the verdict was read. After the guilty verdict was read on the concealment charge, Fortenberry closed his eyes and kept them closed for at least a minute. His youngest daughter dropped her head into her hands and heaved. His oldest daughter doubled over in the courtroom gallery, her boyfriend comforting her. Celeste Fortenberry, who had testified earlier Thursday, remained mostly stoic. She comforted her daughters, then her husband, cupping his face with her hands and giving her husband of 26 years a kiss. U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. set sentencing for June 28. The congressman faces up to five years in prison on each count, although he also could receive supervised release. Ironically, he does not have to give up his congressional seat. Federal law requires members of Congress to give up their seats only for crimes that are tied to treason. It is unclear whether Fortenberrys campaign will continue. He faces a Republican challenger in the May primary: State Sen. Mike Flood. Two Democrats, including State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, also are vying for the seat. Fortenberrys staff, including his current chief of staff Andy Braner, sat outside a courtroom, stunned. Braner left the courthouse with his hands stuffed in his suit pockets. Fortenberry exited the courtroom to a gaggle of about seven members of the Nebraska press corps. Thank you all for coming out here; this is important to Nebraska, Fortenberry said. We always thought it was going to be hard to get a fair process out here. This appeal starts immediately. Actually, any appeals typically would have to wait until after the June sentencing, although attorneys can ask for a new trial before then. Fortenberry the judge determined he was not a flight risk and allowed him to remain free pending sentencing said his phone was buzzing. One of the texts: a note from one of his five daughters. She said, I love you Daddy, no matter what anyone else accuses you of, Fortenberry said. Just remember so many other people do, too. Asked if he would continue his campaign, Fortenberry said his family is going to sit down and evaluate next steps. The jury of four men and eight women convicted the congressman after watching several tapes of him making incriminating statements. The investigation ramped up when the FBI discovered that a Nigerian billionaire, Gilbert Chagoury, had been funneling cash into the campaigns of four Republican politicians: former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, current California Rep. Darrell Issa, former Nebraska Rep. Lee Terry and Fortenberry. It is illegal for U.S. elected officials to accept foreign money. The World-Herald asked prosecutor Mack Jenkins, who led the case with the help of prosecutors Susan Har and Jamari Buxton, if Fortenberry would have been prosecuted had he gotten rid of the money soon after learning it was suspect. The other three politicians werent prosecuted; they got rid of any illegal money soon after they were confronted. Fortenberry took 2 years to give his to charity. And was evasive along the way. Thats a difficult question to answer, Jenkins said. But I would say that the inaction in this case was certainly evidence of a scheme to conceal. Jenkins was asked for his message to Nebraskans. Hopefully they see that the federal government nationwide ensures that politicians follow the law, Jenkins said. Wherever they are. During closing arguments, prosecutors laid out a slide show of the illegal flow of foreign money into Fortenberrys campaign coffers because of the congressmans support for the cause. That cause was the plight of Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East. Chagoury gave a bag of $30,000 cash to Toufic Baaklini. Baaklini passed it to Los Angeles Dr. Eli Ayoub. Ayoub gave it to his relatives so they could write checks to Fortenberry at an LA fundraiser in 2016. Har, an assistant U.S. attorney, told jurors to disregard the defenses suggestion that FBI agents ambushed or targeted Fortenberry. The question is not, How could they look into the defendant?" Har told jurors. The question is, How could they not?" Fortenberrys defense questioned how the prosecution could base its entire case on a 10-minute phone call from Ayoub to Fortenberry. In that June 4, 2018, call, recorded by the FBI, Ayoub told Fortenberry three times that Baaklini provided $30,000 in cash and that the cash probably came from Chagoury. Attorney John Littrell blasted the FBI for waiting 293 days before confronting Fortenberry about the phone call and expecting him to remember everything. He also blasted the lead FBI agent in the case Todd Carter for a memo he wrote in which he laid out, before interviewing the congressman, that he would be seeking to charge Fortenberry with misprision (concealment) of conduit contributions and, if he lied, making false statements. If you already have plans to indict someone, this is not a search for the truth, Littrell said. This is a setup. Littrell noted that Fortenberrys campaign had $1.5 million in its coffers. Do you really think he would take and put his reputation on the line for $30,000 when he had almost $1.5 million in the bank? Littrell asked jurors. Theres no way he would. Littrell put up a slide emphasizing Fortenberrys presumption of innocence. He followed that with a slide of Fortenberrys official office photo that said presumption of integrity. The defense attorney said he had never been in a case where every witness acknowledged that the defendant had a sterling reputation. Every government witness testified that he is a truthful person, a man of integrity, Littrell said. One witness said it best: He brings integrity to everything he does. That said, Littrell told jurors his client is flawed. He talks too much, Littrell said. He doesnt listen enough. He should have paid more attention to his fundraisers. Thats all true. But thats not a crime. ... Having a faulty memory is not a crime. Littrell also noted the phone call had been played several times in court. He suggested to jurors that if they had to listen to the call again, that would amount to reasonable doubt. After all, he said, Fortenberry heard the call only once. If he didnt hear, understand or recall the June 2018 call, then hes not guilty of all three counts, Littrell said. Har and Jenkins said theres ample evidence that Fortenberry heard Ayoubs words and was concerned. The defense itself noted that he talked to four people after the phone call, including his wife. Celeste Fortenberry testified that she advised him to contact an attorney. Fortenberry did. However, that attorney said Fortenberry was so vague about what had been said that she considered it a nonissue. He definitely didnt say anything about the possibility of foreign money into his campaign, the attorney testified. Har said one of the most obvious restrictions on political fundraising is the ban on foreign money. Its essentially campaign finance 101, she said. She said Fortenberry could have taken several off ramps. He could have picked up on his instincts that most of the checks had been written by one family. He could have gotten rid of the money by disgorging it the formal term for when a politician donates suspected dirty money to charity. He didnt want to, Har said. He was running for reelection, she said, and he didnt want the embarrassment surrounding a scandal of foreign cash in his campaign. Prosecutors also pointed out several lies that they say Fortenberry told during interviews with the FBI. Handed a photo of Ayoub, Fortenberry told agents during an interview at his home in Lincoln that he wasnt placing the doctor. After a few seconds, he said Ayoub may have given him a donation. Littrell had pointed out in defense arguments that Fortenberry didnt recognize Ayoub because the photo was at least 10 years old, taken from a time when Ayoub still had dark, instead of silver, hair. But Har noted that FBI agents had repeated Ayoubs name several times. And Fortenberry clearly had a rapport with the LA doctor, based in part on the fact that the doctor had spent nine years of his medical training in Omaha. Not placing him? Har asked. Its someone who hosted a fundraiser for him. In a follow-up interview in Washington, D.C., in July 2019, Fortenberry also claimed that he had cut off the Ayoub phone call when Ayoub said illegal cash may have been injected into his campaign. But audio of the phone conversation proves Fortenberry didnt cut off the call. At the end of the day, its a pretty simple case, Jenkins said. Its an all-too-familiar story of a politician caught up in the system, caught up in the cycle of power, who lost his way. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LINCOLN Nebraskas prison woes dominated the day again Thursday as state lawmakers wrapped up second-round debate about a $9.8 billion budget package. Senators ended the day by advancing the package with no substantive changes. But they also ended without substantive progress toward criminal justice reform, the aim of a filibuster led by State Sen. Steve Lathrop of Omaha. He said he wanted to prevent any attempt to appropriate money for a proposed new prison until the state makes changes in sentencing and parole to bring down the states prison population. Those changes are in Legislative Bill 920, which is expected to be debated next week. A World-Herald analysis found Nebraskas prison system is the most overcrowded and fastest growing in the U.S. Its also among the nations most racially unequal. If you dont want to do these things, are you OK with the status quo? Lathrop asked, citing projections that show prison population growth exceeding the capacity of the proposed prison within a few years. Sen. Suzanne Geist of Lincoln said she supported several of the recommendations that came out of a Criminal Justice Reinvestment Working Group, which Lathrop chaired alongside Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and Chief Justice Mike Heavican. But she objected to the recommendations that could lead to inmates getting out of prison earlier. Thats a bridge too far for me, said Geist, who also was part of the working group. The budget package under consideration sets aside the remaining $175 million needed to build the proposed new prison but does not appropriate the money for construction yet. Appropriations Committee members held off on that decision while the Legislature debates criminal justice reform. The $175 million would be added to the $100 million set aside last year to pay for building a facility estimated to cost $270 million. Money for the prison would come from what is expected to be a record-level cash reserve fund. The prison is among nearly $500 million worth of building and infrastructure projects included in the package. The budget includes $53.5 million to launch the Perkins County canal project, a canal and reservoir system along the South Platte River in eastern Colorado and western Nebraska. The money would be enough for a feasibility study, design work, getting permits and buying options for land. The governor has pushed for the canal, saying it must be built so Nebraska can claim all the water it is entitled to under a century-old compact with Colorado. Also included in the budget is $100 million for improvements at Lake McConaughy in Keith County and at Niobrara State Park and Lewis and Clark Lake in northeast Nebraska and another $100 million to take the next steps toward creating a 7-mile lake along the Platte River between Lincoln and Omaha. The Appropriations Committee package makes changes to the two-year budget passed last year. With those changes, state spending would total $9.8 billion for the two years ending June 30, 2023, and increase by an average of 3.2% annually. The package would pay higher salaries for state employees in critical areas, such as corrections and 24-hour facilities, and boost rates paid to providers caring for the most vulnerable Nebraskans. The Appropriations Committees plan would leave Nebraska with $1.3 billion in the cash reserve fund by June 30, 2023. That is $950 million more than the funds balance at the end of fiscal year 2020-21. World-Herald Staff Writer Erin Bamer contributed to this report. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LINCOLN A major package of income tax cuts and property tax relief fell short in the Nebraska Legislature on Friday. But backers vowed to try again this session, with State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the Revenue Committee chairwoman, calling the tax measures failure just a hiccup. Linehan said she was shocked that the filibuster-ending cloture motion on Legislative Bill 825 failed. The motion got 32 votes but needed 33 to succeed. Thirteen senators abstained on the vote and four were absent. Based on legislative practice, the bill will not return this year. Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha, who introduced LB 825, said the fight for tax relief is not over this year. He said he expects backers will find another legislative vehicle for the package of ideas. LB 825, as advanced to the second of three rounds of debate, would have phased out income taxes on Social Security benefits in four steps. A surprise amendment offered Friday morning would have incorporated other tax proposals into the bill. The amendment would have ratcheted down the states top corporate and individual income tax rates and expanded income tax credits offered to property taxpayers. Lindstrom, a GOP candidate for governor, touted the package as the biggest thing in years and said Nebraska must make the proposed changes to compete with other states. But he said there will be more work on tax reform in the future. Another supporter, Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, said fears about the tax measures putting Nebraska into a financial crunch down the road were overblown. By fiscal year 2024-25, the package is projected to reduce state revenues by $565 million. This is about go big or go home, he said. This helps all Nebraskans. But Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha, a Democratic candidate for the 2nd Congressional District seat, questioned whether the state could afford all of the proposed tax changes. He also pointed out that a large population of Nebraskans would not see a tax cut from the proposal. Those left out from income tax cuts include single filers making less than $40,676 or married filers making less than $81,352, unless they get Social Security benefits. The property tax credits would not go to anyone who does not own property. Several opponents objected to packaging all of the tax measures together. The Social Security proposal enjoyed broad support during first-round consideration, but the income tax cuts have had a rougher road. Opponents blocked a separate income tax bill earlier this week. Linehan said she is not sure yet what avenue supporters will use to get the tax package passed. But she warned that the state budget bills could be in jeopardy if lawmakers continue to stand in the way of the tax cuts. Lawmakers are slated to vote on passing the budget bills Tuesday. If they want a budget, we need tax cuts, she said. The amendment proposed on LB 825 would ratchet down the top corporate and individual income tax rates to 5.84% over five years. Under current law, the top corporate rate is 7.5% for this year and is slated to drop to 7% next year. The top individual rate is 6.84% now. The amendment would help out property owners by creating a new refundable income tax credit equal to a portion of what they pay in community college property taxes. The new credit program would be similar to the LB 1107 program created two years ago, which offsets a portion of what property owners pay in school property taxes. The LB 1107 program will provide up to $548 million worth of credits this year, equal to about one-quarter of school property taxes. The proposed community college credit program would start at $50 million this year and ramp up to $195 million by 2026. At full implementation, the program could offset about three-quarters of community college property taxes. The amendment would fix the size of the LB 1107 credit program at $560.7 million for 2023. Once reaching the maximum value set by the amendment, the school and community college credit programs would be allowed to grow by the same percentage that property valuations in the state grow, up to a 5% maximum. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LINCOLN A bill that could ban all abortions in Nebraska will make its way to the full Legislature after senators voted 28-13 on Friday to pull it out of committee. Legislative Bill 933 would ban all abortions in the state if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, or if the U.S. Constitution or federal law is amended to give control over abortions to individual states. Such measures are referred to as trigger bills. The Supreme Court is poised to decide the fate of Roe v. Wade later this year. State Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston said she introduced LB 933 so the Legislature could avoid a special session if the trigger event happens before the next regular session. This is a historical moment that calls for action, Albrecht said. If triggered, LB 933 would make it a felony for anyone to provide any medication or undertake any procedure with the intent of ending the life of an unborn child, starting at fertilization. The woman undergoing an abortion, however, could not be charged. The bill would not provide exemptions but would allow licensed physicians charged under the law to use as a defense that the abortion was necessary to prevent the womans death or serious, permanent impairment of a life-sustaining organ. LB 933, along with two other abortion-restricting bills, stalled in the Judiciary Committee last week, receiving only three out of eight votes. Albrecht, who is not on the committee, said she believed her bill would see more support from the rest of the Legislature. The bill has garnered support from some state officials, including Speaker of the Legislature Mike Hilgers of Lincoln who designated the bill as his personal priority and Gov. Pete Ricketts. In a column published earlier this week, Ricketts praised LB 933 and the effort to move it forward, vowing that he would sign the bill into law if it made it to his desk. Senators will have the historic opportunity to extend protections to every preborn girl and boy in Nebraska, Ricketts said. I encourage the Legislature to get LB 933 to my desk this session so that Nebraska can uphold the right to life. However, LB 933 may not have the same support from the general public. Opponents outnumbered supporters during a February hearing held by the Judiciary Committee. More than 20 people came to protest the bill from the balcony Friday. A March poll commissioned by the American Civil Liberties Union found that out of 500 Nebraska voters, 55% opposed LB 933, while 40% supported it. Karen Bowling, executive director of the Nebraska Family Alliance, questioned the validity of the poll, and argued that a majority of Nebraskans support lawmakers who oppose abortion. If it were up to the ACLU, extreme policies like partial-birth abortion and dismemberment abortion would still be legal in Nebraska, Bowling said in an email. Nebraskans vote their values and have elected a strong pro-life majority to our State Legislature for a reason. The bill drew fervent opposition from some lawmakers, including Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha, who vowed to filibuster LB 933. We are going to take every minute possible, Hunt said. If Hunt holds to her promise, it could threaten the bill. Supporters would need to muster 33 votes to end the filibuster. Albrecht said she is confident she has those votes. Other opponents criticized what they said were flaws in the bills language, including the lack of exceptions for rape or incest, and the penalization of doctors. Sen. Robert Hilkemann of Omaha, who said he has always supported anti-abortion bills in the past, said he couldnt support LB 933 in its current form because it threatened well-meaning physicians. This is poor legislation, said Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln. It is bad policy, and it is dangerous. While Albrecht said the bills intention is not to go after doctors, she said she wouldnt support any amendments based on the arguments that were made. She said the bill is largely based on anti-abortion bills adopted in other states. Andi Curry Grubb, executive director for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, described LB 933 as extreme and dangerous. No matter our personal beliefs, we can all agree that Nebraskans deserve the right to make what should be private medical decisions about when and how to start a family, she said in a press release. This dangerous legislation puts Nebraskans health at risk and will impact generations to come. Albrecht said she wasnt sure when LB 933 would come up for debate, but she doubted it would be next week. Lawmakers are expected to continue budget discussions in the coming week. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. State Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln said Thursday that Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has been illegally raising campaign funds from a separate campaign committee in violation of a state law that he voted for when he was a state senator. The law states that the lieutenant governor shall not have a separate campaign committee, Morfeld said. Responding from Israel, where he was on a trade mission, Foley said he carefully followed the explicit guidance provided by Frank Daley, executive director of the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, on how to comply with the law in establishing his campaign committee. The lieutenant governor is elected on the same ticket as the gubernatorial nominee of his political party. Foley continued to raise money every year since being elected lieutenant governor into the campaign committee, Morfeld said. Foley renamed his campaign committee when he became a 2022 candidate for state auditor, Morfeld said. It had previously been titled Foley For the People Governor. Morfeld urged Foley to disgorge the funds illegally raised during his time as lieutenant governor in violation of statute. Foley had been a candidate for governor in 2014, but subsequently was named as Republican gubernatorial nominee Pete Ricketts running mate after Ricketts first pick, Lavon Heidemann, resigned amid a family scandal. Foley is running this year for state auditor a position he held before becoming lieutenant governor and has endorsed Charles Herbsters bid for the Republican nomination for governor. Morfeld, a two-term state senator, is running for Lancaster County attorney. LINCOLN A couple of the current Nebraska governors big spending proposals were met with some skepticism from Republicans running to replace him at a debate Thursday evening. Four candidates Falls City cattle rancher and Conklin Co. CEO Charles W. Herbster, State Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha, former Sen. Theresa Thibodeau of Omaha, and Omaha information technology manager Breland Ridenour took the stage at Nebraska Public Medias Lincoln studio. It marked the first time theyve faced off in a debate environment. Ricketts has pressed state lawmakers to fund a $270 million new state prison and a $500 million canal-and-reservoir project to get water from the South Platte River in Colorado. He has also backed a proposal for a lake near the Platte River between Omaha and Lincoln. Lindstrom said operating expenses and workforce could make a new prison far more expensive than just the initial $270 million, and that not enough has been done over the past two decades to address other concerns. He and others mentioned getting nonviolent offenders skills so they will be employable once they get out of prison, and dealing with mental health and addiction issues. Im not going to say no to a prison, but at this stage, its hard to fund it and its hard to staff it, and we havent done enough steps on the upfront to control the outcome that were looking to try to get, Lindstrom said. Herbster said the new prison will not solve all the problems, and that the state would still be short on prison beds. Its gonna cost a lot of money to Nebraska taxpayers, and the very best thing that we can do is look at mental health, mental illness, Herbster said. He also alluded to drugs coming across the southern border as part of the issue. Herbster has often focused on securing the countrys southern border throughout his gubernatorial campaign. Thibodeau sounded supportive of building a new prison, saying that, in addition to overcrowding, the current situation presents an unsafe work environment. Once the new prison is built, how do we keep those criminals in there that need to be put in jail and make sure people do not get released too early? she said. Some candidates were noncommittal on the canal and lake projects. Herbster didnt offer an answer to whether he supported the specific proposals, saying hes never held elected office and didnt have access to all of the information. But he emphasized the importance of preserving water. Whatever it takes to preserve our resources and protect our people. You can be assured, as governor, that will be the first thing I think about every single morning when I wake up, he said. Thibodeau challenged the idea that a person wouldnt have access to the information, saying its in the news media and presented in the Legislature. Its about reading and asking questions, she said. She supported the canal, but said shed like to see more about the lake proposal. It concerns her that it would be focused on one part of the state. Ridenour said he thought it was in Nebraskas best interest to build the canal and reservoir system, but that it should be done smartly. We have to make sure the money is there, we have to make sure ... we understand what we need, and weve got to make sure that the solution is going to be sustainable, he said. He potentially supports the lake, he said, linking it with a consumption-based tax system. Ridenour backs the EPIC consumption tax proposal, a plan to replace existing taxes with a tax on all services and new goods. Lindstrom sounded supportive of both ideas. He said hes long been concerned about the impact of Colorados rising population on water in Nebraska, and said he agrees that money should be spent to protect Nebraskans water rights. He called the lake a very good investment to make the state competitive and keep younger families here. The hourlong debate offered a chance for the candidates to distinguish themselves, as they were asked for their thoughts on troubles facing farmers, making Nebraska work for marginalized communities, tax plans and the COVID-19 pandemic. In setting himself apart, Lindstrom said hes the only proven tax-cutter in the race, citing specific efforts in the Legislature. Thibodeau took aim at her opponents in her closing statement, including the first and only dig at a notably absent candidate: Jim Pillen. She said he was campaigning from Facebook and spreading lies about candidates. On the pandemic, the candidates largely complimented Ricketts for his approach and talked about protecting individual rights and pushing back against mandates. However, Herbster, who has been endorsed by Donald Trump, said China released COVID-19 with the aim of ousting the former president. The pandemic came from China, dont kid yourselves, he said. I wont back away from that. It was the only thing they had to do to get Donald J. Trump out of office. Afterward, he told reporters that hes always believed it was a planned pandemic thats part of taking America down and dividing America. He said he believes COVID-19 is real, saying people close to him died of the disease. Recent polling suggests its a three-way race between Herbster, Pillen and Lindstrom, with Herbster in front. Pillen declined the invitation, citing a scheduling conflict, and has since signaled hell skip any future debates. He hosted a tele-town hall at the same time as the debate. Another candidate, Michael Connely, declined the invitation after learning that the venue had a mask requirement at the time, according to Nebraska Public Media. Thursdays event is so far the only firmly scheduled debate before early primary voting starts. Central Nebraska-based NTV News is planning to host one, but had not released details as of Thursday. A total of 12 people filed to run for governor. In addition to the four GOP candidates who debated Thursday, Pillen, and Connely, three other Republicans are in the mix: Donna Nicole Carpenter of Lincoln, Lela McNinch of Lincoln and Troy Wentz of Sterling. Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue and Roy A. Harris of Linwood filed as Democrats, and Scott Zimmerman of Omaha filed as a Libertarian. Only registered Republicans can vote in the states Republican gubernatorial primary. Democrats, Libertarians and the new Legal Marijuana NOW Party have opened their primaries to nonpartisan voters. Counties can start mailing early voting ballots April 4. In-person early voting starts April 11, and election day is May 10. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy on Friday both called for U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry to resign after the Nebraska congressmans conviction on three felonies. Meanwhile, the rest of Nebraska Republican leadership chose not to say what they thought he should do. A federal jury in Los Angeles deliberated less than two hours Thursday evening before convicting the nine-term congressman on one count of concealing conduit campaign contributions and two counts of lying to federal agents. Fortenberry, 61, is the highest-ranking elected official in Nebraska history to be convicted of a felony. He already was facing a challenge in the May Republican primary from State Sen. Mike Flood. Ricketts spokesman released this statement Friday: The people of Nebraskas First Congressional District deserve active, certain representation. I hope Jeff Fortenberry will do the right thing and resign so his constituents have that certainty while he focuses on his family and other affairs. And in a press conference after a House GOP retreat Friday morning, McCarthy said he had texted Fortenberry about the conviction and planned to speak with him later Friday. I think he had his day in court, and I think if he wants to appeal, he can go do that as a private citizen, McCarthy said. I think when someones convicted, its time to resign. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, also urged Fortenberry to resign, telling the Associated Press that the conviction represents a breach of the public trust and confidence in his ability to serve. No one is above the law, she said. If Fortenberry were to resign before Aug. 1, a special election would be held no later than 90 days after the date of his resignation. However, no matter what occurs, Fortenberrys name still will be on the ballot for the May 10 primary. Friday was the deadline for early voting ballots to be sent out to military and overseas citizens by the Nebraska Secretary of States Office, and March 1 was the deadline for candidates to be removed from the ballot. No special election could be held before the May primary. If Fortenberry chooses to resign after Aug. 1, the results of the general election will stand and the winner will be sworn in soon after he or she is elected, without needing to wait until Fortenberrys term officially ends in January. Felons are eligible to run for and serve in Congress, but the vast majority choose to resign under threat of expulsion. Congressional rules also bar members from voting on legislation after a felony conviction unless their constituents reelect them, AP reported. Fortenberrys trial was the first of a sitting congressman since Rep. Jim Traficant, D-Ohio, was convicted of bribery and other felony charges in 2002. Fortenberry campaign spokesman Chad Kolton told the AP on Friday that Fortenberry had no immediate response to the calls for his resignation. Hes spending time with his family right now, Kolton said. Thats whats most important today. Flood has been endorsed by Ricketts and former Gov. Dave Heineman. Floods campaign manager, Ryan Kopsa, declined to comment on Fortenberrys conviction. Were just going to be quiet today, Kopsa said. State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, who is running for Fortenberrys seat as a Democrat, said Friday morning that Fortenberrys conviction was a wakeup call. While the ultimate fate of Congressman Fortenberry is yet to be determined, it is clear that his ability to effectively represent the citizens of this congressional district has been irreparably damaged, she said. Pansing Brooks said she found no joy in Fortenberrys conviction. A spokeswoman for Rep. Don Bacon, who represents Nebraska 2nd District, said she didnt think Bacon had spoken to Fortenberry since the verdict. Its time for Fortenberry to make some tough decisions, said press secretary Abbey Schieffer, offering what she said would be the only comment Bacon makes on the conviction. Bacons campaign manager, Derek Oden, said Bacon has not endorsed anyone in the 1st District race and doesnt plan to before the primary. The communications director for Rep. Adrian Smith provided a statement from Nebraskas 3rd District congressman: This is a challenging time, wrote spokeswoman Tiffany Haverly. Congressman Fortenberry has difficult choices to make about whats best for the First District and for his family. Taylor Gage, the executive director of the Nebraska Republican Party, didnt return multiple messages seeking comment. This report contains material from the Associated Press. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Lakeshore residents protest planned project Angry and concerned residents of the Lakeshore community and surrounding neighborhoods convened at Atascocita High School on March 23 to ask questions about a proposed affordable housing community called, The View. Statements were made by members of the Harris County Housing Authority and several engineers at a meeting held in November 2021 as well as posts on the website regarding the voucher program ( https://housingforhouston.com) The planned community is to be located on Lake Houston Parkway next to the Lakeshore development with limited access in and out and no access to public transportation or security. The mixed, multipurpose community is set to feature homes appraised between $250K and $350K with homeowners that would not be mandated to contribute to property taxes. 90% of the homeowners are projected to have some sort of income, while 40% are forecasted to hold jobs or some means of employment. Each home is expected to house 2.6 inhabitants per house or unit in a single-family or multi-family setting. The total development is planned to include elderly housing, townhomes, family/cluster places and commercial spaces. There was a public hearing on the prime 90-acre parcel of lakefront property in November. Robert Sitton, chair of the school board's building and planning committee, attended the public hearing and stated that the Humble district had an interest in purchasing the property. Sitton received a follow-up phone call the next day about the district making an offer. Humble ISD sent a letter of intent to buy the property. The offer was denied without a counteroffer from the Harris County Housing Authority (HCHA). This topic was discussed at the Humble school board meeting on March 8 about how if purchased, the property would help manage student enrollment growth. The property would be used by the district for Middle School No. 11 while maintaining the flexibility and availability to utilize the adjacent 150-acre parcel for school buildings needed in the future, such as a future high school, early childhood center or other facilities. Humble ISD then issued a 10% increase in a second offer. The second offer to date has not received any correspondence from the HCHA - even though it was communicated that even the initial offer met all previously-stated criteria. Humble ISD had 2,700 new student enrollments this past year a greater net growth than any other district in the greater Houston area. A master-planned, affordable housing venture of this caliber has not been created or designed anywhere in Houston to date. Sitton spoke to the group. As a representative of the Humble ISD, when we placed the original offer on this property, we made a decision that made sense for the times. In the past year, Humble ISD has taken on these new enrollments at a time when our campuses are already 10-20% beyond capacity. When you walked into the meeting this evening, you might have noticed several portable classrooms on a relatively new campus. I urge you to think about where these students would go to school since land is now scarce within the district. Washington J.K. Washington, a resident of Waters Edge and a patrol sergeant for the Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable Office, spoke and gave a presentation that posed several still unanswered questions. Several of the questions posed by Washington center around the limited or lack of security documented for this community and funded by surrounding developments, lack of mass transit transportation, price per square footage of each unit, limited emergency access in and out, a plan for the wetland and natural habitats, home for the existing bald eagles, plans for a boutique-style hotel, amphitheater and more. Washington added, I want to understand how a family of four with far less than $65,000 annual income will qualify for and be able to afford not only the mortgage on one of these 115 units of this stature, but also the utilities, amenity and vehicular support that will be needed for a lakefront community even with assistance. Many existing families and homeowners have worked hard their entire life with an even greater income and can still not afford a lakefront property. Additionally, I would like to be informed how the addition of this new development will contribute value to the area without adding to the already-growing crime statistics. Gerald Womack, chairman of the Harris County Housing Authority, replied, Even as a broker, I do not know about the per-unit square footage, but these owners will undergo an application process just like any other homeowners and they will have to be able to secure a mortgage just like many of you. Each home that is erected will match the quality of the surrounding developments that you work hard to achieve. These people deserve a better place to live with the same amenities. The community is planned to include a lakefront walking trail, boat docks, landscaping, Energy Star building specifications and more. Womack can be reached via email for questions or inquiries at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Womack Washington pointed out from a law enforcement perspective that in 2021, the Harris County Sheriffs Office reported 1,540 felony arrests in the past year in the immediate Lake Houston area. Additionally, there were 217 crimes reported in the discussed zip code 36 of which were considered simple assaults and 23 cases attributed to burglary of vehicles. Ross Hosket, group manager of special projects in the Harris County Public Infrastructure Department, addressed concern about protected bald eagles in the area. I was not made aware of any bald eagles in the area. This did not come up in the first two engineering studies, but a third study will be conducted accordingly. I too am readily available via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Many community members signed up in advance to ask questions of the HCHA representatives, such as Waters Edge resident Peter Strauss who said, Even as most of this meeting has progressed, I am still unclear about the restrictions of retail use, how you will work to NOT drive down property values, and finally, I think the idea of another lower-level, non-boutique hotel in my backyard is appalling. Amanda Salinas of Lakeshore negatively expressed, Four years ago, it took minutes to drive to the beltway with few stoplights, but now it takes sometimes over 20 minutes. The addition of hundreds more drivers from homes, apartments, commercial business, and more - this will only make this short distance unbearable. In the end, many angrier and upset community residents rose to speak up in opposition to this new development. Community members, whether in attendance or not, are urged to contact all the following resources to state facts, ask questions, or voice concerns: MUD 499 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Rodney Ellis This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Dave Martin This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Dan Crenshaw This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. HC Precinct 3 Commissioner, Tom S. Ramsey This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Download the Q&A Presentation As farmers head to the fields to plant their crops this spring, they face the same troubling weather conditions that were present in 2021. If only Mother Nature will turn stress into success again this year. Its very similar to last year, said Jody Lawrence of Strategic Trading Advisors, a grain marketing and weather consulting firm. Farmers in the western Corn Belt could use some precipitation, while those to the east could use some drier soils. Its overly dry in the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. The guys Ive talked to in eastern Nebraska, its even drier there coming out of last winter, so theyve got some real concerns. The eastern Corn Belt is in good shape, though like last year, its overly wet. He defines the dividing line between the western and eastern belt around Des Moines. Unfortunately, forecasts dont hold much hope that conditions will improve for soils before planting. A March 17 report by the Climate Prediction Center indicated above-normal chances of increased precipitation in eastern regions of the Midwest, many of which have been inundated with spring rainfall. The same report offered only an even chance of higher or lower than normal precipitation in regions that have been unusually dry. We see a bulls-eye over an area thats already wet to stay wet, said Melissa Widhalm, a meteorologist with the Midwest Regional Climate Center. Were going to have to wait and see if the soils can dry out a little. Equally concerning is the dryness of soils in western Iowa, especially southwestern counties. Soil moisture and rainfall are both on the dry side and have been staying that way all winter, Widhalm said. Now as were getting into the growing season, there is a concern because well be starting off our growing season dry, and thats not how you want to start it in the Midwest. A La Nina is in effect, which has implications for growing conditions in the Midwest. Typically, that means a cooler, wetter spring for the eastern Corn Belt and a drier spring for the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. Missouri, eastern Iowa and Illinois are in pretty good shape. Since were in a classic La Nina, I would expect the eastern Corn Belt to remain wet through the spring. Whether its cool and wet, I have not seen a forecast where I would trust any of that. Widhalm agrees conditions in late winter are similar to those present in 2021. But they vary in intensity. Theres a big difference compared to last year just how wet we are, she said. If you compare this year to last year, particularly for Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, we are much wetter. That doesnt necessarily mean it will be bad things, but its one thing thats different. The Climate Center does predict a better-than-average chance that temperatures will be above normal for most of the Midwest. That could help dry out saturated soils in the eastern part of the region, though that area is in a greater chance of receiving more precipitation. Theres not much frozen soil anymore, Widhalm said. Stream flows are running high, and theres an above-normal risk of flooding across the Ohio Valley area. Farmers can only hope that the ideal conditions that set in in 2021 will be repeated this year. It dried off when it needed to and it rained timely, especially in the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. We almost have to repeat last year just to keep up with demand, so that will be interesting. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Heartland Theatre Company to present "A Shayna Maidel" NORMAL The Heartland Theatre Company will open their production of Barbara Lebow's "A Shayna Maidel" on Thursday, March 31 with a pay-what-you-can-preview. Performances will be April 1-2, 7-9 and 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. Matinees will be on Sunday, April 10 and Saturday, April 16 at 2 p.m. There will be two shows on April 16. A panel discussion will take place after the April 10 matinee, with guest panelist Dr. Alvin Goldfarb, who is a nationally known theatre educator and administrator. Goldfarb has served as chair of the department of Theatre, Dean of Fine Arts and Provost and Academic Vice President at Illinois State University. Scenic designer Chad Lowell will also be joined Goldfarb. Lowell is a member of a Jewish family with history after the Holocaust. The play is sponsored by five couples: Laura and Ken Beck, Laurie and Ray Bergner, Fran and Herm Brandau, Ruth Ann and Steve Friedberg, and Linda and Bruce Unterman. The play is funded in part by the Sol Shulman Jewish Education grant from the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation. The play is directed by Marcia Weiss and features actors Hannah Artman, Jacqueline Schwarzentraub, Brenna Long, Abby Scott, Rich Tinaglia, Samuel James Willis, Morgan Rondinelli and Opal Virtue. The play is a story of courage, resilience and the power of hope and love. The play centers on two Jewish sisters who are reunited shortly after World War II in New York after years of separation - one living in the U.S. and the other living the nightmare of the Holocaust in Poland. Their stories unfold through realism, memory and dreams in a compelling family drama. The play contains mature content and parental guidance is suggested. Tickets are $17 for general admission, $15 for senior and military, and $7 for students. Reservations can be made online, by emailing boxoffice@heartlandtheatre.org or by calling 309-452-8709. All audience members, actors and volunteers are required to wear masks and show proof of vaccination or negative test. Heartland Theatre is located at 1110 Douglas St., One Normal Plaza in the Community Activity Center. Visit heartlandtheatre.org for more information. Heartland Theatre looking for senior actors NORMAL Heartland Theatre Company will host a series of acting workshop sessions for their Young at Heartland acting program for seniors. Sessions will begin at 4 p.m. on Monday, April 4. Advance registration is required. Class sessions will meet every Monday through May 23. The Young at Heartland program strives to build an ensemble of seniors who share the values of continuing education, creative self-expression and community outreach. The program aims to find appropriate opportunities to showcase performers' gifts in a fun, stress-free atmosphere. Ensemble members will collaborate with the instructors in choosing appropriate material to be memorized or performed as a reading. Eight 120-minute sessions, for individuals 55 and over, will be held at Heartland Theatre Company, 1110 Douglas St., One Normal Plaza in the Community Activity Center, with instructors Sandi Zielinski and Terri Whisenhunt. Enrollment is open until Wednesday, March 30. Registration fee is $50 and only covers the spring sessions. Those who are interested in in participating should call 309-452-5647 or email boxoffice@heartlandtheatre.org. The Young at Heartland program is funded in part by the Community Arts Access Grant. Entries wanted for Sky Art Peoria 2022 PEORIA ArtsPartners of Central Illinois, in partnership with Adams Outdoor Advertising, is now accepting submissions for its 2022 Sky Art Peoria program. Sky Art Peoria is an annual program that puts the work of local artists on 48 by 14 billboards. The winning artists receive nearly $37,000 in free advertising. Artists interested in participating can submit their work at artspartners.net. The entry deadline is April 3 and there is a $20 fee for three images. Each billboard will include the artist's work along with their name. The winner's art will be displayed from June 2022 to May 2023 on Adam's Outdoor billboards, with locations circulating throughout the area. Artists will also have the opportunity to display their artwork in a Sky Art Peoria exhibition in October. Sponsors for the program include Big Picture Peoria, The Fine Arts Society of Peoria and O'Shea Builders. Visit artspartners.net/skyartpeoria/ for more information. Peoria Art Guild to open two new exhibits PEORIA The Peoria Art Guild will exhibit the Third Thursday Art Group and the I found U Collective starting April 1 from 5-9 p.m. The Third Thursday Art Group is a diverse group of artists who create in various media and eclectic imagery. 11 members will be exhibiting and will offer the best in numerous mediums. The I found U Collective is a group of nine artists from all over the world and will be exhibiting "I Found U by the River" which is a collection of photos from the artists' hometowns including photos of the Illinois River. Visit peoriaartguild.org for more information. I spoke recently to an audience of attorneys and financial planners about the future of Illinois. I asked for a show of hands as to who thought our state would reverse the almost 1 percent decline in population we experienced in the past decade. Only 1 of 30 thought it was likely. Why, I asked: high taxes; climate; business climate; corruption, and lack of state pride were responses from this highly educated group. Yes, I agreed, Illinois has obvious shortcomings, yet the state has incredible strengths as well, which would make Illinois an economic powerhouse otherwise. And the problems are fixable, though politically daunting. Now lets look at the positive side of the ledger, which is strikingly bright, in ways I rarely hear trumpeted. Former state commerce director Jim Schultz of Effingham sums it up succinctly: In each of the five critical Rsroads, rails, runways, rivers and routersIllinois is among the top three states in the nation. I called Jim and told him he should add a six R: research. A recent ranking of graduate research universities found the universities of Chicago, Northwestern and Illinois to be among the top 20 in the world3 of 20, not just in the nation, but in the world. Look at a highway map of the U.S. See the density of interstate highways crisscrossing Illinois, thicker than for just about any state. We have more miles, 2,200, of interstate highways than any states in the nation other than California and Texas. And, our state is located smack dab in the middle of the worlds largest market. Our strengths would be the envy of most other states, if not for our weaknesses. Yet, the weaknesses can be addressed. Other states have done so. I contend the biggest problem for Illinois is that the state doesnt know where it is going. That is, there is no roadmap to where we want the state to be in 10 years, and of what it would take to get us there. I continue to be confounded that the state has never done any long-term thinking. The closest we have is the 6,000 disparate bills introduced into the legislature every two years. Crazy. The singular piece of forward thinking in Illinois history was the Burnham Plan for Chicago of the early 1900s, led by the architect Daniel Burnham and commissioned by the Commercial Club of Chicago. The effort followed on the heels of the stupendous Chicago Worlds Fair of 1893, visited by 27 million folks from around the world. So, the City of Big Shoulders, as Sandburg described the city, knew it could do big things. After much work, the plan was presented to the City Council, which also labored over the plan, ultimately adopting about half the recommendations. But what marvelous results: A magnificent lakefront reserved, not for private property owners, but for the public. Wide boulevards and a spectacular park system, and more. Chicagoans and visitors have benefited every day since its adoption in 1909. Illinoisans are so down in the mouth about our future that we have a Cant-Do frame of mind. There are, people think, too many political and interest group obstacles in our way. Elon Musk would be appalled at such thinking. Business leadership of the 19th century such as Marshall Field, Potter Palmer, Bertha Honore Palmer and Julius Rosenwald (who built Sears) focused on the city they loved and built. Chicagos bigtime CEOs today such behemoths as McDonalds, Boeing, CAT, United Airlines are up their eyeballs in alligators heading global companies; they dont have much time to Illinois, even though if were a nation, the Illinois economy would be one of the top 20 in the world. I have an idea of how to tap into an incredible underutilized resource. Former governor Jim Edgars greatest legacy may prove to be his Edgar Fellows Program. Each summer for a decade now, Jim gathers 40 of the states young leaders, including many lawmakers, from all walks of life, political persuasion and geography. For a week, the Fellows are sequestered at the U. of I. in Urbana, where they learn about our state and its government from experts and national leaders. Over bourbon and branch water at night, they bond, and come to appreciate one another. But then they leave town, and fail to build on their relationships and any aspirations for a state they call home. I propose that the 400 Edgar Fellows, rather than simply feel good about themselves, take on the task of creating a vision for Illinois, one they could then implement, as they are tomorrows leaders. We need to know where were going. Jim Nowlan is a former state legislator and aide to three Illinois governors. His website is jimnowlan.net Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Vladimir and Yevgenia are two fervently patriotic Russians in their 60s who are consumed these days, in very different ways, by what is happening to the desperate but valiant ordinary people of Ukraine. Yet it is not at all clear which one the Russian people would really agree with if they could ever get the true facts about what is really happening in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin derives consummate satisfaction and vindication every time his generals and elite weapons specialists achieve his goal of civilian devastation without leaving their safe sanctuaries 10 or maybe 100 miles from their target or even without leaving Russia. They simply fire artillery, rockets or missiles that soar over Ukraine for miles. It is inhuman, but far better than using Russian ground convoys that stall, run out of fuel and food, and end up with demoralized troops deserting or becoming easy prey for determined Ukrainians protecting their homeland. Yevgenia Albats, a veteran journalist in Putins Moscow who refuses to abandon her job, has her online sources and has seen all the above reality. She is the editor of an independent magazine, The New Times. She also still has a YouTube channel where she reports to Russians what their military is really doing inside Ukraine. She is the best of our news business and is among the best of Russias true patriots. And she wants you to know why she insists on braving Putins fury risking being jailed, or worse just so she can report to fellow Russians the truth about their presidents blizzard of Ukraine lies. She had the guts to go on CNNs Reliable Sources show on March 13 to prove to you and the world that there still are patriotic Russians who believe in democracy and humanity. I wake up in the middle of the night and ask myself, is it really happening to us? she said. Is it really happening that Russian troops are killing Ukrainians? My father fought during World War II in Ukraine, in the city of Mykolaiv where there are heavy shellings and bombardment going on right now. And that's what makes me absolutely sick. State television, print and websites repeat Putins blatant falsehoods. Among them: Ukraines government is made up of neo-Nazis (yes, he really, repeatedly says that) who are a threat to Russia (that too). Many journalists have quit rather than mouth Putins lies as if they were his ventriloquist dummies. But Albats soldiers on, waging combat with the weapons she wields better than a barrel of Putins generals. I'm not a martyr, but I feel like somebody has to do that, she said. I'm trying to be very careful. I'm an experienced journalist, so I know how to speak between the lines and I'm trying to do it in a very careful way. I can tell you for sure I don't want to end up in jail. Why does she risk Putins retribution so she can bring the truth to her fellow Russians? When I see photos from Ukraine I feel deadly shame. I want to get on my knees and say I'm so sorry my country is doing this to you guys. I totally failed ... with this regime. We totally failed to stop them. Maybe not totally. Maybe just temporarily. What Vladimir Putin has mainly accomplished is that he is in fact shattering life in Russia just as surely as he is shattering the buildings of Ukraines beautiful cities. Because of Putins actions, Russia has been blackballed from the global economy and the global banking system. Russians will soon see, and feel, the painful reality that Putins presidency has destroyed what could have been a prosperous partnership in a welcoming global economy. In their balloting or just in their streets, Russias fed-up voters may yet have the final say. And the courage of journalists such as Yevgenia Albats may turn out to be their bridge over Putins troubled, roiled waters. Martin Schram is an op-ed columnist for Tribune News Service. martin.schram@gmail.com Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The leaders of NATO nations and the G-7 posed for traditional "family photos" during their summits in Brussels on Thursday. And unlike at previous events, the two groups did indeed seem to be cohesive families, bonded tightly over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. That unity will need to endure for Ukraine to survive as a nation, for countries within the alliance to better enhance their own defenses against Russia and for democracy to survive the autocratic wave represented by Moscow and Beijing. Both meetings were a continuation and confirmation of previously announced strategies, but also were enhanced by ever-stricter sanctions. This time the economic penalties include Russia's rubber-stamp parliament, the Duma, and 328 specific legislators. Also sanctioned were the head of Russia's Sberbank, 17 board members of Sovcombank, 48 state-owned defense entities, and Russian elite businessman Gennady Timchenko, his family and his companies. Equally important is a new initiative to prevent other nations from "backfilling" the Russian economy. Those costs come with a price, which the U.S. and other nations are admirably willing to pay. In just the latest example, Biden pledged $11 billion over the next five years to contend with the coming food-security challenges the war will cause, as well as $1 billion for humanitarian needs triggered by the war. The need is great in Ukraine, of course, but also in Europe, especially in front-line nations Moldova, Romania, Slovakia and Poland. Furthermore, eventually about 100,000 Ukrainian refugees will be accepted, with a particular emphasis on those who have family connections in the U.S. Although that's a sizable and generous number, it's nowhere near the wave within Europe, as the deliberate targeting of civilians has created the greatest European displacement since World War II. There are even more Ukrainians displaced in their own country. Together the total tops 10 million, or about one-fourth of the population on the run from Russia's wanton warfare. While the Biden administration rightly acknowledges that many Ukrainians will want to remain in Europe with family and friends and a hope of return, many will want and need to seek shelter in the U.S., which can and should accommodate even more refugees. Tragically, it may need to, since Russia seems to have accelerated its attacks on civilians while its military faces stiff resistance from Ukraine's tenacious forces. Russia's relatively stalled offensive and the unquestioned willingness of Putin to put citizens in harm's way raises legitimate fears that he will use chemical, biological or even nuclear weapons. Biden was careful not to get into specifics in his post-summit news conference, but pledged that there indeed will be a response should Putin make that fateful error. Regarding conventional defense, Biden said in a statement that four new battle groups will be deployed to Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania in a "strong signal that we will collectively defend and protect every inch of NATO territory." Ukraine, of course, is not a NATO nation. But the best way the alliance can in fact protect and defend its territory is to economically, diplomatically and militarily support Ukraine. The sequential, consequential meetings in Europe (including a late Thursday European Union meeting) this week are a constructive continuation of an effort that must be sustained during and beyond the war. "Putin was banking on NATO being split," Biden said before his news conference. Thanks in part to Biden's leadership, it isn't, which benefits Ukraine and the whole free world. StarTribune (Minneapolis) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Opinion section of the March 20 Pantagraph read like a landing page for Breitbart News. One letter by Bob Werkman admonished people to stop bashing Trump while claiming that the war in Ukraine would never have happened under Trump's watch. Oh my, he even brought up Bill Clinton. Trump is fair game; he may very well try again in 2024. If Trump would shut up, people might stop bashing him. Until then, hes fair game. Rick Skelley seemingly denies his white-based privilege while bashing the DNC platform. You can have your own opinion, Mr. Skelley, but not your own facts. He even invokes the right's new colloquialism: "woke, which it hijacked from the Black Lives Matter movement. Yes, when it comes to race relations in this country, Mr. Skelley, "white Americans" have plenty of accounting to do. It's an always emerging and evolving issue. Denying it doesn't resolve it. John Ackerman seemingly uses his Tazewell Clerk's position to somehow equate the 2016 election to the 2020 election under the guise of mocking Russian influence and meddling in the 2016 election. Hillary Clinton never claimed that election was stolen unlike the leader of Mr. Ackerman's party did about the 2020 election. His opinion is disturbing to this election judge. In a great irony, Ackerman actually attacks his party's usual villain, the "mainstream media" using a medium of that group to publicize his message. Finally, we have the right wing hack Mark Thiessen spewing party rhetoric with more disinformation and misinformation. I lament that the Pantagraph chooses to put his drivel in its paper. Conveniently, Thiessen now backs the support of Ukraine when his hero former president was impeached for trying to manipulate the leader of Ukraine and withheld armaments from it. Next time, I guess I'll just go to breitbart.com. Tom Mellor, Bloomington Love 6 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Undoubtedly, the implementation of the government flagship programme, free senior high school (SHS), is a positive step forward and it is here to stay. However, the sustainability of the current model presents challenges primarily not only through cost but also available infrastructure. Importance In the context of cost alone, we must review how the programme is delivered. The free SHS is to ensure that no child who gets to the senior high school stage is denied access. The primary driver for this is to overcome poverty as a barrier to education. However, free education for all is something Ghana patently cannot afford and so how do we protect education that is free for those who cannot afford it? Means-tested Access to free SHS must be means-tested parents of wards, who are to receive the programme to present their case with a simple statement of income and expenditure. This should include the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) TIN and all tax clearance certificates. The government will set a level of income below which children from the applicants may attend school for free. The government can also consider tapering fees since incomes alone a little above the free SHS threshold may be difficult to absorb for families that are not eligible but still in low income. This way, the direct burden on the government for all free SHS costs is somewhat ameliorated. A major bonus is an ability, drive and compulsion to draw people from the informal sector of the economy into the formal by requiring them to be registered with the GRA for tax purposes. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A delegation of the Court of Justice of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) is visiting the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights to deepen their cooperation. The delegation led by its President, Daniel AmagoinaTessougue, is expected to exchange experiences with African Court officials on best practices and how to strengthen cooperation between the two courts. During the four-day visit, the delegation will pay courtesy calls to the East African Court of Justice, the UN-International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, the Pan African Lawyers Union, the Coalition for an Effective African Court, and the East African Law Society. WAEMU was established when the CFA was devalued to make sure that there is coherent monetary and economic policy among the states of the CFA zone. It is mandated to ensure the respect of the Treaty relating to its application and interpretation. Lady Justice Imani DaudAboud, African Court President said the visit will strengthen judicial cooperation and the sharing of best practices. She added that the Court had embarked on a new approach to judicial diplomacy, taking advantage of the institutional reform led by the African Union. Judicial diplomacy will be at the heart of the African Courts endeavour this year which would also be one of the main pillars of our strategic plan for the next five years. The goal that the African Court seeks to achieve is the establishment of a formal framework for permanent engagement with Member States as the main actors of human rights justice in Africa. Lady Justice Aboud said that the African civil society could not be left out in the engagement of States on their primary commitment to human rights. The Court will strengthen its institutional and technical apparatus by pursuing the implementation of various projects. She said the Court was going to expand the digitalization of its proceedings, strengthen and realign international judicial cooperation by ensuring that Africas innovative approach to human rights justice was better shown to the rest of the world. It would also improve on its visibility as much as the Courts significant achievements so far, remain largely unknown to many Africans. The African Court on Human and Peoples Rights was established to help enhance the protection of human rights on the Continent. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Dr Chris Kpodar, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Investments Ghana Limited has called on the Government to enter into a joint venture with reputable international oil companies to help revamp the Tema Oil Refinery. Dr Kpodar, who is also a Chief Technical Advisor for the Centre for Greater Impact Africa (CGIA), said, to sustain the viability of TOR, which is the only refinery in Ghana, there is the need for government to look for one of the best oil refinery companies in the world and strike a win-win joint venture with them. Dr Kpodar who served as Consultant for Africa and the Middle East, advising governments and companies on investments was answering a question on Ghanas crude oil and the viability of the TOR, at a forum organized by the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office. The forum was on the topic: Artificial Intelligence and sustainable development. The forum was attended by Reverend Dr Samuel Worlanyo Mensah, an economist, and CGIA Executive Director; Mr Mohammed Malik, CGIA Technical Advisor and an Indian Investor; Mr Percy Opata, CGIA Corporate Secretary; Mr. Samuel Akoetey, the CGIA Head of Business Development; and Mr Frank OfoeZotorvi, CGIA Head of Legal Affairs. Dr Kpodar said there is the need to harness the modern technologies and ideas such as international industries especially those in the south possessed to be applied to the refining of Ghanas crude oil instead of exporting it and importing already refined products into the country. He added that by so doing, there would be a transfer of skills and knowledge from such experts to the local workers, while each would make the needed profit. Dr Kpodar, who was formerly with the United Nations, indicated that artificial intelligence could then be applied to the skills and knowledge to ensure that modern technologies would be recommended by such intelligence over the period, even after the end of the venture. Elaborating on the use of artificial intelligence to solve the various economic, environmental, and social issues of humans Dr. Kpodar who worked with most French major multinationals said it harnessed human senses of touching, seeing, hearing, smelling, and speaking through a computer programme. Dr Kpodar who was also among the top consultants to help set up the Ghana Association of Consultants added that Artificial Intelligence brought improvement to all aspects of life. He said Ghana and other African countries must have the will to catch up with the world on the use of artificial intelligence as according to him, it had the solution to most of the problems they faced. He indicated that if people do not learn the skills of artificial intelligence in Africa it would be difficult to catch up as no one knows what will happen to about 80 per cent of the jobs on the market in the next ten years. Dr Kpodar said it could be applied to the management of the economy, agricultural practices, tourism, leisure, and industrialization, among others, and therefore called on the government to invest in it to derive the full benefit of it for the development of the country. Mr Francis Ameyibor, GNA Tema Regional Manager emphasized the need for journalists to develop the capacity to understand the dynamics of artificial intelligence to lead the change process. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has urged young leaders to cultivate visionary and transformational minds as they train to become future leaders. That, he said, would enable them to become change agents in society as part of their contribution to national development. He was addressing some selected scholars from the John Agyekum Kufuor (JAK) Foundation and students from the Colombia Business School (CBS) in the United States who called on him at his residence at Peduase in the Akuapem South District in the Eastern Region to interact with him. The former president reminded members of the delegation that they were the future leaders, hence it was imperative that they prepared to play that role effectively. CBS delegation The students from the Colombia Business School (CBS) are part of a delegation visiting Ghana to learn about the country and by extension Africas rich heritage and culture. As part of the educational tour which will last for two weeks, the students will tour the first cocoa farm in the country, visit the Niche Cocoa Factory, and also participate in some leadership training and mentorship programmes. The JAK foundation currently has 30 scholars made up of 19 females and 11 males who were picked on merit from universities across the country. The aim of the foundation is to mentor the youth to develop the missionary spirit to become agents of transformation by representing, building and sacrificing for their societies. Impact lives, societies Former President Kufuor advised the students to ensure that when they became leaders, every decision they took was an all-inclusive one that would impact all stakeholders positively. He further advised them to prioritise their interventions as that would be more impactful instead of trying to be all over in all things. So, anytime you are confronted with making a decision, it should be impactful and at the bottom or the centre, it should better the lot of people always. Promoting African heritage The Founder and President of the Heritage and Cultural Society of Africa, Johanna Swankier, who led the CBS for the visit, explained that the meeting was aimed at partnering people from the diaspora with contemporaries like the scholars from the JAK foundation to give them leadership training, cultural interaction and mentorship. She said that the initiative was intended to build the knowledge and confidence of the scholars and upcoming young leaders on their heritage and culture, while linking them to their own identity and routes anywhere they found themselves in the world. Miss Swankier disclosed that the fellowship between the JAK Foundation and the Colombia Business School would promote the African heritage and culture for socio-economic development and progress by linking the diaspora to celebrate, protect and preserve the African culture. Collaboration The Chairman of the Management Division at the CBS, Professor Stephen Meier, commended the former president for working with the initiative to develop the young leaders. He said he looked forward to more collaborations to bring more students from his university to explore Ghana and work with institutions and start-ups. Prof. Meier said some of his students had briefly worked with some companies such as Fidelity Bank, Niche Chocolate, Jumia, among others, to help them understand the African context and inspire the students on entrepreneurship and businesses that added value to the lives of people . Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Minority Members of Parliament(MPs) have kicked against a proposal to cut their remuneration by 30 percent to support efforts aimed at stabilizing the economy. Government has announced a 30% salary cut for its appointees as part of austerity measures to fix the prevailing economic crisis. Members of the Council of State have also agreed to a 20% cut of their monthly allowances up to the end of the year. In view of this, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Information Minister suggested that the MPs also forfeit a part of their salaries since others are doing same However, some MPs from the minority side have kicked against this. Reacting to this on his Facebook page: the MP for North Tongu constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa wondered why he should give his pay cut to a "government that has proven over the years to lack frugality". "My dilemma: though I am convinced and determined to take a pay cut by as much as 40%, I am torn between giving it to a government that has proven over the years to lack frugality, and whether I shouldnt rather be spending the cut on my constituency social initiatives. Your advice pls?" he posted. Meanwhile, Gabby Otchere Darko, a leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has waded into the conversation. He wrote on Twitter: "Age of sacrifices. 30% pay cut for all ministers, DCEs, CEOs & other appointees is significant sacrifice by members of the Executive. Will Parliament, which is responsible for passing or not passing the e-levy, respond with its own self-imposed pay cuts? A nation awaits! Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta has appealed to Parliament, and the Minority in particular, to put the nation first and work in partnership to serve the people of Ghana right. There has been no love lost between the Minority and the Finance Minister, whose budget in November was initially rejected, the first time in the Fourth Republic. On Thursday, March 24, when he addressed the nation on the measures adopted by government to tackle the current economic crisis, Mr Ofori-Atta was also being sought in Parliament to answer questions. The First Deputy Speaker stood in to adjourn his session due to the press conference. During his address, the Finance Minister admitted that the unyielding stance of the Minority against the Electronic Transfer Levy, popularly known as e-levy, has gravely affected investor confidence, a situation that has had dire consequences for the economy. He mentioned it as one of the three factors that the government did not see coming. The other two were the delay in the budget approval and the Ukraine-Russia crisis. Mr Ofori-Atta, therefore, appealed to the Minority to put the country first for governments expenditure plans to flow. He insists that the current administration has what it takes to turn things around. Ladies and Gentlemen, your Government, the Akufo-Addo administration, is determined to turn things around and has the skills, discipline and compassion to do it. But to do so, we must not allow our fortunes to be misdirected by speculators and naysayers those who only thrive when we allow avoidable uncertainties to hold sway in the affairs of our nation. Government will, by this, appeal to Parliament to put the nation first and work in partnership to serve the people of Ghana right. But the Minority, in a response to the Finance Minister, took exception to this and insisted that members are rather helping the government in implementing its revenue measures. Let it not be repeated that the Minority did not support government in its revenue measures, Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu emphasised. We did. Only in respect of e-levy that we said the procedurally they were wrong [and] they should not rush it through an urgent motion. Source: 3news.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto has accused the Akufo-Addo administration of lacking the ability of being economical with public money. To that end, he said, he is torn between giving the salary cut to a government that does not spend wisely or to use in supporting social intervention programmes in his constituency, after indicating that he will accept a pay cut of 40 per cent. My dilemma: though I am convinced and determined to take a pay cut by as much as 40%, I am torn between giving it to a govt that has proven over the years to lack frugality, and whether I shouldnt rather be spending the cut on my constituency social initiatives. Your advice pls? He said in a tweet on Thursday march 24. His comments come on the heels of appeal made by Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah to the effect that MPs should consider a pay cut as a way of contributing to the development of Ghana. Mr Oppong Nkrumah who is also Ofoase Ayirebi Lawmaker said he is willing to move a motion in Parliament to get MPs take pay cuts. I think that the legislature should also look at pay cut. The executive is looking to cut salaries by X per cent, may be we Members of Parliament, and I will be happy to move a motion on that in parliament that they should also consider taking a pay cut to help to contribute to what we are seeking to do. That is what gives you the moral right to then ask anybody else in the economy to take a cut or whatever project, or whatever activities that are going to go on, he said on the Good Evening Ghana programme on Metro TV Tuesday March 22. This comes after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reduced the salaries of all his appointees by up to 30 percent. This is one of the measures introduced by the government to deal with the economic problems facing the country at the moment, the Presidency said. The President assured the nation that the Minister of Finance Ken Ofori Atta will be announcing the measures that have been taken by the government to tackle the economic challenges facing the country at the moment. Mr Akufo-Addo said this during a meeting with Council of State members at the Jubilee House in Accra on Tuesday March 22. Mr Akufo-Addo further observed that the challenges that are facing Ghana are similar to those pertaining in many countries around the world. He noted that it is no secret that Ghana is going through economic turbulence. He said the government has the ability of finding solutions to the challenges. It is no secret that our economy is going through difficult times. It is also no secret that we are not alone in that exercise. The many of the phenomena that we are facing are phenomena that are apparent in many other parts of the world but that doesnt therefore mean that government is impotent in trying to find solutions, the President said. Members of the Council of State have also decided to reduce their monthly allowances by 20 per cent until the end of the year. This decision was taken due the economic difficulties that the country is facing at the moment, Chairman of the Council, Nana Otuo Siriboe II, said. Speaking during a meeting with the President at the Jubilee House in Accra on Tuesday March 22, Nana Otuo Siriboe II said Mr President, over the past few weeks, the Council has been deliberating on the current economic conditions of the country and have been collecting views with the view to sharing with you as early as possible. As we were going through our routines, you and your cabinet were at a retreat over the same issues. Since yesterday, we have been fed with snippet of information regarding some of the decisions that you have made. We are particularly delighted to read that you and your cabinet have decided to reduce some of your emoluments and your allowances. Mr President, in tandem with your decision we as Council of State had also decided that we will reduce our monthly allowances by 20 per cent until the end of this year. Reacting to this development, Member of Parliament for Akatsi North, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe told TV3s Komla Kluste in Parliament rejected the call. He said If the executive is talking about this then they should also look at the emoluments. What facilities do they have? As executive, they have more facilities than the legislators. We, for instance, provide a number of facilities for ourselves. We pay our drivers, we pay our secretariat, we buy our own fuel. So if the executive is cutting their salaries, are they removing those facilities they enjoy? If those facilities they enjoy will be there then the pay cut for the legislators will not be a fair deal of us. Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem lawmaker, Samuel Attah Mills also said What kind of pay cut? They should let their own people take pay cuts. Their people are on boards, do you know how much they are making from these boards? They havent given us common fund for over a year now. The pay cut thing is just a gimmick. If we are going to take a pay cut, what are they going to use the money for? We gave them millions of cedis to use for Covid, have they come to tell us what they used the money for? It is not about pay cut, it is about irresponsibility on their part. Tamale North MP, Murtala Mohammed said I think that with all due respect, my good friend Kojo Oppong Nkrumah should give us a break. Nobody is taking a dime from my salary. What we are asking this government to do is to reduce the size of the government. My dilemma: though I am convinced and determined to take a pay cut by as much as 40%, I am torn between giving it to a govt that has proven over the years to lack frugality, and whether I shouldnt rather be spending the cut on my constituency social initiatives. Your advice pls? Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) March 24, 2022 Source: Twitter/3news.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video There was some drama in Parliament as the Majority attempted to remove embattled Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson, from the floor of the House during Parliamentary proceedings insisting that Parliament must adhere to an order from the High Court that prevented James Gyekye Quayson from holding himself as an MP. Dr. Kingsley Nyarko, MP, Kwadaso, had asked the House which was presided over by Joseph Osei Owusu (Joe Wise), First Deputy Speaker, to decide the fate of the MP who was in the chamber to present the people of Assin North. This call generated a heated debate among legislators regarding whether or not James Gyakye Quaysons presence was in contempt of court. The Kwadaso MP was also seeking to find out if his colleague was permitted to be in the House and continue to carry himself as a lawmaker. Honourable Speaker, we are law-abiding people, we go by the tenets of the constitution. I want to find out from you whether his presence here is allowed, Dr. Nyarko said. Samuel Atta Akyea, Abuakwa South MP, added his voice to the debate, stating, the House should not condone the conduct of the embattled MP. Let it sound strong that he is disqualified to come to this chamber until he is allowed to sit here by a High Court. If not then he is in contempt of the court and this honourable house should not give its blessings to a man who has conducted himself improperly and we shouldnt encourage such behaviour for our own dignity, he said. But in a reaction, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, South Dayi MP, noted, The Honourable Atta Akyea has misled the House to suggest that the Appeal is not before the Court of Appeal, it was not dismissed. What was dismissed was an interlocutory matter that was set aside on grounds of noncompliance, the substantive appeal is pending. As a House, we cannot tolerate this. Our two brothers (Dr. Kingley Naryko and Atta Akyea) are completely out of order for raising this matter on this floor. The right of the Honourable member is not yet determined by a court of law, he has the right of an appeal which appeal is still. Joe Wise in his ruling said, The only thing that has to be verified is whether or not the appeal has been determined. That is a question of fact, it is not the question of law and I do not intend that we do that at this moment. I will discuss that with leadership and whatever steps we have to take we will take after that. A Court of Appeal in Cape Coast on Tuesday, March 22 struck out the appeal by James Gyakye Quayson for non-compliance with court procedures. Quayson had filed an appeal that was challenging a High court ruling that declared new parliamentary elections should be organised in the constituency. The presiding judge, Irene Charity Larbi, ruled that the MP failed to comply with the courts directives to submit his written submission within a stipulated time. Watch the proceedings below as captured by TV3: Source: Ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Chairman of the Health Committee of Parliament, Nana Ayew Afriyie says a threat by some Members of Parliament drawn from the Minority side over the mandatory COVID-19 testing at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) is nothing but baseless. He explained in a post on his Facebook wall that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is yet to speak on the situation hence, their threat to picket at the airport is not realistic. Why not wait and listen to the President before you decide to embark on a demonstration or call the Minister of Health to the committee to answer any grievance or further questions? a portion of his post reads. He continued by saying, I have no idea of what the President has up his sleeves for us on Sunday. I advise the public to disregard the call for demonstrations and give the President the opportunity to speak first on Sunday the 27th of March. This follows calls by some NDC MPs to make the mandatory COVID-19 testing at the Airport free. According to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House, the government must accompany the re-opening of the land borders with the removal of the costs for KIA testing. In as much as I welcome this development [the expected opening of land borders], it is inadequate. We want to see a complete reversal; a complete rollback [of the fees]. The MP for North Tongu addressing the Media in Parliament said, We want to serve notice that if by next week, the government does not reverse the fees . . . we are going to talk. Series of actions including public action, public manifestation and picketing at the airport until that fleecing going on at the airport is reversed. Read Below Dr Ayews Facebook post MINORITY THREAT OF DEMO ON AIPORT TESTING IS NOT REALISTIC. While I think the minority is taking advantage of the news that the president will issue new covid directives on Sunday 27th March, their threat to demonstrate is not realistic. Why not wait and listen to the president before you decide to embark on a demonstration or call the minister of health to the committee to answer any grievance or further questions. I have no idea of what the president has up his sleeves for us on Sunday. I advise the public to disregard the call for demonstrations and give the president the opportunity to speak first on Sunday the 27th of March. I DISAGREE WITH THE MINORITY & WHY WE CANT DO AWAY WITH AIRPORT TESTING FOR NOW, BUT RATHER CONSIDER PRICE REDUCTION: 1. There is no new evidence that fully vaccinated persons are covid free 2. Antigen is quick, max 10mins. 3. Many antigen equipment have sensitivity and specificity values well improved and close to PCR, especially wrt specificity values( ie the probability that, a negative test is truly negative ) 4. Ghana records rising levels of covid new cases, especially after Christmas and Summer vacation. ( Ref GHS covid data). Here people move from more prevalent areas move to our country where the prevalence is on the lower side. Also, there are more social gatherings during this period. 5. Summer is yet to come and we are likely to have more people from the west coming for holidays in Ghana. With this uncertainty, I will never recommend KIA testing to be abolished until one cycle is over ie summer and winter come in by 2022 without any surge in covid new cases. Nana Ayew Afriye Dr. MP { Chairman- Health Committee} Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Deputy Finance Minister, Abena Osei Asare has backed President Nana Akufo-Addo on his position on criticisms for him to review the Free SHS policy. The Free SHS, one of the flagship programmes by the Akufo-Addo government, was designed to provide free education to Ghanaian school children in the Senior High Schools. This policy has since 2017, when the government came into power, been implemented but recent calls on the President suggest he should review it because the policy is contributory factor to the economic burdens on Ghana. Some critics have proposed that children from rich homes should be excluded from the programme while others want the parents, both rich and poor, to bear some cost of catering for their children instead of they having everything for free. Responding to the critics, Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday to outline measures taken by government to address challenges facing the economy, reiterated the President's stance on the issue. He indicated that, "President Akufo-Addo has no absolute intention to roll back any major policy like the Free SHS. He sees education as the best and enabling force for sustainable economic growth, transformation, and social mobility, and we will do more to improve on it for it to serve more and better our children". Expounding further in an interview on Peace FM's morning programme ''Kokrokoo'', Hon. Abena Osei Asare noted that the Free SHS will still hold because its benefits are in the long term. According to her, contrary to views that the Free SHS is becoming a burden, the policy is rather one of the blessings of the Akufo-Addo government to Ghanaians. She stated that, currently, there will be no review of the policy asserting that, "when we start tasting of the fruits of the Free SHS, I think people will look back and say we are grateful to God for a President like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. So, for now, the government wants to continue with the policy and as in when there is the need for any review, the government will review but for now, we have seen the gains and within a spate of five to ten years, the whole conversation will change in this country''. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video WASHINGTON Speaking from Brussels while meeting with European leaders about Russias war with Ukraine, President Biden indicated he would relish a rematch with Donald Trump in the next presidential election. I'd be very fortunate to have the same man running against me, Biden said during a press conference at which he was asked about whether he would seek reelection in 2024. As has frequently been the case since he took office, Biden did not mention Trump by name, though he said as he did in the video announcing his run in 2019 that it was the then presidents equivocal response to 2017s white nationalist riot in Charlottesville, Va., that spurred him to seek the White House for the third time. I had no intention of running for president again ... until I saw those folks coming out of the fields in Virginia carrying torches and carrying Nazi banners, Biden told the German reporter who asked him about his reelection plans. Former President Donald Trump at a rally in Florence, S.C., on March 12. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images) Nothing is worth, no election is worth, my not doing exactly what I think is the right thing, Biden said. Not a joke. Im too long in the tooth to fool with this any longer. Biden, 79, has previously said he would run for reelection, but a slight majority of Americans do not actually believe that he will do so. And although he has received praise for marshaling international support for Ukraine, successive coronavirus waves, economic woes and Republican opposition have continued to frustrate his presidency. Earlier this week, his approval hit a new low of 40%. Biden was largely discredited during the Democratic primary in 2020, only to come from behind to defeat rivals who were both much younger (South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg) and more in touch with the partys spirited progressive base (Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders). It was Rep. James Clyburns endorsement that helped Biden win the South Carolina primary and, subsequently, the nomination. To court African American voters, Biden promised to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court. He made good on that promise last month; hearings for the nominee, federal Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, were concluding as Biden departed Washington for Europe. Story continues His remarks from Brussels hinted at an unwillingness to accept lame-duck status, much as his detractors may want him to do so. My focus of any election is on making sure that we retain the House and the United States Senate, Biden said, so that I have the room to continue to do the things that Ive been able to do, in terms of growing the economy and dealing in a rational way with American foreign policy and leading the world be the leader of the free world. President Biden arrives for an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday to address Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (John Thys /AFP via Getty Images) Democrats could lose both chambers of Congress in this falls midterm elections. What that will mean to prospective presidential candidates including the sitting president remains unclear. And though Trump has hinted at wanting to run again, some Republicans are desperate to avoid anointing him the partys standard bearer in 2024. The crisis in Ukraine has highlighted Bidens experience relative to that of potential Republican contenders, some of whom have spent the past several months waging culture wars. One of those recently manifested itself in Washington, in the form of a truckers convoy opposing coronavirus vaccine mandates. As the president spoke from Brussels, a lone vehicle honked loudly outside the White House before driving away. Never an especially eager culture warrior, Biden has embraced the role of international peacemaker. A veteran of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he also had a formidable diplomatic portfolio while serving as vice president for Barack Obama. Ive been dealing with foreign policy for longer than anybodys involved in this process right now, Biden said from Brussels, where he and other leaders listened to an address from Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelensky earlier in the day. I dont think youll find any European leader who thinks that I am not up to the job. Bidens remarks carried added resonance because they were delivered from Brussels, the European Union headquarters and, in many ways, a representative of the postwar order that Russian President Vladimir Putin is trying to disrupt. Russian President Vladimir Putin gives a speech at a concert in Moscow on March 18 marking the eighth anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea. (Alexander Vilf /Pool/AFP via Getty Images) As he has frequently done in speeches from Washington, Biden invoked the rise of authoritarianism as a transnational development, asking the German and British reporters arrayed before him to imagine their respective nations suffering an attack similar to the one launched by pro-Trump rioters on Jan. 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol. Imagine if we sat and watched the doors of the Bundestag broken down and police officers killed, and hundreds of people storming in, he said. Or imagine if we saw that happening in the British Parliament, or whatever. How would we feel? Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town has unveiled seven sensational days of culinary activities, with enticing offers for in-house guests, local residents, expats and international visitors on every day of the week! With outstanding options for casual drinks, memorable meals and daytime relaxation, everyone can find their perfect promotion from now until 30 April 2022. Every Monday, guests and visitors enjoy All Day Happy Hour at Talung Lounge, the hotels bright and inviting social hub. From 10.00 to 22.00 hrs, everyone can take advantage of a buy one get one free deal on selected drinks. So, whether youre dropping in for a quick coffee or seeking a chic place for evening drinks, this is a great way to unwind! Every Tuesday, the focus falls on Krua Talad Yai, the vibrant dining destination that showcases authentic Southern Thai cuisine and international flavors. From 12.00 to 22.00 hrs, Two For Tuesday promises a free second dish when diners order from the a la carte menu. This makes it an appetizing option for daytime dining or evening meals. Every Wednesday, treat your loved one to a Mid-Week Retreat at Talung Lounge! An Afternoon Tea set for two people, including two complimentary glasses of bubbly, is priced at just THB 650 net. Available from 12.00 to 17.00 hrs, this is the ideal opportunity to spend time with your precious partner, best friend or family member. Every Thursday, comfort food takes center stage at Kolae Pool Bar, the inviting alfresco venue. Throughout the day from 10.00 to 22.00 hrs, guests can savor a Burger + Brew combo set a freshly-made burger accompanied by a cold beer, iced tea or iced coffee. Priced at just THB 295 net, this is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon. Every Friday and Saturday, Krua Talad Yai is hosting its International & Seafood Buffet! Ideal for couples, families and friends, this lively culinary occasion showcases a spectacular selection of fresh Andaman seafood, alongside many local delicacies and international dishes. Hosted from 18.00 to 21.00 hrs, this bountiful buffet is priced at just THB 999 net per person. Finally, every Sunday local residents, expats and other guests are invited chill out around the hotels outdoor pool. The Pool Day Pass lets visitors enjoy a full day at the pool for just THB 450 net per person, including a towel and the same value of food and drinks from Kolae Pool Bar. What a wonderful way to end the week at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town! All these promotions are available from now until 30 April 2022. For more information about Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town, please call 076 643 555, or connect us via these channels: Website www.courtyardphukettown.com Email reservations.phukettown@courtyard.com Facebook www.facebook.com/CourtyardbyMarriottPhuketTown Line official account @courtyardphuket Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The U.S. government spent an estimated $5.4 billion last year at the state and federal level to incarcerate adults convicted of sex crimes against children under age 18, according to a new study led by a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health researcher. The study calculated annual spending on incarcerated adults convicted of sex crimes against children under age 18 in U.S. federal and state prisons and sex offender civil commitment facilities. The findings, published online March 23 in the journal Sexual Abuse, highlight the cost of what is considered a preventable public health problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that about 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys under age 18 experience sexual abuse during childhood. Research suggests that about 12 percent of the world's children will experience some form of sexual abuse before they turn 18. "The costs for this incarceration are extraordinary," says study author Elizabeth J. Letourneau, Ph.D., professor in the Bloomberg School's Department of Mental Health and director of the Moore Center for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse. "We spend billions of dollars on criminal justice remedies after child sexual abuse has already occurred, and yet there are very limited resources for preventing this abuse from occurring in the first place." The study notes that the U.S. federal government budgeted $1.5 million in 2021 to support child sexual abuse prevention research. Research aimed at identifying ways to reduce child sexual abuse has focused on the importance of perpetrator prevention. Promising prevention efforts include online self-help intervention programs for people with sexual attraction to minors and middle school education programs designed to reduce child sexual abuse by promoting responsible behaviors with younger children and with peers. For their study, the researchers used publicly available sourcesincluding U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics' National Prisoner Statistics datato calculate annual cost estimates for incarcerating adults convicted of sex crimes against children under age 18. The study estimates there were 159,876 incarcerated in 2021 in state prisons for sex offenses involving children, at an average annual cost of $34,191, for a total of $4.4 billion in spending at the state level. At the federal level, the study estimates there were 16,062 inmates incarcerated in federal prisons for child sex offenses in 2021, at an annual average cost per inmate of $39,521, a total of $508 million in spending. For the estimated 4,318 inmates with child victims in high-security sex offender civil commitment facilities, the study estimates an annual average cost per inmate of $136,812, a total of $517 million in annual spending. The authors note that the estimated costs of incarcerating adults convicted of sex crimes against children are conservative, since they did not include costs related to the justice processincluding investigation, prosecution, and adjudication in their analysis. Based on average periods of imprisonment and commitmentan average of eight yearsthe researchers found that the U.S. stands to spend more than $50 billion on the cohort of 1.2 million people convicted of sex crimes against children currently in prison and sex offender civil commitment facilities: $35 billion for state prisoners, $5 billion for federal prisoners, and $10.5 billion for inmates in sex offender civil commitment facilities. The authors note that incarcerating adults for harmful and violent behavior, including for the sexual abuse of children, can be an appropriate component to a comprehensive national response. At the same time, research suggests that incarceration in and of itself fails to prevent new incidents of child sexual abuse, nor does it reduce or prevent recidivism. And longer sentences do not make incarceration more effective at preventing violence. The authors recommend developing effective, proactive strategies aimed at child sexual abuse prevention as well as improving reactive strategies like incarceration for sex crimes. Letourneau also notes that evidence-based interventions for people returning to their communities following incarceration for sex crimes should be more broadly disseminated. "Child sexual abuse is indisputably both a criminal justice problem and a public health problem," Letourneau says. "We need to develop, evaluate, and disseminate effective sex crime prevention strategies and these effortslike reactive strategiesalso require more resources." Letourneau conducted the study after hearing from many elected officials and staff that they supported the concept of child sexual abuse prevention research but cited federal budget caps and deficits as barriers to funding new prevention initiatives. She and her coauthors thought estimating how much federal and state governments spent on incarceration for child sexual abuse offenses would underscore potential savings associated with preventing child sexual abuse in the first place. "If we really want to prevent harm, then it is going to require more government investment," Letourneau said. "We are not going to reduce rates of child sexual abuse with just $1.5 million in federal research funding. It's time for more significant government investment in prevention." Explore further New report sets out principles to reduce child sexual assault risk in youth group settings More information: Elizabeth J. Letourneau et al, No Check We Won't Write: A Report on the High Cost of Sex Offender Incarceration, Sexual Abuse (2022). Elizabeth J. Letourneau et al, No Check We Won't Write: A Report on the High Cost of Sex Offender Incarceration,(2022). DOI: 10.1177/10790632221078305 Australia's Great Barrier Reef is home to about 1,500 species of fish. Australia's spectacular Great Barrier Reef is suffering "mass bleaching" as corals lose their colour under the stress of warmer seas, authorities said Friday, in a blow widely blamed on climate change. The world's largest coral reef system, stretching for more than 2,300 kilometres (1,400 miles) along the northeast coast of Australia, is showing the harmful effects of the heat, said the Reef Authority. Aerial surveys detected coral bleaching at multiple reefs across a large area of the system, "confirming a mass bleaching event, the fourth since 2016," it said in a report. The Great Barrier Reef, home to some 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusc, was suffering despite the cooling effect of the La Nina weather phenomenon, which is currently influencing Australia's climate, the authority said. The area, which comprises about 2,500 individual reefs and more than 900 islands, suffers from bleaching when corals expel algae living in their tissues, draining them of their vibrant colours. Though bleached corals are under stress, they can still recover if conditions become more moderate, the Reef Authority said. "Weather patterns over the next couple of weeks continue to remain critical in determining the overall extent and severity of coral bleaching across the Marine Park," it said. The mass bleaching report emerged four days after the United Nations began a monitoring mission to assess whether the World Heritage site is being protected from climate change. Graphic on coral bleaching. 'Ghostly white coral' UNESCO's mission is to assess whether the Australian government is doing enough to address threats to the Great Barrier Reefincluding climate changebefore the World Heritage Committee considers listing it as "in danger" in June. "The beloved, vibrant colours of the Great Barrier Reef are being replaced by ghostly white coral," said Greenpeace Australia climate impact activist Martin Zavan. He pressed the government to show the damaged areas to the UN mission now inspecting the reef rather than the picturesque areas that have been untouched. "If the government is genuine about letting the UN mission form a comprehensive picture of the state of the Reef, then it must take the mission to the northern and central Reef," Zavan said. "Here, corals are being cooked by temperatures up to four degrees above average, which is particularly alarming during a La Nina year when ocean temperatures are cooler." The World Heritage Committee's decision to not list the Great Barrier Reef as being in danger last July surprised many, given UNESCO had recommended the listing weeks earlier. When the UN previously threatened to downgrade the reef's World Heritage listing in 2015, Australia created a "Reef 2050" plan and poured billions of dollars into protection. Amanda McKenzie, chief executive of Australian climate action body the Climate Council, said the world's oceans reached record high temperatures last year. Map of eastern Australia showing the Great Barrier Reef. "Unfortunately, as more severe bleaching is reported across our beloved Great Barrier Reef, we can see these devastating events are becoming more common under the continuing high rate of greenhouse gas emissions," she said. "To give our Reef a fighting chance, we must deal with the number one problem: climate change. No amount of funding will stop these bleaching events unless we drive down our emissions this decade." 'No safe limit' Researchers last month warned coral reefs that anchor a quarter of marine wildlife and the livelihoods of more than half-a-billion people will most likely be wiped out even if global warming is capped within Paris Agreement climate goals. An average increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels would see more than 99 percent of the world's coral reefs unable to recover from increasingly frequent marine heatwaves, they reported in the journal PLOS Climate. At two degrees of warming, mortality will be 100 percent, according to the study, which used a new generation of climate models. "The stark reality is that there is no safe limit of global warming for coral reefs," lead author Adele Dixon, a researcher at the University of Leeds' School of Biology, told AFP. "1.5C is still too much warming for the ecosystems on the frontline of climate change." The 2015 Paris Agreement enjoins nearly 200 nations to keep global heating "well below" 2C. Explore further Great Barrier Reef suffers 'widespread' bleaching event 2022 AFP A Christie's auction house staff member displays the giant diamond nicknamed "The Rock" in Dubai. A giant diamond nicknamed "The Rock" went on display for the first time in Dubai on Friday ahead of an auction where it is expected to fetch over $30 million. The 228.31-carat pear-shaped gem, which was mined and polished in South Africa more than 20 years ago, is the largest white diamond ever to come to auction, said Christie's. After making its debut at the auction house's Dubai branch, where it will be displayed from March 26-29, The Rock will travel to Taipei, New York and Geneva, where it will be auctioned on May 11. "The Middle East has always had such a great appreciation for important jewels and gemstones," Rahul Kadakia, international head of jewellery at Christie's, told AFP. "We thought it would be nice for us to launch the diamond in an area where there are so many great collectors for important gems of this nature." The diamond is the "largest existing D-Z colour pear-shaped diamond ever graded" by the Gemological Institute of America, Christie's said in a statement, adding it is "G colour, VS1 clarity". "It's the biggest white diamond ever sold at auction, it will probably achieve over 30 million dollars," said Julian Brunie, Christie's international head of jewellery private sales. "We have seen a lot of demand in the region in the last few years... the UAE and the Gulf area has always been a key market for the unique pieces." The previous auction record for the largest colourless diamond was a 163.41 carat sparkler which sold in November 2017 for $33.7 million, Christie's said. Sotheby's in London last month sold "The Enigma"the largest cut black diamond ever to come to auction, at 555.55 caratsfor $4.3 million. Explore further Largest ever cut diamond at auction sells for 3.2 million 2022 AFP Climate floods graph Several months ago, Australia's Murdoch media news outlets launched a new climate change campaign advocating a path toward net-zero emissions by 2050. The launch included a 16-page wraparound supplement in all of its tabloids supporting the need for climate action. We do not usually expect news media to campaign for political and social causes. Yet, here was one of the most powerful media organizations in the country not only implying it has held an editorial stance against climate action in the past, but also declaring a plan to reverse this position. In announcing the launch, News Corp said a major reason climate action has stalled in Australia is "the debate has fallen victim to a culture of constant complaint." "[] so here you will see only positive stories: real, practical and pragmatic solutions that will help the planet and also help Australia's interests as well." Can a leopard change its spots? My analysis of the Murdoch outlets' recent flood coverage suggests not. Climate change downplayed in flood coverage Climate change is reported in a range of ways in news media to help audiences understand its causes and consequences, as well as the policy responses. Extreme weather events such as bushfires and floods allow journalists to show how climate change is contributing to the severity of natural disasters in an urgent and visual way. However, my analysis of recent flood coverage in the Murdoch news outlets shows that although the terms "climate change" and "floods" were placed together in a range of articles, these outlets are still well behind others when it comes to emphasizing the connection between extreme weather events and our warming planet. I looked at 171 articles (both news and opinion) in major Australian print and online news media from March 113 that mentioned climate change and floods togetherand those that downplayed the link between the two. There was some standout coverage making the link in at least one Murdoch outlet, news.com.au. This included a report about the Climate Council's warnings of the impact of climate change on flooding, and another about the impact of climate change on food prices. Yet the total number of articles linking climate change to floods in the Murdoch outlets (which also include The Australian, Herald Sun, Daily Telegraph and Courier Mail) lagged behind ABC News, the Nine newspapers, The Guardian and The Conversation. The analysis also shows the Murdoch outlets were the only news organizations where voices argued the floods were not exacerbated by climate change. As reported by Crikey, The Guardian and ABC's Media Watch, conservative commentators such as Andrew Bolt and Chris Kenny continue to muddy the water when it comes to the impact of climate on extreme weather. For example, Kenny wrote in The Australian on March 4: "The pretense that climate policies can relieve us of these natural traumas is a ridiculously emotive and deceptive ploy." The Australian's Chris Mitchell even complained that other media outlets such as the ABC put too much emphasis on the link between climate change and flooding. How the media advocate on issues This analysis suggests the Murdoch outlets are not overtly advocating for climate action, nor linking catastrophic flooding with the need for political action aimed at achieving net zero by 2050. Indeed, editorial hostility toward climate change is alive and well among the most powerful voices at the Murdoch outlets, with coverage that is seemingly more interested in advocating against climate action than for it. This provides insight into different styles of news coverage and their influence on democratic debate. Although Australian audiences expect media outlets to produce news that is objective, ideologically neutral and independent of politics, journalists and commentators sometimes play the role of "advocates" for particular issues and causes. This style of journalism is not widely understood because it clashes with the idealized expectation that journalists shrug off their own perspectives to report without fear or favor. In a recent study I conducted, I propose there are three styles of advocacy journalismradical, collaborator and conservative. And each one either enhances or degrades democratic debate. What I call "radical advocacy" is when journalists deliberately campaign to increase the diversity of voices in news media, particularly when those voices are marginalized from mainstream debate. An example is The Guardian's "Keep it in the ground" campaign, which is transparently aimed at improving the public's understanding of climate change. This style of journalismalthough subjective and biasedarguably has a positive influence on democracy since its mission is to increase understanding of a crucial global issue and rally the public to join the cause. "Collaborator advocacy" journalism is when media organizations cooperate with government, such as when they broadcast flood warnings, advise the public what to do in an emergency or agree not to publish the locations of troops at war. This style of advocacy can be good for democracy when it is deemed in the public interest. It can, however, be detrimental if the government controls media coverage to the point at which opposition voices are deliberately excluded. The third style of advocacy"conservative advocacy"is one I've coined to describe journalism and commentary that promotes the agenda of powerful players in a political or social debate. An obvious example is the Murdoch media traditionally siding with big fossil fuel and oil interests through their longstanding editorial hostility to policies designed to address climate change. Conservative advocacy degrades democracy by locking less powerful voices out of the debate, spreading what some would deem misinformation and deliberately downplaying or countering scientific research and evidence-based policy. If the Murdoch media follow through with their promise to advocate for net zero by 2050, their campaign would fit within the radical definition. But since these outlets are historically entrenched in a conservative tradition, this shift to a more radical position on climate might prove difficult to achieve. Explore further Media scion James Murdoch quits News Corp board This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Overlooking the iceberg-covered fjord from where the margins of Akullersuup Sermia (left) and Kangiata Nunaata Sermia (right) were located in the 1920s (10 km from the current ice margin). While the Norse were in Greenland, these glaciers merged and ultimately advanced another 13 km beyond this point. Credit: James Lea. Rapid glacial advance reconstructed during the time of Norse occupation in Greenland Boulder, Colo., U.S.: The Greenland Ice Sheet is the second largest ice body in the world, and it has the potential to contribute significantly to global sea-level rise in a warming global climate. Understanding the long-term record of the Greenland Ice Sheet, including both records of glacial advance and retreat, is critical in validating approaches that model future ice-sheet scenarios. However, this reconstruction can be extremely challenging. A new study published Thursday in the journal Geology reconstructed the advance of one of the largest tidewater glaciers in Greenland to provide a better understanding of long-term glacial dynamics. "In the news, we're very used to hearing about glacial retreat, and that's because in a warming climate scenariowhich is what we're in at the momentwe generally document ice masses retreating. However, we also want to understand how glaciers react if there is a climate cooling and subsequent advance. To do this, we need to reconstruct glacier geometry from the past," said Danni Pearce, co-lead author of the study. An interdisciplinary team of researchers studied the advance of Kangiata Nunaata Sermia (KNS)the largest tidewater glacier in southwest Greenlandduring a period of cooling when the Norse had settlements in Greenland. Differing from glaciers that are strictly on land, tidewater glaciers extend and flow all the way to the ocean or a sea, where they can then calve and break up into icebergs. Reconstructing the advance of glaciers can be exceptionally difficult, because the glacier typically destroys or reworks everything in its path as it advances forward. The research team undertook multiple field seasons in Greenland, traveling on foot to remote sitesmany of which hadn't been visited since the 1930sto try and uncover the record of KNS advance. "When we went out into the field, we had absolutely no idea whether the evidence would be there or not, so I was incredibly nervous. Though we did a huge amount of planning beforehand, until you go out into the field you don't know what you're going to find," said James Lea, the other co-lead author of the study. A river that has been abandoned due to glacier retreat. The Norse had farms in this valley, and while they were there the river would have been much larger, draining meltwater and depositing sediment directly from the ice sheet. Credit: James Lea. By traveling on foot, the research team was able to more closely examine and explore sites that otherwise may have been missed if traveling by helicopter. The team's planning paid off, and the sedimentary sequences they studied and sampled held the clues they were looking for to date and track the advance of the glacier. The research team found that during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries CE, KNS advanced at least 15 km, at a rate of ~115 m/yr. This rate of advance is comparable to modern rates of glacial retreat observed over the past ~200 years, indicating that when climate is cooler glaciers can advance equally as fast as they are currently retreating. The glacier reached its maximum extent by 1761 CE during the Little Ice Age, culminating in a total advance of ~20 km. Since then, KNS has retreated ~23 km to its present position. The period when the glacier was advancing coincided with when the Norse were present in Greenland. Prior to its maximum extent during the Little Ice Age, the researchers found that KNS advanced to a location within only 5 km of a Norse farmstead. "Even though KNS was rapidly coming down the fjord, it did not seem to affect the Norse, which we found really unusual," said Pearce. "So the team started to think about the surrounding environment and the amount of iceberg production in the fjord during that time. At the moment, the fjord is completely filled with icebergs, making boat access challenging, and we know from historical record that it has been like this for the last 200 years while the glacier has been retreating. However, for KNS to advance at 115 m/yr, it needed to hang onto its ice and could not have been producing a lot of icebergs. So we actually think that the fjord would have looked very different with few icebergs, which allowed the Norse far more easy access to this site for farming, hunting, and fishing." In the 1930s, archaeologists who visited the site hypothesized that conditions in the fjord must have been different from the present day in order for the Norse to have occupied the site, and this current research study provides data to support these long-held ideas. "So we have this counterintuitive notion that climate cooling and glacier advance might have actually helped the Norse in this specific circumstance and allowed them to navigate more of the fjord more easily," said Lea. A Norse storehouse in Austmannadalen, which would have been used to keep fish, meat, and trading goods. Credit: Danni Pearce. The Norse left Greenland during the fifteenth century CE, and these results are consistent with the idea that a cooling climate was likely not the cause of their exodus; rather, a combination of economic factors likely led the Norse to abandon Greenland. The results from this research reconstructing rapid glacial advance are also shown to be consistent with the ways ice sheet models work, which brings confidence to the projections from these models. Having accurate models and projections are crucial in understanding and preparing for future scenarios of continued retreat of the Greenland Ice Sheet and associated sea-level rise. "Melt from Greenland not only impacts sea-level change but also the ecology around the ice sheets, fisheries, the biological productivity of the oceanshow much algae is growing. And also because the types of glaciers we're looking at produce icebergs these can cause hazards to shipping and trade, especially if the Northwest Passage opens up as it is expected to," said James Lea. Pearce added, "Our research shows that climate cooling can change iceberg calving behavior and drive glacier advance at rates just as rapid as current retreat. It also shows how resilient the Greenlandic Norse were to the changing environmental conditions. Such adaptation can give us hope for the changes we may face over the coming century.'' Greenland Glacier Change Viewer: https://jmleaglacio.users.earthengine.app/view/greenlandglacierchange Explore further Study shows widespread retreat and loss of marine-terminating glaciers in the northern hemisphere More information: Danni M. Pearce et al, Greenland tidewater glacier advanced rapidly during era of Norse settlement, Geology (2022). Journal information: Geology Danni M. Pearce et al, Greenland tidewater glacier advanced rapidly during era of Norse settlement,(2022). DOI: 10.1130/G49644.1 Water resource conservation promotes synergy between economy and environment through industrial transformation in inner mongolia. Credit: Higher Education Press Water resource availability is the major limiting factor for sustainable development in drylands. The drylands of northern China contain only 19% of the country's total water resources but house one-third of the national population, and are therefore under considerable water stress. In particular, Inner Mongolia, which is a typical dryland province, plays an important role in maintaining ecological security in northern China. For the past few years, its anthropogenic water consumption has increased 4-fold, from 6.68 billion m3 in 1987 to 27.11 billion m3 in 2015; this increase has seriously threatened regional grasslands, which also rely on water resources to sustain ecological integrity. The conflict between ecological and social-economic systems and the actions that might relieve it has been long overlooked, thus, might lead to unexpected problems when adopting one-sided policies. Climate change intensifies the conflicting water demands between people and the environment and highlights the importance of effective water resource management for achieving a balance between economic development and environmental protection. In 2008, Inner Mongolia proposed strict regulations on water exploitation and utilization aimed at achieving sustainable development. By adopting these regulations, Inner Mongolia's government aims to limit high water consumption and the expansion of polluting industries; by doing so, they aim to achieve industrial restructuring toward sustainable development. However, no systematic evaluation has been conducted to determine if and how such strict regulations on water conservation might alleviate the tension between environmental protection and economic development. Without this information, policy adjustment and the ability to achieve sustainable development are limited. Now, a research group from University of Chinese Academy of Sciences studied the effectiveness and performance of these long-standing water conservation regulations. The results were published in Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering. They found that the regulations drove industrial transformation, evidenced by the decreasing proportion of environmentally harmful industries such as coal and steel, and the increasing proportion of tertiary industries (especially tourism). Following industrial transformation, economic development decoupled from industrial water consumption and subsequently led to reduced negative environmental impacts. Based on these results, adaptive strategies were developed for 12 cities by revealing and integrating their development pathways and relative status in achieving sustainable development. Integration and cooperation between cities were proposed, e.g., a water trade agreement between eastern Inner Mongolia (an economically underdeveloped region with relatively abundant water resources) and central Inner Mongolia (an economically developed region with high water stress). Such an agreement may enable the holistic achievement of sustainable development across regions. By integrating the findings of the research, a reproducible framework is established for water-management-based sustainable development strategies in drylands. Stimulating the internal motivation of industrial transformation through the regulations of water resources could help achieve synergy between economic development and environmental protection, therefore, promoting sustainable development in drylands. Taken together, three suggestions are proposed for sustainable development in drylands: (1) restrict the water exploitation and regulate the water cost to reconcile the conflict between economy and environment; (2) promote novel technologies to increase the water use efficiency; (3) enhance regional cooperation achieve holistic development in a mutually beneficial way. Explore further Pursuing carbon neutrality and water security in China More information: Yali Liu et al, Water resource conservation promotes synergy between economy and environment in China's northern drylands, Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering (2021). Yali Liu et al, Water resource conservation promotes synergy between economy and environment in China's northern drylands,(2021). DOI: 10.1007/s11783-021-1462-y Provided by Higher Education Press Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Hundreds of thousands of school students around the world will strike for climate justice on Friday 25 March. These strikers, and new research, demonstrate that climate change requires our educational system to "radically reimagine" the core purposes and practices of education towards those that can cultivate a liveable planet and climate justice, said Dr. Blanche Verlie. Dr. Verlie is a climate justice expert in the Sydney Environment Institute at the University of Sydney. She is the guest co-editor with Alicia Flynn, a Ph.D. candidate from the University of Melbourne, of a special issue of the Australian Journal of Environmental Education on research around the global school strikes. "Students are striking because they are terrified of the future they are inheriting and horrified by the unequal implications for others," said Dr. Verlie. "Young people are becoming climate change educators. They have been teaching themselves and others, from their peers, to parents, teachers, communities, politicians, and scholars. Students must navigate complex political terrain in order to fight for their futures. Given all of this, we need to reimagine education in these climate-changing times." School strikes The first school strike started when one 15-year-old Swedish girl, Greta Thunberg, sat alone outside the Swedish Parliament asking for a radical reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. That was 2018. Since then, Thunberg has rallied roughly 10 million people from 260 countries to join in the school strikes. In Australia, the movement is called School Strike 4 Climate. While school strikes have reached a worldwide crescendo, Dr. Verlie and her co-editor Ms. Flynn, say that youth activism and school strikes have a long history. For decades, youth activism and school strikes have been run by organizations such as the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, Australian Student Environment Network, Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network (Australia) and the Pacific Climate Warriors (Pacific Islands). Young BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) leaders such as Xiuhtezcatl Roske-Martinez, Jamie Margolin, Hilda Nakabuye have also had huge impact across the world with climate justice activism. However, the Thunberg-led strikes have taken the climate action to a new level, according to Dr. Verlie. "There is now a critical shift in youth climate activism as well as political action more broadly and, as this report explores, one that directly enrolls education and schools into the arena of climate politics," Dr. Verlie said. "One oft-used school striker placard reads, 'we are skipping our lessons to give you one' and in this research collection, we argue that it is the duty of educators and education scholars to pay attention to what we might learn about climate education from school strikers." More learning, more activism In 2018, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said schools need "more learning and less activism." However, Dr. Verlie's research puts this into questionshowing that schooling is not meeting children's needs for holistic, action-oriented climate change education. "Instead, young people are learning a suite of skills through striking from school leadership, communication, team building, and organizational, democratic and critical analysis skillsand are teaching others as they do so," Dr. Verlie said. The research in the special issue of the Australian Journal of Environmental Education found five key themes: Students are striking because of the affective weight of climate injustice. Students learn through their participation in striking, in contrast to the often insufficient climate change education taught in schools. Young people are becoming climate change educators through their roles as strikers. Strikers are patronized through paternalistic structures (including schooling) that ostensibly exist to protect them. Therefore, we need to reimagine education. Education needs to change Many students in Australia have experienced the direct results of climate change with their schools closed due to bushfires or floods. "The students know the stakes are high," said Dr. Verlie. "The strikers say the activism is learningtherefore we believe that learning must be activism." The researchers propose four radical changes to education: Recognize that young people are living through climate change right now and it's not something to be studied from a dispassionate distance. Take young voices seriously; educators must listen to, support and work alongside their students. Reconsider the outdated notion that students can be educated to "manage" the planet; instead embrace collective responsibility. Learn to respond to uncertainty and complex challenges. The research The special issue of the Australian Journal of Environmental Education is a collection of new research articles that explore the failures and opportunities of climate change education in light of the school strikes. The research gathered is from a range of education, social movement, and youth studies academics across Australia and the world, including Associate Professor Amanda Tattersall, from Sydney Policy Lab at the University of Sydney, Associate Professor Greg Lowan-Trudeau from the University of Calgary, and Dr. Ben Bowman from Manchester Metropolitan University. Two of the papers are co-authored with School Strike 4 Climate leaders from Australia: Varsha Yajman, Jean Hinchliffe, Harriet O'Shea Carre and Niamh O'Connor Smith. Overall, the research demonstrates that students are learning how to seek justice out on the streets through the school strikes. Explore further Children deserve answers to their questions about climate change: How universities can help More information: Blanche Verlie et al, School strike for climate: A reckoning for education, Australian Journal of Environmental Education (2022). Blanche Verlie et al, School strike for climate: A reckoning for education,(2022). DOI: 10.1017/aee.2022.5 Average farmer yield, yield potential and yield gap (as a percentage of yield potential) for irrigated and rainfed rice. af, Panels show average farmer yield (a,b), yield potential (c,d), and yield gap (as a percentage of yield potential) (e,f) for irrigated (a,c,e) and rainfed (b,d,f) lowland rice for the six major rice-producing countries in Southeast Asia at the climate zone level. Other countries in Southeast Asia not included in our yield-gap analysis are shown in gray. Data provided in Source Data Fig. 3. The base map was applied without endorsement using data from the Database of Global Administrative Areas. Credit: Nature Food (2022). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-022-00477-z At least 40% of global rice exports come from Southeast Asia, making the region a major rice bowl. The region helps feed other parts of the world such as Africa and the Middle East. Projections show that global rice demand is set to increase by 30% by 2050. With the continuing rice trade and limited scope available for other main rice-producing countries like China and India to generate a rice surplus, Southeast Asia faces a challenge in stepping up to ensure adequate global rice supply. But crop yields stagnate, land allotted for agriculture does not increase, and climate change remains a looming threat, raising concerns about the capacity of the region to remain a large net exporter. In a recent study published in Nature Food, an international team of researchers, including those from the major rice-producing nations in Southeast Asia, estimated the difference between yield potential and average farmer yield across the six countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. The initiative was led by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the U.S. and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines and multi-institutional collaborators. Results from the project are available via the Global Yield Gap Atlas (www.yieldgap.org), a collaboration between the University of NebraskaLincoln and Wageningen University designed to estimate the difference between actual and potential yields for major food crops worldwide. "Over the past decades, through renewed efforts, countries in Southeast Asia were able to increase rice yields, and the region as a whole has continued to produce a large amount of rice that exceeded regional demand, allowing a rice surplus to be exported to other countries," said lead author Dr. Shen Yuan, a postdoctoral research associate at Huazhong Agricultural University in China. "The issue is whether the region will be able to retain its title as a major global rice supplier in the context of increasing global and regional rice demand, yield stagnation and limited room for cropland expansion." Through a data-intensive approach, the researchers determined that the region has the potential to increase production on existing cropland and remain a major global rice supplierbut changes in production and management techniques will be key, and producers could stress natural resources in the process. Researchers found that the average yield gap represents nearly half of the yield potential estimated for the region, but it is not the same for every country. Yield gaps are larger in Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand, but comparably smaller in Indonesia and Vietnam. "We used an approach that consists of a combination of crop modeling, spatial analysis, and use of detailed databases on weather, soil, and cropping system data," said Dr. Patricio Grassini, associate professor at the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. "The regional extent of the study together with the level of detail in relation to spatial and temporal variation in yield gaps and specificity in terms of cropping systems is unique, providing a basis for prioritizing agricultural research and development and investments at regional, national and sub-national levels" According to the study, the region needs to close the existing yield gap substantially to reduce the need for rice imports, allowing for an aggregated rice surplus of 54 million tons available for exports. "Our analysis shows that Southeast Asia will not be able to produce a large rice surplus in the future without acceleration of current rates of yield gains," Grassini said. "Failure to increase yield on existing cropland areas will drastically reduce the rice exports to other regions and the capacity of many countries in the region to achieve or sustain rice self-sufficiency. It will also put additional pressure on land and water resources, risking further encroachment into natural ecosystems such as forests and wetlands." Researchers suggest a number of interventions needed to close the gap, including improvement of crop management practices, such as the use of fertilizer and irrigation, nutrients, water, and pest management, as well as mitigation of production risks in lowland rainfed environments. "The challenge is how to increase yield while minimizing the negative environmental impact associated with intensive rice production. For example, tailoring nutrient management to each environment will help increase yield and farmer profits while reducing nutrient losses. Likewise, integrated pest management is a knowledge-intensive but valuable approach if applied correctly and holistically to reduce yield losses to weeds, pests and diseases while minimizing excessive use of pesticides and associated risks to the environment and people," said IRRI Senior Scientist Alice Laborte. "Closing the rice yield gaps requires the concerted effort of policymakers, researchers, and extension services to facilitate farmers' access to technologies, information, and markets. Continued investment in rice research is crucial," she added. Explore further Finding the recipe for a larger, greener global rice bowl More information: Patricio Grassini, Southeast Asia must narrow down the yield gap to continue to be a major rice bowl, Nature Food (2022). Journal information: Nature Food Patricio Grassini, Southeast Asia must narrow down the yield gap to continue to be a major rice bowl,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-022-00477-z Provided by International Rice Research Institute Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Camille Ingham, who recently graduated from Penn State Harrisburg with a master of arts in criminal justice, for her master's thesis partnered with the college's Center for Survey Research to assess how the publication of digital arrest logs impacted the future success of justice-involved individuals, especially arrestees, across Pennsylvania. The study included how "digital punishment" affects an individual's ability to find employment or housing or even maintain social involvement after an arrest. Through conversations with Siyu Liu, assistant professor of criminal justice and Ingham's research supervisor, Ingham wanted to determine what features on police websites may be important and impactful to learn more about the way they affect others. "The publication of digital arrest logs has the potential to affect members of every community," Ingham said. "With the sheer number of people who are or have been involved with the criminal justice system at some point, millions of them could be subjected to their mugshots being posted online and have to deal with the detrimental social and economic effects that come with such publications." More government units, including criminal justice agencies, are using the internet to share information. Police agencies are building official websites and social media presences as ways to improve transparency, accountability and public participation. The services often feature crime-related information such as maps and statistics. Some police departments also p,rovide a frequently updated digital arrest log that may include personal information, such as a photo, the age, and the full name of each arresteeinformation that, according to research by Sarah. E. Lageson, could be weaponized against the justice-involved individuals featured on the sites as they aim to reenter society. "As we know from existing literature, although not necessarily indicative of an individual's guilt, the ease of access to such public information can create additional difficulties for justice-involved individuals as they overcome the many hurdles to rebuilding their lives during re-entry amidst the scrutiny of family, friends and employers," said Liu. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Pennsylvania is home to over 1,500 law enforcement agencies, and these agencies have different policies for publishing digital arrest logs and often use outside web design and maintenance services. Ingham said that given the popularity of such services and the scale of this practice among law enforcement agencies, Pennsylvania deserves special attention when it comes to the adoption of digital arrest logs, where the large number of agencies can increase the publication of personal information across the state. As a first step in her study, Ingham used data collected from the 2021 Lion Poll, a statewide survey conducted by the center, to understand whether Pennsylvanians know that many local police agencies publish a detailed arrest log on their agency websites. The data showed that just 34% of the sampled 1,044 adult Pennsylvanians know about the police publishing digital arrest logs. Males reported slightly more knowledge (36%) than females (32%), and respondents with at least one child in the household were more likely (39%) to know about digital arrest logs than those without (31%). Read a summary of the study findings here. Her research found that, while Pennsylvanians regard the digital arrest logs as somewhat useful, their reported knowledge about this information is limited. Ingham said that since crime-related digital footprints can impact justice-involved individuals for an extended period, regardless of whether an individual is found guilty or not, these findings question the true benefits of publishing digital arrest logs and suggest a need for further investigation. "While these publications intend to protect the public, they are not necessarily effective in doing that given the low levels of public knowledge of digital arrest logs, and that is an important thing to consider when there may be more effective alternatives," Ingham said. "Members of the public should be aware of these publications that rely on their tax dollars that may be better spent in a more effective measure of public protection. "Considering the limited awareness and use of digital arrest logs, public policy could look to determine alternative ways to disseminate important information to the public," Ingham said. "Resources may need to be redistributed in a way that best suits the needs of the community to promote transparency and crime-control efforts." She said that crime information and prevention can take various forms, such as community policing, police town hall meetings, or even newsletters outlining important crime prevention information. "The needs of the community should be at the forefront of policy making before a potentially stigmatizing practicesuch as publishing detailed arrest logsis put in place. Finally, care should be given to justice-involved individuals and the costs they face related to these digital footprints." While Ingham's research aims to explore public opinion on the knowledge and perceived usefulness of these digital arrest logs, she hopes to stimulate conversations about whether the posting of these logs meets the goals of e-government accessibility, transparency and accountability and whether the benefits of such publication outweigh the costs to justice-involved individuals. Lion Poll methodology The study uses data collected from the 2021 Lion Poll; an omnibus survey conducted by the Center for Survey Research (CSR) at Penn State Harrisburg. The Lion Poll utilizes a web panel methodology to collect data from 1,000 adult Pennsylvanians. Respondents received nominal compensation as thanks for their participation. To ensure that the results were not biased toward any particular location, age, or sex, quotas were utilized to guarantee that the final dataset would be representative of Pennsylvania's Census population by region and, separately, by age/sex combined categories. Upon agreeing to participate in the survey, respondents were asked a series of demographic questions, as well as a variety of public policy and general attitudinal questions submitted by other Lion Poll sponsors. Rigorous standards were employed to assure response quality, including utilizing screening questions, attention checks, and straight-lining checks to identify low quality respondents and prevent automated (bot) responses from being included in the final dataset. Explore further How do autistic individuals interact with the criminal justice system? Pencil pine is one of Tasmanias tree species with Gondwanan lineage. Credit: Shutterstock The summer of 202122 will be remembered for the extraordinarily destructive flooding across eastern Australia. At the same time, however, western Tasmania was experiencing extreme drought, with some areas receiving their lowest rainfall on record. This drought fits an observed drying trend across the state, which will worsen due to climate change. This is very bad news for the ancient wilderness in the state's World Heritage Area, where the lineage of some tree species stretch back 150 million years to the supercontinent Gondwana. The drying trend has seen a steady increase in bushfires ignited by lightning, imperiling the survival of Tasmania's Gondwanan legacy, and raising profound fire management challenges. Indeed, climate change means we're on a learning curve, and the usual practices of managing fire are no longer necessarily fit for purpose. There is increasing scientific recognition of the risk of the Gondanwan ecosystem collapsing from climate change driven fires. A new draft fire management plan outlines key steps to ensure these iconic forests survive for decades to comeand it must receive dedicated funding. Tasmania's drought Western Tasmania is one of Australia's wettest regions, where average annual rainfall can exceed 3 meters. Cool temperatures, year-round rainfall, and complex topography have created fire refugialandscapes naturally protected from fire. This is why western Tasmania is home to a suite of so-called "living fossils," such as Huon pines and pencil pines. The survival of these relic species hangs in a delicate balance. They occur in small patches surrounded by large areas of highly flammable Australian vegetation, such as eucalypts, tea-tree and, within in the World Heritage site, the ubiquitous buttongrass moorland. The cool moist climate, combined with the skillful, intentional application of fire by Aboriginal people, have conserved ancient, unique trees for millennia. However, the changes in fire patterns following colonialism have caused some Gondwanan refugia to collapse. Western Tasmania's current drought is its worst in 40 years, despite the presence of La Ninaa natural climate phenomenon that brings cool, wet weather to parts of Australia. It has also been one Tasmania's hottest summers on record. Fortunately, the past summer has seen only a few bushfires ignited by lightning. Nonetheless, one of these fires was near the last remaining stand of unlogged Huon pine forest. To understand the level of risk to Tasmania's World Heritage Area, we can look to bushfires in 2016 and 2019 when massive dry lightning storms ignited fires in remote wilderness areas, threatening ecologically irreplaceable areas such as the Walls of Jerusalem and Mt Anne. And let's not forget, the largest fire in the 201920 bushfire crisis, which threatened many Blue Mountains towns, was ignited by a lightning strike in a remote and rugged area. Likewise, the devastating 2003 Canberra bushfires was caused by lightning strikes in Kosciuszko and Namadgi National Parks. There can be no doubt effective management of Tasmania's wilderness will provide protection for nearby towns. The Walls of Jerusalem is an alpine park in northwest Tasmania. Credit: Shutterstock So what does sustainable fire management look like? It's widely accepted among Australian fire management agencies and conservation groups that aerial firefighting is key to controlling remote bushfires. But there are significant downsides to this approach. The two most important are the very high costs of using aircraft, and the environmental impacts of firefighting chemicals. Some firefighting chemicals can, for instance, change soil chemistry so it favors weed invasion. Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage Area needs a sustainable fire management approach which, crucially, employs and involves Aboriginal people. This would not only benefit the environment, but also enable Aboriginal people in Tasmania to reconnect with important cultural sites. A sustainable approach is one that reduces the number of large bushfires while also intentionally applies fire to ecosystems and threatened species that require regular burning. For example, the critically endangered orange bellied parrot needs regularly burned buttongrass moorland as part of its habitat. For this to work, we need to create carefully designed fuel breaks across the landscapestrips of land with less vegetation available to burn, which slows bushfires. Naturally, such planned burning must consider biodiversity, ensuring fire sensitive plants that can't bounce backsuch as pencil pines and alpine vegetationare protected. At the same time, we must continue to burn native plants that depend on fire to regenerate. Protecting biodiversity can be achieved through carefully implementing a practice called "mosaic" burning. This is where small areas are regularly burnt to create a patchwork of habitats so wildlife has a diversity of resources and places to shelter in. Ultimately, well-designed landscape management will give managers confidence to let some fires run free, rather than attempting costly aerial firefighting campaigns. By contrast, areas with internationally important natural and cultural values should be the focus of fire protection efforts when bushfires do occur, such as the innovative use of sprinklers to protect the shores of Lake Rhona. More fire in our future The above fire management approaches are outlined in the current draft fire management plan for the World Heritage Area. Realizing its objectives will require dedicated, recurrent funding, without which the plan's goals will remain aspirational. What's more, any fire management evaluation going forward must be publicly transparent to see continual improvement. It will also ensure there's a broader community understanding of the need to make difficult decisions to adapt to climate change-driven bushfires. The 201920 bushfire crisis that shocked the world has been overwritten by many other subsequent crises, such as the pandemic, flooding, and geopolitical turmoil. Indeed, the soggy summer in eastern Australia has no doubt engendered a widespread belief bushfires have gone away. They haven't. The luxuriate growth from the La Nina is priming landscapes across eastern Australia to burn again. We must keep focus on adapting to bushfires that are being turbo charged by climate change. With serious investment to protect Tasmania's precious environment, the rest of Australiaand indeed other flammable wildernesses elsewhere in the worldcan too learn how to sustainably manage increasingly devastating bushfires. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Thanks for visiting ! The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy. We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here. Thank you for your support! The state Department of Environmental Conservation and Adirondack Mountain Reserve plan to bring back a pilot reservation-based parking system in the AMR parking lot this year. The system will open on May 1, with slots available to book as early as April 17. The online reservation system, HikeAMR, was launched last May in an effort to mitigate safety issues and traffic problems on a stretch of state Route 73 near the entrance to the AMR lot, which boasts several popular trailheads to the High Peaks Wilderness. In the past, when the parking lot would get full, there was no way for hikers to know it was full before they arrived. Upon arrival, some hikers would choose to park illegally along the roadside and walk along the road to their desired trailhead. Tested in the AMR parking lot last year, the system gives High Peaks visitors the opportunity to register for a parking spot in advance. The pilot system is expected to operate through next year. People can start booking spots for the upcoming peak hiking season on April 17, and reservations can be made up to two weeks in advance on a 24-hour rolling basis. The reservation system will be open this year through Oct. 31. Reservations will be required to access the AMR parking lot, trailheads and trails on the 7,000 acre AMR property, according to a news release from the DEC. AMR has a conservation easement with the DEC that allows the public to hike there. Reserving a parking spot at AMR is free, and people can reserve a spot for a single day or for overnight use. People who are camping could reserve a spot for up to three nights. People getting dropped off or picked up in the AMR lot, or arriving by bicycle, would also need to register with the system. There are 70 reservations, including overnight reservations, available per day. Reservations will also be required for access to Noonmark and Round Mountain trailheads, which are on the AMR property. AMR wont allow people to walk in without reservations, except people who have a Greyhound or Trailways bus ticket from within the past 24 hours. More than 21,000 hikers signed up to use the parking reservation system last summer, according to the DECs release. The department said that 14,000 of those registrants were New Yorkers, while 6,600 came from outside the state and 138 people came from other countries. Only 113 Canadians registered with the system last year; the U.S.-Canada land border was closed for most of the summer due to the pandemic. The DEC expects reservation numbers to rise this year as pandemic-related restrictions are lifted. DEC and AMR made a few tweaks to the reservation system after it launched last year. One of those changes was installing an automatic gate so hikers could return to their cars and exit the AMR lot at their convenience. Previously, there was a manual gate that employees shut at 7 p.m. nightly; some hikers expressed concern that they might not have enough time to descend to their cars before closing. Hikers can also now make their parking reservations just 12 hours in advance, as opposed to the original requirement of 24 hours in advance. Other changes included starting an email reminder system to reduce no-shows, increasing the number of people allowed per reservation to eight, and moving the start time for the rolling two-week opening of future dates from midnight to noon. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 GANSEVOORT A Gansevoort man is facing child pornography charges. Adam S. Conlee, 36, was arrested on Thursday after state police said he possessed and promoted images consistent with child exploitation. His arrest followed an investigation stemming from a cyber tip received by the New York State Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Conlee was charged with felony counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child and possessing a sexual performance by a child. Conlee was arraigned in Moreau Town Court and released to pretrial services. He is due to return to Northumberland Town Court on April 5. The Troop G Computer Crimes Unit assisted with the investigation. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Saratoga County Sheriffs Office is partnering with OffenderWatch to offer a new and free family safety mobile app to keep children and families safe. OffenderWatch is the nations leading sex offender registry partner. The Sheriffs Office announced the partnership on Wednesday and is offering the OffenderWatch App for free download on Android and iPhone smartphone devices. The app, which offers online safety information and tips for how to talk to children about sex offenders, will allow citizens to see registered sex offenders located near them or their family members. They will also receive alerts when a registered sex offender moves into their neighborhood. The safety of our community is one of the most important fundamental concerns we have as police officers, said Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo. Our partnership with OffenderWatch provides our citizens with one more tool to keep them and their families safe. Families will have the option to upgrade the app to a paid version, which will include additional features. Mike Cormaci, president and co-founder of OffenderWatch, said that their mission is to help law enforcement protect their communities from sexual predators better. As predators continue to groom and solicit children online, were helping law enforcement and families combat these efforts before it becomes a tragedy, he said. The OffenderWatch App works as follows: Parents who sign up for the OffenderWatch App download the app on their own smartphone and their childs android or iPhone device. In the free version of the app, parents can see their childs location and the location of registered sex offenders. Parents will receive notifications if a sex offender moves into their neighborhood. For the paid version, the app also monitors the childs smartphone texts, emails, location and phone calls in the background without storing the childs messages or interfering with its use. If a registered sex offender contacts the child, or the child lingers near the address of a sex offender the parent or guardian receives an instant notification. From there, parents should ask their children about their smartphone activity or contact law enforcement to investigate. Parents and guardians can download the app or learn more at communitynotification.com or OffenderWatch.com Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Atlantic City casino workers feel they are closer than ever to getting a law passed that would ban smoking in the gambling halls. Tuesday was the 16th anniversary of a New Jersey law that banned smoking almost everywhere indoors, except in casinos. About 250 casino workers held a rally in a waterfront park to call on the state Legislature to pass a bill that already has many co-sponsors in both parties. The casino industry and the main casino workers labor union oppose the bill, saying it will lead to job losses and revenue declines. No vote has yet been scheduled. An Atlantic County man involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol was sentenced to 10 days in jail Friday, said his attorney, Steven Scheffler. He also was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, $938 in restitution, and he must return the microphones to the government within 30 days. Robert Lee Petrosh, 52, a former Marine from Mays Landing, was arrested for his involvement in the riot, in which thousands of loyalists of former President Donald Trump sought to interrupt the certification of the 2020 election, in which Trump lost to current President Joe Biden. Scheffler said after the sentencing that his client must surrender himself, and arrangements to do so will be forthcoming. He said Petrosh, who fought in Desert Storm and has three children, took the plea deal because of the mounting evidence of him committing the offenses with which the government charged him, calling it clear video evidence. Scheffler argues his client was a misdirected tourist with some misguided beliefs. The attorney also contends the federal government prosecuted Petrosh for his political ideology. He was firm that he had believed what he had indicated, Scheffler said of Petroshs belief in Trumps election claims. Petrosh is among a handful of South Jerseyans to have been charged with crimes tied to the attack. James Rahm, formerly of Atlantic City, and his son, James III, were charged with entering the Capitol. Leonard Guthrie Jr., of Cape May, was arrested for allegedly walking past a police barricade before the crowd breached the building. Petrosh, who originally faced multiple charges stemming from the riot, pleaded guilty to theft of government property. He was captured on camera stealing two microphones off a lectern belonging to Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during the riot. Last week, federal prosecutors, through a sentencing memorandum filed March 18, requested that Petrosh be sentenced to four months in prison, perform community service, pay a previously agreed to $938 in restitution, and remain under surveillance for one year following his release. Petrosh could have faced up to a year in prison, as noted in the plea agreement and by the U.S. Probation Office. He pleaded not guilty to his original offenses, including theft of government property, after his May 2021 arrest, in which he was released on $50,000 bail. Prosecutors say Petrosh traveled from New Jersey to Rockville, Maryland, before taking the subway into Washington for Trumps rally at the Ellipse in front of the White House. After the rally, thousands, including Petrosh, marched to the Capitol in an attempt to prevent Bidens win from becoming official. The rioters could be seen fighting with Capitol Police to enter the building, while others smashed equipment belonging to the media. Federal prosecutors said Petrosh ignored multiple red flags during the riot, including the sounds of Viking horns and exploding munitions, rioters shouting f***ing traitors on the West Lawn. Petrosh yelled Give us Nancy to officers while inside the buildings Crypt, the memorandum states. But Petrosh, according to the memorandum, argued he shouted the remarks jokingly. According to the memorandum, Petrosh underwent multiple FBI interviews after his arrest, in which he expressed his actions during the riot were justified, believing Trumps baseless claim that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump and the Republicans. He told the FBI he didnt think it was that big of a deal, the memorandum states. I mean they [Congress] are lucky thats all that happened, Petrosh told the FBI, according to the memorandum. I mean, they cheated on a f***ing election. I mean, whether you believe it or not, they did, you know they did deep down. I mean, you cant do that. You think that you, you know, maybe like youre helping I guess. The Associated Press and Philadelphia Inquirer contributed to this report. Contact Eric Conklin: 609-272-7261 econklin@pressofac.com Twitter @ACPressConklin Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Two experts will discuss the investigation into the betrayal of Anne Franks family next week during a virtual Holocaust awareness program. Jan Erik Dubbelman and Dr. Dienke Hondius, both of whom were interviewed by a cold case investigative team working to uncover the circumstances behind the fate of the Frank family, will discuss the investigation as well as their own research during the program, scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday via Zoom. The event is co-sponsored by the Sara and Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton University and Atlantic Cape Community College. The Frank family is the subject of a new book by Rosemary Sullivan titled The Betrayal of Anne Frank: A Cold Case Investigation that has been controversial in the Netherlands, so much so that its publisher has pulled the book, though it will continue to be sold in the U.S. The book explores the most likely scenario of who turned in the family to the Nazis. Local Holocaust survivor to speak at virtual Stockton event GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP Holocaust survivor and Ventnor resident Betty Grebenschikoff will share The book faced criticism from Dutch historians for alleging the person who revealed the location of the Frank familys hiding place was a prominent Jewish notary, Arnold van den Bergh. In a 69-page refutation, six historians and academics describe the cold case teams findings as a shaky house of cards. In the U.S., HarperCollins Publishers issued a statement saying it stands by The Betrayal of Anne Frank, adding that While we recognize there has been some criticism to the findings, the investigation was done with respect and the utmost care for an extremely sensitive topic. Hondius, assistant professor at Vrieje University in Amsterdam, was honored in 2020 as Stocktons Ida E. King Distinguished Visiting Professor of Holocaust Studies. Dubbelman is emeritus director of international education projects at the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. For more information and the Zoom link to the program, call 609-652-4699. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The New Jersey State Legislature did not take up a bill allowing Election-day voter registration before their scheduled break for budget-only hearings, angering several nonprofit groups. League of Women Voters of New Jersey Executive Director Jesse Burns, Director of the Democracy & Justice Program at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice Henal Patel, and Stand Up America Managing Director for Policy and Political Affairs Brett Edkins released a statement of disappointment Friday. New Jerseyans face an arbitrary deadline requiring voters to register to vote three weeks before an election, or be turned away at the pollsan injustice that particularly affects young voters and voters of color," the statement said. "And until we right this wrong, we cannot claim to be a national leader championing an inclusive democracy." New Jersey has taken important steps to ensure that every eligible citizen can vote by passing automatic voter registration, online voter registration, and more, the groups said. But the state hasn't gone far enough, according to the statement. Opponents of election-day voter registration have said it would promote voter fraud. They argue it does not give election officials enough time to properly vet prospective voters, to be sure they are residents of the town or county in which they want to vote and are not registered to vote elsewhere. Contact Nicholas Huba: 609-272-7046 nhuba@pressofac.com Twitter @acpresshuba Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The township spent years working on how to bring municipal water to the area, where many property owners say saltwater intrusion will eventually make their well water undrinkable. Rather than trying to run a water main from elsewhere in the township, officials reached a deal to bring water from the Lower Township Municipal Utilities Authority north from the Villas section of Lower Township to Del Haven. An agreement was reached in 2019. Last fall, the Lower Township Municipal Utilities Authority approved a $10 million contract to run the water lines. But in some instances, owners have balked at the $1,600 fee to connect, which is in addition to the money paid to run a line to the property. The connection fee can be paid off over three years without interest. The connection is available to 953 properties, most of them residential, according to Middle Township officials. Others question the cost per gallon, which will be higher than that paid by some other public water customers, and certainly more than well water. On Middle Townships social media account, other residents complained about the expected road closures that will come with the project. $10 million contract approval seals deal on Del Haven water MIDDLE TOWNSHIP A project to bring fresh water to homes in the Del Haven section of the to Some were enthusiastic about the plan. I cant wait for clean, fresh drinking water! A little inconvenience now is worth it in the long run, wrote one resident. Some who live in Del Haven say their water has a chemical aroma or a bad taste. The committee approved an application to the Innovative Development Fund through the state Department of Community Affairs Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program. The fund is available to local governments to support innovative projects, including those that reduce cost and provide efficiencies for the community. The township secured similar grants for Whitesboro water and sewer projects in the early 2000s. If the township receives funding, it will be divided among Del Haven property owners to help cover their plumbing costs. We also are aggressively pursuing every possible grant that could offset the costs for low- and moderate-income residents, said Mayor Tim Donohue. Thats part of our overall objective to give Del Haven residents access to the same service as the rest of the township. Middle approves mandatory connection ordinance for Del Haven water MIDDLE TOWNSHIP The Township Committee on Monday passed an ordinance mandating about 1,000 The vote Wednesday was unanimous. According to Donohue, one speaker raised concerns about the cost to residents, but several other people commented at the meeting in favor of the project. Officials also expect a safety benefit from the project, giving the Del Haven area fire hydrants for the first time. Work is underway on hydrants, according to the township, with work on the pipes to connect to homes expected to start in June, with one section completed at a time over a year. Residents will have up to a year from the time of completion to connect to the fresh water supply, reads a statement from the township. The installation of a water main for the Del Haven project will require closing Bayshore Road between Middle and Lower townships for about two weeks. That could start April 4. The road will remain closed 24 hours a day throughout the two-week period, because the equipment used to drill the tunnel cannot be moved once in position. Contact Bill Barlow: 609-272-7290 bbarlow@pressofac.com Twitter @jerseynews_bill Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. TRENTON A bill to increase poll worker pay permanently passed the state Legislature on Thursday and now goes to the governor for his signature. The bill (A208/S1290) raises poll worker pay to $300 for a 14-hour shift from $200. It also would appropriate $7 million to the Department of State to cover increased costs. Poll worker pay was raised temporarily last year by law and executive order when counties were having difficulty attracting enough poll workers. This bill would make an increase permanent. Polistina bill passes full Senate A bill by Sen. Vince Polistina, R-Atlantic, to establish the New Jersey Higher Education Student Advisory Commission and give college students more input on higher education policy passed the Senate Thursday. The 15-member student advisory commission established by the bill, S1731, would help decide the direction and priorities of higher education in New Jersey. The insights provided by college students ... can be invaluable in the ongoing quest to improve the college experience in our state, Polistina said. Under the bill, the student commission will advise the secretary of higher education on systemwide matters and provide annual reports to the higher education committees in the Senate and Assembly. Senate passes horseshoe crab resolution The Senate on Thursday advanced a bipartisan resolution sponsored by Sen. Jean Stanfield, R-Burlington, Camden, Atlantic, that would help protect the horseshoe crab population in the Delaware Bay. New Jersey has a moratorium on the harvesting of horseshoe crabs, but the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, which has managed the crab population in the Delaware Bay since 2013, approved a policy change in January that may allow for harvesting female horseshoe crabs. Stanfields resolution (SR-67) urges the ASMFC to continue prohibiting the harvest of female horseshoe crabs, except for research or vaccine development. While several bird and many fish species feed on horseshoe crabs and their eggs, humans also benefit from their blood. It is a vital ingredient in a compound used by pharmaceutical companies to test drugs for purity. Democrats block Durr resolution Senate Democrats voted to table a resolution by Sen. Ed Durr, R-Salem, Gloucester, Cumberland, that urged American energy independence amid rising gas prices. Durr defeated longtime Senate President Steve Sweeney in the November election. The resolution, SR-74, urges Congress and the president to increase domestic energy production and to lessen regulatory burdens that prevent that from happening. As a result of todays war in Ukraine, Americans are once again learning the pitfalls of relying on distant, unstable, and unfriendly nations to meet our energy needs, Durr said. As a nation, we need to stop being so short-sighted and so unwilling to use our domestic resources to reduce our reliance on foreign energy and protect our families. Contact Michelle Brunetti Post: 609-841-2895 mpost@pressofac.com Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. For many weeks, the Taliban had vowed to allow older girls to return to school on March 23. However, the Taliban reneged on that promise this week, meaning that millions of young women across Afghanistan continued to be denied their education. Why did the Taliban break their promise? How has the move been received in Afghanistan? Is there a chance that the Taliban will eventually relent and open up the schools? And what might the move mean for international engagement with the Taliban and for international assistance efforts? The latest episode of The AfPak File addresses these questions and more. Joining the debate are Pashtana Durrani, executive director of the Afghan education NGO LEARN; Humira Noorestani, an attorney and member of the American Council on Women, Peace, and Security; and Michael Kugelman, senior associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center. Muhammad Tahir of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty moderates the debate. Members of the Iowa State Board of Education gave leaders from the Davenport School District a round of applause even a few hugs after voting unanimously Thursday to restore the district's accreditation. For nearly three years, Davenport has been operating on conditional accreditation and has been required to undergo considerable state monitoring and to pay for outside help to repair what was referred to Thursday as "the crisis." Among the issues were the district's need to provide equitable education for students of color and those with disabilities. The Iowa Department of Education recommended the re-accreditation, asking the Iowa State Board of Education to relieve itself of oversight of Davenport in every capacity. Leaders from the Department of Education praised district leadership, saying, "Davenport is actively on the right path." Davenport schools to find out Thursday whether accreditation is restored For nearly three years, the Davenport Community School District has been operating on conditional accreditation and has been implementing a state-required corrective-action plan. The seriousness of the district's struggles with leadership, finances, special education and other specific areas of operation were made clear when one member of the Board of Education said at Thursday's meeting in Des Moines, "We don't ever want to see a district get to the point where we were with Davenport." She referred to Davenport's previous problems as "really desperate." Superintendent TJ Schneckloth told members of the state board that Thursday's update was different from previous meetings with state leadership because Davenport administrators, teachers and staff now are able to focus less on the past. "We are future forward now," he said. "Forward planning is very exciting to us." Several times he used the words "incredibly proud" to convey to state officials the progress that has been made in Davenport by its school board, its administration, its new cabinet, teachers and everyone else who works for the district. "I believe we're heading in a direction with some momentum," Schneckloth said. "Where we are today ... that (re-accreditation) is a huge recommendation. It doesn't mean we're perfect ... we are unwaveringly committed." Davenport School Board President Dan Gosa said Thursday's meeting was "night and day" from previous trips to Des Moines; when the Davenport district was under such scrutiny. "It was kind of a hard, uphill battle ... I enjoy driving the two-and-a-half hours now," Gosa told the board. "I hope a lot of people learn from what we went through." Board Vice President Linda Hayes told the board, "This was a negative to us that has really turned into a positive." State officials congratulated the Davenport contingent for its response to the crisis, and State Board member Michael Knedler, whose board term is nearly complete, used his final motion to recommend the re-accreditation. In a phone call on his way back to Davenport after the meeting, Schneckloth referred to the day as "incredible," saying the district's struggle back has "absolutely been the hardest work we've ever done." "It's just such an important moment. This is a milestone, not a destination," Schneckloth said. "I wish I could've bottled up the feelings and the energy directed at Davenport today and open it back up for everybody back home in the district who has worked so hard." Schneckloth had told the Davenport School Board on March 10 that the corrective-action plan was showing the most promising improvements he has seen since the district's troubles began. Davenport schools to find out Thursday whether accreditation is restored For nearly three years, the Davenport Community School District has been operating on conditional accreditation and has been implementing a state-required corrective-action plan. Since May 2019, Davenport has been operating on conditional accreditation and was required to implement a corrective-action plan. When the district failed to do so in the 2020-2021 school year, the Iowa State Board of Education appointed a superintendent and chief financial officer to work on the plan at the district's expense. The temporary state oversight was to last six months but was extended another eight months in March of 2021 and again for five months last November. Some of the oversight requirements previously were lifted, and the Department of Education on Thursday said there "are still some things" the agency will continue to monitor. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Davenport City Council approved a $236 million capital and operating budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. The budget includes no raises to property tax rates, though some fees will go up. The city's $47 million capital budget includes funding for the construction of a new Davenport fire station and a new phase of reconstruction of 53rd Street. The city doesn't plan to add new fire or police staff. Under the new budget, the city's property tax rates will hold at $16.78 per $1,000 of assessed value. But a resident's tax bill could still go up if their property's value increased. City fees, however, are set to increase. Fees that fund a hazardous materials response team will increase, as will sewer rates, but not as much as prior years. Davenport aldermen approved a plan to increase the city's sewer rates 5% annually for the next three years, a reduction from previous yearly increases of 7% or more recently. Fees for solid waste and clean water will also rise, which city staff say will avoid large hikes to pay for capital improvement projects and maintenance. The city's capital improvement budget includes $22.6 million for streets and sewer projects, including $4.45 million for neighborhood street repair and $4.6 million for high-volume street repair. The second includes $2.1 million for reconstructing and widening 53rd Street from Eastern Avenue to Elmore Circle. It also includes $10 million to construct a new Fire Station 3. And $1.22 million will go toward a flood-mitigation project at the city's Water Pollution Control Plant and compost facility, and another $1 million to set in motion a newly adopted flood resiliency plan to reduce the impact of Mississippi River flooding along Davenport's riverfront. The city's DREAM project, which aims to encourage investment and attract homebuyers to Davenport's older neighborhoods, will see an infusion of $1.04 million. "I always like to point out when we're talking about over 75% of this budget, probably more, we're talking about public infrastructure, public safety, strong neighborhoods," Alderman Kyle Gripp, at-large, said. "And this year, we added in flood mitigation, but when you talk about those three public safety, public infrastructure and strong neighborhoods that is where the vast majority of our budget is going, and that's where it should go." In other business: Davenport's East River Drive will be able to be open for traffic to the intersections of 3rd and 4th streets during Mississippi flood events up to a flood stage of 22 feet after storm sewer improvements the city council approved on Wednesday. The council approved awarding a contract to Cedar Rapids-based company H.R. Green for the $335,500 project. The city is using federal American Rescue Plan dollars for the project, which would install backflow prevention improvements on the local storm sewer system to keep East River Drive dry until water rises over the seawall, according to council agenda documents. As part of the project, a new storm sewer connection would also be constructed. Five parks in Davenport are set to get free public Wi-Fi after the Davenport city council approved a contract with Metro Fibernet for $86,591 to install outdoor wireless internet service. Those parks include Cork Hill Park, Emeis Park Pavilion, Fejervary Pavilion, Herington Park and Centennial Park Pavilion. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Ongoing conflict between rival gangs likely led to the shooting death early last year of a 14-year-old in Davenport, according to new police testimony. Davenport police Detective Jordan Sander testified Friday in Scott County District Court during a preliminary hearing in the first-degree murder case of Javon Combs. Police allege the 20-year-old of Davenport was one of three men involved in the killing of 14-year-old Jamon Winfrey near the intersection of 13th and Farnam streets on Feb. 24, 2021. Also charged with Winfrey's murder are Chrystian Zamariyea Smith, 18, and John Eddie Hanes III, 18. Like Combs, both were charged with first-degree murder, which carries an automatic sentence of life without parole in Iowa. Sander has worked as a member of the Davenport Police Department's major crimes unit for the past six years. The unit investigates crimes like homicide and burglary, but "gang-related shootings take up a fairly decent amount" of the unit's time, Sander said in court. He testified that Combs, Smith and Hanes are part of a gang called MMG. Sander did not say what the group's name meant. He also alleged Winfrey was part of the Savage Life gang, and said police believe the two groups are rivals and that both have a "shoot on sight" order if a member or members of the rival gang are spotted. Sander laid out for the court how Winfrey's shooting unfolded. He said at about 4:22 p.m. on Feb. 24, 2021, officers went to the area of 13th and Farnam streets to investigate a report of gunfire. An initial investigation indicated three vehicles a black four-door sedan, a gold sedan and a silver minivan were chasing one another with shots fired from at least one of the vehicles, according to police. Sander testified that Combs, Smith and Hanes were able to block the vehicle they were chasing, causing the vehicle in which Winfrey was riding to stop in the roadway, and that Combs and one of the other two men fired at Winfrey, striking him. Officers located a scene and recovered spent shell casings but did not find anyone with injuries nor any damage to property during that first response. Winfreys body was found the next day in a yard between houses in the 1300 block of Farnam Street. A member of Combs family quietly wept during Sander's testimony. Combs is expected to make his next court appearance April 29. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A Davenport woman awaiting two court appearances was arrested Wednesday in connection with a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts in Bettendorf over an eight-day period in July, according to arrest affidavits. Nevaeh Tyshae Thomas, 18, who has an April 1 sentencing hearing after pleading guilty to stealing a car and an April 14 arraignment for another auto theft charge, is facing new charges of first-degree theft and conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony in connection with the Bettendorf incidents. First-degree theft is a Class C felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 10 years, while conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony is a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years. According to the arrest affidavit filed by Bettendorf Police Officer Matt Poirer, between July 22 and July 31, Thomas drove her mothers white 2004 Nissan Maxima into the Deerbrook Addition with others to commit car and residential burglaries. One of the people riding in the Nissan committed a burglary of a garage at a home in the 3800 block of Treeline Drive. The home was occupied at the time. The burglary was caught on a neighbors camera. Bettendorfs license plate readers captured the Nissan entering Bettendorf just before and just after the burglary. On July 25, a 2016 GMC Grand Canyon was stolen from a home in the 2700 block of Buckingham Avenue. The vehicle was recovered in Rock Island shortly after the theft and processed. Thomas fingerprints were located on the exterior of the vehicle. Thomas admitted to police that she was picked up and given a ride by a 13-year-old cousin shortly after the theft and fleeing from police and then getting out of the vehicle in Rock Island. On July 31, a 2008, Lexus LS460 was stolen out of a garage in the 5600 block of Lewis Court at 4:44 p.m. The citys license plate readers captured the vehicle traveling west on 6th Street at 4:50 p.m. In the same image, the white Nissan Maxima belonging to Thomas' mother, is seen directly behind the stolen Lexus. Thomas admitted to driving the same people to the area to commit the vehicle theft and garage burglary. Over that period of nine days, Thomas aided and abetted several other people to steal two vehicles and commit several garage and vehicle burglaries. Thomas was taken into custody Wednesday on a warrant. She was released from the Scott County Jail after posting 10% of a $5,000 bond through a bonding company. A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for April 1 in Scott County District Court. Thomas also is scheduled to be sentenced April 1 after pleading guilty Sept. 24 to a charge of second-degree theft in connection with the theft of a Toyota Prius. The charge is a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years. According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Officer James Allison, at 3:19 a.m. on Feb. 18, 2021, officers were checking the area of Ripley Street and Colony Drive for the stolen Prius. Officers found the vehicle and the driver of the Prius struck Allisons squad. Thomas fled the scene on foot but was later located. Thomas had left her purse and cell phone on the front seat of the Prius. She also admitted to being the front-seat passenger in the vehicle. Thomas also is scheduled to be arraigned April 14 on charges of first-degree theft and public intoxication after she was found in possession of a stolen 2018 Lexus RX 350 at 2:14 p.m. on March 3 at the Kwik Star at 1650 W. Kimberly Road. According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Officer Patrick Sievert, Thomas attempted to flee in the vehicle that is valued at $37,000. Thomas smelled of alcohol and as soon as police took her into custody she began yelling for help. When asked why she needed help she told police, Im drunk, according to the affidavit. Thomas was released from the Scott County Jail after posting 10% of a $10,300 bond through a bonding company. Thomas attorney waived the preliminary hearing in that case, and an arraignment date was scheduled in district court. Love 1 Funny 3 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 13 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. DES MOINES Iowa is donating 146 protective helmets and 714 ballistic vests to Ukraine. They are excess expired equipment from the Iowa Department of Public Safety and 18 other law enforcement agencies. Iowans from across the state have expressed their solidarity with the brave people of Ukraine as they courageously defend their country and fight for their freedom, Gov. Kim Reynolds said Thursday. Our donation of helmets and vests is one small way we can show that Iowa stands with them. The Linn County sheriff posted on Twitter his department donated 10 ballistic vests and 16 ballistic helmets. They were unusable for our deputies, but still very usable for Ukrainians in their time of great need, said Sheriff Brian Gardner. Others participating are county sheriffs offices in Dubuque, Iowa, Plymouth, Pottawattamie and Ringgold counties. Police departments contributing equipment are Clear Lake, Coralville, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, DeWitt, Manchester, Nevada, Norwalk, Urbandale, West Des Moines, West Liberty, Windsor Heights and Winterset. The state is working with the Consulate General of Ukraine in Chicago to facilitate the collection, coordination and shipment of the items to Ukraine. PIZZA ROLLERS: A pizza legislation that its sponsor, Rep. Mike Bousselot, R-Ankeny, said rolls state policy to align with federal workplace rules so Iowa 16- and 17-year-olds earn dough was approved 93-0. He assured House members he was not trying to be cheesy or offering a half-baked idea. Senate File 2190 would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to operate pizza dough rollers, which is permitted under federal regulations. The change was sought by Caseys General Stores, which has about 535 stores in Iowa. It also has stores in 15 other states. Iowa and Wisconsin are the only places where 16- and 17-year-old are not permitted to operate the machines that roll balls of dough into pizza rounds, according to Tom Cope, a lobbyist for the convenience store operator. ELDER ABUSE: The Iowa House unanimously approved Senate File 522 to increase penalties for people convicted of abusing, assaulting or exploiting older Iowans. Whether it's a family member, whether it's a huckster or whether it's somebody else that this person trusts, we see that they can take advantage of what can be some of our most vulnerable Iowans, said Rep. Dustin Hite, R-New Sharon. The bill ensures that we have added protections for Iowans who need it, Hite added. There was some discussion whether enhanced penalties will reduce crimes against the elderly. However, Hite said that when somebody picks on the most vulnerable of Iowans, they deserve a harsher punishment. The bill establishes several crimes, including assault of someone 60 and older. Charges would range from a simple misdemeanor to a Class D felony depending on the circumstances of the assault. Charges for financial exploitation of an older person would range from a serious misdemeanor to a Class B felony. Charges for elder abuse would range from a serious misdemeanor to a Class C felony depending on injuries. The House amended the bill, so it must go back to the Senate, which previously approved it 47-0, before going to the governor. TRANSPARENCY: The House Appropriations Committee OKd an amendment to House File 2499, House Republicans school transparency bill, despite the amendment not being available to the public. Rep. Phil Thompson, R-Jefferson, said it would increase flexibility for teachers to update lesson plans and remove a requirement students pass a civics test to graduate. Schools without digital catalogs of library materials would have until July 2025 to meet that requirement. The amendment was adopted on a voice vote. The bill was approved on a party-line vote. FIREWORKS: A bill requiring cities to expand their planning and zoning commissions and boards of adjustment if they extend their zoning jurisdiction up to two miles beyond the city limits was amended to prohibit restrictions on the location of businesses selling fireworks. The restriction on local control would apply in areas zoned commercial or industrial. Republicans suspended the rules, because the amendment was not relevant to Senate File 2285, which was unanimously approved by the Senate. The bill then was approved 55-37. GARBAGE GRABS: A proposal to legislatively overturn a state Supreme Court decision that Iowans do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy for garbage they place in a publicly accessible area was approved by the Iowa House 56-38 Tuesday. Senate File 2296 would reestablish the status quo, said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Steve Holt, R-Denison. The court ruled in 2021 in the case of a northern Iowa man who was charged with misdemeanor possession of controlled substances after evidence was found during a warrantless search of his garbage that had been placed outside his home. Holt described the ruling as turning decades of precedent on its head and alleviating one of law enforcement's most vital tools in solving crimes. The U.S. Supreme Court has held that warrantless trash grabs do not violate the federal constitutional prohibition on unreasonable search and seizures, said Rep. Mary Wolfe, D-Clinton. Wolfe also argued that majority GOP lawmakers know they dont have the authority to legislatively overturn a constitutionally protected liberty interest. Instead, it must be done through a constitutional amendment approved by voters. Five Democrats joined Republicans to approve the Senate bill and five Republicans voted against it. The bill now goes to the governor. PRISON SAFETY: Democratic proposals to protect Iowans working in prisons and another to require reimbursement if the governor deploys personnel outside the state were rejected by majority Republicans. During debate of a $652 million justice systems appropriation, Rep. Todd Prichard, D-Charles City, offered an amendment to address working conditions in Iowa prisons where a correctional officer and nurse were murdered by inmates a year ago. It would have defined health care personnel at prisons as public safety officers so they would have collective bargaining rights, increase penalties for assaults on correctional employees, increase funding for contraband surveillance and provide paid time off for prison employees who witness traumatic events. His amendment was ruled not germane or relevant to House File 2599. An amendment from Rep. Brian Meyer, D-Des Moines, would have required that any state department offering aid under an Emergency Management Agreement Compact be reimbursed for all costs. It was motivated by Gov. Kim Reynolds deployment of Iowa State Patrol troopers to Texas, which I viewed as a publicity stunt, he said, but Reynolds said it was needed for border security. According to records obtained by The Gazette, the state patrol estimated the 16-day June 2021 trip could cost the public $383,700 and the state signed an agreement waiving reimbursement from Texas for the cost of deployment, but then said reimbursement terms were being worked out. The bill was approved 56-38. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 For many, the Senates passage of the Sunshine Protection Act to enact year-round daylight saving time seemed like an appealing antidote to our collective grogginess after turning our clocks forward an hour on March 13. After all, who enjoys losing an hour? Each year, the sleep loss connected to springing forward for daylight saving time leads to an increase in car crashes and other health risks and general grumpiness all around. But permanent daylight saving time is not the answer. First, a little background. Standard time is just that: a system of 24 time zones established in 1883 to standardize the myriad times used across North America that were causing havoc for the railroad system. Standard time is more closely aligned with our body clocks. By contrast, daylight saving time mistimes our exposure to light and our exposure to dark, says Dr. Seema Khosla, chair of the American Academy of Sleep Medicines Public Awareness Advisory Committee and medical director of the North Dakota Center for Sleep in Fargo. Thats an important consideration, because light is a powerful cue for when we feel alert and when were ready for sleep. Even without our springtime shift to daylight saving time, the days are already starting to lengthen. That helps blunt the additional darkness in the morning when we switch our clocks. But in winter, remaining on daylight saving time would have more marked effects. In Fargo, where Khosla lives, sunrise on Dec. 21, the winter solstice, occurs at 8:09 a.m. standard time. Under year-round daylight saving time, sunrise there would be after 9 a.m. The Sunshine Protection Act doesnt provide any additional daylight. While we may associate spring with more daylight, thats a result of the natural lengthening of days, not the changing of the clock. All the new law would do is move one hour of darkness from the evening to the morning. That could have ramifications. Car crashes, for example, increase when its dark, but its not clear whether more morning crashes would be offset by fewer evening crashes, given many contributing factors. When year-round daylight saving time was briefly tried in 1974, eight children in Florida were killed by drivers in the early morning darkness. The experiment ended after less than a year. There are other risks too, due to the misalignment between daylight saving time and our intrinsic, human circadian physiology. Thats why the American Academy of Sleep Medicine supports eliminating daylight saving altogether. In California, a new state law requiring later secondary school start times reflects substantial research showing the ramifications of too-early start times for adolescent health and well-being. A permanent shift to darker morning hours would exacerbate these risks for teenagers and would be completely asynchronous with their circadian rhythms, says Dr. Judith Owens, director of the Pediatric Sleep Disorders Center at Boston Childrens Hospital. It would also largely undercut the benefits of later school start times because school would start an hour earlier, biologically speaking, during the winter. Thats the opposite of what teens need as their body clocks shift to a later schedule during puberty. In California, the later start time mandate doesnt apply to rural school districts. That means in those districts, students could still start school earlier than whats recommended and would have to contend with the one-hour winter clock change. Nationwide, less than 20% of public high schools meet the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation to start at 8:30 a.m. or later to help address chronic adolescent sleep loss, which is associated with mental health risks, lower graduation rates and much more. In northern states, the one-hour change would feel even more pronounced, with kids going to school when its darker in the winter than it already is. Were all tired of sleep loss in the spring and the hassle and confusion of changing our clocks. Thats why doing away with twice-yearly time changes comes up as regularly as, well, clockwork. Now that the short-term pain of last weeks time change has largely worn off, lets make sure that weve fully assessed whats best for students and whats safest. Were enjoying the longer evenings right now from daylight saving, but come winter, the shift wont seem nearly as appealing. Lisa L. Lewis is the author of the forthcoming book The Sleep-Deprived Teen: Why Our Teenagers Are So Tired, and How Parents and Schools Can Help Them Thrive. 2022 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Nick Uhre, co-owner of the Grand Gateway Hotel, sent a lengthy email to Gov. Kristi Noem on Wednesday asking, in part, for her help to remove Rapid City Mayor Steve Allender from office. Uhre's request follows the revelation of racist comments posted by his mother, Connie Uhre, where she said the Grand Gateway Hotel would ban all Native Americans from the property because she can't tell "who is a bad Native or a good Native." Ian Fury, Noem's chief of communications, said her office normally does not respond to media requests about these types of emails but condemned the racist remarks. The Governors office generally does not comment to the media on correspondence received from private citizens. The Governor is opposed to all racial discrimination there is no room for racial discrimination in South Dakota," Fury said. "Due to ongoing litigation on this subject, she will not be commenting further at this time. The ongoing litigation references a federal civil rights class-action lawsuit filed Wednesday against the Retsel Corporation, parent company of the Grand Gateway Hotel, for denying services to Native Americans. In Uhre's email to Noem, he claims "Allender is biased and is unfit to serve as mayor." "Steve Allender has been looking for a way to smear me or my family because of our outspokenness regarding the agenda of the left," Uhre wrote. He claims Allender took advantage of Connie Uhre's racist comments and posted them on Twitter for the mayor's own gain. He excuses Connie Uhre's comments by saying she "has 'moments.'" "How he has publicly portrayed this establishment is wrong. The mayor posting my moms Facebook post on his twitter account is beyond the pale," Uhre wrote. He claims the community outrage over the racist comments have put him and his business at risk. "I have no more employees in the bar. Soon, I will have no employees in my hotel due to them fearing for their safety," Uhre wrote. In the email, Uhre claims the issue and the publicity are not based upon the racist comments, but because of his opposition to the MacArthur Foundation Grant, which the Pennington County Sheriff's Office received in 2015 and aims to reduce jail population and racial disparities in the criminal justice system. "Governor Noem, you know my stance on the MacArthur Foundation and the Safety and Justice Challenge grant which is Critical Race Theory for our Criminal Justice System. I guess Im over the target as the saying goes. Because Im getting it," Uhre wrote. "This social media smear is very planned." He goes on to say, "Steve Allender is using his own position to manipulate the situation. Period!" Uhre pleas with Noem to remove Allender from office and cites South Dakota Codified Law that allows the governor to remove "constitutional state officers" for "crimes, misconduct, or malfeasance in office." However, a mayor is not a state officer. The governor has no power to remove a municipal elected official. Allender spoke with the Journal on Thursday and said Uhre is "unhinged." "It's completely illogical and desperate. I am at a loss to understand how he and members of his family say idiotic things, which creates a storm of criticism for him," Allender said. "Then he can turn and blame it on me. I will own my mistakes, but I won't own his. "This mess has been made messier because of he and his family's inability to navigate through it in a responsible way." In Uhre's email, he states he spoke with three Rapid City Council members, and the council members informed him that "the Mayor has a personal vendetta for me." Allender said the allegation is false. "I've heard from two of the council members that he mentioned who said they have not said anything to Nick about me having a vendetta," the mayor said. Allender said the entire Rapid City community is suffering because of the racist comments and actions. "It's all of us. It's everyone. It's not just Nick Uhre," Allender said. "He's got his own beliefs, and he and his family decided to make them public... And now he's suffering the consequence. "The court of public opinion will not tolerate he and his family's insincere apologies. The other rhetoric he's spewing out through this event, everything he says, will come back to bite him and I wish I knew what to tell him. I wish there was someone that could give him the proper advice, but it's just getting worse every day," Allender said. Contact Nathan Thompson at nathan.thompson@rapidcityjournal.com. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 3 Funny 15 Wow 4 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Christine Stephenson, a Democrat from Rapid City, has announced her candidacy for District 32 in the South Dakota House of Representatives. District 32 covers the central corridor of Rapid City. The House seats are currently held by Republicans Becky Drury and Chris Johnson. Drury has announced her re-election bid and Johnson decided not to run. Republican Steve Duffy has also announced his intention to seek a seat from District 32. Stephenson was born and raised in Rapid City, attended the University of South Dakota, and works as a physical therapist. She and her husband also own a small business. Stephenson served on the Board of Education for Rapid City Area Schools from 2017-2020, and has been a member of the district's Strategic Planning Committee in both 2016 and 2022. She was a member of the first group of emerging leaders with Rapid City Collective Impact in 2016 and served on the Rapid City Vision Fund Citizens Committee in 2021. Im motivated to run because I love South Dakota and the life my family and I have made for ourselves here, Stephenson said in her campaign announcement. Rapid City is growing, and I want to ensure that we grow in a way the protects the quality of life for all residents. Stephenson cited increasing the availability of housing, daycare services, nursing home beds and mental health care as top priorities. She said a continued focus on improving the quality of education in South Dakota would address many of the states challenges. If we can support programs shown to improve high school graduation rates, and then get these kids enrolled in our states technical schools or universities, we improve the quality of life for all of us, she said. Suddenly, we will have the employees we need, without needing to import people from out of state. Stephenson said she believes political balance in the legislature is vital to a healthy democracy. Our state faces challenges, and we will be more successful addressing these challenges if multiple viewpoints are represented in Pierre, she said. The final day to submit candidate petitions for the June 7 primary election is March 29. Independent candidates have until April 26 to file their petitions for the general election. The South Dakota general election is scheduled for Nov. 8. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 10 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Clean up and remedial actions could begin in 2030 around Ellsworth Air Force Base in areas where water was contaminated by firefighting foam used on the base. Rita Krebs, one of the restoration program managers for the Air Force at the Ellsworth Air Force Base specializing in PFAS issues, said 2030 is the realistic timeline for when cleaning will start. Hundreds of residents and 26 private wells in the area were impacted with contamination of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances at levels 10 times what the Environmental Protection Agency deems safe. The substances are linked to cancer, thyroid disease, weakened immunity and other health problems. Krebs said in a town hall meeting Tuesday that six properties have been connected to existing municipal systems where available and 20 households received treatment systems. She said the base also installed, operates and maintains a treatment system at a mobile home park. She said there's been a base-wide PFAS, one of the substances identified, remedial investigation since 2020 to determine the extent of the firefighting foam that was used from the 1970s to 2016. Samples have been taken from Box Elder to the Cheyenne River, she said. Ellsworth Air Force Base is one of three active Air Force installations with human health risk assessments underway. The assessment will be submitted to the EPA for review May 2. Krebs said the base is doing several demonstration studies with quarterly monitoring and testing to understand how Box Elder Creek, sediments and groundwater are being impacted. She also said a long-term solution for areas closer to the base includes a South Dakota Ellsworth Development Authority-owned and operated system. She said the Air Force may be able to provide about $11 million in funding. Glen Kane, managing director for the South Dakota Ellsworth Development Authority, said the authority hopes to have a system in the next two years to get residents water for free. He said the system would bring water from the Madison Aquifer through a pipeline from Black Hawk toward the east and north of Interstate 90. Other impacted areas farther from the base but along Box Elder Creek could see a connection to the Sunset Ranch community water system; a possible shallow well that had samples collected in March 2022; and an area that was purchased by the South Dakota Ellsworth Development Authority using non-environmental restoration program funds for wetlands banking for the new B-21 mission. Contact Siandhara Bonnet at siandhara.bonnet@rapidcityjournal.com You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Hamilton is offering a little free pantry as a community resource. Reverend Gretchen Strohmaier said the little free pantry belongs to everyone as it is similar to a little free library, where people can take items as needed and also donate. It is nationally connected so you could go online to find all the little free pantries around the nation, she said. This is the first little free pantry in Hamilton. The church is sponsoring it, but we are thinking of it as a bridge to the community, so the neighborhood might donate. The church encourages others to donate what they can and take what they need, Rev. Strohmaier said. The little free pantry at St. Pauls in Hamilton has been operating for two weeks, providing access and privacy. Part of the magic of it is that people can access it 24-hours-a-day, Rev. Strohmaier said. Maybe you cant get to Haven House during the hours it is open, but you can come here. This is self-serve; nobody is looking over your shoulder and you dont have to ask permission. You can come, see what is here and take what you need. We ask that people take what they need and not more than that. St. Pauls little free pantry is in the alley behind the church and the Guild House, at 600 S. 3rd St., in Hamilton. It is in a tool shed that faces DeSmet Street and has a Little Free Pantry sign painted by local artist Lois Keister. Rev. Strohmaier said the pantry is meeting a need in the community. Just today a woman drove down the alley, looked in the pantry, decided what she needed, took it and drove away, she said. It is kind of like grab and go. It makes it easy, you just take what you need. Donations are welcome and accepted at any time. You can be walking down the alley, or along the sidewalk, or just come to check it out and if you want to donate from your own cupboard at home youre completely welcome to do that, Rev. Strohmaier said. When you are grocery shopping and you come across a deal that says, buy one, get one free you take that and donate the free one here for someone else to benefit from. Rev. Strohmaier said that the church often receives requests for food assistance at the end of the month as paychecks have run out. This is one more way people from the community can help their neighbors who might be running thin at the end of the month, she said. We are learning that people need other ways to access food. A lot of folks get food from Haven House, which is awesome, but they also need other ways. St. Paul's member Alana Cruze said the idea came from when she was visiting Chicago and saw multiple little free pantries. They are all over in Chicago and I asked my cousin about them, hes an Episcopal priest there, and the idea stuck, she said. I brought it up here in a vestry meeting in front of Kathy Milne, and she and Rob Thomas ran with it to make it happen. Milne said she is hoping more free mini-pantries would open across the community. St. Paul's member, neighbor and City Council member Robin Pruitt said the effort is anonymous. Who knows who is stocking it, she said. It is all just people helping people without taking credit. The little food pantry was initially set up as a temporary option to see if it was needed, to see if it would be used. Were seeing it is and it may grow, Rev. Strohmaier said. Right now, it is a small cupboard but were recognizing it is a need, to have more options at different times of the day. St. Pauls is encouraging donations of non-perishable items rather than canned goods until the threat of frost is past. Right now, were doing all kinds of pasta, pasta sauce and ramen in easy-open containers. Were thinking about folks living out of a car where cooking is difficult, Strohmaier said. Were thinking of things that come in their own bowl and you just put hot water in it or add water and heat it up in the microwave at a mini-mart. She encourages donations of powdered milk, oatmeal packets, granola, power/protein bars, applesauce in plastic, dried fruits, jerky, cleaning supplies, paper goods, toiletries and personal hygiene products like diapers, wipes, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant and lip balm. When the weather warms, donating canned items with pull-top or pop-tops lids will make it easy also. People living out of a car might not have a can opener, Rev. Strohmaier said. We know that is a reality in Hamilton. The sign above the mini-pantry asks people not to leave items that are used, open, homemade, expired, or unlabeled. Even after just two weeks, Rev. Strohmaier sees that St. Paul's little free pantry is meeting a need as people are using the provisions. St. Paul's has just started getting the word out for people to see it as a resource, Strohmaier said. It is awesome that we are established with this broader online community at littlefreepantry.org so people could find us online and come. Its a way for us to show we care. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Ten of my colleagues have requested a special session of the Legislature for the purpose of creating a special select committee to investigate election fraud that some claim is rampant in Montana. If approved, this endeavor will cost taxpayers anywhere from a half-million to a million dollars. If there existed credible evidence of widespread election fraud in Montana or if actions were not already underway to improve election security, then expending public funds might be warranted. But neither of these conditions has been met. Montana has a sound election system of which its citizens can be proud. Creating an election fraud tribunal would be a waste of taxpayer dollars. There is an alternative for enhancing election integrity that costs taxpayers nothing. The Montana Association of Counties along with the Montana Association of Clerks and Recorders has organized a workgroup that is seeking commonsense ways to further improve our already well-administered elections. Comprised of county election administrators, representatives for the secretary of state and county commissioners, and legislators from both parties, this workgroup will be considering legislation for the 2023 session. This is the Montana way citizens with differing perspectives coming together to find solutions. I have closely scrutinized my countys election process. Several other legislators have done the same. I found stringent confirmation of voter identity, scrupulous ballot security, and vote-counting machines that cannot be connected to the Internet and thus cannot be hacked. Anyone who objectively evaluates their countys election process will surely come away impressed with Montanas election system and the local officials who make it work. Of course, no practical election system can be absolutely immune from fraud. Accordingly, the 2021 Legislature passed several election integrity bills, two of which merit mention here. SB 170 already in effect requires annual, rather than biennial, maintenance of voter rolls. And per HB 530, Montanas secretary of state is currently conducting a comprehensive review of election security across the state. She can do her job without the help of a costly committee. Much of the impetus for the special session concerns alleged irregularities in Missoula Countys 2020 election. Important questions remain unanswered. On March 28, the Missoula County Republican Central Committee and local election officials will publicly reexamine this issue and settle the matter one way or the other. A small cabal of legislators obviously intend to use the special select committee to peddle scientific evidence of nationwide manipulation of the 2020 election. Virtually every Montana county is implicated in a plot that requires vote-counting machines connected to the Internet and county officials willing to create fraudulent paper ballots. But Montanas machines arent connected to the Internet and several counties dont use machines at all. And do you really believe your countys election officials would collude in such a scheme? Not a single state attorney general in the country joined a federal lawsuit based on this conspiracy theory, which has also been debunked by scholars at the conservative Hoover Institution. Furthermore, our neighbors in Idaho have conducted recounts that conclusively repudiated it. It is past time to let this go. America faces a crisis of confidence in the legitimacy of its elections. I join my fellow Montanans who are rightfully concerned about significant election fraud that may be occurring elsewhere. But our states system is sound and is being constantly improved. A special select committee promoting baseless conspiracies may further someones political career but would recklessly undermine the publics trust in Montanas elections. This constitutes an attack on the integrity of Montanas election system that I am duty bound to resist. I ask my fellow legislators to do likewise. Love 4 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 News Windows Update for Business Deployment Service To Get Gradual Rollouts Feature Microsoft is continuing to add capabilities to its budding Windows Update for Business Deployment Service, introducing a "gradual rollouts" capability this week. The Windows Update for Business Deployment Service is a somewhat new cloud-based service, introduced in March of last year, that aims to provide organizations with more nuanced control over Windows software updates. It has certain coming capabilities that are yet to reach the preview stage. It's designed to work with PowerShell, Microsoft Graph APIs and Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune), but those capabilities also seem to be at the yet-to-come stage. Microsoft had predicted back in March that the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service would be "available to all Windows Enterprise customers in the first half of 2021," but that prediction now seems off the mark. Gradual Rollouts Feature The newly described gradual rollouts feature for the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service is used to stagger Windows 10 or Windows 11 client operating system updates across various device types. It's apparently modeled after Microsoft's own Windows Update triage process that's used in "updating hundreds of millions of consumer devices." The gradual rollouts capability is designed for use by organizations with "unique" hardware and software compatibility challenges, per Microsoft's description. To use gradual rollouts, IT pros need to enable an "AllowWUfBCloudProcessing policy," which lets them order Windows updates based on device hardware attributes, as well as based on the applications or drivers used. Enabling this policy grants Microsoft certain information processing permissions. "By enabling the AllowWUfBCloudProcessing policy, you give Microsoft permission to collect and process information on these important device attributes and use this information to optimize the order in which devices are included within a gradual rollout," Microsoft's announcement explained. The announcement doesn't explain if gradual rollouts feature is available or at preview for testing. However, most of the capabilities of the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service are yet to reach the public preview stage, and possibly are still at the private preview stage. Windows Update for Business Deployment Service Timeline Possibly, the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service will be available in preview form in the first or second half of this year, maybe as a commercial release, but it's all a bit murky. For instance, Microsoft recently updated this November announcement to state that "the public preview for the Windows Update for Business deployment service will be available in Microsoft Graph and in Microsoft Endpoint Manager in the first half of 2022," but that claim isn't consistent with other Microsoft declarations. The updated November announcement also included the following timeline, which illustrated when certain Microsoft Graph capabilities (Approval and Scheduling, Management Reporting) will light up in the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service: [Click on image for larger view.] Figure 1. Timeline for certain Microsoft Graph capabilities in the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service (source: Nov. 2, 2021 Microsoft Tech Community post, updated on March 9, 2022). Microsoft had earlier stated, in another updated announcement, that "the public preview of Microsoft Graph APIs to manage Windows updates" occurred on April 28, 2021. Microsoft is currently planning a public preview release of Windows Update for Business Deployment Service as a Web app in July, with Windows Intune integration expected to arrive later this year (presumably in public preview form). Here's how Microsoft's updated November article explained the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service's coming milestones. The private preview for Microsoft Graph kicked off in December 2021 with the web application enabling approval and scheduling of drivers. In May 2022, management reporting in Update Compliance will join the private preview, and we plan to launch all capabilities in public preview in July 2022, with a fully open-sourced web application. It will be publicly available in Intune later this year. Requirements To use the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service, when it gets released, organizations will need subscription licensing for Windows 10 E3 (at minimum) or Windows Virtual Desktop Access E3 (at minimum), or a Microsoft 365 Business Premium subscription. Windows devices will need to be joined to the Azure Active Directory service or they can be "hybrid" joined (Azure AD plus local Active Directory). IT pros will need to have certain role permissions to use the Windows Update for Business Deployment Service. They'll need to be a Global Admin or an Intune Admin in Azure AD. Alternatively, they can use a Policy and Profile Manager role in Microsoft Intune for the service. A Midlothian woman who had drunk multiple cocktails and hard seltzers and was distracted by her cellphone when she crashed last year into a young woman's car on River Road, killing her, pleaded guilty Thursday to aggravated involuntary manslaughter and driving under the influence. Kaylin M. Stine, 24, had a blood-alcohol level of 0.215% more than twice the presumptive legal intoxication level to drive when her 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee crossed the double yellow center line and struck head-on a 2007 Honda CR-V driven by Jordan Barksdale, 23, on the evening of Jan. 30, 2021. Barksdale, who had to be extricated from her vehicle, died after being taken to a local hospital. After the crash, Stine told Chesterfield police officers at the scene that she had been distracted by her cellphone, and "might have been looking" at her boyfriend's location using her phone "to see if he was coming home to surprise her," Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Matthew Gravens told the court in a summary of evidence. The boyfriend had been deployed to the U.S. Capitol with the Virginia National Guard. Stine also admitted to police she had consumed numerous drinks with friends, beginning early to mid-afternoon, at Barrio Taqueria in Richmond, Plaza Azteca in Chesterfield and at a friend's house in the hours leading to the 10:28 p.m. crash in the 20400 block of River Road, Gravens said in his summary. A partially consumed container of White Claw hard seltzer was found on the passenger side floorboard of her Jeep after the crash. Had the case gone to trial, Jacob Morris, the victim's boyfriend, would have testified that Barksdale had been hanging out at his Amelia County home that evening. The couple cooked dinner and watched a movie before she decided to leave about 10 p.m. Less than 30 minutes later, motorist Joseph Cosner came upon the scene of the crash that involved Barksdale's and Stine's vehicles and attempted to render aid. He found that Stine had exited her vehicle, telling him she was okay. Cosner then turned his attention to Barksdale, who was trapped inside her vehicle and largely unresponsive. "He called 911 and tried to comfort [Barksdale] until EMS arrived," Gravens told the court. After officers arrived and encountered Stine, she had slurred speech and smelled of alcohol. She did not directly answer the officers' questions, but "showed concern for the other driver and wanted to know if she was OK," the prosecutor said. Stine told officers she had just left her friend's house, where she said she had drank 2 to 3 White Claw hard seltzers. During a subsequent interview with an investigator, Stine said she had been at the Barrio in Richmond with friends having lunch, where she had one or two margaritas with food. From there, she and her friends went to Plaza Azteca, where she said she drank another margarita. Stine said the group ended up at the home of another friend, where she had two to three White Claw seltzers. Over the next several days, the investigating officer retraced Stine's steps and retrieved receipts at the locations Stine stopped on the day of the crash. The waitress at Barrio's advised Stine had consumed four mixed tequila and mezcal cocktails and one shot of tequila. At Plaza Azteca, a surveillance video showed Stine with a "Beer-rita," a margarita with an upside-down beer inside. The officer also obtained video from a gas station that showed Stine purchase two White Claw hard seltzers. Finally, the officer spoke with Stine's friend who hosted the gathering at night's end, and the friend and the friend's boyfriend said Stine was drunk and they asked her multiple times to stay overnight and not drive. But Stine indicated she had to get home for her dogs. Stine also was offered a ride home but she refused. "When questioned about this [by the officer], the boyfriend indicated this is not the first time that Stine has done this," Gravens told the court. Stine's attorney, John Luxton, told the court that Stine was immediately remorseful after the crash. As she was outside her wrecked Jeep with a broken ankle, police body camera video captured her anguish. "She would say, 'Please tell me how that person is doing. Is she going to be okay? This is all my fault,' " Luxton quoted her as saying. "And then as it went on she made some remarks about, 'I wish I were the one that were in such bad shape,'" Luxton said. After hearing Graven's case summary and Luxton's response, Chesterfield Circuit Judge Jayne Pemberton convicted Stine on her guilty pleas and set sentencing for July 11. Barksdale, who was killed in the crash, was an employee of the Chesterfield Treasurer's Office and was pursing a degree to become a surgical technician, according to her obituary notice. After nearly an hour of lively discussion on how to conduct public comment time during meetings including who should be allowed to speak Hanover Countys School Board on Friday scrapped the idea of giving county residents priority. Beaverdam representative John Axselle suggested during the boards January meeting though he noted Friday that back then, it was other board members who brought the matter to him that there should be a priority list established for public comment time that favored Hanover residents; specifically, Hanover parents as the first speakers, followed by county residents without children, Hanover business owners, county school staff and then everyone else. But as discussion unfolded during the nearly seven-hour work session Friday, at least three of the seven School Board members felt strongly that the idea was unfair because it wasnt a problem. Rather than pushing ahead with it, the board switched its focus to addressing the amount of public comment time rather than speakers identities, and asked its lawyer, Lisa Seward, to make two minor changes to the citizen participation policy. One would cap the sign-up time for speaking to noon on meeting days currently attendees can sign up in advance or at the meeting. The other adds a general reference about the possibility of the board moving a meeting to a different venue, something the board wanted in writing for clarification even though it currently has the ability to move meetings as needed. Currently, speakers are called to the podium in the order in which they signed up, and theyre asked to provide the magisterial district in which they live. School Board policy provides for one hour of public comment time at meetings, though, as was noted by Seward on Friday, the board chair has the authority to extend it. Axselle maintained his rationale Friday that Hanover constituents should be the priority. He was speaking in reaction to board meetings in recent months that drew a lot of people for controversial issues. His primary concerns, he said, were outsiders showing up at meetings some from as far away as Boston and New York and taking time away from Hanover residents who wanted to speak. If I get a busload of folks from anywhere other than Hanover County that show up to a meeting to speak, he said, including people who dont have children in the school division, Im not really interested. ... Why do I want to hear from them? Henry Districts George Sutton supported Axselles thoughts, saying its absolutely necessary to have a written policy that specifies that outsiders are last to speak. He explained that times are changing and that as hot-button issues get more intense, the board should be prepared in case outsiders attempt to disrupt their meetings. Vice Chair Bob Hundley, however, challenged the idea that there are lots of people showing up to meetings from outside the county. He said the boards August 2021 meeting last year on the mask issue drew 70 speakers of that group, only one person, by his account, was from outside the county. We have not seen a problem, he said, adding that even in cases when there were outside speakers, those circumstances didnt preclude the board from allowing everyone to speak during the one-hour limit. South Anna representative Bob May brought up the Hanover Board of Supervisors meeting from earlier in the week. That meeting drew more than 100 people, including more than 30 speakers who wanted to share their thoughts about the School Boards actions related to its transgender policies. During the supervisors meeting, that board provided its normal public comment time at the start of the meeting, went about conducting the rest of its agenda business, then offered another public comment time at the end of the meeting to accommodate everyone who showed up to speak. I would really like to see us follow the example of our Board of Supervisors ... so that all of our citizens can be heard, May said. I dont like us cutting it off artificially, he continued, referring to the School Boards one-hour public comment policy. I think we owe it to our constituents to listen to them. Mechanicsville Districts Sterling Daniel took that one step further by suggesting that board members get into the practice of calling a separate public hearing on controversial issues if the board recognizes a need, to which board members generally agreed. The move would be for circumstances when adding another hour, for example, during a meeting still wasnt enough, Daniel said. I would rather extend public comment time than limit whos allowed to speak, he said. The board discussed the possibility of holding meetings at the countys boardroom same place as the supervisors meetings as long as they could work out the logistics. Hanover Superintendent Michael Gill reminded the board that in changing venues, theyd have to be mindful of such things as working out the streaming services for meetings, and working around the schedules of other boards that use the same room. He also noted that theres nothing currently that prohibits the School Board from meeting somewhere other than its current boardroom at the School Board offices. Seward will bring the proposed citizen participation policy back to the board at its April 12 meeting for a first read. The board could vote on it at its May meeting. Seven young children who were hospitalized Wednesday after they apparently ingested some pills at a Hopewell home are expected to fully recover, authorities said Thursday. The mother of four of the children told police that her 7-year-old son had shared his anti-anxiety medication with the six younger children, said Lt. Cheyenne Casale of the Hopewell Police Department. The mother got home and found the prescription bottle empty, he said. The police dont know exactly what kind of medication the children consumed. Unfortunately, the label was kind of rubbed off and we couldnt actually read the label, Casale said. No criminal charges had been placed as of Thursday afternoon. Casale said investigators were still interviewing people and trying to determine whether it was a situation of no adult supervision or poor supervision. Wednesdays incident unfolded at a brick house split into two apartments in the 100 block of South 16th Street. The mother of the four children lived there with her kids and her boyfriend, according to police and a relative of the family. The three other children had been at the home because of a family emergency, Casale said. The nature of the relationship between the four children who lived in the home and the other three kids remained unclear on Thursday. The mother of the four children called 911 about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and reported that the children werent acting right and looked like they were sick, Casale said. The youngest child was about 2 years old. Fire and rescue officials arrived at the home and found four children breathing but unresponsive, Casale said. Other children were lethargic. Fire and rescue officials notified police of the situation, declared it a mass casualty event and summoned rescue units from other jurisdictions, including Fort Lee and Chesterfield County. Initially, first responders thought the children might have overdosed from opioids, until they used Narcan and it failed to work, Casale said. Police arrived and detained a few people in the area. The overdose presents itself as like almost a heroin overdose, Casale explained. We were concerned that there might be illicit drugs or illegal narcotics inside the house and they might have been involved in some way. We wanted to make sure we identified everyone who was supposedly present, he added. Allen Satterfield, who lives in the other unit inside the house, said in an interview that he had been standing outside when firetrucks first pulled up. He said he saw a woman running toward the home saying something like, My baby. He said he was detained briefly by police but was not charged with anything. He also described seeing a police officer with a young girl who appeared confused and did not appear to know where she was. Another neighbor, Linzi Black, described seeing three ambulances and as many as nine police cars descend on the street Wednesday afternoon. After police arrived, she said she saw one of the mothers get dropped off nearby from a car and start running toward the house screaming, Oh my God, oh my God, my kids, my kids. Black, 43, said police were in the home until about 1 a.m. and that she did not get to sleep until hours later. I was up all night walking through my house praying, she said, adding that her 9-year-old granddaughter, whom she is raising, was also disturbed by Wednesdays event. The situation is very hard on all of us, Black said. Its even hard on my baby girl because she plays with those kids. Black said the father who lives in the home with the four children works as a building contractor and his girlfriend is a stay-at-home mom. Thats a good mother and a good father, and theyre always providing for the kids, she said. That father works all the time. All seven children initially were taken to John Randolph Medical Center, and then five were taken to Chippenham Hospital and two to VCU Medical Center for additional treatment, Casale said. Initially, at least two of the children were in serious condition, he said. The mother of four told a detective she had stepped out to go to a nearby convenience store but would not tell the police why she did so, said Casale, adding that some of the other adults also were not forthcoming with information. The mother, who was not identified by the police, told authorities there were other adults in the home with the children when she left for the store. Police are conferring with the Commonwealths Attorneys Office and are following up with Child Protective Services. We want to make sure these kids end up in a safe environment and theyre taken care of, Casale said. A couple of hours before Wednesdays incident, the grandmother of some of the children had died at a hospital, said Jeffrey Gelina, an uncle of some of the children. As relatives were learning of the death, he said, things got chaotic at the house on 16th Street. The father who lives at the house was distraught because his mother had died and his girlfriend, the mother of the four children, went with him to the nearby store to make sure he was OK, Gelina said. There were two other adults at the home with the kids, he said. Gelina said he is trying to contact Child Protective Services. Im contacting my lawyer personally to see what I can do to keep everybody together, he said. A political consulting firm tells clients it will help them navigate the new Republican-controlled executive branch of Virginias government. LINK Public Affairs might have an edge over its competition one of its senior strategists is also a top aide to Gov. Glenn Youngkin and has been working in the governors suite. The Youngkin aide Matt Moran wields significant power on behalf of the governor, telling lawmakers which bills the governor might sign or veto and negotiating with them on top policy issues like marijuana legalization, school choice and public funding for a new Washington Commanders stadium. Hes not on the state payroll but is employed by and on paid leave from two political consulting firms that seek to influence elected officials. The situation is unheard of in Virginia, according to a veteran observer of state politics. And a law professor and expert on government ethics said that even if theres no evidence of legal wrongdoing, the situation raises ethical questions. Bob Holsworth, a former VCU dean and longtime observer of Virginias government, said the lack of transparency about the situation is unsettling. I know of no situation where a deputy chief of staff role has been outsourced, and without any public acknowledgment, he said. If a person doing government work is not paid by the state, it should be very clear what the arrangement is, and how that person is accessing governmental resources, and what that persons role is within the government, and what that persons role is outside the government. Richard Cullen, counselor to Youngkin, said he reviewed Morans arrangement beforehand and found it legal and ethical. Moran declined to be interviewed for this story, and instead directed questions to another Youngkin administration official. As senior adviser in the Governors office, I serve in a volunteer capacity and do so without compensation. I am on leave from all companies and as a result do not have clients with business before the Governor or state government, Moran said in a statement, through a spokeswoman. I formalized this arrangement with counsels office and I am fully committed to my service to the Governor and the people of Virginia. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to serve the Governor and work on behalf of the Commonwealth. The companies Moran works for are Creative Direct, a political consulting firm, and LINK Public Affairs, a new offshoot of Creative Direct. The two firms consultants do not register as lobbyists. Moran previously worked as a high-ranking aide to then-House Speakers Bill Howell, R-Stafford, and Kirk Cox, R-Colonial Heights, and as a lobbyist with the firm Gentry Locke. He also worked on the campaigns of Youngkin and Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears last year as a consultant. He filed a statement of economic interest with the state in January because of his role in the governors office, which discloses his employment at Creative Direct and LINK Public Affairs, and two other LLCs through which hes been paid for previous campaign work. The paperwork listed his position as deputy chief of staff. In then-Gov. Bob McDonnells administration, Bob Sledd served as unpaid economic adviser to the governor. But that situation was different, Holsworth said, because there was a public, transparent process about what Sledds role would be and that he would not be paid. Former Secretary of Finance Aubrey Layne is staying on in the Youngkin administration for a time as an unpaid special adviser to new Finance Secretary Steve Cummings while working as senior vice president and chief of staff at Sentara Healthcare. Cullen said in a statement: After reviewing the law, the ethics rules and precedents of other administrations, I made a determination about the proper way to work as a volunteer in the Governors office. My legal analysis was the same for both Mr. Moran and Mr. Layne. Its important for administrations, regardless of the party in power, to have the ability to attract talent and expertise as is the case here. Both Mr. Layne and Mr. Moran have added value in their respective duties without cost to the taxpayer and we have been transparent about their roles. The Richmond Times-Dispatch learned through the Freedom of Information Act that Moran was not paid by the state when he was not listed on a roster of new Youngkin appointees, even though a Jan. 21 news release from the governor listed him as deputy chief of staff and director of policy and legislative affairs. The governors office later corrected the news release to list his title as special adviser. A sign on Morans office in the Patrick Henry Building, where the governors offices are, bore his name and the title deputy chief of staff, according to a Feb. 17 photo obtained by The Times-Dispatch. In a statement through Youngkin spokeswoman Becca Glover, Moran said his leave from employers outside the administration began when Youngkin was inaugurated Jan. 15. I filed a complete financial disclosure and comply with all applicable state laws and executive branch policies, including the conflict of interest act, Moran said. The governors office would not say whether the arrangement included Moran abstaining from political work outside of the administrations affairs. On Feb. 14, the halfway point of the General Assembly session, Moran reached out to The Times-Dispatch pitching a story about an official planning to announce a run in Virginias 7th Congressional District, Stafford County Supervisor Crystal Vanuch. Since Moran makes his living, in part, by influencing government, a key question is, is he in a position not just to affect his own financial interests, but the financial interests of his clients while hes in that government position? said Kathleen Clark, a law professor at Washington University in St. Louis who works in the area of government ethics. All of government ethics basically boils down to attempting to ensure that government officials act in the public interest rather than on behalf of a private interest whether its their own interest, their brother-in-laws interest, their private clients interest. Its all about trying to sort of separate government officials from identifiable private interests that could taint, that could affect, their work thats supposed to be on behalf of the public. Holsworth said: If there is a sign on an individuals door that says he is the deputy chief of staff, the only reasonable inference is that that individual works for Virginia state government. Influence in the Capitol Moran was the governors point person for lawmakers during the regular General Assembly session that adjourned March 12. Del. Lee Ware, R-Powhatan, said Moran notified him that if a bill Ware filed to end campaign donations from public utilities reached Youngkins desk, Youngkin would sign it. In the final days of the regular session, Moran showed up with Cullen, the governors counselor, outside the House and Senate chambers to negotiate with lawmakers on major unresolved issues. Del. Alfonso Lopez, D-Arlington, said that for many delegates, the only contact they had with someone from the governors office during the session was with Moran. But Morans authority made at least one lawmaker uncomfortable. Sen. Adam Ebbin, D-Alexandria, met with Youngkin on Feb. 22 in the governors ceremonial office in the Capitol. The senator said Moran was the only other person in the room. Ebbin said that while he and Youngkin discussed their disagreement on how each party had blocked certain political appointees, the meeting was cordial. But afterward, Ebbin said, a House GOP committee chairman told his office that an Ebbin bill would be held up in committee at the request of the governors office. In an exchange in a Capitol hallway, Ebbin asked Moran why. Ebbin said in an interview that Moran appeared to take responsibility for the holdup. Moran responded: You threatened the governor, according to Ebbin. Ebbin said he was dumbfounded. He quoted Moran as then saying: Dont worry, were not going to kill your bills, but you threatened the governor. Your bills are going by for the day. As discussions continued, Moran referenced the number of bills sponsored by Ebbin that appeared headed for legislative passage, saying: And the governor is not particularly wedded to any of them, Ebbin said. Ebbin said Moran told him Youngkin could sign them all, or he implied that he could veto them all. He didnt use the word veto. And I was a little bit shaken up, but I wasnt going to retract my position. Patrick Wilson pwilson@timesdispatch.com; (804) 649-6061; Twitter: @patrickmwilson Follow Patrick Wilson 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 Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., stopped in Richmond on Friday to tout $5 million in federal funding for the Mayo Bridge. Warner tweeted Friday that federal investments will get this bridge the critical updates it needs. He said the money will fund major structural fixes so it can last at least 75 more years, all while creating local jobs. The new federal budget includes billions of dollars in aid for Ukraine and authority for Virginia and other states to receive all of the money promised to them last fall for highways and bridges in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., have highlighted the $5 million for rehabilitating the Mayo Bridge across the James River in downtown Richmond; nearly $4 million for a new federal inspection service facility at Richmond International Airport; and $2 million for construction of the southern portion of the new Fall Line Trail in Petersburg and through Virginia State University in Ettrick, among other projects. Warner had visited the bridge in July to tout the federal infrastructure package. City engineer John Kim said at the time that water causes cracks in the bridge, which opened 109 years ago. As water freezes, it expands, causing cracks and pushing concrete out, he said. Kim joined Warner at the bridge again on Friday, along with area legislators, including Sen. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, and Dels. Jeff Bourne, Betsy Carr and Delores McQuinn, all Richmond Democrats, and Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico. In 2020, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association said 6,395 bridges in Virginia need repairs and 577 of them are structurally deficient, according to the Arlington-based Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure. At the start of the worst public health crisis in over a century, the Virginia Department of Health was manually tracking the virus through test results sent via fax machines. The same team analyzing the flood of data at the state level was tasked with reporting and updating the agencys website with daily COVID metrics. A year and a half later, some rural health districts were documenting vaccinations by hand, another factor contributing to a three-day data lag that made it difficult to capture the states progress in real time. Legislation proposed Thursday by Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., targeted the messy, incomplete and decentralized public health data systems that foiled the COVID-19 response nationwide and left the U.S. unable to adequately comprehend the scale of spread. If passed, the bill could better equip health departments for future public health emergencies in advance instead of forcing them to build the infrastructure in the middle of a crisis. A similar bipartisan effort from Kaine in 2019 did not make it to a vote. The pandemic has shed light on how outdated and inconsistent public health data systems can hamper efforts to provide life-saving care for people across Virginia and our nation, Kaine said in a statement. As a former Mayor, Governor and now U.S. Senator, I know its often difficult for local, state, and federal health departments to coordinate when theyre using different systems. We need to better connect our local, state and federal public health systems so we can more quickly aggregate data and tailor our responses to emerging threats. Kaines push to modernize public health data systems would direct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to standardize how health data is collected at the local, state and federal level. The lack of national standards and oversight meant every state and the health departments within it were gathering information differently. It would also task the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with streamlining a process that would address the disconnect among data systems used by medical laboratories, hospitals and health departments. Dr. Danny Avula, who stepped into the role of state vaccine coordinator in January 2021, dedicated his first few months in the role to closing the gap state officials said was driven largely by incompatible data systems. Lastly, Kaines proposed legislation would develop a grant program aimed at funding the quality and completeness of demographic data collection, which would include race and ethnicity in addition to disability or housing status. Before January of last year when Virginia had not recorded race and ethnicity for the majority of vaccinated residents there was no statewide requirement for providers to collect race and ethnicity data. That changed in the 2021 General Assembly session, but was an unfunded directive. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention already advises the reporting of demographics, there arent consequences for states that dont. The CDC guidelines health departments reference also do not take into account limited English proficiency, which means the COVID impact on non-English speakers in Virginia is not tracked. VDH officials emphasized the difference having better data, and more people to analyze it, would have made in supporting the pandemic response in interviews with the Richmond Times-Dispatch. For years, the agency foreshadowed the consequences of not funding and strengthening its data systems which can include but are not limited to those dedicated to disease surveillance through budget requests to the General Assembly. In 2012, VDH said funding was needed to improve its capacity to monitor emerging health events and that without additional dollars, VDH would be limited in its ability to recognize and respond to public health threats. In 2015, 2017 and 2019, VDH asked the legislature to fund an electronic health records system to manage lab results and demographic information for patients at their clinics. Officials wrote in each plea that not having an integrated electronic health records system to handle hundreds of thousands of client records meant an inefficient and time-consuming reliance on paper records faxed or mailed to local health districts. Without the increased general fund support, VDH will continue to falter behind the standard level of healthcare infrastructure, the agency said in the 2019 request. The General Assembly did not fully adopt those requests until August 2021. This story has been updated to clarify that VDHs electronic health records system is not used for disease surveillance and was later fully funded by the General Assembly in August 2021. After two days with clouds and a persistent threat of showers, Friday brings a day with sunshine, a drop in humidity, a cool breeze, and afternoon temperatures in the 60s. But Friday also signals a transition to a much colder spell for a few days, one that is probably going to bring a freeze on Sunday night, and perhaps again on Monday night. Both Saturday and Sunday will have afternoons in the 50s with a chilly, gusty breeze from the northwest. Saturday will start sunny, but clouds rapidly fill in and lead to an hour or so of showers in the early afternoon. It will not be an especially wet day, but be prepared to dodge some rain for a brief time during the early afternoon. Aside from those showers, the clouds and the breeze will make it feel no warmer than the 40s for most of the day. Sunday will be sunnier by comparison. And while the temperatures will be very similar to Saturday and the chilly breeze returns, it will still feel a little better outside in the sunshine. The air coming in this weekend will be the coldest in nearly two weeks, and this will lead to a freeze for most of central Virginia on Sunday night. Temperatures will spend at least a few hours below freezing Sunday night, ultimately dropping into the upper 20s by daybreak Monday. Suburban and exurban locations will even be a few degrees colder. Clear skies and light winds, like we are expecting on Sunday night, can lead to a wide range in overnight low temperatures. In those situations, it can routinely be 10 degrees colder just a 20-minute drive from downtown. Fruit trees and flowers have already started to blossom as a result of the relatively warm winter, so a freeze on Sunday night will have an impact. As Dr. Jeremy Hoffman at the Science Museum of Virginia shared on Twitter on Thursday afternoon: Even though our last frost has moved earlier into the spring on average, this weekends forecast isnt unusual (hard freeze!) and sets up another way climate change affects us in the springtime earlier, warmer conditions get the phenological cycles of frost-sensitive fruits and flowers going when there is still threat of a late-season frost. This can damage fruit/flower harvests & pollinator schedules. After another risk of a freeze on Monday night, a moderating trend in temperatures develops by the middle of next week, returning the afternoon temperatures to the 60s and 70s, and setting Richmond up for potential showers and thunderstorms by Thursday. A troubled production at Roanokes Mill Mountain Theatre is back on track after a casting controversy led to a decision, later reversed, to cancel the show. A woman who is not Latina was cast to play a Latina character in Mill Mountain Theatres production of In The Heights, according to a MMT board member and a cast member. A protest emerged amoung cast members, including tweets that tagged In The Heights co-creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. The woman who was originally cast in the role of Vanessa has left the production, as did the director/choreographer who cast her. Rehearsals began March 14, and conflict soon erupted. The actor withdrew from the production March 16, in a personal decision made by her, David Allen, president of the theaters board of directors, wrote in an email exchange. By March 20, the theater had canceled the show, Allen confirmed. The next day, however, In The Heights was back on, with a new creative team director/choreographer Hector Flores, Jr.; associate director/choreographer Michael Anthony Sylvester; and music director John Daniels, Allen said. Canceling was a rushed decision which we realize was a mistake and should not have happened, Allen said in the email. We had major players of our original creative team pull out of the show and made a rushed decision that in hindsight was not the right action to take and we are sorry. This was our mistake, and we are taking action to correct it, with the initial step being to work with the cast in collaboration to replace the vacant staff and performer positions. A Mill Mountain Theatre website page about the show, posted March 10 and still online at millmountain.org/mill-mountain-theatre-presents-in-the-heights/, listed director and choreographer Paul Aguirre among the creative team. Ginger Poole, the theaters producing artistic director, referred questions about the production to Allen. In the casting process, mistakes were clearly made, with no ill intended and we realize the significant impact that had on the cast and the integrity of the show, Allen wrote. The cast came to us with their concerns, and we listened. We have recast the role and replaced our creative team. Respecting and creating opportunities for diverse voices is critical, especially for this production. The theatre is committed to learning from this experience as we move forward with the cast. In The Heights is a Tony Award-winning musical comedy with music and lyrics by Miranda, of Hamilton and Encanto fame, and book by Quiara Alegria Hudes. It is licensed by Concord Theatricals, which provides this description on its website: In the vibrant New York City neighborhood of Washington Heights, bodega owner Usnavi and his friends dream, hope and work for a bright future. Washington Heights is known as the Little Dominican Republic. Bodega is derived from Spanish and refers to a small convenience store. In reply to a question emailed to Concord Theatricals, Imogen Lloyd Webber, who is a senior vice president at Concord, provided this statement: It states both on the Concord Theatricals website and in a theatres licensing agreement that In the Heights celebrates, uplifts and amplifies a Latinx community in New York City. To honor the authors vision and to clearly and appropriately tell that story, the roles should be cast accordingly. Company members must match the character definitions as written in the script. Casting took place over a 5-week period before the production, Allen said. The casting of Vanessa was by the original director and approved by MMT. That director was later replaced. Asked if Mill Mountain was aware of Concords casting requirements, Allen said, Yes, and we were following that to the best of our ability without asking someones ethnicity or place of origin. The actor originally cast as Vanessa did not represent herself as Latina, Allen said. He declined to disclose her name. Sean Royal, who on his Twitter account said he is part of the production, tweeted multiple times about the incident and its aftermath. On Sunday, he posted to the social media site: @Lin_Manuel, thought youd like to know that Mill Mountain Theatre in Roanoke, VA just cancelled its production of In The Heights because the production/creative team and board decided to fire all of us because we spoke out against them casting a white woman as Vanessa. The next day, he posted: UPDATE #5: SO! The board has agreed to continue with the show. However, we need an entirely new creative team, Director, Choreographer, and Music Director. We as a cast agreed that we want a Latin Director and Choreographer, and preferably a POC Music Director. POC stands for Person Of Color. Attempts to reach Royal had not succeeded by press time. Allen provided an email address for a cast member he identified as Brenda Ortiz. In response to an emailed question, she wrote that her full name is Brenda Yanahin Ortiz Flores, and she will be playing Vanessa. Flores wrote that what happened was a mistake that happens in many theater companies in the U.S., and often goes unnoticed, or cast members arent brave enough to point it out. The events that followed after were consequences of this mistake and of the lack of training in diversity equity and inclusion, Ortiz Flores wrote. This was a learning process led by a passionate group of people that are demanding respect for the culture, the piece and its members. She wrote that the experience has been painful for all involved, but she and her castmates are glad to provide an example for other companies to do better about addressing diversity, and that is the reason why we are working harder than ever to bring the sunshine after the storm, to prove that change is possible and that we are not going to remain silent anymore. The new creative team has brought love, support and inspiration to the production since they arrived, and the production is making progress, Ortiz Flores added. Personally I feel like Im being a part of history with 16 people Ive fallen in love in less than a week, that Ill be able to call them my family forever, she wrote. Ortiz declined to provide contact information for other cast members. The whole cast is working very hard to put this together and that will be our focus for the next ten days. Allen, the MMT board president, said that the theater is working to absorb the lessons from the incident. We understand and acknowledge the mistakes made in the shows pre-production regarding casting as well as subsequent actions that led to this decision, he wrote. This was not the right action to take, and we are sorry. Over the past several days we have been listening to our cast, and they are being heard. The hard lessons and raw conversations have all been worth it to perform this show with the integrity and representation it demands. We are bringing on a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant to ensure we are working towards solutions and improving our approach for this show and all future productions. In The Heights was originally scheduled to run April 6-24, according to the older post from the theater, but now will run April 13-24. For more information see millmountain.org. New director Hector Flores, contacted during a break in rehearsals, said he doesnt know everything about the situation that preceded him and would prefer not to. I just know my friends, my Latino people needed some help with this beautiful story that is very close to my heart, Hector Flores said. Were here, were going to move forward and were going to have a beautiful show. He said Latino people are generally presented as negative stereotypes and In The Heights is one of only two shows that represents us in a positive light. He said he first heard about the Mill Mountain situation on Instagram. He received an email from Poole, and called her back. Thursday was his first day on the job. When we first got here, the spirit among the cast was relieved, Hector Flores said. Now, [the spirit is] definitely excited, its hungry, its a little bit overwhelmed because were moving at a very fast pace, and Im giving them a lot of material. The rehearsals are fast and furious. The controversy echoes Mirandas own movie version of In The Heights, released in summer 2021. The movie received criticism for its lack of Afro-Latino roles, given that the Washington Heights community of New York City has a large population of Afro-Latino people, according to multiple reports. Miranda, who was part of that movies creative team, went to Twitter to apologize and vow to do better on future projects. City schools officials hosted a grand opening Thursday for a new community wellness center at Fallon Park Elementary School in southeast Roanoke. The LIFT Center, which stands for local impact for tomorrow, will provide pediatric, dental, mental health and education services to students and their families. School Superintendent Verletta White said the center has been a long time coming for an area in need of more services and health care access. This is what we mean by supporting the whole child, White said. Children have a better shot of being in school, staying in school, doing well and thriving in school when their overall health and well-being are taken into account. Carilion Clinic, Freedom First Credit Union, Delta Dental of Virginia Foundation and other donors contributed nearly $1 million to build the 1,700-square-foot addition to the school. The coalitions original plan was to open the center at the beginning of the 2020-21 school year in tandem with the renovations at Fallon Park Elementary, which started in early 2018 and wrapped up about two years later. Private donations were supposed to cover the entire project, but construction bids came in higher than expected and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the timeline. The school system contributed $320,000 to build the shell of the building. More than $400,000 of private donations were used to build the interior. Inside the new center are a waiting area, conference room and multiple exam and counseling rooms. Students can access the clinic during the day and families and neighbors can access services in the evening. Shirley Holland, vice president of planning and community development at Carilion Clinic, said the group has developed a parent and guardian committee and also conducted surveys to determine what services are most needed. The center will provide financial education and potentially job training as well. More services can be added in the future as needs change and new partners join, Holland said. For medical services, providers will bill a patients insurance or Medicaid. If someone doesnt have insurance, the staff is prepared to work with them to get their care covered. Non-medical services like financial education will be paid for through the coalitions fund. A nurse practitioner will be based at the clinic and telemedicine will help fill gaps where a doctor is needed, Holland said. Southeast Roanoke was selected for the wellness center after Carilions community health assessment identified access to care issues, lower income and education levels, higher chronic disease, and substance abuse and mental health challenges. We felt an obligation to do more as a neighbor because this is in the backyard of our largest hospital facility, Holland said. We consciously started thinking about how we could be helpful. She said the project began years ago when school officials saw an opportunity to do something non-traditional with the newly renovated Fallon Park Elementary. More school-based health models are evolving around the country as people recognize the connection between school success and health. School is more than school, White said. School is the hub of the community. If we can support the family, we naturally support the children who are in the family. We want to make sure that we are meeting the needs of all of our learners. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. One of two men charged in the death of a Roanoke man in 2019 waived his right to a preliminary hearing in Franklin County General District Court on Thursday. Mario Rayshawn Day, 27, of Roanoke was arrested in Marietta, Georgia, last spring 18 months after Travis Wayne Pannell, 30, was reported missing in Roanoke in October 2019. He and Patrick Antoine Davis, 34, of Danville were charged with second-degree murder in the death of Pannell, whose body was found over the side of an embankment in the Hardy area three weeks after he went missing. The murder charge against Davis was certified to Franklin County Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in October 2021. Days preliminary hearing was scheduled for Thursday. Day waived his right to have that preliminary hearing, Franklin County Commonwealth Attorney A.J. Dudley said Thursday, and the original second-degree murder charge against him was amended to conspiring to commit first-degree murder. That charge has been certified to a Franklin County Circuit Court grand jury. Days next court appearance has not been set. But the jury trial for his co-defendant, Davis, is scheduled for October. A Roanoke man charged with killing his girlfriend and dumping her body in the Roanoke River on Valentines Day last year has been sentenced to 50 years in prison. DeAngelo Montez Bonds, 23, entered no contest pleas in Roanoke Circuit Court on Wednesday on three felony charges connected to the 2021 death of Adreonna Keffer, 18, of Roanoke. Bonds will serve 42 years in the Virginia Department of Corrections for first-degree murder, three years for using a firearm in the commission of a felony and five years for concealing a dead body. The time that Bonds has spent in jail while waiting for his hearing will count towards his sentence. Judge David Carson noted that the sentence exceeded the guideline range presented in Bonds plea agreement. But he found the sentence appropriate under the heinous circumstances of the case. Early in the morning of Feb. 15 last year, an Ashton Heights Apartments resident contacted maintenance personnel about a water leak coming from the unit above, Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Andrew Stephens said in court Wednesday. The maintenance worker would have testified in the trial that he arrived and noticed that there was blood spatter on the stairwell itself as he went up, Stephens said. When the worker arrived at the front door, there was a pool of blood in front of the apartment. The maintenance worker contacted Roanoke City police, who responded to the Northwest Roanoke scene at about 3:30 a.m. They found a large amount of blood in the foyer of the apartment, as well as blood on the walls and some blood located in the bathroom of the apartment, Stephens said. During their investigation, police developed a profile for a silver Mitsubishi automobile and spoke with Keffers mother, who confirmed that Keffer and Bonds shared the Ashton Heights apartment. Police also spoke with Bonds grandmother. She indicated that Mr. Bonds had made statements that he had killed Adreonna, Stephens said. She became concerned for the safety of Mr. Bonds and called him. Bonds shared his location, and police were dispatched to a site near the river in Southeast Roanoke, where Stephens said they found Bonds and a 9 millimeter pistol that matched evidence from the apartment scene in the Mitsubishi. There was an initial conversation with a detective in which he admitted to killing Miss Keffer, Stephens said. He at first tried to state that it was in self-defense with her pointing a rifle at him. As he was confronted with evidence developed by police, Bonds story changed, but he maintained that Keffer had been essentially pushing him and that he shot her, Stephens said. Bonds later admitted to shooting Keffer in the apartment and moving her to the bathroom. It would come out that he photographed her there, Stephens said. Then he removed her from the apartment by carrying her and at times dragging her down the stairs, putting her in the trunk of the vehicle and transporting her to Piedmont Park, which is located near the river, and putting her in the river. Roanoke Swift Water Rescue and Roanoke Fire-EMs personnel recovered Keffers body from the river on Feb. 15. An autopsy revealed that Keffer had sustained six gunshots to the face, two to each arm, one to the neck and one to the leg. The medical examiners opinion would have been that the shots to the face were all lethal, Stephens said. She also would have testified that, consistent with the bullet holes in the ground, there was bruising on the back of Adreonnas skull that she would have opined from contact with a solid object, such as the floor. Bonds defense attorneys, Andrew Esposito and Richard West, said the evidence presented by Stephens was evidence that they had expected to hear had the case gone to trial. The Wild Way, a new Roanoke Valley nonprofit focusing on expedition-based, outdoor experiences for girls, is accepting participants. The organization is for girls ages 9-14 of all backgrounds, experience levels, and incomes. It is enrolling participants for special weeklong activities for March 28-April 1 and April 11-15, coinciding with the spring breaks for the Roanoke County and Roanoke school divisions. During the five-day programs, girls will participate in fun and challenging outdoor activities, such as hiking, caving and climbing. According to The Wild Way, girls need outdoor experiences to help build confidence. The organization cited a survey that found that between the ages of 8 and 14, girls confidence levels fall by 30%, and that at age 14 when girls are hitting their lowest level of confidence boys confidence is still 27% higher. In a news release, the organization said the outdoors is the perfect environment for learning to build confidence. Societal and behavioral expectations, self-consciousness, and lack of experience often lead women to feeling out of place in the outdoors. However, research has found that positive outdoor experiences can dramatically increase self-esteem, confidence, and perceived leadership abilities among women, the release said. For more information on The Wild Way or to enroll, call 540-507-9871 or visit www.thewildway.org/enroll. Community Foundation announces grantsThe Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia recently awarded $122,450 in grants from its Earl L. and Ethel Y. Childers Fund to five organizations in Roanoke and Bedford County. The Community Foundation, which holds nearly $120 million in charitable assets, is comprised of more than 360 permanent endowment funds, enabling people who love their community to easily give back. The Childers generously supported causes that benefited those less fortunate in communities of interest to them. Several years ago, Earl Childers established the named endowment within the foundation to ensure perpetual annual support to five favorite charities. The charity recipients are: Bedford Christian Ministries, which was awarded $7,500 to support its Water Bill Assistance Program. While much of the attention to the economic impact of the pandemic on low-income, senior, and disabled individuals has been on their challenges in keeping up with rent and electric payments, there are hundreds of Bedford County residents who have fallen behind in their water bill payments. These grant funds will allow Bedford Christian Ministries to target our assistance to these needy individuals and families, said Houston Crum, a board member. Bedford Community Christmas Station, which received $62,000 to complete much needed updates to its building for safety and accessibility. Co-presidents Lori Moorman and Patty Brown, said the renovations will create a safer environment for staff, volunteers and families the program serves. The grant, they added, also enables us to focus our efforts on fundraising for actual program support rather than continual facility maintenance. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia, which received $30,000 for the purchase of a new bus. According to Michelle Davis, club CEO, said the vehicle will be used to transport youth to various locations during our after-school and summer programming where they learn valuable skills associated with our core outcomes of academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and citizenship. The Kazim Shriners of Roanoke, which received $13,350 to support the Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, South Carolina, which is updating its Motion Analysis Lab videography system. Paul Finelli, the hospitals director of donor development, said the Childers Funds continued investments will transform the lives of children today and for the next century. The Shepherds Table, which received awarded $9,600 to support improvements to its Bedford facility to increase safety and accessibility. This grant will allow The Shepherds Table to complete certain projects that have been on hold for almost 10 years. It will enable us to ensure the safety of our guests and that of our volunteers who work so hard to fulfill our mission, noted Tom Foster, board president. To learn more about the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, please visit www.cfwesternva.org or call (540) 985-0204. Contact JoAnne Poindexter at joanne.poindexter @roanoke.com Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Chesterfield and Henrico counties are among 10 school districts that could be affected by a limited injunction barring enforcement of Gov. Glenn Youngkins executive order making masks in schools voluntary. A federal judge on Wednesday issued an injunction instructing the state not to enforce the order in certain districts where parents of 12 students with health problems filed a federal lawsuit. Judge Norman K. Moon of U.S. District Court in Virginias Western District said in an order that the parents who filed the suit are likely to prevail on their claim that Youngkins Executive Order No. 2 and a new state law are pre-empted by federal law to the extent that they prevent or limit Plaintiffs schools or school districts from considering Plaintiffs individualized requests that some amount of masking is necessary as a reasonable modification ... The parents filed the lawsuit against Youngkin and other state officials on Feb. 1. The impacted school districts and schools are Albemarle County (Brownsville Elementary School), Bedford County (Stanton River Middle), Chesapeake (Grassfield Elementary, Southeastern Elementary), Chesterfield County (Enon Elementary), Cumberland County (Cumberland Elementary), Fairfax County (Stenwood Elementary), Henrico County (Quioccasin Middle), Loudoun County (Trailside Middle and Loudoun County High), Manassas City (Jennie Dean Elementary) and York County (Tabb Middle). Eileen Cox, a spokesperson for Henricos public schools, said: School administration and HCPS legal counsel are aware of the legal action and are in the process of reviewing the ruling. At this time, the division does not have a comment. The children of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit have such illnesses as cancer, cystic fibrosis, asthma, Down syndrome, lung conditions and weakened immune systems that make COVID-19 more dangerous for them. Because of that, the parents allege that Youngkin and other officials are excluding their children from access to a public education. The injunction order said: Plaintiffs have provided substantial evidence that exposure to COVID-19 places them at heightened risk of severe illness or death, and that transmission of COVID-19 in their communities and schools specifically presents an acute, ongoing risk; substantial evidence including from Plaintiffs treating physicians that, in a voluntary-masking environment created by these laws, it would be unsafe for Plaintiffs to return to in-person instruction... The judges memorandum opinion backing up the order said the court cannot rule as a matter of law on whether required masking in schools is reasonable or not. It said the scope of the order was limited to these twelve Plaintiffs and such requests for reasonable modifications as they may make to their school districts. The injunction extends no further. Attorney General Jason Miyares tweeted on Wednesday evening that the court order means the executive order and the new state law remain in effect and parents still have the choice of whether their children wear masks in schools. Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond, said the injunction means the Americans With Disabilities Act preempts EO2 and SB 739 for the dozen plaintiffs who pursued the litigation, so the defendant school districts must afford the plaintiffs reasonable modifications of the masking policies imposed by the executive order and the law that will protect them when the students attend school. Tobias added: Judge Moon painstakingly characterized his ruling as narrow and affording relief only to the dozen students partly because the litigation was not a class action that sought broader relief. VCU loosens mask requirements but will continue requiring them in classrooms On Monday, VCU will only require masks in classrooms, health center spaces and public transit. The ACLU of Virginia tweeted that it was glad the judge agreed that no student should have to risk their lives to go to school. The legislature this year passed a new law that forbids a school division from imposing a mask mandate on students. That legislation became law March 1. pwilson@timesdispatch.com (804) 649-6061 Twitter: @patrickmwilson Staff writer Jess Nocera contributed to this report. There is an eternal debate among various experts as to when globalization actually started; whether it was with the Silk Road, the Vikings, Columbus's voyage, or even before then, with the earliest human migratory routes. Now, its no longer relevant when it started. Instead, the new question is whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will end it. Russias war on Ukraine and the Western sanctions that necessarily followed, could have a lasting impact on globalization, a process that regardless of when the first seeds were planted, really became entrenched a few decades ago. Globalization was under attack on some level prior to Putins invasion of Ukraine. Most significantly, the global pandemic let us all see very clearly the vulnerabilities, especially with supply chains and our dependence on their global nature. Now, everyone is desperately calling for independence, whether it is of energy or other resources. In Q2 2020, at the dramatic start of the pandemic, global trade was down 18.5%, compared to the same period the previous year. Since then, the global economy has started to recover, only to be hit again by a war on the European continenta war that could shake the balance of power. Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, thinks we are now seeing the beginning of the end of globalization. In a letter to shareholders, Fink wrote that Russia's "decoupling from the global economy" following its assault on Ukraine has caused governments and companies to examine their reliance on other nations. "The Russian invasion of Ukraine has put an end to the globalization we have experienced over the last three decades," Fink wrote. For its part, BlackRock, which oversees more than $10 trillion, has already suspended the purchase of any Russian securities in its active or index portfolios. Oaktree Capital Management founder Howard Marks shares Finks opinion, even if his take is less dramatic. He is warning investors that countries are going to start a major push to return to localized sourcing. Rather than the cheapest, easiest and greenest sources, therell probably be more of a premium on the safest and surest, Marks said. St. Louis Federal Reserve President James Bullard seems something similar. The direct macroeconomic effects on the US economy from Russia's invasion are not that large, Bullard says, but Russia's war will mean less globalization, more fragmentation around the world. Aside from oil and gas, Russia is one of the world's largest suppliers of metals. Currently, governments and large corporations that imposed sanctions on Russia are now scrambling to obtain alternative supplies. Supplies in turn are tightening, resulting in dramatic upward price swings and costs that are passed on to consumers. The pandemic, along with geopolitical tensions with China and a US-China trade battle, had already driven many businesses to explore bringing their operations and relevant input materials closer to home, including some attempts to reverse the outsourcing of manufacturing. Inter-dependence, however, is so great and so entrenched, that it will take just as long to undo globalization as it took to build it in the first placeunless its simply forced apart by war. Semiconductors, which are undergoing a supply squeeze amid soaring demand, are a case in point. For two years the American auto industry has been suffering from this shortage and dependence on Asia hasnt been sufficiently addressed, with efforts just now getting underway to secure domestic supply. Now, Intel, the largest chipmaker in the United States, has announced (only recently) that it will spend $20 billion to build two semiconductor factories at home, but they wont begin production until 2025. Several automakers and battery manufacturers are also planning to make dozens of new electric vehicle battery factories in the United States within the next five years. Similar announcements have been made recently in the solar and biotech industries. Three decades ago, the US produced about 37% of the world's semiconductors, compared to 12 percent nowadays. Profit got in the way of strategic planning here. Cheap costs were chosen over independence, and that is the sacrifice of globalization. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 The Buellton Wine & Chili Fest was back in full swing Sunday at Flying Flag RV Resort with the return of its coveted annual chili cook-off competition which had been called off in 2021 due to the pandemic and the festival was fully cancelled in 2020. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Election season used to be kind of fun, but in recent years its just become kind of mean. Now is the time of year that election season is, as the Australians say, hotting up, but quite frankly, the temperature is pretty tepid. Candidates have a few days left to file before the June 14 partisan primaries, but the only word to describe whats going on is lackluster. On the Republican side, Gov. Henry McMaster is running for reelection and mostly has a downhill battle. We didnt even realize he had what seems to be token primary opposition until a search of opponents who have filed. (If youre keeping score, it looks like the conservative McMaster, like many GOP incumbents, is predictably getting challenged from the right as the states primary process has evolved into rage politics at the edge, not middle, thanks to rampant redistricting by the legislature.) McMaster, 74, filed on March 16, saying, When we work together to advance our shared conservative values, we can achieve great things. South Carolina is in the best financial shape ever, and we are excited to build upon that success by cutting taxes. For South Carolina, the best is yet to come. Not so fast, say the two Democrats who have filed to replace McMaster in what may be one of two statewide elections with a pulse by the time the general election rolls around in November. Former Democratic U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham of Charleston filed this week, saying he wanted to bring the Palmetto State into the future in a statement to the Charleston City Paper: Under a Cunningham administration, we will finally tackle the most pressing challenges facing our state that Columbia politicians and Henry McMaster have ignored for decades, he said. We will raise teacher pay and improve our schools, protect voting rights, end corruption at the Statehouse, fix our crumbling roads, legalize marijuana and make health care affordable and accessible to all. If Henry McMaster couldnt fix these problems throughout his 40-year career in politics, he wont fix them with another four. Its time for new ideas and a new vision and Im ready to help South Carolina reach its full potential. Mia McLeod, a state senator from Richland County, sent this message after she filed in the Democratic primary: We have the power to transform South Carolina into a state where generation after generation can thrive. A South Carolina where a persons future is brighter than their present, where young people want to stay and raise a family, and where we are all cared for, educated, and treated with dignity. McMaster likely will cruise to the Republican nomination, while Cunningham and McLeod will use up precious financial resources to distinguish themselves in the June Democratic primary, which probably wont get much voter traction because there arent that many contests to attract the attention of Democratic voters. Republicans have more contested races, the largest of which will see several candidates battle to be the candidate to be state superintendent of education. Incumbent Molly Spearman isnt running for re-election. Other higher-profile elections that will attract independents and Democrats to vote in the GOP primary include: U.S. House, District 1: Incumbent Nancy Mace, who is expected to file by March 30, faces former state Rep. Katie Arrington, who lost to Cunningham in 2018, and newcomer Lynz Piper-Loomis. This will be a barnburner as Mace, a former staffer for former President Donald Trump, is running without his endorsement, which Arrington has. U.S. House, District 4: Incumbent William Timmons faces three GOP challengers. U.S. House, District 7: Incumbent Tom Rice, who outraged Trump supporters by voting with Democrats to impeach Trump, faces four GOP challengers. On the Democratic side, veteran U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn (SC-6), the third-ranking member of his party in the U.S. House, faces two primary challengers who are mostly unknown. Hold onto your hats, but dont worry: Its not that windy this election season. Andy Brack is editor and publisher of Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send to: feedback@statehousereport.com. As you top the Edgefield County rise, that fine word copse comes to mind. Copse, a small group of trees, thats what you see. Look closer, however, and the magnificent crown of a magnificent magnolia tops all. What your eyes cannot see is the old academy that stood here long before this latter-day copse sprang from the earth. Nor can you readily make out the magnificent magnolia lesser trees conceal. Its as if the trees huddle around the great magnolia and ask, O great one, whats your secret for living some 170 years? Its secret is good fortune and the protective acts of men. On August 10, 1853, some 1,200 people gathered at Sweetwater Springs, a picnic spot, to choose a site and to raise money for a permanent academy. Joel Curry, Robert Meriwether, George Boswell, Samuel Getzen, Dr. Hugh A. Shaw, A.P. Butler, and Andrew J. Hammond would found the academy. The name Curryton complimented Joel Curry for his gift of 100 acres and his enthusiasm for the school. Two academies would go up, each within two miles of Sweetwater and Hardys Churches. An article in the Edgefield Advertiser from 1848 stated, The place is admirable for a school. It is high and healthy and near the line that separates the oak and pine region. Perennial springs and a beautiful stream of water near at hand and fishing and boating can be easily had in the mill pond and Stevens Creek. In time a thriving small community formed in the vicinity of the academies. The academy, which was opened in 1854 and continued until 1892 when fire destroyed it, consisted of a female academy and a male academy. During their run, students came from Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina. One of the academies sat at the present-day site of Old McDonalds Fish Camp. The other sat where the old magnolia stands today. Its believed the people who founded Curryton Academy in February 1854 planted the magnolia. That could mean the tree is 168 years old. Most magnolias live 80 to 100 years. That makes this one an exception. Might it be the state record magnolia? Read on. Jim Oliver of the Edgefield County Planning Commission wrote Stephen Pohlman Jr., Clemson Extension area forestry agent, as to whether the magnolia might be a state record. The SC Champion Tree Program is a statewide list of the states largest trees that are native to and/or naturalized to the continental United States. The states largest trees compete against the National Registry to earn distinction as the nations largest of its kind. The Curryton Magnolia, Ill call it, is more probably the states second-largest magnolia. At this writing, the tree is to be remeasured and checked again for its status. What cannot be omitted is the threat the historical site and giant magnolia faced. A developer purchased the tract the tree lives on with plans to build housing here. Taking the grand tree down was a real possibility. Edgefields Bettis Rainsford and others consulted with the developer. The developer has agreed to give a two-thirds acre parcel upon which the tree is located to the Edgefield County Historical Society so it can develop a historical park around the magnolia, a park that will commemorate the old school and this arboreal survivor, Magnolia grandiflora, commonly known as the southern magnolia. Thanks to these actions, the tree will live on, just as the history beneath its spacious crown will live on. On a windy, cloudy afternoon leather-like leaves crackled beneath my feet as I approached the shade of the great tree. Close to its massive trunk I looked up and beheld gargantuan limbs and the sockets of lesser limbs long perished. I saw what could be an elephant and it seemed as well an octopus in this grand tree. Youll see, too, the scars of this survivor. You could let your imagination run free and see a bit of gargoyle in this old tree as well. I say you could, but not me. I see a survivor, one that faced another perilthe saws and bulldozers of men. Now thanks to generosity, it will live on, a reminder of mens desire to equip those who follow with good sense. Visit Tom Polands website at tompoland.net. Email Tom about most anything at tompol@earthlink.net. Applying RLUIPA, Supreme Court rules 8-1 in favor of condemned Texas inmate seeking religious touching in execution chamber | Main | "The Law Enforcement Lobby" Wendy Sawyer at the Prison Policy Initiative has authored this great new report that effectively explores the various forces that contributed to declining incarcerated populations in the early COVID period. The report, which merits a full and careful read, is fully titled "Untangling why prison & jail populations dropped early in the pandemic: Reductions in prison and jail populations were due to COVID-related slowdowns in the gears of the criminal legal system. Without intentional action, these reductions will be erased." Here is how it gets started (with links from the original): Last week, we released the latest edition of our Mass Incarceration: The Whole Pie report, in which we showed about 1.9 million people locked up by various U.S. systems of confinement, according to the most recent data available. Out of context, that number would be cause for celebration among those of us fighting to end mass incarceration: its almost 400,000 fewer people than were locked up before the pandemic. Unfortunately, this reduction in the incarcerated population is unlikely to last very long without more lasting policy change. In fact, fear-mongering about upticks in certain specific crimes may make this work even harder and lead to policy changes that make mass incarceration even more intractable. Its important, therefore, to understand what changes intentional or not led to the prison and jail population drops in 2020 and 2021. This briefing offers the context needed to temper expectations about sustaining those population drops and to maintain focus on the policy changes needed to permanently reduce the use of confinement. Without those needed changes, we can expect prison and jail populations to return to pre-pandemic normal (extreme by any other measure) as the criminal legal system returns to business as usual. The changes that have had the most impact on incarceration since the start of the pandemic include: A house in Pasaman, West Sumatra, damaged by the quake (EPA) Seven people have been killed and at least 85 injured after an earthquake of 6.2 magnitude struck Indonesias Sumatra island on Friday morning. Tremors were felt in neighbouring countries including Malaysia and Singapore, and strongly shook the nearby cities of Padang in Indonesias West Sumatra province and Pekanbaru in Riau Province. At least four people, including two children, were killed in Pasaman district and three people died in the neighbouring district of West Pasaman. At least 410 houses and buildings were damaged, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said. More than 5,000 people fled their homes to temporary shelters, mostly in devastated areas of Pasaman and West Pasaman districts, agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said in a statement. He added that the quake had triggered a landslide in the district and caused dozens of houses and buildings to collapse. According to Indonesias geophysics agency BMKG, the quake occurred on land at a depth of 10km (6.2 miles). The US Geological Survey said the earthquake struck north-northwest of Bukittinggi, a hilly town in West Sumatra province. We continue to monitor and advise people to remain on alert, Dwikorita Karnawati, head of BMKG, told Metro TV. Because this is on land, and the scale is above six we are concerned that it could cause some damage. The authorities nonetheless said that there was no risk of a tsunami. Patients in a hospital in West Pasaman were evacuated from the building. West Pasaman district head Hamsuardi told the Associated Press that along with dozens of buildings and houses, his office had also incurred some damage in the quake. The full scale of damage is still being assessed by authorities in the area. Mr Alim Bazar, head of the disaster mitigation agency of Pasaman city near the quakes epicentre, said some buildings in the area had suffered cracks. The mayor ordered all second and third floors in every building to be vacated, he said. Residents in Pasaman told local television channels that people started fleeing when the tremors started. Story continues At first, the quake only lasted for a few seconds. People fled their homes and buildings nearby were swaying, said Irpanda, a resident of Pasaman city, to Metro TV. But then another quake happened and it was so strong. More people fled their houses, he said. Videos on local television channels and social media showed people running out of buildings in panic in Padang, the capital of the West Sumatra province. Witnesses also reported seeing their doors and chairs shaking and photos and paintings fixed to the walls trembling. Tremors felt in Sengkang, Whampoa, Woodlands following 6.2-magnitude earthquake in Indonesia https://t.co/gNy0gE2Pkq pic.twitter.com/9mgpLW495y Mothership.sg (@MothershipSG) February 25, 2022 Residents in Malaysia and Singapore also said that they felt strong tremors from the earthquake. Lynn Chua, 44, a resident of Singapore, told The Straits Times that she was having her breakfast on Friday morning when the table started shaking around 9.45am. I felt two rounds of tremors, which both lasted for about five seconds. This all happened within a minute," she said. My husband, who also felt the tremors, later checked and told me that an earthquake had occurred. In a statement the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said they received several calls from the public reporting the tremors. No injuries had been reported, the SCDF added. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) also issued an alert on Twitter. "Tremors from the quake could be felt in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia, especially Selangor, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Melaka and Johor," the statement said. Due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is prone to high seismic activity. In January the countrys Java island was struck by a powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake. And in December an undersea earthquake of magnitude 7.3 struck off the coast of Indonesias Flores Island, prompting the countrys monitoring agency to issue a tsunami warning, which was later called off. Dear Doctors: My company called the employees back to the office, and I'm dreading it. There aren't many windows, and it's all fluorescent lights. Being able to be outdoors while working from home has been great. I know I'm less depressed when I get to be in daylight. Is there any science behind that? Dear Reader: Yes. Decades of studies have shown that natural light has a powerful, and often positive, effect not only on mental health, but also on physical health and general well-being. It's something that most of us know intuitively, and it also is reflected in public opinion. A few years ago, a survey of 1,600 office workers in North America found that instead of fancy perks like in-house gyms, nap pods or chef-run cafes, a more basic desire topped employee wish lists: consistent access to both natural light and views of the outdoors. More than one-third of the respondents reported being in your situation, with either limited or no natural light in their immediate workspace. And half of those surveyed agreed that when they spent hours in an office with limited natural light, it adversely affected their mood, productivity and sleep. These opinions echo the results of a fascinating study in which female workers were divided between two offices, one with windows and one without. Based on analysis of the participants' stress hormones, melatonin levels and answers to a questionnaire, working in an office without natural light was associated with poor sleep, low mood and depression. Now, a large new study continues to connect time spent outdoors to improved mental health and sleep. Conducted in Great Britain and published last December in the Journal of Affective Disorders, the research analyzes data gathered from 500,000 women and men between 37 and 73 years old. The individuals included in the study reported that they spend about 2.5 hours outdoors each day. Using medical information and outcomes about the group, researchers found that each additional hour spent outside in natural light was linked to a corresponding decrease in the risk of developing long-term depression. They also saw reduced use of antidepressants, as well as self-reported improvements to mood and general feelings of happiness. An interesting aspect of these findings is that while they were tied to increases in the time spent outdoors in daylight, the results proved to be independent of other variables such as lifestyle and social or economic status. While this research validates your personal experience, it doesn't change your situation. However, there are a few steps you can take to mitigate at least some of the ill effects. Some people find that adding a desk lamp outfitted with a full-spectrum bulb can ease the effects of harsh overhead fluorescent lights. Once you're back at work, make it a goal to spend time in natural light. Use breaks and your lunch hour for time outside. Adding exercise, like a brisk walk, will boost mood in multiple ways. We know it's not a perfect tradeoff, but until our workplaces catch up with the research, it's the best we indoor workers can do. Thank you! You've reported this item as a violation of our terms of use. Error! There was a problem with reporting this article. This content was contributed by a user of the site. If you believe this content may be in violation of the terms of use, you may report it. Report Abuse Log In to report Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 SIOUX CITY -- A Bronson, Iowa, man who used homemade chloroform to abduct his ex-girlfriend has pleaded guilty and agreed to be sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison. Zack Smith, 21, will be sentenced to 121 months in prison, according to terms of a plea agreement discussed during a Friday hearing in which he pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to one count of kidnapping. A judge must approve the agreement at sentencing, which will be scheduled after a presentence investigation report is completed. A charge of interstate violation of a protection order will be dismissed. Smith also agreed to give up his right to appeal his conviction and sentence. He remains in custody. Smith hid for three hours in the South Sioux City woman's vehicle on June 3. When she got in and after she had dropped a friend off at school, Smith threatened her with an Airsoft pistol and forced her into his vehicle, where he blindfolded her, bound her with zip ties and duct tape, and rendered her unconscious with homemade chloroform. The victim told investigators that she awakened alone in a shed at Smith's home in rural Bronson and was able remove rope and duct tape from her ankles and escape. She was found at a rural Woodbury County intersection by a family member who was looking for her. Investigators later found Smith in possession of a backpack containing condoms, lubrication, ropes, ties and duct tape. Smith told investigators he had used items in the backpack during the abduction and had been planning the kidnapping for more than two weeks. He said he planned to keep the woman for a week, but did not know what he would do with her after that. Smith was initially charged in Woodbury County District Court, but those charges were dismissed after he was indicted in federal court. A judge issued a no contact order against Smith on May 12 after he was arrested and charged in Woodbury County with two misdemeanor counts of false imprisonment for an incident in which he lured his ex-girlfriend to an apartment. When she arrived with a friend, Smith locked the door and would not let them leave. Smith pleaded guilty to the charges in October and agreed to a 75-day jail sentence. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SIOUX CITY The first time Morningside University President John Reynders drove a tractor around campus in honor of National Agriculture Week, he said he was glad it is over. In the years following, he was excited for the event. This year marks the final year of the Reynders' tractor drive as he prepares to retire in June. On Thursday, Reynders drove a tractor around the Buhler Rohlfs building as part of the activities put on by the Regina Roth Applied Agricultural and Food Studies program for National Agriculture Week. The tradition started in 2017 when the colleges Ag Club members challenged Reynders to drive the tractor around campus to call attention to National FFA Week. Originally, the tractor was going to be on display, but at the time Ag Club President Racheal Arnts said they wanted it to be interactive. National Agriculture Week started March 21 and ends on March 25. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. China's economy posts healthy recovery, solid macro fundamentals, says economist Xinhua) 07:59, March 25, 2022 "The headline manufacturing growth data, investment growth and especially high-tech investment growth rates look like they describe a healthy acceleration in 2022," says Albert Keidel. NEW YORK, March 24 (Xinhua) -- China's economy started the year on a positive note, with the country capable of maintaining steady, healthy growth despite headwinds, a senior U.S. economist has said. "The headline manufacturing growth data, investment growth and especially high-tech investment growth rates look like they describe a healthy acceleration in 2022," said Albert Keidel, a development economist specializing in East Asia, told Xinhua in a recent interview, commenting on China's January-February economic readings recently released by its National Bureau of Statistics. "China's macro fundamentals are very good" as "the investment rate in GDP is still very high," said Keidel, an adjunct professor of economics at George Washington University. Workers operate equipment to deal with liquid aluminum at an aluminum factory in Baise City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 18, 2022. (Xinhua/Cao Yiming) The Chinese economy sustained a steady recovery in the first two months, with major production and demand indicators reporting sound year-on-year growth, official data showed in mid-March. In January and February, China's value-added industrial output and retail sales of consumer goods increased 7.5 and 6.7 percent year-on-year, 3.2 and 5 percentage points higher, respectively, than in December last year. China's fixed-asset investment went up 12.2 percent year-on-year in the two months, while investment in high-tech rose by 34.4 percent with rapid investment growth in high-tech manufacturing and services. The economist, previously a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, a U.S. think tank, said China's already strong investment levels across the board, combined with its continuous efforts to shore up demand, is "just a good strong formula" for growth. Meanwhile, China's sustained policy orientation on urban growth and integration of the rural workforce further into urban formal labor supplies "is good for growth of the middle class and its contribution to consumption growth," he said. A worker works at an electric car factory in Huaibei, east China's Anhui Province, Jan. 1, 2022. (Photo by Wan Shanchao/Xinhua) Keidel, also a former senior economist at the World Bank's Beijing office, noted that the marked investment increase in high-tech manufacturing is "a real testament" to China's ability to quickly respond to international uncertainties to reduce risks in related sectors. While virtually all sectors have potential, fields like new-energy automobiles, industrial robots and solar cells will become increasingly promising, especially as the country is committed to achieving high-quality and green development, he said. "China's plans for stronger overall demand through fiscal expansion, including at the local level, will combine with the already high investment rate in GDP, to generate strong healthy GDP growth," said Keidel. Noting that China's economy still faces multiple challenges, including the Omicron outbreak and geopolitical uncertainties, Keidel said he believes in the country's decisiveness and ability to turn on resources fiscally and financially to navigate economic headwinds. China's response to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic "has been observed to be on target and in the proper amount," he said. A customer shops at a supermarket in Lianyungang, east China's Jiangsu Province, Feb. 16, 2022. (Photo by Wang Chun/Xinhua) "China has been very clever in putting funds, particularly through its e-finance capabilities, which are so complex and really well-developed, to be able to put money into people's accounts so that they can spend it," he said, adding the move "was a really very creative solution, an alternative to a massive spending spree." Keidel voiced his confidence in China's sustained economic recovery and future growth. China's two-year average GDP growth 2019-2021 was 5.1 percent, and its overall output in 2021 was on a growth trajectory, laying a stable foundation for the country to achieve its growth target this year. In addition, China's recent policy proposals ranging from fiscal stimulus to financial easing will facilitate a sound recovery, the economist said. "That sort of multi-faceted approach means to me that if China can match its high rate of investment in GDP with expansion of demand, that growth is bound to be healthy," Keidel added. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) A 14-year-old boy fell to his death late at night from a free-fall amusement park ride that is taller than the Statue of Liberty along a busy street in the heart of Orlando's tourist district. Sheriff's officials and emergency crews responded to a call late Thursday at Icon Park, which is located in the city's tourist district along International Drive. The boy fell from the Orlando Free Fall ride, which opened late last year. He was taken to a hospital, where he died, sheriff's officials said. No additional details about the teen or the incident were immediately released. A video aired by NBC's "Today" show Friday morning appears to show passengers on the ride discussing issues with a seat restraint Thursday night. The ride then began its trek up the tower before someone is later seen falling from the ride. "We are absolutely saddened and devastated by what happened, and our hearts go out this young man's family," John Stine, sales director with the Slingshot Group which owns the ride, told The Associated Press on Friday morning. The Free Fall ride and an adjacent ride, the Sling Shot, have been closed indefinitely, Stine said. His company operates the two rides at Icon Park. "We are cooperating with all other investigations at this time to get to the bottom of what happened," Stine said. Stine said there had been no issues reported previously with the Free Fall ride, which opened over the holidays. The Florida Department of Agriculture, which oversees amusement ride inspections with the exception of the state's largest theme parks, has launched an investigation and inspectors were at the site Friday, spokesperson Caroline Stoneciper said in an email. The ride stands 430-feet (131-meters) tall, and is billed as the world's tallest free-standing drop tower, according to the park's website. The ride holds 30 passengers as it rises in the air, rotates around the tower and then tilts to face the ground before free falling at more than 75 mph (120 kph), the website said. The ride has an over-the shoulder restraint harness, with two hand grips at the chest level, that goes over the rider automatically. --- An earlier version of this story from the Orlando Sentinel A 14-year-old boy died late Thursday after falling from the Orlando Free Fall ride at Icon Park, according to the Orange County Sheriffs Office. Deputies responded at 11:12 p.m. to 8433 International Drive. The boy was taken to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children where he was pronounced dead, OCSO said. Deputies have released no other information but an investigation is underway, said John Stine, sales director with the Slingshot Group, which owns the Orlando Free Fall. We are devastated that this happened, and our hearts go out the family, Stine said. We are cooperating with all other investigations at this time to get to the bottom of what happened. The ride is closed indefinitely until the investigation has concluded, Stine said. The Orlando Free Fall tower, which opened in December, rises 430 feet as the worlds tallest free-standing drop tower, according to the attraction. Thirty riders sit in the ride as it rises to the top, rotates around the tower, then tilts at 30 degrees to face the ground before a brief moment of free falling, Ritchie Armstrong, CEO of Slingshot Group, told the Orlando Sentinel in January, shortly after opening the attraction. It falls down free, detached from the tower, reaching speeds of up to 75 miles per hour before this beautiful magnetic braking system gives them a nice, smooth, slow stop, straight back down to the ground, Armstrong said. The Slingshot Group also owns the Orlando SlingShot, which stands at 300 feet and propels two riders in a basket above its support poles for a height of 450 feet at about 100 mph, Armstrong said. 2022 Orlando Sentinel. Visit orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 There has been much in the news lately about censorship. The major media have been reporting on Vladimir Putins efforts to keep the Russian people from hearing the truth about his war against Ukraine and what President Biden has called war crimes. Dictionary.com offers this definition of a censor: an official who examines books, plays, news reports, motion pictures, radio and television programs, letters, cablegrams, etc., for the purpose of suppressing parts deemed objectionable on moral, political, military, or other grounds. That official can be a head of state, like Putin, the head of a news operation, or even an individual reporter. Anyone who chooses to suppress a story or fails to investigate one because it does not conform to their worldview could be labeled a censor. Which brings me to the Hunter Biden laptop story the discovery by The New York Times that his laptop and its contents are real, after all. Not only did the Times and other major and social media ignore the story, in some cases the story was deemed fraudulent and blocked on several platforms. I think the more accurate explanation as to why the story was censored by these entities is that it was broken by The New York Post, which the mainstream media deem a conservative newspaper and by their standard, unreliable. The line favored by much of the suppression press was that the laptop story was Russian disinformation. The real unreliable purveyors of disinformation (or no information) are those who failed to do their journalistic duty and investigate. That the story was not followed up on during the 2020 presidential campaign adds to the suspicion, especially among many conservatives, that the information suppression was deliberate. NPR last year, corrected an online article that falsely asserted that documents from first son Hunter Bidens laptop had been discredited by U.S. intelligence. The correction came after the election. It took the Times and others until this year to fess up. According to the NY Post, 51 intelligence officers who signed a public letter claiming the laptop story was Russian disinformation have so far refused to apologize. Fact-checkers published what they said were lies told by Donald Trump. The Washington Post calculated Trump had lied or uttered misleading statements 30,573 times during his four years in office. No such diligence has been conducted by the major media of Hunter Biden and his familys alleged business and personal relationships with nefarious individuals and corrupt governments. For years the legacy media has seen itself as the only legitimate source of news. In a type of if a tree falls in the woods and no one is around, does it still make a sound? scenario, if The New York Times, The Washington Post, broadcast and some cable news networks dont report it, is it still news? Yes, it is and the source whether it be The NY Post, UK Daily Mail, or talk radio should not matter so long as the story can be independently verified. That The New York Times failed to do so until now is a dereliction of newspapers journalistic duty. Had the information been known before the election, it conceivably might have changed votes in some states where Joe Biden won by narrow margins. The tardy tacit admission by the Times that the NY Post was right will add to the view of many that todays journalism is driven mostly by agendas and not facts and when information goes against the worldview of reporters and their bosses it is to be ignored. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Editors Note: President of Ecuador Guillermo Lasso made his first state visit to China and attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics in February. Based on the solid friendship, China-Ecuador relationship is growing in all aspects in recent years. Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila, Ambassador of Ecuador to China, shared his insights into the relations in an interview with Ms. Sun Chao, the author of Global Leaders on the Belt and Road Initiative. Authorized by Sun Chao, the excerpts of the interview are published by China Focus. The amazing country Sun Chao: Mr. Ambassador, as we know, Ecuador not only retains the ancient indigenous civilization but is also located at the equator of the earth. When people talk about Ecuador, what do you expect them to remember? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: Ecuador is an amazing country with profound history, legends and striking contrast. Its name derives from its favorable geographical locationat the center of the world, which has enabled it to develop an impressive and diverse ecosystem with unique landscapes, climates and microclimates. All these directly map onto our countrys great ethnic and cultural diversity and make the quality of our local products unrivaled. In Ecuador, 77.4 percent of the population is mestizo who have inherited indigenous and other cultures. There are 13 recognized indigenous peoples in Ecuador, which are not well known abroad. Besides, we also have Afro-descendants and mountain peoples. In addition, there are other 25 or so ethnic groups living throughout Ecuador, with different cultural traditions, social identities, and geographical locations. To sum up, Ecuador is a modernized, safe and friendly country with good connectivity and well-established infrastructure, which we have to give thanks to China to a large extent. These characteristics enable the country to satisfy the needs of the most demanding foreigners. Today, we strategically set our sights on the Pacific, and China has become an important partner and sincere friend. The two sides have carried out many mutually beneficial and win-win projects. I hope Chinese friends know our country in this way. Sun Chao: Ecuador has rich cultural and geographical features, which attract tourists all over the world. I wonder where your hometown is? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: Indeed, please allow me to reply to the first part of your question. We have chosen to promote our countrys tourist destinations through technology platforms, provide brand-new and diverse services. Besides the country has new strategies and policy support. Ecuador has participated in the worlds major tourism expo and has formulated magnificent strategies for the extremely diversified tourism destinations in our country. Ecuador covers an area of about 280,000 square kilometers, but it brings together four geographic regions: the Pacific coast, the Andes, the Amazon rainforest and the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are world-famous and were listed as a natural heritage of mankind by UNESCO in 1978. Millions of Chinese tourists long to gain an insight into the new top tourist destinations in Latin America. In order to attract them to Ecuador, we have promulgated a number of public policies. The followings are some: We have canceled the visa requirements. We have trained our guides to learn Chinese. In terms of catering and hotels, we have provided options that meet the preferences and needs of Chinese tourists. Ecuadorian Amazon rain forest, looking toward the Andes. (Photo/Dallas Krentzel/Flickr) Please let me introduce some interesting specialties of our country. For example, Panama hat. In fact, the name is not appropriate because it is produced in Ecuador. It is a straw hat made of Ecuadorian Toquela. And it is one of the most exquisite and famous Ecuadorian products in the world. I must entrust you with something very emotional. During the recent official visit made by President Guillermo Lasso to Beijing this February, President Xi Jinping paid special attention to the toquilla straw hats that the Ecuadorian president gave to him and his wife, specially designed for them, and recognized the great heritage value of these magnificent pieces made by Ecuadorian artists. As Ecuador is located on the equator, the center of the world, an equatorial memorial has been erected in our country. What I hold is a crafted replica of the monument, which contains Ecuadors most famous wine called The Soul of Ecuador. Although our country is small in size, it has huge potential in the tourism industry. One factor that promotes tourism is air routes. We are analyzing different alternatives, hoping to include Ecuadors destinations through code sharing with Panama, Mexico, and other international aviation hubs, so as to make our routes more profitable. Another important issue is that Ecuador has also formulated a transportation policy called Open Skies. This policy stipulates that aviation right is relaxed to promote the integration of Latin America and strategically promote our country to better integrate into the international aviation environment. Undoubtedly, this will help the government promote domestic tourism, increase inbound tourism, and attract new Chinese investment in this field. Now come to the last part of your question. I was born in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, one of the most impressive cities in Latin America. Its historical center is one of the best-preserved in the world. There, Spanish art, Baroque art and indigenous art merge to create a wonderful art symbiosis, which is unique for Ecuador and our neighbor Peru. This is a unique artistic and cultural wealth in the world, and we also hope to share it with everyone. In addition, Quito was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1978. My favorite city is my hometown. I love my country, and I believe that all cities in Ecuador offer unique attractions for foreign friends. We have a beautiful coastal city called Guayaquil, and another is Manta, where international cruise ships come from all over the world. We also have modernized cities. Quito city itself not only retains the old historical center but also has modernized neighborhoods. We have built our metro system in 2020, which makes Ecuadors public transportation system one of the most modernized in our region. Thanks to the excellent level of cooperation relations between Ecuador and China, indeed the city of Guayaquil will host the XV Business Summit of China and Latin America and the Caribbean, an important interregional event that will bring together the most important companies and logistics operators, to do business. A man visits the Ecuador pavilion during the second China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 6, 2019. (Photo/Xinhua) The memorable experience in China Sun Chao: As the Ambassador to China, you have been in China for a few years. Would you please share with us some memorable experiences? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: Talking about the most memorable experience in China, I think, my acquaintance with President Xi Jinping was certainly the most impressive one. He is an extremely charismatic leader. He is a great strategist, who will certainly go down in history for his vision of change in China, his contribution to the international community in a peaceful, empathetic, and cooperative world, and the great Belt and Road Initiative. In terms of the beautiful China itself, what impresses me most is its people. The Chinese people are friendly, making us foreigners feel at home. We could feel a sense of security here, and we really enjoy being in the streets and squares of Chinese cities. The next point is very important. I have to admit that during the worst period of Covid-19, I was deeply impressed by the strict discipline of Chinese citizens. We must learn from China, that is, to put collectivism and empathy above selfishness and individualism. I have always said this to my Chinese diplomatic colleagues. Since I came to your country, I was surprised by the modernization and technological applications in the new era every day. Valuable tools such as the Internet, big data, 5G, and e-commerce platforms have become the key factors in controlling the epidemic. On the other hand, I was honored to have joined working visits organized by Chinas government, with the diplomats from Latin America in China. I have traveled a lot to almost all the regions and provinces, which has greatly simplified the diplomatic work of expanding relations between citizens of both countries. A place that has left a deep mark on me is Tibet. The first Latin American state member of AIIB Sun Chao: In November 2016, President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Ecuador, which was a milestone in bilateral relations. During the visit, the two sides announced an upgrade from strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening a new chapter in bilateral economic and trade cooperation. In your opinion, how will the two countries promote development through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: In 2016, President Xi Jinping visited Ecuador. This was the first visit by a top Chinese leader to Ecuador, which was of historical significance. Ecuadors participation in the Belt and Road Initiative is another important milestone. We believe that the Belt and Road Initiative has provided an open space for comprehensive cooperation principles of international law. It will promote trade, tourism, and investment on the basis of mutual respect and benefit. It is also a valuable contribution to global peace and development. It should be noted that public health cooperation has become a new priority for cooperation in order to jointly fight against the Covid-19, which is currently the most concerned issue of the international community. Photo taken on Mar. 17, 2020 shows an empty street in Quito, Ecuador. (Photo/Xinhua) In addition, China promotes the accessibility of vaccines worldwide, making them a global public good. In my opinion, this will become the pinnacle of political efforts to develop global governance around the Belt and Road Initiative. The BRI will synchronize with organizations committed to regional cooperation and integration, such as the South American Forum for Progress and Development and the Pacific Alliance, which are effective tools to build a more efficient and interconnected Latin America. After signing the BRI MOU, Ecuador has responded to the initiative from multiple levels. For example, Ecuador is the first Latin American country to join the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). We have also joined the Belt and Road tax collection and management cooperation mechanism. In 2020, the two foreign ministries jointly formulated a comprehensive plan for the implementation of the MOU on the joint construction of the BRI, which will directly promote our countrys cooperation in infrastructure and interconnection with China and other countries that have joined the initiative. On the occasion of the official visit made by President Guillermo Lasso in February 2022, within the framework of the inauguration of the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing, both countries reached an agreement in the MOU for the signing of a Free Trade Agreement and determined a technical work table to initiate the formal conversation of Ecuadors proposal regarding the bilateral debt. In addition, China has confirmed a donation of 2.5 million vaccines to inoculate the population of 3 to 5 years of age in Ecuador. All these aspects were evidenced in the Joint Declaration on the Deepening of the China-Ecuador Comprehensive Strategic Association. At the multilateral level, the two countries have also carried out important cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and common values. Chao Sun: With deepening economic and trade ties, what do you expect from the future economic cooperation between the two countries? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: We have established a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, which has facilitated the implementation of those important public infrastructure projects in Ecuador in recent years. In addition, the exchange of high-level visits between the two countries is also critically important. This is the gateway to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, which meets the needs and interests of both sides. We are working hard to export to China new types of agricultural products that meet all Chinese technical standards. Covid-19 has had an adverse impact on global industrial chains and supply chains. However, against this global backdrop, the agricultural trade between China and Latin America has grown against the trend, which shows that it has become a stabilizer for trade between China and Latin America. We have conducted in-depth dialogues with Chinese investors so that they can participate in important investment projects in our country through the bidding process stipulated by Ecuadorian law. Ecuador is a safe and lucrative country. In addition, Ecuador has formulated a complete set of regulations to provide better legal protection for those who wish to and will invest in Ecuador. The last point is very important, but few people know it. Ecuadors silver and gold reserves are among the highest in the world, and it has the sixth largest copper reserves in the world. Since Ecuador greatly relies on mineral exports, attaches importance to environmental issues occurring in the industrial chain, and regards mineral exports as one of the countrys main development opportunities, mining has huge investment potential in Ecuador and is also an important source of state revenue. A health worker prepares a dose of COVID-19 vaccine developed by the Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinovac in Quito, capital of Ecuador, Jul. 28, 2021. (Photo/Xinhua) Working together to fight against Covid-19 Sun Chao: Since the Covid-19 pandemic, China and Ecuador have kept communication and cooperation. What do you think of Chinas fight against the virus? Is that worth learning for other countries? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: Although Ecuador is one of the first countries in the American continent to take strict measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean, it is regrettable that it is still one of the most severely affected countries today. Confronted with the limited availability of supplies worldwide, the Ecuadorian government was quick to deploy diplomatic action and seek international cooperation in order to strengthen the countrys capacity to respond to the epidemic. It is within the framework of the comprehensive strategic partnership with China, in cooperation with the Beijing Municipal Government, various local governments, and state-owned enterprises, that Ecuador has received a large donation and supply of biosecurity materials in accordance with all the technical and quality standards set by the Chinese government. A large number of donations from China have arrived in Ecuador. More than 14 tons of equipment and materials have been delivered to Ecuador, which were all obtained under the coordination of the Ecuadorian Embassy in China. Apart from donations and material purchases, knowledge transfer, especially scientific knowledge, is equally important. For example, academician Li Lanjuan, a world-class expert on the covid-19, SARS and MERS epidemics, taught her experience of fighting against the epidemic in Wuhan to the highest health authorities in Ecuador, with the Ecuadorian participants led by the Ecuadorian Minister of Public Health. This was the first sharing of experience in Latin America in the fight against the epidemic, which was later replicated in other countries. Subsequently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China hosted several similar meetings in other CELAC member countries, inviting Chinese scientists to share their achievements in the fight against the covid-19. The challenges of global governance in a post-pandemic environment also require global action. The achievement of vaccination against COVID-19 is also a merit of international cooperation, in which China has played a leading role. In the case of Ecuador, in 2022, 62 percent of the total vaccine doses since Guillermo Lasso assumed the Presidency come from China. Lasso has pointed out Ecuadors gratitude for the personal support that President Xi provided for the timely supply of vaccines. This achievement has been recognized worldwide as a successful management model, with the contribution of the public and private sectors, and will allow us to venture into a prompt economic recovery. To date, 87 percent of Ecuadorians over five years of age are with the first dose applied, 82 percent of the population has two inoculated doses and 17 percent with the reinforcement, thus making Ecuador the third at the regional level. Additionally, Ecuador will soon have a Sinovac vaccine plant with a regional scope. Boxes containing the first batch of Chinese-developed Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines are seen at an airport in Quito, Ecuador on Apr. 7, 2021. (Photo/Xinhua) Sun Chao: The people-to-people exchange is always an important part of bilateral relations. From 1965 to 2016, China received a total of 272 Ecuadorian government scholarship students, sent 110 Chinese teachers and 125 volunteers to Ecuador, and offered 159 scholarships to the Confucius Institute. What do you expect in the people-to-people exchanges in the future? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: There is no doubt that the relationship between our two countries is at the best period in history today. I believe that the diplomacy we need should not only be flexible, dynamic and dedicated to economic and political negotiations, since economic and political negotiations are the key, but also should attach importance to non-governmental diplomacy, that is, to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges, enhance mutual understanding, and bring each other closer together. The cooperation between the two countries over the past 42 years will continue to develop steadily in the future. Although the two peoples are far apart geographically, they have been united in history because of the same principles and values. In this regard, the embassies in Quito and Beijing are actively cooperating in cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Strict restrictions on the Covid-19 have slowed our agenda. For this, we have made full use of telecommunications and the internet, done active work in electronic publications, translated the works of important Ecuadorian writers into Chinese, and hosted a series of lectures offline and online, in place of the very difficult and almost impossible face-to-face activities in special times. I also want to mention the academic field. We are about to complete the text negotiation of a bilateral cooperation agreement to promote academic exchanges. There is no doubt that this is a key factor in promoting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind. Another important milestone is a cooperation agreement signed between the two diplomatic academies of Ecuador and China. This agreement will facilitate personnel training and exchange of teachers. At the moment, tourists place great importance on biosecurity and personal safety. We want those who are interested in our region, and Ecuador in particular, to be able to travel safely. Ecuador is open to everyone and we look forward to more Chinese visiting Ecuador. The historic visit Sun Chao: President Guillermo Lasso recently visited China and attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics. What does that mean and is there any result of the historic visit? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: The Government of Ecuador continues to open markets at a steady pace, strengthening bilateral relations and strengthening ties with commercial partners that allow placing more Ecuador in the world and more world in Ecuador. Thus, President Guillermo Lasso, met with President Xi Jinping, with whom he discussed high-level issues related to financial commitments and the decoupling of oil from debt, the signing of a free trade agreement, vaccination, among other important issues for the relationship between the two countries. Some of the preliminary results of the meeting with President Xi are an agreement reached in the MOU for the signing of a China Free Trade Agreement, and a workgroup was established between the Ministers of Finance of China and Ecuador to start the formal conversation of Ecuadors proposal regarding the debt. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso, who attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 5, 2022. (Photo/Xinhua) The Ecuadorian president also held a meeting with Premier Li Keqiang, with whom he discussed in detail aspects of the aforementioned bilateral cooperation and emphasized the promotion of trade and foreign direct investment. China is the main market for Ecuadorian shrimp and the second export destination for non-oil products. Its bilateral relationship with Ecuador covers different sectors, which from January to November 2021 drove Ecuadorian exports to reach $2,810 million. President Lasso held a meeting with more than 20 representatives of the most important Chinese companies, with a view to attracting more investment and presented a broad portfolio of all projects in sectors such as health, energy, infrastructure, among others [more than 40 investment projects totaling approximately $30,000 million]. We want to see in the world and in the Chinese people the great opportunity to develop the Ecuadorian economy. President Lasso has reiterated Ecuadors immense gratitude to China for support from China. I do not imagine the development of Ecuador without China as an ally and Ecuador is a country of 17 million inhabitants but with a big heart, in which 1.4 billion Chinese fit, whom it welcomes with gratitude have been two phrases coined by the Ecuadorian president during his visit in Beijing, which in themselves reflect the unprecedented success of his official visit to China. Sun Chao: Mr. Ambassador, have you enjoyed the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing? Carlos Humberto Larrea Davila: I want to refer to two relevant aspects, which have made a difference on this occasion. The presence of our First Lady Maria de Lourdes Alcivar de Lasso and her meeting with Madame Peng Liyuan allowed deepening aspects of culture and social cooperation between our countries. The other element, which is almost a paradigm, is the successful handling by China of an event as important on a global level as the Winter Olympics, in which an Ecuadorian athlete participated for the first time: Sarah Escobar. This event took place at a time when the world is going through another wave of contagion from the pandemic, and China was able to guarantee absolute safety to all the sports and government delegations that participated in the face of this great health risk, for which we thank very especially and we again congratulate the Chinese people for this great success. Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln said Thursday that Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has been illegally raising campaign funds from a separate campaign committee in violation of a state law that he voted for when he was a state senator. The law states that the lieutenant governor "shall not have a separate campaign committee," Morfeld said. Responding from Israel, where he was on a trade mission, Foley said he carefully followed the "explicit guidance" provided by Frank Daley, executive director of the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, on "how to comply with the law" in establishing his campaign committee. The lieutenant governor is elected on the same ticket as the gubernatorial nominee of his political party. "Foley continued to raise money every year since being elected lieutenant governor into the campaign committee," Morfeld said. Foley renamed his campaign committee when he became a 2022 candidate for state auditor, Morfeld said. It had previously been titled "Foley For the People Governor." Morfeld urged Foley to "disgorge the funds illegally raised during his time as lieutenant governor in violation of statute." Foley had been a candidate for governor in 2014, but subsequently was named as Republican gubernatorial nominee Pete Ricketts' running mate. He is running this year for state auditor and has endorsed Charles Herbster's bid for the Republican nomination for governor. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 LOS ANGELES History hit Jeff Fortenberry with a devastating blow Thursday. A federal jury deliberated less than two hours before convicting the nine-term Nebraska congressman on one count of concealing conduit campaign contributions and two counts of lying to federal agents. Fortenberry, a 61-year-old Republican, is the highest-ranking elected official to be convicted of a felony in Nebraska history. After the guilty verdict was read on the concealment charge, Fortenberry closed his eyes and kept them closed for at least a minute. His youngest daughter dropped her head into her hands and heaved. His oldest daughter doubled over in the courtroom gallery, her boyfriend comforting her. Celeste Fortenberry, who had testified earlier Thursday, remained mostly stoic. She comforted her daughters, then Fortenberry, cupping his face with her hands and giving her husband of 26 years a kiss. U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. set sentencing for June 28. The congressman faces up to five years in prison on each count, although he could also receive supervised release. Ironically, he does not have to give up his congressional seat. Federal law requires members of Congress to give up their seats only for crimes that are tied to treason. It is unclear whether Fortenberrys campaign will continue. He faces a Republican challenger in the May primary: Norfolk state Sen. Mike Flood. Two Democrats, including Lincoln state Sen. Patty Pansing-Brooks, are also vying for the seat. Fortenberrys staff, including his current chief of staff Andy Braner, sat outside a courtroom, stunned. Braner left the courthouse with his hands stuffed in his suit pockets. Fortenberry exited the courtroom to a gaggle of members of the Nebraska press corps. We always thought it was going to be hard to get a fair process out here, he said. This appeal starts immediately. Actually, any appeals typically would have to wait until after the June sentencing, although attorneys can ask for a new trial before then. Fortenberry the judge determined he was not a flight risk and allowed him to remain free pending sentencing said his phone was buzzing. One of the texts: a note from one of his five daughters. She said I love you Daddy, no matter what anyone else accuses you of, Fortenberry said. Just remember so many other people do too. Asked if he would continue his campaign, Fortenberry said his family is going to sit down and evaluate next steps. The jury of four men and eight women convicted the congressman after watching several tapes of him making incriminating statements. The investigation ramped up when the FBI discovered that a Nigerian billionaire, Gilbert Chagoury, had been funneling cash into the campaigns of four Republican politicians: former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, current California Rep. Darrell Issa, former Nebraska Rep. Lee Terry and Fortenberry. It is illegal for U.S. elected officials to accept foreign money. The World-Herald asked prosecutor Mack Jenkins, who led the case with the help of prosecutors Susan Har and Jamari Buxton, if Fortenberry would have been prosecuted had he gotten rid of the money soon after learning it was suspect. The other three politicians werent prosecuted; they got rid of any illegal money soon after they were confronted. Fortenberry took 2 years to give his to charity. And was evasive along the way. Thats a difficult question to answer, Jenkins said. But I would say that the inaction in this case was certainly evidence of a scheme to conceal. Jenkins was asked for his message to Nebraskans. Hopefully they see that the federal government nationwide ensures that politicians follow the law, Jenkins said. During closing arguments, prosecutors laid out a slide show of the illegal flow of foreign money into Fortenberrys campaign coffers because of the congressmans support for the cause. That cause was the plight of Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East. Chagoury gave a bag of $30,000 cash to Toufic Baaklini. Baaklini passed it to Los Angeles Dr. Eli Ayoub. Ayoub gave it to his relatives so they could write checks to Fortenberry at an LA fundraiser in 2016. Har, an assistant U.S. attorney, told jurors to disregard the defense's suggestion that FBI agents ambushed or targeted Fortenberry. "The question is not, 'How could they look into the defendant?'" Har told jurors. "The question is, 'How could they not?'" Fortenberry's wife testifies that he can be absent-minded LOS ANGELES Before closing arguments, Jeff Fortenberrys wife, Celeste, took the stand and testified that during a critical June 4, 2018, phone call at the center of the case, her husband suffered from all sorts of distractions: exhaustion from a trip to Finland, stress over a daughters upcoming surgery and the breakfast he was cooking. During that phone call, Los Angeles Dr. Eli Ayoub told Fortenberry that a supporter had funneled $30,000 cash to his campaign, and that the cash probably came from Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury. Replayed the phone call in court Thursday, Celeste Fortenberry identified the sounds. One: Thats him putting water in the teapot. Two: A cast-iron skillet placed on the stove. Three: Sounds like the teapot going onto the stove. Her point: Fortenberry so hated fundraising phone calls that he often distracted himself by doing other things. Fixing raccoon damage to the chimney. Checking on their backyard chickens before the chickens were killed by opossums. Walking the dog. Cooking breakfast. He really hates doing fundraising calls, and doing something else helps him through it, Celeste Fortenberry testified Thursday. He loathes it. Theres a certain amount of autopilot that he goes on where he can have that conversation because he doesnt have to even think about it. The defense was trying to use that testimony to establish that Fortenberry, the nine-term congressman representing Nebraska's 1st District, wasnt paying close attention when Ayoub suggested three times that Fortenberrys campaign had received the $30,000 cash, probably from Chagoury. Celeste Fortenberry also testified that cellphone reception is bad in the Fortenberrys Lincoln home. The Fortenberrys five daughters our tech experts, she said routinely complain about the lack of bars on their AT&T phones. We live in Nebraska, Celeste Fortenberry testified. The state has pretty lousy cellphone service. The defense played a portion of the beginning of the phone call, in which Fortenberrys voice is garbled. The rest of the recording of the call sounded clear, although the defense argues that thats because it was being recorded in California, from Ayoubs phone. What Fortenberry heard on his end is another matter, they suggested. On cross-examination, prosecutor Susan Har played the call again. The recording sounded crisp. One by one, Har went through the sounds. The reception seemed to be so clear that it actually sounded like a teapot, didnt it? Har asked. Yes, it did, Celeste Fortenberry said. Fortenberrys defense questioned how the prosecution could base its entire case on a 10-minute phone call from Ayoub to Fortenberry. In that June 4, 2018, call, recorded by the FBI, Ayoub told Fortenberry three times that Baaklini provided $30,000 in cash and that the cash probably came from Chagoury. Attorney John Littrell blasted the FBI for waiting 293 days before confronting Fortenberry about the phone call and expecting him to remember everything. He also blasted the lead FBI agent in the case Todd Carter for a memo he wrote in which he laid out, before interviewing the congressman, that he would be seeking to charge Fortenberry with (concealment) of conduit contributions and, if he lied, making false statements. If you already have plans to indict someone, this is not a search for the truth, Littrell said. This is a setup. Littrell noted that Fortenberrys campaign had $1.5 million in its coffers. Do you really think he would take and put his reputation on the line for $30,000 when he had almost $1.5 million in the bank? Littrell asked jurors. Theres no way he would. Littrell put up a slide emphasizing Fortenberrys presumption of innocence. He followed that with a slide of Fortenberrys official office photo that said presumption of integrity. The defense attorney said he had never been in a case where every witness acknowledged that the defendant had a sterling reputation. Every government witness testified that he is a truthful person, a man of integrity, Littrell said. One witness said it best: He brings integrity to everything he does. That said, Littrell told jurors his client is flawed. He talks too much, Littrell said. He doesnt listen enough. He should have paid more attention to his fundraisers. Thats all true. But thats not a crime. ... Having a faulty memory is not a crime. Littrell also noted the phone call had been played several times in court. He suggested to jurors that if they had to listen to the call again, that would amount to reasonable doubt. After all, he said, Fortenberry only heard the call once. If he didnt hear, understand or recall the June 2018 call, then hes not guilty of all three counts, Littrell said. Har and Jenkins said theres ample evidence that Fortenberry heard Ayoubs words and was concerned. The defense itself noted that he talked to four people after the phone call, including his wife. Celeste Fortenberry testified that she advised him to contact an attorney. Fortenberry did. However, that attorney said Fortenberry was so vague about what had been said that she considered it a nonissue. He definitely didnt say anything about the possibility of foreign money into his campaign, the attorney testified. Har said one of the most obvious restrictions on political fundraising is the ban on foreign money. Its essentially campaign finance 101, she said. She said Fortenberry could have taken several off ramps. He could have picked up on his instincts that most of the checks had been written by one family. He could have gotten rid of the money by disgorging it the formal term for when a politician donates suspected dirty money to charity. He didnt want to, Har said. He was running for reelection, she said, and he didnt want the embarrassment surrounding a scandal of foreign cash in his campaign. Prosecutors also pointed out several lies that they say Fortenberry told during interviews with the FBI. Handed a photo of Ayoub, Fortenberry told agents during an interview at his home in Lincoln that he wasnt placing the doctor. After a few seconds, he said Ayoub may have given him a donation. Littrell had pointed out in defense arguments that Fortenberry didnt recognize Ayoub because the photo was at least 10 years old, taken from a time when Ayoub still had dark, instead of silver, hair. But Har noted that FBI agents had repeated Ayoubs name several times. And Fortenberry clearly had a rapport with the LA doctor, based in part on the fact that the doctor had spent nine years of his medical training in Omaha. Not placing him? Har asked. Its someone who hosted a fundraiser for him. In a follow-up interview in Washington in July 2019, Fortenberry also claimed that he had cut off the Ayoub phone call when Ayoub said illegal cash may have been injected into his campaign. But audio of the phone conversation proves Fortenberry didn't cut off the call. At the end of the day, it's a pretty simple case, Jenkins said. Its an all-too-familiar story of a politician caught up in the system, caught up in the cycle of power, who lost his way. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 I just listened to Senator Grassley address the Senate hearing on Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson. As a farmers daughter formerly of Okoboji Township in Dickinson County, Iowa, I felt ashamed of how Senator Grassley used this hearing to further the division of our country by attacking the Democrats rather than sticking to the subject of the hearing, determining Judge Jacksons capability to serve on the Supreme Court. It is this kind of divisive behavior that threatens our democracy. --Margaret Drake, Volcano, Hawaii This story was produced in partnership with the Garrison Project, an independent, nonpartisan organization addressing the crisis of mass incarceration and policing. An Illinois state representative just introduced a bill to authorize a recall against States Attorney Kim Foxx for creating a crisis of confidence in the Cook County judicial system. In June, San Francisco residents will decide whether to oust District Attorney Chesa Boudin, elected in November 2019. And in Los Angeles, an effort to recall DA George Gascon, who took office less than 18 months ago, has support from the Association of Deputy District Attorneys for Los Angeles County, a group representing local prosecutors. (Initial recall attempts against Gascon and Boudin, both launched in 2021, failed to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe to the Slatest Newsletter A daily email update of the stories you need to read right now. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. While it is true that any California elected official can be recalled for any reason, the provision authorizing this remedy in the state constitution was designed as a bulwark against corruption and malfeasance. Should the Illinois bill become law, it would do the same in Foxxs case. What have these prosecutors done to warrant a recall? Tim Butler, author of the Illinois bill, said Foxx gave preferential treatment to defendants like Jussie Smollett, who faked a hate crime more than three years ago. But Foxx said she used her discretion not to pursue charges against Smollett to focus on prosecuting serious violent crimea routine decision in an extraordinary case. Responding to the special prosecutors report that she abused her discretion and misled the public about her decision-making, Foxx denied wrongdoing, saying that differences of opinion as to how a case was handled do not signify an abuse of discretion. Butlers focus on Smollett is particularly strange because Smollett is being punished for his crime: After Foxx recused herself, he was tried by a special prosecutor, convicted on five counts of felony disorderly conduct, and sentenced to serve 150 days in jail and 30 months probation, and must pay nearly $150,000 in fines and restitution. (A judge just ordered Smolletts release pending his appeal.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butler also said that Foxxs refusal to file charges in a recent murder case exemplified her mistreatment of crime victims. But in that casea 2021 exchange of gunfire in Chicago that left one person dead and two injuredFoxxs office said it lacked sufficient evidence to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt and added that the police agreed with her decision. In the Gascon recall, proponents simply point to his policies such as refusing to seek the death penalty, demand cash bail, or charge juveniles as adultsthe very positions he told voters he would take. (Gascon has since modified some of his positions.) Advertisement Advertisement A statement from one of the campaigns to recall Boudin is similarly centered on an individual case, Troy McAlisters. On Dec. 31, 2020, McAlister was on parole when he stole a car at gunpoint in another city and then drove to San Francisco, where he struck and killed two women. The statement blames Boudin for referring his previous arrests to the parole division instead of filing new charges. Since then, Boudin has been blamed for many tragediesand for public health problems that the criminal legal system is ill-equipped to handleby those who want to recall him. Safer SF Without Boudin claims that car break-ins and burglaries are at a crisis level in San Francisco. But its the policenot prosecutorswho make arrests, and the performance of the San Francisco Police Department (which has a nearly $700 million budget) is dismal. Arrests have declined by an average of 60 percent per reported offense from 2010 to 2021, according to a recent report from the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization. The SFPDs rate of reported offenses solved by an arrest8.8 percentis extremely low compared with other major city departments, and the SFPD arrests Black residents at nearly 10 times the rate it arrests people of other races. [Editors note: In 2020, Chesa Boudin launched the San Francisco District Attorneys Innocence Commission, which is chaired by the author.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whatever one thinks about the policies of progressive prosecutors like Boudin, Gascon, and Foxx, the recall movements are not about misconduct in office but rather about outrage over their policies, which the voters elected them to carry out. The usual remedy for disapproval of an elected officials performance is to vote for another candidate at the next election. Recallswhich circumvent that processare an extreme measure that should be reserved for extreme cases. Advertisement But extreme case prosecutors are not being recalled. In fact, quite the opposite: Two of the most infamous in recent memory may be reelected. Consider Todd Spitzer, the DA in Orange County, a wealthy, populous jurisdiction in Southern California, seeking to be reelected in June. For years, Spitzer remained close with senior prosecutor Gary LoGalbo, despite LoGalbos alleged serial sexual harassment of the women in the office. This one is for the spank bank, he allegedly told one colleague as he snapped a picture of her bottom. Ill use it later. A county investigation corroborated many of the claims, and there are at least four lawsuits against the Orange County DA alleging sexual harassment by LoGalbo, known in the office as Scary Gary. (LoGalbo, who served as the best man at Spitzers wedding, resigned in December 2021.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, a viral video surfaced showing Spitzer saying the N-word multiple times during a speech at the Iranian American Bar Association. Spitzer was repeating an epithet used by a defendant, but in the speech, he said effing to avoid using fucking while repeating the racial slur in full. The same month, former prosecutor Ebrahim Baytieh, whom Spitzer fired for his own misconduct, accused Spitzer of making racially inappropriate comments at a meeting about whether to seek the death penalty against a Black defendant. The case involved a double murder where the defendants alleged motive was jealousy over a white ex-girlfriend. Spitzer inquired about the race of the defendants other previous girlfriends, and said that Black men date white women to get themselves out of their bad circumstances and bad situations, according Baytieh, who contends that Spitzer violated state law by improperly taking the race of the victim into account. (Spitzer denies violating the law but admits he said that Black men seek out white women to elevate their stature in the community.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then there is Amy Weirich, the district attorney general in Shelby County (Memphis) who is seeking a second full term in November and has been credibly accused of committing misconduct for nearly 20 years. In 2005, the Tennessee Supreme Court described Weirichs arguments as improper and unseemly when she repeatedly referred to two defendants on trial as greed and evil. In a separate 2017 decision throwing out the death sentence she secured against one of them, a federal appellate court characterized Weirichs additional misconductelicitation of false testimony and suppression of evidenceas unfathomable coming from any competent prosecutor. The same year, the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility reprimanded Weirich for making improper closing remarks in a different murder case. The conviction was reversed on appeal, and the defendant later entered a plea to voluntary manslaughter while proclaiming her innocence. Weirich also enables misconduct by her deputies. In 2014, she defended one of her senior prosecutors whose blatantly false, inappropriate and ethically questionable behavior in another capital case led to another overturned conviction and his own discipline by the Tennessee Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, Weirich made headlines for her decision to prosecute Pamela Moses on a felony voter fraud charge, alleging that she filled out a registration form knowing that her criminal record barred her from doing so. Moses, who said that she relied upon her probation officers assurance that her actions were legal, was convicted and received a six-year prison sentence. A judge ordered a new trial after it was revealed that the state failed to turn over information pointing to the probation officers incompetence. Following a public outcryMoses is Black and received a punishment far in excess of that imposed upon white people facing similar chargesWeirich shot back that Moses set this unfortunate result in motion by exercising her right to a jury trial rather than pleading guilty to a lesser offense. Moses is now out on bond, and her attorneys are pushing for Weirich to drop the charges against her. Advertisement Advertisement I have seen the impact of true prosecutorial misconduct firsthand. Over the course of my 20-year legal career, I have represented innocent people who were locked up for decades for crimes they did not commit because of unethical and unlawful actions by the state. I serve pro bono as the chair of the San Francisco District Attorneys Innocence Commission*, which investigates wrongful conviction cases. The cost of misconduct is measured in lives lost within the criminal justice system. The fact that prosecutors who misuse their role, sending innocent people to prison for years, face few consequences should give us all pause. Advertisement The U.S. Supreme Court has held that prosecutors have absolute immunity from civil liability for any actions they take during trial and have left it to the state bar to impose discipline. But that rarely happens. Weirichs disciplinary case was unusual, and despite her documented record of egregious wrongdoing, the private reprimand she got was a slap on the wrist. Prosecutors who committed misconduct in criminal cases that led to exonerations were disciplined only 4 percent of the time, according to a 2020 report by the National Registry of Exonerations, which has documented more than 3,000 wrongful convictions dating back to 1989. Advertisement That is consistent with my experience. Since 2018, I have filed eight bar complaints against prosecutors in California, Minnesota, and Georgia with documented histories of misconduct in an effort to hold them accountable. Because I was acting as a disinterested law professor rather than a disgruntled litigant, I hoped that the state bar would take these complaints seriously, especially considering the wealth of documentation I provided in each case. But, as I noted last year, not one has resulted in so much as a public reprimand. And California is far from alone in this regard. In 2020, a Louisiana Supreme Court justice noted that it had been 15 years since the court upheld discipline for a Brady violation and that no prosecutor in Louisiana has been disciplined for failure to disclose favorable information since, despite numerous published opinions finding Brady violations and high-profile exoneration cases. This lack of discipline occurred despite Louisiana being a locus of prosecutorial misconduct, from wrongful convictions in Shreveport to fake subpoenas in New Orleans. The progressive prosecutor movement that has taken root in the past few years was a reaction against such misconduct. It was also driven by a reaction against the punitive status quo: In Philadelphia, DA Lynne Abraham obtained more than 100 death sentences during her tenure from 1991 to 2010, and at one point one of her prosecutors was responsible for nearly 20 percent of all death sentences in Pennsylvania. Abraham was followed by Seth Williams, whose tenure ended when he was indicted in federal court on bribery and extortion charges. This is the preLarry Krasner history of Philadelphia, and yet its Krasner who faces a recall of sorts, too: Former Pennsylvania U.S. Attorney William McSwain recently said he will lead an effort to pass a state constitutional amendment to have the Philadelphia DA appointed by the governor. The recalls against progressive DAs, whether they intend to or not, threaten to return prosecutor offices that are trying to turn away from these practices back to the era of hyperpunitivenessand impunity. For all the talk about the possibility of Russia launching nuclear weapons if things get desperate enough in Ukraine, it is often overlooked that the United States has long had a similar policy of not taking nukes off the table. This history is set to continue with President Bidens upcoming Nuclear Posture Review, which states that the fundamental purpose of nuclear weapons is to deter an enemy from attacking us with nuclear weaponsbut that this is not their sole purpose. Advertisement The distinction is more profound than it might seem. Essentially, it means that the U.S. might use nuclear weapons first in a crisis or a war, if our vital interests were at stake. For many years, some arms-control activists have argued that the U.S. should adopt a no-first-use policy, for several reasons. First, it would be immoral to violate the nuclear taboo, which has been in place and observed by all since 1945. Second, declaring such a policy might encourage other countries to do the sameor at least discourage them from building their own nuclear arsenals. Third, since our conventional forces are superior to those of our adversaries, we wouldnt need to resort to nukes in the course of fighting a conventional war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Obama held two National Security Council meetings to consider the question. He personally believed that no American president would ever use nuclear weapons first. But some of his advisers, notably Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, persuaded him not to declare that fact as formal policy, for two reasons. First, some countries, including Russia, had biological weapons, which could be nearly as devastating as nukes if they used them. Yet because we no longer have bio-weapons, we couldnt retaliate in kind. Threatening to retaliate with nuclear weapons might deter them from launching a bio attackso why give up that option? Second, Gates argued, our allies would have a fit. To a degree that most Americans dont grasp, nuclear weapons remain a centerpiece of our guarantee that we will come to the defense of our allies if theyre under attack. This concept is called extended deterrence (the basic idea of deterrencewell attack the enemy if the enemy attack usextended to our allies) or the nuclear umbrella (well use nukes to protect an ally just as wed use them to protect ourselves). Sure enough, when word leaked that Obama was even considering a no-first-use policy, the Japanese foreign minister called the White House in a panic. When President Trump talked about folding up the umbrella, Japanese leaders seriously mulled building a nuclear arsenal of their own. In other words, far from encouraging others to forego nuclear weapons, a no-first-use policy might encourage some to dive in. Advertisement Advertisement Obama somewhat reluctantly agreed with Gates and came up with a clever compromise. The final draft of his Nuclear Posture Review stated (in a passage that he personally wrote) that the U.S. would not use nukes first against a country that (a) did not possess nuclear weapons and (b) was abiding by the Non-Proliferation Treaty. This would still keep first-use on the table against Russia, China, North Korea, and (if it ever built any nuclear weapons) Iranwhile possibly assuring other countries that they didnt need nukes to deter a U.S. attack. In this sense, Obama saw that deterring a nuclear strike was the fundamental purpose of nuclear weaponsthe same phrase that Biden is invoking in his Nuclear Posture Review. (Biden has briefed the review to allies; it will be published in the coming weeks.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until press reports of the review this week, some had hopesor apprehensionsthat Biden would move U.S. policy closer to no-first-use. On Jan. 11, 2017, nine days before the end of his term as Obamas vice president, Biden said, in a speech (which Im told Obama approved): Given our non-nuclear capabilities and the nature of todays threats, its hard to envision a plausible scenario in which the first use of nuclear weapons by the United States would be necessaryor make sense. President Obama and I are confident we can deterand defend ourselves, and our Allies, againstnon-nuclear threats through other means [He] and I strongly believe we have made enough progress that deterringand, if necessary, retaliating againsta nuclear attack should be the sole purpose of the U.S. nuclear arsenal. [Italics added.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (White House staffers had written the speech as a possible farewell address for Obama. But he decided, after Trump won the election, that it would be better to talk about the threat to American democracy.) Its a fair guess that, like Obama, Biden doesnt really believe that heor perhaps any other American presidentwould actually use nukes first. However, also like Obama, he has been persuaded that he cant say this out loud as formal U.S. policy without throwing doubt on our security guarantees and unraveling our alliances. This is especially the case after Russias invasion of Ukraine, when he needs to stiffen those guarantees and shore up those alliances more than ever. Obamas Nuclear Posture Review addressed the dilemmas of a first-use policy within the framework of a desire to reduce the role of nuclear weapons in deterring non-nuclear threats. The Trump administration overturned that framework in its review, stating that nuclear weapons were good for deterring a wide range of threatsincluding several non-nuclear onesand emphasizing the need to integrate nuclear and non-nuclear warfare in U.S. military doctrine, training, and exercises. At least Biden seems to be returning to the relative restraint of Obamas policy review. But I emphasize relative restraint, for the idea of using nuclear weapons to deterand to retaliate againstnon-nuclear threats is still very much on the table, a fact that is true for all the nuclear powers, whether they say so or not. This story was originally published by Yale Environment 360 and has been republished here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration. The COVID pandemic has rightly received most of the blame for global supply chain upheavals in the past two years. But the less publicized threat to supply chains from climate change poses a far more serious threat and is already being felt, scholars and experts say. The pandemic is a temporary problem, while climate change is long-term dire, according to Austin Becker, a maritime infrastructure resilience scholar at the University of Rhode Island. Climate change is a slow-moving crisis that is going to last a very, very long time, and its going to require some fundamental changes, said Becker. Every coastal community, every coastal transportation network is going to face some risks from this, and were not going to have nearly enough resources to make all the investments that are required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of all of climate changes threats to supply chains, sea level rise lurks as potentially the biggest. But even now, years before sea level rise begins inundating ports and other coastal infrastructure, supply chain disruptions caused by hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other forms of increasingly extreme weather are jolting the global economy. A sampling of these disruptions from just last year suggests the variety and magnitude of climate changes threats: The Texas freeze last February caused the worst involuntary energy blackout in U.S. history. That forced three major semiconductor plants to close, exacerbating a global pandemic-triggered semiconductor shortage and further slowing production of microchip-dependent cars. The outages also forced railroad closures, severing heavily used supply chain links between Texas and the Pacific Northwest for three days. Advertisement Advertisement Heavy rainfall and snowmelt in February 2021 caused some banks of the Rhine River, Europes most important commercial waterway, to begin to burst, triggering a halt in river shipping for several days. Then in April, water levels on the Rhine, which was facing a long-term drought, dropped so low that cargo ships were forced to load no more than half their usual capacity to avoid running aground. In recent years, manufacturers relying on the Rhine have increasingly faced shipping capacity reductions that disrupted both inbound raw material and outbound product delivery flows as a result of drought, according to a May 2021 report by Everstream Analytics, which tracks supply chain trends. Advertisement Flooding in central China in late July disrupted supply chains for commodities such as coal, pigs, and peanuts, and forced the closure of a Nissan automobile plant. SAIC Motor, the countrys largest automaker, announced that these disruptions caused what Reuters called a short-term impact on logistics at a giant plant in Zhengzhou capable of producing 600,000 cars a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hurricane Ida, the fifth-costliest hurricane in U.S. history, struck the Gulf of Mexico coast in late August, damaging vital industrial installations that generate an array of products like plastics and pharmaceuticals, and forcing a diversion of trucksalready in short supply across the countryfor use in relief aid. Fires in British Columbia from late June through early October triggered by an unprecedented heat wave comprised the third-worst wildfire season in the provinces history and closed a transportation chokepoint at Fraser Canyon that idled thousands of rail cars and stranded their contents. In November an atmospheric river, delivering what officials called once-in-a-century rainfall, caused severe flooding in the province. The floods severed crucial railroad and highway links to Canadas largest port and forced a regional oil pipeline to close. The loss of the rail network forced provincial lumber companies to scale back production, causing price increases and shortages of lumber, paper pulp, and other wood products in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December, a typhoon caused what TechWireAsia called arguably the worst flooding in history in various parts of Malaysia and severely damaged Klang, Southeast Asias second-largest port. That created a break in the semiconductor supply chain, since semiconductors from Taiwanby far the worlds largest manufacturer of advanced microchipsare routinely shipped to Klang for packaging at Malaysian factories before being transported to U.S. companies and consumers. The packaging breakdown contributed to global semiconductor shortages and caused some U.S. automobile manufacturers to suspend operations. The Malaysia node in the global supply chain that hardly anyone was aware of turned out to be critical, Christopher Mims, a Wall Street Journal technology columnist and author of Arriving Today: From Factory to Front DoorWhy Everything Has Changed About How and What We Buy, said in an interview. It illustrates how a bottleneck anywhere in the supply chain can interfere with the availability of critical goods. Advertisement Advertisement Scientists say that such climate-related disruptions are bound to intensify in coming years as the world warms. In addition, ports, rail lines, highways, and other transportation and supply infrastructure will be threatened by increases in sea level of an estimated 26 feet (and perhaps more) by 2100. Around 90 percent of the worlds freight moves by ship, and according to Becker, inundations eventually will threaten most of the worlds 2,738 coastal ports, whose wharves generally lie just a few feet to 15 feet above sea level. But to most port managers, the threat still feels remote. The rate of future sea level rise is so uncertain, and the solutions so elusive, that only a few port managers have taken action to counter the threatand only a fraction have tried to assess it. Advertisement Advertisement As the ripple effects of what are likely to be ever-increasing and intensifying climate-related disruptions spread through the global economy, price increases and shortages of all kinds of goods, from agricultural commodities to cutting-edge electronics, are probable consequences, Mims said. The leap in the cost of shipping a container across the Pacific Ocean as a result of the pandemicfrom $2,000 to $15,000 or $20,000may suggest whats in store. A 2020 paper in Maritime Policy & Management even asserted that if current climate science is correct, global supply chains will be massively disrupted, beyond what can be adapted to while maintaining current systems. The paper argues supply chain managers should accept the inevitability of economic upheaval by the end of this century and embrace practices that support rebuilding afterward. Advertisement Supply chains are, in essence, strings of potential bottlenecks. Each stopping point is a node in a treelike system that conveys raw materials from the systems farthest tendrils to subassemblers along its roots to manufacturers, who are the systems trunk. Products like smartphones possess hundreds of components whose raw materials are transported from all over the world; the cumulative mileage traveled by all those parts would probably reach to the moon, Mims said. These supply chains are so complicated and opaque that smartphone manufacturers dont even know the identity of all their suppliers; getting all of them to adapt to climate change would mark a colossal achievement. Yet each node is a point of vulnerability whose breakdown could send damaging ripples up and down the chain and beyond it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seaports are particularly vulnerable. Port authorities have three ways to cope with sea level rise and all are inadequate, experts say. They can retreat to inland locations with river links to oceans, but available sites with requisite conditions are few and expensive. They can build costly sea dikes around the ports, but even if the dikes are strong enough to resist the rising ocean, they must continually be raised to keep up with sea level rise, only buying time until eventually being overtopped. They also divert floodwater to nearby coastal areas unprotected by the dikes. Finally, officials can raise all port infrastructure by at least a couple of meters so that the port can continue to function as sea level rise proceeds. But the rate of the rise is so uncertain that choosing a cost-effective height for the increase is problematic, Becker said. And raising wharves and other port infrastructure would still leave railroads, highways, and the residents of adjoining cities unprotected. Advertisement In a 2016 paper in Global Environmental Change, Becker and four colleagues concluded that raising 221 of the worlds most active seaports by 2 meters (6.5 feet) would require 436 million cubic meters of construction materials, an amount large enough to create global shortages of some commodities. The estimated amount of cement49 million metric tonsalone would cost $60 billion in 2022 dollars. Another study Becker co-authored in 2017 found that elevating the infrastructure of the 100 biggest U.S. seaports by 2 meters would cost $57 billion to $78 billion in 2012 dollars (equivalent to $69 billion to $103 billion in current dollars), and would require 704 million cubic meters of dredged fill four times more than all material dredged by the Army Corps of Engineers in 2012. Advertisement Advertisement Were a rich country, Becker said, and were not going to have nearly enough resources to make all the required investments. So among ports theres going to be winners and losers. I dont know that were well-equipped for that. Advertisement The long-term nature of sea level rise, combined with the deficiencies and expense of the proposed solutions, have largely prevented seaport managers from addressing the threat. A 2020 study in Journal of Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering that Becker co-authored found that, of 85 U.S. maritime infrastructure engineers who responded to a survey, only 29 percent said their organizations even had a sea level rise policy or plan, let alone had acted on one. In addition, the federal government offers no guidance on incorporating sea level rise projections into port design. This leaves engineers to make subjective decisions based on inconsistent guidance and information, the study said, [and] leads to engineers and their clients disregarding [sea level change] more frequently. Advertisement In response to the threat of increasing supply chain disruption, manufacturers are considering enlarging their inventories or developing dual supply chainssupply chains that deliver the same goods via two different routes so that if one breaks down, the other will prevent shortages. But both solutions would increase production costs and contradict the still-predominant just in time manufacturing approach, which relies on robust supply chains to eliminate the need for companies to keep extensive parts inventories in stock. American companies could shorten their supply chains, shifting production facilities back to the U.S. or a nearby country, but in many cases they would be removing their factories from the constellation of suppliers that grew up around them in countries such as China and Vietnam. On top of all this, theres a built-in inertia in supply chain management. [Long-term] strategy and logistics are opposite things, Dale Rogers, business professor at Arizona State University, said in an interview. Logisticians are always trying to execute the strategy but not necessarily develop it. Theyre trying to figure out how to make something happen now, and climate change is a long-term problem. Marching extremists prompted Alica Fruhwaldova to write the story of her own family. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Before the war, there were two shops in two towns located about 30 kilometres from each other in central Slovakia. The shop in Brezno belonged to Hugo and Sarlota Mittelmann. The other one, in Lubietova, was run by Viliam Berger and his wife Berta. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Who is Alica Fruhwaldova? Born in 1947 in Banska Bystrica, she studied Slovak and English as well as literature and worked as English teacher in Banska Bystrica between 1970 and 1991. Between 1992 and 2006 she worked as the manager of the British Council. During this time, she accompanied Prince Charles when he was visiting Slovakia on November 1, 2000. Later, she taught English at the Slovak Medical University in Banska Bystrica, she was a lector of English within EU projects and since 2017 she has lectured at the University of the Third Age of Matej Bel University in Banska Bystrica. She has three children and six grandchildren. Their granddaughter, Alica Fruhwaldova, was born two years after the war ended. She never met any of her four grandparents. All were killed during the Second World War, when the Nazi-puppet Slovak state sent thousands of its Jewish citizens to extermination camps. My brother and I asked our parents from early childhood why we did not have grandparents, why we were not visiting their graves, but my parents found it hard to talk about, Fruhwaldova told The Slovak Spectator. She lost her relatives and family before she was able to meet them. In her book The Love I Lost, she recounts what it is like to be a second generation of people falling victim to Nazi atrocities, and the pain and loss that followed in their wake. Work exemption saved parents Fruhwaldova said she and her brother have known since they were little children that something in their family was untraditional, that there was something their parents did not want to talk about. Only when they were teenagers did they gradually learn the story of their family. Their mother, Edita Mittelmannova by her maiden name, met her future husband when commuting to school to Banska Bystrica from Brezno. On a train, her eyes met with the eyes of Oskar Berger, who was travelling to a fur-trading business in Banska Bystrica where he was apprenticed. By the time they got married, the war had already started. I know now that this early September day in 1941 was the last time for the family to gather. My parents wedding day was to be the last day my relatives, all those whom I would never come to know, would be together, Fruhwaldova wrote in her book. Hard labour and threat of deportations. A museum shows the struggles of Slovak Jews Read more The first transports were dispatched from Slovakia soon after. Hugo Mittelmann was taken to Lublin in March 1942 and murdered in Treblinka, while Sarlota Mittelmannova and Alica Mittelmannova, Editas younger sister, were taken to Sobibor in June 1942 and were murdered. Some of their relatives were taken along with them. Fruhwaldovas parents did not end on one of the transports thanks to the fact that her father married her mother and took her away from Brezno as they moved to Banska Bystrica. At a time when Jews were banned from working, as ordered by the Jewish Code approved on September 9, 1941, the director of the fur-business where Oskar Berger was working, Elena Slivkova, applied for an official exemption for him. Fruhwaldova says that it was not an easy matter. Thousands of such applications were turned down every day. But her father received the license of an economically significant Jew in November 1941. This saved Berger and his wife from immediate deportation and allowed him to keep his job. Hiding while pregnant in the woods They were allowed to stay in town and keep working, but their life was far from enviable. They lived in a cellar flat together with their family members and witnessed how their relatives were taken away and put into a transport, up to a point when they were the last remaining inhabitants of the cellar. The exemption Mrs Fruhwaldovas father possessed protected her parents until the Slovak National Uprising broke out in Banska Bystrica on August 29, 1944. Oskar Berger joined the forces and when the uprising was suppressed in October of 1944, he fled to the woods with his wife. I followed the Jewish boy who walked through the war in a police officer's old shoes Read more The young couple spent autumn, winter and spring in the woods. Fruhwaldova describes how her parents were hiding with other families, how many other people were helping them, trying to find shelter for them and supplying them with food. In January 1945, Fruhwaldovas mother was four months pregnant. Fruhwaldova's story rarely mentions dates or specific days. Hiding in the woods, her parents normally did not know what day it was. Before the end of March 1945, people from the village of Lubietova, who had been taking care of the Berger family and ten other people, came with the cheerful announcement that the war was over. Banska Bystrica was liberated on March 25, 1945. Fruhwaldovas mother survived as the only one of her four-member family. Fruhwaldovas father had 11 siblings. Only two of them survived the war. Related article Related article I lost my sister in Auschwitz, Slovakia lost its future Read more They returned to Banska Bystrica and on June 26, 1945, Fruhwaldovas older brother Ivo was born, the first Jewish child born in Banska Bystrica after the war. The family changed their surname from Berger to Belan. They wanted to abandon their German surname, which resembled everything negative linked to the war. First stumbling stones in Brezno Fruhwaldova acknowledged the help of local people who helped her parents and many others to survive. Every single case of a person who survived is often a miracle, Fruhwaldova said. Those who were hiding in the mountains, or in shelters, were often able to do so only thanks to the help of people, and my parents were no exception. The courage [of the people who helped] is flabbergasting. Two families that Mrs Fruhwaldova knows helped to save her parents, Milka Rafajova, birthname Ciefova, and the family of Jan Potancok, received the Righteous Among the Nations award for the non-Jews who took great risks to save Jews during the Holocaust. She said that their family stayed close to those people and their friendship lasted for many years. Today, people visiting Brezno can stop in front of the former house of the Mittelmann family. It can be found at the site of todays Tatra Banka. In front of the house there are three Stolpersteine, by German artist Gunter Demnig, who places stumbling stones at the sites where victims of the Nazi regime used to live before they were forced to enter concentration camps. Stumbling stones help remember Read more Three stones for Hugo Mittelmann, Sarlota Mittelmannova and their daughter Alica Mittelmanova, Fruhwaldovas aunt, were embedded in the pavement as the first ones ever in Slovakia in October 2012 by Demnig himself. Another one for Fruhwaldova's great-grandmother should be installed soon. Politicians forced her write book Fruhwaldova first thought of writing the story some 18 years ago. She said that it took her six to seven years to write, partly due to a break she took, when Marian Kotleba, chair of the far-right Peoples Party Our Slovakia (LSNS), won the regional election in the Banska Bystrica Self-Governing Region in 2013. Kotleba spreads neo-Nazi symbols, for which he has been given a prison sentence, pending the ruling of the appelate court. He is also a known admirer of the wartime Slovak State. Judge explained to Kotleba why he is an extremist Read more Fruhwaldovas mother did not live to see it, but Fruhwaldova remembers when members of Pospolitost, Kotlebas then party that was later disbanded by the Supreme Court because its political activities were in contradiction with the Slovak Constitution, marched the Slovak streets in uniforms. Those uniforms resembled the uniforms of the Hlinka Guard, a paramilitary organisation of Hlinkas Slovak Peoples Party, which became a representative of the Slovak State regime. My mother was crying, and I was crying with her, Fruhwaldova recalls. She said she did not know that this would ever return. She feared for her children and grandchildren. This was the impetus for Fruhwaldova to tell her family's story, because she did not know who might try to impact her grandchildren. But she stopped writing her book when Kotleba won the regional election in Banska Bystrica. His term was over in 2017,sitting in the opposition in parliament now. The feeling of fear from all of this still perseveres, Fruhwaldova said. But there is another prevailing feeling she has about the story of her family. In many situations she remembers that she must manage something, because her mother did so and she was in a far worse situation. Or when she is about to renounce something, she says to herself that nobody asked her grandparents their opinion, that they were forced to leave everything behind and board the transport train. It may be a paradox, but the story of my family gives me unusual strength, Fruhwaldova summed up. How well do you know the story of Bratislava sculptures? Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The festival season is not near, but in case you would want to discover Slovak music, you can watch the countrys only music awards show, Radio_Head Awards, this weekend. You may discover an artist or a song you will end up listening to all weekend long. Here are the nominees and categories. On another note, the globe marked World Water Day on March 22. It is focused on groundwater in 2022, which is why we are going to start off this weeks Spectacular Slovakia Roundup with a water-related story and this painting. "Large Landscape with a River. Bathing" (1875-85) by Ladislav Mednyanszky is owned by the Slovak National Gallery. (Source: webumenia.sk) TRAVEL Birds will come to Medzibodrozie Earlier in the week, ornithologists from SOS/Bird Life Slovakia returned to Medzibodrozie, a protected bird area in eastern Slovakia, after a year to start irrigating wetlands again. Ornithologists plan to flood 10 hectares of wetlands. Without this activity, many bird species would otherwise vanish from the area. Colonies of different birds have formed in Medzibodrozie over the years, including the black-crowned night heron and the great bittern. Last year, the pygmy cormorant nested there for the first time, Matej Repel from SOS/Bird Life Slovakia told the TASR newswire. The cattle egret also chose the locality to nest there for the first time in Slovakia, he added. The tradition of flooding five isolated wetlands between the towns of Somotor and Strazne began in 2013. We pump water from the Somotor Canal and the southern Radsky Canal, the ornithologist said. It will take two weeks to flood the wetlands, which is the time when first heron species should start arriving. Medzibodrozie, eastern Slovakia, has been a protected bird area since 2008. (Source: Milos Balla) The Medzibodrozie area, which spreads out in between the Trebisov and Michalovce districts, was declared a protected area in 2008. Travel in short: A new cycling bridge over the River Morava will open on May 7. Slovak Karst, a national park in eastern Slovakia, celebrates 20 years since its establishment. How did Bojnice Castle become a fairy-tale place? Listen to the Spectator College podcast. The latest episode is devoted to ecotourism and the Vlcie Hory project in eastern Slovakia. A Polish tree has been named the European Tree of 2022. Slovakias tree came fifth. ART Warhols Marilyn to sell at auction Andy Warhols iconic portrait of Marilyn Monroe, Shot Sage Blue Marilyn, could become the most expensive 20th century artwork to be ever sold at auction. It is estimated to sell for up to $200 million in May. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Andy Warhols Marilyn is the absolute pinnacle of American Pop and the promise of the American Dream encapsulating optimism, fragility, celebrity and iconography all at once, said Alex Rotter from Christies, an auction house. Warhols Marilyn is categorically one of the greatest paintings of all time, he added. "Shot Sage Blue Marilyn" was painted by Andy Warhol in 1964. (Source: Christie's) Warhol, whose parents came to the USA from what is today eastern Slovakia, began to work on silkscreens of Monroe after her death in August 1962. He first created reproductions of her visage multiple times in bright colors. Two years later, he developed a more refined and time-intensive screen-printing technique and created a limited number of portraits of the Hollywood legend. This technique was so difficult in fact, that he never returned to it again and yet the image remains burnt in the visual lexicon of art history, Christies said. Christies obtained the painting from the Thomas and Doris Ammann Foundation Zurich, which will benefit from the sale. The foundation helps improve the lives of children around the world. OTHER CULTURE NEWS Festival: The hip hop legend Grand Master will perform at Pohoda 2022. Church: A renovated church in Zborov, near the Polish border, will become a cultural hub. Museum: A museum that celebrates the 1517 Reformation opened in Bratislava. EVENTS IN BRATISLAVA 170 years ago Would you like to possess a historical portrait of yourself? Visitors to the Slovak National Museum in Bratislava will get acquainted with the beginnings of photography on Sunday, March 27. The "Ignac Schachtl and the Sechtls From the Collodium Process to Digital (1865 2021)" exhibition is run by the Slovak National Museum in Bratislava until late May. (Source: Slovak National Museum) Tomas Schiller (Aeternus Pictures) will take them to the year of 1851 when the wet collodion process, early photographic technique, was invented by Englishman Frederick Scott Archer. The event, which starts at 15:00 at Cafe Muzeum, will be held as part of the Ignac Schachtl and the Sechtls From the Collodium Process to Digital (1865 2021) exhibition. The Sechtl family has been in the photography trade for over 150 years. In the past, their studio was one of the most famous in Czechoslovakia video //www.youtube.com/embed/MiAhPIUno1o The display runs until May 22. However, it will not be open on March 25, 26 and 29, as the national museum informs on its website. What else is on in Bratislava: A charity opera concert will be held on March 25 in Bratislava to raise funds for Clovek v Ohrozeni, which helps people affected by the war in Ukraine. Radio_Head Awards will take place on March 25 and 26. Watch it online. Konvergencie, the international chamber music festival, takes places in Bratislava until March 27. WEEKEND READ What if everything in life has a purpose? When 17-year-old Marina Carnogurska, having finished as a top student at one of the best schools in Bratislava in 1957, was told that she was not allowed to go to university, she burst into tears. Her dream had been to study Bengali, but her father Pavols opposition to the communist regime in power meant she was denied the chance to further her education. Marina Carnogurska sitting next to the pile of her published works. (Source: Jana Gombosova) The ban on going to university was far from the only painful twist in her life, but looking back as she speaks to The Slovak Spectator at her home in Bratislava, she describes everything that has happened to her as being a single stream of energy guiding her to become a successful sinologist, a translator of Chinese philosophy and fiction, a writer of scientific works, and bringing about a meeting with her second husband. Everything in my life has had a purpose, the prominent Slovak sinologist, 81, says. One more read: Wandering Sculptures of Bratislava. That is it. Join me next Friday again. Have a restful weekend! - Peter Do you have any tips? You can reach Peter at peter.dlhopolec@spectator.sk Heger advocates for a recovery plan for Ukraine during EU summit. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Slovakia supports joint gas purchases at the European level, Prime Minister Eduard Heger (OLaNO) said ahead of the second day of a European Union (EU) Summit in Brussels on March 25. He also said that Slovakia is ready to help Ukraine with the reforms required to secure its accession to the EU. "Our proposal, that help for Ukraine should be not only financial, but should also comprise help with reforms, has made it into the conclusions [of the summit]," Heger said, as quoted by the SITA newswire. "We know very well that reforms are key for a country to fulfil all the criteria to become an EU member." Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Heger said countries like Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia also need assistance to fulfil the accession criteria. EU leaders met in Brussels on March 24 and 25, with US President Joe Biden also in attendance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the summit through a video call. The leaders met to discuss another package of sanctions against Russia and Belarus, and the steps that EU member states should take in order to halt imports of Russian gas and oil, as well as to mitigate the consequences of rising energy costs. No later than 2026 Heger said ahead of the summit that the EU might be able to stop Russian energy imports by the end of 2026. "If we try hard and invest in infrastructure, it may be even earlier," Heger said, as quoted by Euractiv.sk. He also reiterated that Slovakia will support a proposal for joint European purchases of gas and other energy sources. In light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Commission has proposed a plan dubbed REPowerEU to make Europe independent of Russian fossil fuel imports well before 2030, starting with gas. The plan outlines a series of measures to respond to rising energy prices in Europe and to replenish gas stocks for next winter. Heger did not give details about the alternatives to Russian oil and gas for Slovakia. He said his government is working on an analysis and subsequent plan. He mentioned supply of liquified natural gas (LNG) from European terminals as a potential replacement, Euractiv.sk reported. The Ukraine crisis may disrupt the Belt and Road but an old China hand sees it re-energizing the China-EU trade relationship. The China-proposed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) moves into its new head office at the Asian Financial Center in Beijing in early 2020. The multilateral development bank aims to promote development across the world by developing itself into a new type of high-performance institution for international cooperation. If not the world, Asia is definitely Chris Devonshire-Elliss oyster. By his own admission, he likes to spend winters in Sri Lanka and summers in Mongolia and Russia. When I caught up with him, he was in his office in Singapore. In China, he founded his company, Dezan Shira & Associates, in Shenzhen in 1992 and today, it is a behemoth with 25 offices in seven countries and regions across Asia. They provide multifaceted services, from market entry to foreign investors to HR and technology for businesses and individuals in China, India, ASEAN member countries, Russia, and other countries along the Belt and Road. Dezan Shira & Associates is a pioneering legal firm with a colorful history and Chris has cornered a well-ensconced niche as one of the earliest legally responsible persons on the Chinese mainland. When he founded the company, there were no lawyers, only legally responsible people. To be one of them, Chris, who hailed from British shipyard owning gentry in Devonshire, had to master intricacies of Chinese law at a public library in Hong Kong in the evenings to pass the exam to get a license. Then he took the test in Guangzhou, cleared it, and got his license, setting up a representative office in a hotel as that was the law then. The recent Ukraine crisis has gripped the attention of the world. In the middle of this crisis, we asked Chris about the impact it could have on the Chinese economy and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), especially as the main overland route of the initiative, going to Europe from China via Central Asia, Russia, and Belarus, is now facing disruptions. The China-Europe Railway, a major BRI project, links Chinese cities with 23 countries and 175 cities in Europe. Last year, the China-European Union traffic jumped up by over 100 percent with a record 15,183 train trips on the Eurasia route and 1.46 million TEU containers transported, according to Chinese rail authorities. The conflict and sanctions on Russian and Belarusian ports and other business entities are likely to see considerable disruptions if the situation continues to fester. For example, Zyxel Communications Corp, a maker of routers and switches based in the Taiwan region, recently announced it had stopped shipping to Europe by China Railway due to the conflict. Ukraines Odesa Port has been closed, and Danish shipping giant Maersk announced it was selling its over 30 percent share in Russian port operator Global Ports Investments. Chris, like all legal professionals, is cautious and believes its too early to get a bearing on things with certainty. However, a realignment of the Belt and Road and supply chains between the East and West is on the cards since businesses will seek out other routes. The Suez Canal, a well-known and well-trusted alternative, is still operational. Besides, he foresees secondary routes coming to the fore. He mentions two options specifically. One is developing the southern route of the Belt and Road passing through Central Asia and then going through the Caspian Sea region. Shipments can pass through the Port of Baku in Azerbaijan, proceed to Kazakhstans western Aktau Port, then cross Uzbekistan and subsequently Georgia and Turkey to reach the Black Sea. From there, there are multimodal routes to southern Europe. Though this southern route of the Belt and Road has some inefficiencies at present and needs a lot of infrastructure improvement, he says with investment it can become a trade and investment hotspot. The second one is the International North-South Transport Corridor. This is an over 7,000-kilometer ship, rail, and road corridor running from South Asia, especially Mumbai in India, through Baku, Irans Chabahar Port, the Middle East, and then reaching East Africa. All this of course has geopolitical implications. Leaving aside Iran and changing relations between China and India, what impact could the Russia-Ukraine conflict have on China-EU business relations, given that many Western countries are unhappy that China did not agree to sanction Russia, nor did it vote to support the resolution at the United Nations General Assembly demanding that Russia immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders? This is literally a trillion-dollar question. In 2021, China-EU trade amounted to US $800 billion while the EUs trade with Russia in goods notched up a respectable US $200 billion. Chriss take is: I think this will have impacts on the EUs Global Gateway Initiative, which is being portrayed as a competitor to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, but rather than competition, we are going to see more cooperation. This has actually already started to happen. The cooperation Chris mentions here is referring to a railway project in Turkey that is being funded by both the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The nearly 70-kilometer high-speed railway line will go from Istanbul to Bulgarias border and is estimated to cost about 1 billion. The Halkali-Kapikule line, which will have both freight and passenger trains, will be part of the EU Trans-European Transport Network as well as part of the Europe-Caucasus-Asia Transport Corridor meant to boost trade and transport in Central Asia, the Black Sea basin, and the South Caucasus region. Chris calls this indicative of more pragmatic cooperation between the EU and China. While the anti-China and anti-Russia rhetoric comes from politicians, the business community that is responsible for generation of profits, paying taxes, and keeping the fiscal revenues of the EU afloat will keep China-EU trade ties moving forward because, It is not practical to cut Europe off from both Russia and China, thats clearly absurd. He thinks whats happening with Russia will actually enable the EU to have greater involvement in the Belt and Road. Rather than always looking at it from a negative perspective, we are going to see increasing amounts of collaboration between the EU, China, and businesses within both. Another development because of the Ukraine crisis, as he sees it, will concern a collaboration in regional payment systems and definitely a boost for the Chinese renminbi. China has its own Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS). The development of CIPS began in 2012. According to a Reuters report, CIPS had transactions amounting to nearly US $13 trillion in 2021. The use of renminbi is also expected to rise in Central Asia and the Eurasian Economic Union, of which Russia is a member, and China also has relations with. SUDESHNA SARKAR is a journalist and editor based in Beijing. A former commentator for a regional program of Deutsche Welle Radio, she follows Chinas development, culture, and international links. https://sputniknews.com/20220324/joe-biden-says-hed-be-very-fortunate-to-face-trump-again-in-2024-election-1094166045.html Joe Biden Says Hed Be Very Fortunate to Face Trump Again in 2024 Election Joe Biden Says Hed Be Very Fortunate to Face Trump Again in 2024 Election While discussing the Ukraine crisis at a news conference at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, US President Biden raised some eyebrows as he was asked whether... 24.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-24T23:56+0000 2022-03-24T23:56+0000 2022-03-24T23:54+0000 joe biden donald trump 2024 us presidential elections /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/08/08/1083557904_0:0:3641:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_066dc360445a870d40eeec91d01aac89.jpg US President Joe Biden admitted during a Thursday conference that he is not worried about a potential rematch with former US President Donald Trump in the looming 2024 presidential cycle.Trump was notoriously critical of NATO and the G-7 during his campaign and time as president. He also reversed former US President Barack Obamas signature foreign policy accomplishment - the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which was designed to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons in exchange for lifting strict sanctions.The comment brings to mind the pied piper strategy employed by the 2016 Hillary Clinton campaign, later revealed by Wikileaks.In an email from Clinton staffers to the Democratic National Committee (DNC) the campaign called for a pied piper strategy designed to elevate more extreme candidates, forcing the moderate candidates in the field to take far-right positions. The idea was to make the Republican party as a whole look extremist, causing independent and moderate voters to turn away.We need to be elevating the Pied Piper candidates so that they are leaders of the pack and tell the press to [take] them seriously, the document attached to the email stated. Ted Cruz, Donald Trump and Ben Carson were listed as potential pied piper candidates.Unfortunately for Clinton, Trump ended up winning the primary and eventually the presidency, all while introducing his fringe views to the mainstream. Some might say Biden should take note.Biden likely wont have to employ such a strategy again if he truly wants to face Trump in 2024. A recent Morning Consult poll found that Trump holds a commanding lead in a potential GOP primary race. Some 47% of Republicans who responded to that poll said Trump would be their preferred choice.Trump has hinted at a potential 2024 run, but has stated that he would wait until after the 2022 midterm elections before making a decision.Let's stay in touch no matter what! Follow our Telegram channel to get all the latest news: https://t.me/sputniknewsus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 joe biden, donald trump, 2024 us presidential elections https://sputniknews.com/20220325/a-year-after-historic-bessemer-push-more-amazon-facilities-vote-on-union-membership-1094203127.html A Year After Historic Bessemer Push, More Amazon Facilities Vote on Union Membership A Year After Historic Bessemer Push, More Amazon Facilities Vote on Union Membership Ecommerce and web services giant Amazon has grown enormously as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to keep founder Jeff Bezos the worlds richest man... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T20:18+0000 2022-03-25T20:18+0000 2022-03-25T20:18+0000 amazon union vote staten island alabama /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/04/04/1082534056_0:113:1991:1232_1920x0_80_0_0_f3456948f63654f7d433fa4421577a7b.jpg Workers at three Amazon facilities are likely to vote on whether to unionize their workplaces a year after Amazon tried to foul a vote in Bessemer, Alabama.Between March 25 and March 30, workers at the massive JFK8 warehouse on Staten Island, New York, will cast their votes for or against joining the Amazon Labor Union (ALU), an organization established by labor activist Chris Smalls after he was fired from the facility in March 2020 for protesting what he said were inadequate COVID-19 safety protocols.Workers at the Bessemer facility also began a re-voting process last month after the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a federal agency that oversees union-employer relations in the US, found that Amazon unfairly interfered in last years vote. Their voting period will end on March 28. Unlike the two Staten Island facilities, the Bessemer workers have been organized by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), an established union that represents about 60,000 workers in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.Workers have long complained about long work shifts without bathroom breaks, a high degree of surveillance of their work, and inadequate attention given to safety, including against the spread of COVID-19. Suicide is a shockingly common concern at Amazon facilities: The Daily Beast found that 189 emergency calls relating to suicide were made between 2003 and 2018.Many of these dynamics only accelerated when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020, sending billions of people home for safety and creating a massive demand for product deliveries. In the first six months of the pandemic, Bezos wealth ballooned by $48 billion, and in 2020 Amazons profits increased by 84% over the previous year. In 2021, the company added another 22% growth, bringing in $469 billion in revenue, according to company earnings reports.Were in a different moment than two years ago, from the start of the pandemic, John Logan, chair of the Labor and Employment Studies department at San Francisco State University, told the Washington Post on Friday. And Im not sure big anti-union companies like Amazon and Starbucks really grasp what has changed over the last two years. staten island alabama Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 amazon, union, vote, staten island, alabama https://sputniknews.com/20220325/covert-work-on-deadly-pathogens-how-us-military-biolabs-infiltrated-ukraine-1094193541.html Covert Work on Deadly Pathogens: How US Military Biolabs Infiltrated Ukraine Covert Work on Deadly Pathogens: How US Military Biolabs Infiltrated Ukraine As the Russian Ministry of Defense revealed new information about the elusive US-funded biolabs it had discovered in eastern Ukraine amid its special operation... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T17:35+0000 2022-03-25T17:35+0000 2022-03-25T18:19+0000 us ukraine wuhan university coronavirus pathogens joe biden hunter biden situation in ukraine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/101907/55/1019075568_0:107:1024:683_1920x0_80_0_0_dfbf0a0a6014f8f08d6beb66cdc44c9f.jpg A $2.1 billion-dollar operation exploring some of the deadliest viruses in at least 30 laboratories under the patronage of the Pentagon and three private companies: this is the USs illusive bio labs program. Operating in 25 states, it employs civilians who have no accountability before Congress and can bypass the law due to the lack of direct oversight. The program whose existence has been confirmed by none other than Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland at a Senate Committee hearing on March 8th has been dismissed by the majority of American mainstream media as conspiracy in a desperate effort to sweep under the rug one of Americas best kept secrets inside Ukraine.And while the program itself is much larger stretching across Africa, the Middle East and South East Asia it is its Ukrainian branch thats been causing anxiety in the Pentagon as well as the Biden administration for the fear that it might fall into the hands of Russian forces. So what exactly has been going on in the US bio labs in Ukraine?Covert Work on Deadly Viruses The bio laboratories are operated by the DTRA military program. Furthermore, civilian personnel of these private companies can operate on behalf of the US government under diplomatic cover a practice commonly resorted to by the CIA. There are three such companies operating in Ukraine - Metabiota Inc., Southern Research Institute and Black&Veatch, with key posts held by former, and in some cases, current high-ranking military and intelligence officers. Besides the Pentagon, these companies run federal biological research projects for the CIA and other government agencies. According to various sources, the DTRA finances about 15 biological laboratories in Ukraine, with data accumulated on ten of them:US Firms Win Hefty ContractsIn accordance with an agreement between the US Department of Defense and Ukraines Ministry of Health, dated 2005, the Kiev government is prohibited from disclosing any "sensitive" information about the American program. In the meantime Ukraine is under obligation to transfer dangerous pathogens from the labs on its territory to the Pentagon for further biological research, in return the US military is granted access to Ukraines state secrets related to the ongoing projects.However, a certain US-funded organization, The Science and Technology Center in Ukraine (STCU), was set up the country even before the agreement in question. With its employees endowed with diplomatic status, the center officially supports the projects of scientists who previously worked on Soviet programs to create weapons of mass destruction. Over the past 20 years, STCU has funneled $285 million in funding and managed an estimated 1850 projects worldwide, The work is officially carried out in line with the 1991-launched programme to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The stated goal is to ensure safe storage and destruction of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, as well as their means of delivery, in the countries of the former Soviet Union.Since Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan destroyed their arsenal of nuclear warheads, on paper the program ended in 2013. However, in 2021, a bill was introduced in the US Congress to renew the programme ostensibly to the reemerged threat of the proliferation of weapons of mass annihilation. However, according to the Federal Public Procurement website, the programme never actually stopped its operation.In 2013, one of the DTRA contractors for the programme's execution in Ukraine was Raytheon Technical Services Company LLC, with the contract worth $ 43.9 million.In 2016, the STCU itself won a five-year DTRA contract to provide scientific and technical services to a tune of $10 million. Currently, there is no clarity regarding the scope of the STCUs ongoing activity in Ukraine.Deadly Outbreaks in Ukraine: The Worrysome CoincidenceWhile not all of the research is traceable to a tee, US Biolabs mushrooming across Ukraine soil and the American financing of STCU projects coincided with several outbreaks of serious infectious diseases in the country.In January 2016 at least 20 Ukrainian soldiers died of a flu-like virus within a matter of two days in Kharkov, home to one of the US-run laboratories. More than 200 people were hospitalized at the time. By March 2016, 364 fatal cases were recorded throughout Ukraine. The cause of 81% of deaths was swine influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 the same one that triggered a global pandemic of the disease in 2009.More recently, another sudden outbreak of an infectious disease, Hepatitis A, was registered in the south-east of Ukraine also the site of several Pentagon biolabs.Last January, 37 residents of Nikolaev were hospitalized with jaundice, prompting local police to launch an investigation into suspected "deliberate infection with the human immunodeficiency virus and other incurable diseases.Three years ago, more than 100 people in that same city fell ill with cholera. In both cases, it was assumed that the cause was contaminated drinking water.Back in the summer of 2017, 60 people were hospitalized with Hepatitis A in Zaporozhye the cause of that outbreak remains unknown. In Odessa region, 19 children had the same diagnosis, while in November 2017, 27 cases were registered in Kharkov. The virus was discovered in potable water.Ukraine witnessed an outbreak of cholera in 2011, with 33 people hospitalized with diarrhea. In 2014, more than 800 people were diagnosed with cholera, with cases spread out across the country.Dangerous ParallelsWhile the outbreaks themselves are hardly evidence enough of any foul play, the diseases in question correlate curiously with the list of the dangerous pathogens the US laboratories have been researching. For example, the Southern Research Institute has a project on cholera, as well as viruses of influenza and Zika all of them designated by the Pentagon as pathogens of military importance.Besides the Southern Research Institute, laboratories in Ukraine are managed by two other companies, Black&Veatch and Metabiota.Black & VeatchFounded in 1915 in Kansas City, Missouri, Black & Veatch is currently headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. It specializes in mining, data centers, smart cities, banking and financial markets.In 2020, Black & Veatch was the 7th largest company in the US, boasting a revenue of $3.7 billion in 2020.The activity of Black & Veatch, with a web of over 100 offices around the world, since its inception has been inextricably linked with the US army and intelligence agencies.Black&Veatch won two five-year DTRA contracts worth $198.7 million to build and manage bio laboratories in Ukraine, Germany, Azerbaijan, Cameroon, Thailand, Ethiopia, Vietnam and Armenia.The Federal Purchasing website states that in Ukraine alone Pentagon contractor Black&Veatch has DTRA commitments in line with the "Biological Joint Participation Program" worth $140 million since 2013, with work to a tune of $ 77 million yet to be completed.In 2014, Metabiota, specializing in identifying, monitoring and analysing potential disease outbreaks, signed an $18.4 million federal contract as a subcontractor for Black & Veatch in Georgia and Ukraine.Southern ResearchNon-profit Southern Research first founded in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1941, as the Alabama Research Institute, conducts fundamental and applied research for commercial and non-profit organizations in four areas: development of medicine, energy, environment and engineering.Throughout the past 70 years, Southern Research has been engaged in research activities linked with national defense. Its early programs for the US Department of Defense included the development of heat- resistant materials for rocket systems returning to Earth's atmosphere.Over the decades, Southern Research expanded the direction of its work to the development of ballistic missile systems, hypersonic vehicles, etc.Since 2008, Southern Research Institute has been the main subcontractor in Ukraine. In 2001 the firm became a Pentagon subcontractor for anthrax research. The main contractor was Advanced Biosystems, led at the time by Ken Alibek, a former Soviet microbiologist and expert in biological weapons from Kazakhstan, who left for the US in 1992.Southern Research Institute is known for actively lobbying research programmes for US intelligence in Congress and the State Department at around the same time that bio laboratories began to emerge in Ukraine and other countries of the former USSR.Thus, the company paid $250,000 to Senator Jeff Sessions (now -US Attorney General) for his lobbying services in 2008-2009, when the Institute won several federal contracts.Overall, from 2006 until 2016, Southern Research Institute forked out some $1.28 million on lobbying to the Senate, House of Representatives, Department of State and Department of Defense.Metabiota Inc.Finally, Metabiota Inc. is the most private of the above-mentioned companies, linked to the biolabs in Ukraine. This could be explained by its links with the family of the President of the United States, Joe Biden, more specifically, his son, Hunter Biden.Founded in 2008, Metabiota is commissioned by governments, insurance companies and livestock breeders to research and evaluate infectious disease threats, digitize global microbial data and actively avert the spread of diseases.At the first stage, it was financed by Rosemont Seneca Technology Partners (RSTP), an offshoot of Rosemont Capital, an investment fund founded by Hunter Biden, the son of US President Joe Biden, and Christopher Heinz, the stepson of former US Secretary of State John Kerry in 2009, in which Biden was managing director.Hunter Bidens shady former overseas dealings, which concealed a web of corruption in which he sought to use his fathers notoriety to secure unscrupulous business deals from Ukraine to Hong Kong, have swirled for years, but yielded no action on the part of the US or International authorities so far with an investigation still underway.Metabiota is listed in the archived portfolios of RSTP, with financial reports showing RSTP covered the first round of financing for the company to a tune of $30 million.Since 2014, Metabiota has been a partner of the EcoHealth Alliance within the PREDICT Project of the project of USAID's Emerging Pandemic Threats (EPT) program, which aims to carry out global surveillance for pathogens to ostensibly " identify and prevent the threat of new emerging infectious diseases.However, as part of these efforts, researchers from Metabiota, EcoHealth Alliance and Wuhan Institute of Virology jointly conducted a study on infectious diseases of bats in China. Researchers from the EcoHealth Alliance and Metabiota also collaborated over controversial projects on how to "live safely with bats", and research linking emerging infectious disease outbreaks with trade in wild animals.Researchers from Metabiota were also listed along with EcoHealth Alliance staff in a 2014 study on the dissemination of the Nipah henipavirus, Ebola monitoring study in 2014, herpes study in 2015.In April 2021, USAID announced a new taxpayer-funded project, led by the EcoHealth Alliance, to track new infections diseases with pandemic potential.Metabiota, whose researchers were listed as authors of articles dated June 2021 related to coronavirus surveillance in Africa, are also linked to the new project spearheaded by EcoHealth Alliance.Metabiota has long been connected to a well-known controversial CIA front, In-Q-Tel, created in 1999 as "the first state-sponsored venture capital company.In-Q-Tel is an American non-profit venture capital firm based in Arlington, Virginia, founded to boost national security by "connecting the Central Intelligence Agency and US intelligence community with venture-backed entrepreneurial companies". The firm, founded by Norm Augustine, former CEO of Lockheed Martin, and Gilman Louis, who was the first CEO of In Q-Tel, is considered a trendsetter in the information technology industry.In-Q-Tel received funding for at least $120 million in 2016, mainly from the CIA, but also the NSA, FBI and US Department of DefenseWhile In-Q-Tel operates partially publicly, there is a shroud of secrecy over its products and their use, with the most famous known ones being analytical systems for Palantir Technologies data analysis and encrypted messages sharing application.With documents in hand, Russia addressed the damning evidence pertaining to the US-funded biolabs in Ukraine.On 11 March the UN Security Council gathered for a special meeting convened at Russias request to discuss the issue. However, the UN Under-Secretary-General of Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, said the UN was not aware of any biological weapons program in Ukraine.Washington was quick to denounce Russias claims, with Ned Price, spokesperson for the Department of State, accusing it of inventing false pretexts in an attempt to justify its own actions in Ukraine.Russia will demand an explanation of the involvement of Hunter Biden, the son of the American President, in funding pathogen research in Ukraine, said the Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov."...This is very sensitive information - both for us and for the whole world. Of course, we will demand explanations. And we are not alone in it: you know that China has already demanded clarifications from the US, urging them to make this situation transparent to the world..." emphasized Peskov. https://sputniknews.com/20220308/nuland-confesses-ukraine-has-biological-research-facilities-fears-russia-could-seize-them-1093699790.html https://sputniknews.com/20211121/new-unsealed-docs-show-us-firm-sent-virus-similar-to-covid-19-to-wuhan-lab-1090905751.html https://sputniknews.com/20220306/kiev-regime-sought-to-scrub-evidence-of-pentagon-backed-biowarfare-programme-russian-mod-reveals-1093637704.html https://sputniknews.com/20220325/russia-to-demand-explanation-over-hunter-bidens-links-to-biolabs-in-ukraine-kremlin-says-1094181208.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko us, ukraine, wuhan university, coronavirus, pathogens, joe biden, hunter biden https://sputniknews.com/20220325/divorce-not-taken-well-among-palestinians-but-many-gazan-women-choose-freedom-says-activist---1094184042.html Divorce Not Taken Well Among Palestinians But Many Gazan Women Choose 'Freedom', Says Activist Divorce Not Taken Well Among Palestinians But Many Gazan Women Choose 'Freedom', Says Activist More than 4,300 divorce cases were registered in the Gaza Strip last year, with most petitions coming from women. However, a local activist says that many... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T11:19+0000 2022-03-25T11:19+0000 2022-03-25T11:19+0000 gaza strip palestinians divorce poverty unemployment /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094184374_0:290:3072:2018_1920x0_80_0_0_193083517e43637cc77e603341647242.jpg Nour Al-Salhi, a 38-year-old Palestinian from the Gaza Strip, says she went through an ordeal until she finally managed to get divorced from her husband, to whom she had been married for 14 years.The woman recalls that when she had just filed her divorce suit, her husband did everything "to make her life miserable" and that often meant that Al-Salhi was prevented from seeing her four children.Now, three years after gaining her freedom, the 38-year-old has become an activist, fighting for women's rights.No RightsAl-Salhi says she is advising many Palestinian women who are coping with problematic relationships. She also claims her society has a long way to go before women obtain rights.Al-Salhi doesn't blame them for their choices. In 2021, unemployment and poverty rates in the Gaza Strip reached 85 and 59 percent respectively. More than 65 percent of the unemployed are women. They normally serve as housewives and are dependent on their spouses, or have little chances to find an alternative source of income. Additionally, they can't count on the government to provide them with the assistance they need.The Palestinian Authority does try to extend a helping hand. According to the law, every divorced woman is entitled to $200 per month, but in a society where women often have three or more children, this amount is barely able to keep them afloat.However, insufficient funds are far from the only reason women remain attached to undesirable spouses. Another is fear of rejection in a society that doesn't often accept divorced women and tends to isolate them.Way OutThe year 2021 saw more than 4,300 divorce cases in Gaza; most of them came from women. The divorce rate mounted to 23.6 percent, compared to 15.6 percent in 2020. The activist says that the spike in numbers has been attributed to the fact that the dire economic conditions have aggravated tensions within families and prompted women to look for a way out.She admits that their lives away from their ex-husbands will not be easy. Al-Salhi says she briefs those who come to seek her advice on the difficulties they will be encountering after getting their independence. But freedom is worth the ordeal, the woman insists. https://sputniknews.com/20220202/a-gazan-opts-for-cooking-career-to-stay-afloat-in-unemployment-ridden-strip-1092675376.html gaza strip Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Elizabeth Blade Elizabeth Blade News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Elizabeth Blade gaza strip, palestinians, divorce, poverty, unemployment https://sputniknews.com/20220325/french-neo-nazi-who-fled-ukraine-indicted-in-paris-for-racial-insults-incitement-to-hatred-1094190798.html French Neo-Nazi Who Fled Ukraine Indicted in Paris for Racial Insults, Incitement to Hatred French Neo-Nazi Who Fled Ukraine Indicted in Paris for Racial Insults, Incitement to Hatred In the course of its special military operation launched to demilitarise and de-Nazify Ukraine, the Russian Defence Ministry obtained documents confirming that... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T18:28+0000 2022-03-25T18:28+0000 2022-03-25T18:28+0000 france ukraine russia neo-nazi /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094191306_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_0e2ab970916ef214c822e0e4b86021eb.jpg Mathieu B, a French neo-Nazi activist who returned from Ukraine, where he had been living for several years, was indicted on Sunday in Paris for racist "insults" and "provocations", according to news agency AFP, citing a judicial source.According to French newspaper Le Monde, Mathieu B had been the subject of a complaint filed in October 2021 by the Jewish Observatory of France (l'Observatoire Juif de France), an association with an online reporting platform exercising discreet surveillance to unearth signs of supremacist militant ideology.Accordingly, the man was monitored as part of an investigation by Paris' Central Office for Combating Crimes Against Humanity, Genocide and War Crimes (l'Office central de lutte contre les crimes contre l'humanite, les genocides et les crimes de guerre (OCLCH)). The French inter-ministerial service gendarmes have a unit dedicated to online hate.According to the report on the internet, Mathieu B called himself "the great monarch" or "Saint-Claude 88", these last two numbers being a neo-Nazi reference. The number 88 represents the phrase Heil Hitler because H is the eighth letter in the alphabet.The man is believed to have been communicating over the internet with like-minded individuals, and challenging opponents of his virulent anti-Semitism and a plethora of far-fetched conspiracy theories he is believed to have embraced.Once the Russian operation to demilitarise and de-Nazify Ukraine began, Mathieu B opted to flee his adopted country, together with his wife and children.OCLCH gendarmes were notified on 28 February, four days after the start of the Russian operation in Ukraine, that Mathieu B had crossed the Hungarian border in a car, with his family.Assisted by their colleagues from the Marseille surveillance group, the OCLCH officers arrested the 37-year old on 18 March on a public highway in the south of France.After a judicial investigation opened on 20 March, the man was indicted on the same day for counts of racial insults and incitement to hatred and racist discrimination by electronic means, then placed under judicial control, said the judicial source who was cited.Although this particular case is not linked to foreign mercenaries, it comes as Russia has repeatedly warned foreign countries against allowing their citizens to travel to Ukraine to take part in hostilities. Moscow stressed that anyone firing at Russian troops during the special operation will be considered a valid target.Russia's President Vladimir Putin authorised the launch of the special military operation in Ukraine after a request from the newly recognised Donetsk and Lugansk People's republics (DPR and LPR). Moscow had been left with no other choice after Kiev failed to implement the Minsk agreements and needed to protect the predominantly Russian-speaking Donbass population in the wake of continued attacks by Ukrainian forces. Western countries led by the US have condemned the operation, branding it an "invasion", expressing readiness to supply Ukraine with weapons, and targeting Moscow with a sanctions campaign. https://sputniknews.com/20220321/video-of-armed-neo-nazi-claiming-to-have-fled-ukraine-for-poland-makes-rounds-online-1094053142.html https://sputniknews.com/20220320/mariupol-resident-says-azov-regiment-neo-nazis-destroyed-city-pool-killed-a-lot-of-people-1094031465.html https://sputniknews.com/20220325/us-sanctions-firms-individuals-in-russia-china--north-korea-for-alleged-arms-proliferation-1094166822.html france Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko france, ukraine, russia, neo-nazi https://sputniknews.com/20220325/hostile-operation-targeted-jiddah-oil-depot-in-saudi-arabia---state-media-1094199010.html 'Hostile Operation' Targeted Jiddah Oil Depot in Saudi Arabia - State Media 'Hostile Operation' Targeted Jiddah Oil Depot in Saudi Arabia - State Media Earlier, a spokesman for Yemen's Houthi militia announced that a wide operation "deep" inside Saudi Arabia had been carried out, and that details about it... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T17:07+0000 2022-03-25T17:07+0000 2022-03-25T18:40+0000 saudi arabia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094200663_6:0:1407:788_1920x0_80_0_0_ced6ea12e99965893926aa412cc07140.png Saudi state television confirmed on Friday that a "hostile operation" had targeted the Jiddah oil depot after journalists covering preparations for a nearby Formula One race reported that the facility was on fire. The report did not elaborate on the scale of the incident or who is believed to be responsible.Saudi television also said that an attack on water tanks in the town of Dhahran had damaged local vehicles and homes, and that an electrical substation near the border with Yemen was targeted.The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen announced on Friday that 10 drones which "deliberately targeted civilian properties and energy sources" had been destroyed.Riyadh's Bahraini allies condemned what Manama dubbed as a "cowardly terrorist act" of targeting areas in southern, central and eastern regions of Saudi Arabia using drones.Media covering trials for the F1 event being held nearby reported smoke rising over the city at around 17.40 local time. Local officials had earlier boasted about the Jiddah racetrack being the "holiest" track in F1 history, given the mosques situated nearby. Race practice got underway later than planned after being temporarily postponed.The Jiddah oil depot, formally known as the North Jiddah Bulk Plant, is located about 11km from the racetrack, south-east of the city's international airport.Saudi Aramco did not immediately comment on the incident.Houthi spokesman Yahya Sare'e announced earlier on Friday that the militia mounted an operation "deep" inside the Kingdom using "large numbers of ballistic missiles and drones, in response to the continuation of US-Saudi aggression and the unjust siege on our people".The Houthis said their strikes targeted the Ras Tanura and Rabigh refinery and Saudi Aramco facilities in Jizan and Najran with drones, and struck targets in Jizan, Dhahran al-Janoub, Abha and Khamis Mushait with "large numbers" of ballistic missiles. The militia warned that "more" strikes would take place until the "siege" of the country was lifted.The Yemeni militia group targeted Jiddah's oil depot on Sunday, and struck it in November 2020, causing $1.5 million in damage. The facility is known to hold diesel fuel used by the Saudi military, but also commercial fuel supplies.Riyadh's US allies have sought to secure Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks, sending Patriot and THAAD missile defence systems to the country after a devastating 2019 attack on a pair of oil production facilities which temporarily deprived the Kingdom of up to half of its crude export capabilities. This week, the Wall Street Journal reported that a "significant" amount of Patriot interceptors had been transferred to the Kingdom in recent weeks amid an escalation of fighting with the Houthis.Yemen's Houthis have been at war with Saudi Arabia and a coalition of mostly Arab Gulf State nations for more than seven years. Riyadh and its allies began an intervention in the country in March 2015 in a bid to reinstate the government of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, who fled Yemen after the Houthis swept through the country in late 2014 and early 2015 in the wake of a popular uprising. Up to a quarter of a million people are feared to have perished in the conflict, both in fighting and as a result of a humanitarian crisis. Yemen is one of the poorest countries in the world. https://sputniknews.com/20220321/biden-admin-sends-patriot-missiles-to-saudis-per-urgent-request-despite-apparent-tensions---report-1094038143.html saudi arabia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov saudi arabia https://sputniknews.com/20220325/indian-chinese-foreign-ministers-discuss-ladakh-border-tensions-afghanistan-ukraine-1094193131.html Indian, Chinese Foreign Ministers Discuss Ladakh Border Tensions, Afghanistan, Ukraine Indian, Chinese Foreign Ministers Discuss Ladakh Border Tensions, Afghanistan, Ukraine NEW DELHI (Sputnik) - Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held a three-hour meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday, during which... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T15:51+0000 2022-03-25T15:51+0000 2022-03-25T15:53+0000 india china ladakh region /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/0a/01/1089569607_0:75:977:624_1920x0_80_0_0_daf4f70123727ac4ed5ec646e192c0f7.jpg "As you are all aware, my talks with Foreign Minister Wang Yi have just concluded We discussed our bilateral relations that have been disturbed as a result of Chinese actions since April 2020. The occasion provided an opportunity to exchange views on major international issues, including Afghanistan and Ukraine. We also took up some other important concerns in our bilateral relationship, including education, travel and commerce," Jaishankar told a briefing.The minister noted that he was "equally forthcoming that India wants a stable and predictable relationship," adding that "restoration of normalcy will obviously require a restoration of peace and tranquility.""If we are both committed to improving our ties, then this commitment must find full expression in ongoing disengagement talks," he said, pointing out that the deployments of the Chinese forces "cannot be reconciled with a normal relationship between two neighbours."The two diplomats also discussed multilateral issues, emphasizing the need for a "long overdue" reform of the UN system, including the Security Council.It is Wang's first visit to India since a deterioration of relations between the two countries following another round of conflict on the Ladakh border, which erupted in May 2020 and prompted the nations to increase their military presence in the area. The parties held 15 rounds of talks at the level of senior commanders to disengage.Since May 2020, eastern Ladakh has witnessed numerous standoffs between the two nations, both of which have reinforced their military presence in the area. The standoff has significantly cooled relations between India and China. The absence of a marked border between China and India has been a source of tension for decades. LAC a loose line of demarcation that separates the territories was created as a compromise after a brief border war in 1962. https://sputniknews.com/20220210/moscow-has-no-plans-to-mediate-india-china-talks-on-ladakh-russian-ambassador-says-1092902460.html china ladakh region Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 india, china, ladakh region https://sputniknews.com/20220325/indonesians-support-russias-operation-in-ukraine-putins-leadership-ambassador-says-1094191906.html Indonesians Support Russia's Operation in Ukraine, Putin's Leadership, Ambassador Says Indonesians Support Russia's Operation in Ukraine, Putin's Leadership, Ambassador Says BANGKOK (Sputnik) - Indonesians largely support the Russian special military operation in Ukraine and approve of the leadership of Russian President Vladimir... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T15:32+0000 2022-03-25T15:32+0000 2022-03-25T15:33+0000 indonesia russia ukraine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/04/1093587956_0:217:2944:1873_1920x0_80_0_0_b124ae6a140f09fce7278bd3d4289681.jpg Earlier this month, Indonesian company Evello, which specializes in social media monitoring and analysis, published a report showing that Indonesian netizens strongly support the Russian operation in Ukraine. The response can be attributed to the negative attitude of the general population in the country towards the US and NATO, experts believe."Indeed, Indonesian public actively support the special military operation led by Russia in Ukraine," Vorobyova said.The ambassador noted that several factors account for this.Another critical aspect is the personal authority of the Russian president, according to the ambassador."The presidents actions aimed at building a fair multipolar world are frequently compared in Indonesia to the politics of the first president of Indonesia Sukarno, who had an anti-west stance and did a lot to establish close relations with the USSR," the ambassador added.Moreover, for Indonesians, Russia serves as an example of a country on a path to reaching inter-ethnic and inter-faith harmony, Vorobyova stressed."We often see local news outlets extensively cover the development of Islam in Russia. In this context, the participation of the Russian Muslim military including those from the Chechen Republic is met with great approval," the official noted.On 24 February, Russia launched a military operation in Ukraine after the breakaway republics of Donetsk and Lugansk appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow. indonesia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 indonesia, russia, ukraine Ukraine Will Not Cede Territory, Sovereignty to Russia, Zelensky's Aide Says Ukraine is not going to cede any of its territories or sovereignty to Russia as it has to remain the frontier on the way of alleged Russian aggression, Volodymyr Zelensky's Chief of Staff Andrey Yermak said on Friday. We are not going to cede neither our sovereignty nor our territories, but we cannot allow ourselves to have a Pyrrhic victory here. You cannot allow to have Ukraine bled dry because Ukraine has to live on, Ukraine has to remain the main frontier of withstanding the Russian aggression, Yermak said during a virtual conversation organized by the Atlantic Council. Yermak added that Ukraine will not accept any ultimatums or any peace agreements on Russian terms. On Thursday, US President Joe Biden said it is up to Ukraine to decide on whether to cede any of its territory to Russia, but he does not believe Kiev will have to do that. On 24 February, Russia launched a special operation in Ukraine after the breakaway republics of Donetsk and Lugansk requested help to defend them from intensifying attacks by Ukrainian troops. The Russian Ministry of Defence said the operation is solely targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure, doing their best to avoid casualties among civilians. https://sputniknews.com/20220325/medvedev-says-wests-attempts-to-turn-russians-against-government-only-consolidate-society-1094169633.html Medvedev Says West's Attempts to Turn Russians Against Authorities Only Consolidate Society Medvedev Says West's Attempts to Turn Russians Against Authorities Only Consolidate Society MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev has told Sputnik that the West tries to turn the Russian people against the... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T04:31+0000 2022-03-25T04:31+0000 2022-03-25T05:13+0000 russia ukraine sanctions west /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/02/1a/1093394243_0:169:3043:1880_1920x0_80_0_0_72f86db36a9b817d1522be28ea461dac.jpg "In fact, the West is trying to influence the citizens of our country, to hurt them with these sanctions. And, eventually, to try setting them against the government's policy, against Russian President [Vladimir Putin's] policy, hoping that in the end it will result in some kind of trouble for the authorities, that it will create problems for the authorities," Medvedev said."However, it seems to me that the people who are generating these decisions are absolutely unaware of our mentality, they do not understand the attitude of the Russian people in the broad sense of this word. They do not understand the motivations behind this pressure, that when such pressure is exerted - and this pressure is not on large entrepreneurs, not on big businesses, it is pressure on everyone - the society consolidates," the deputy chairman added.He also stressed that Western attempts to restrict Russian business in order to somehow influence the country's authorities are "senseless and foolish" as businesspersons turned out to be "guilty without guilt," and none of them is able to change the position of the Russian leadership.The former Russian president added that authorities and business have different tasks."Those who are engaged in the country's management primarily focus on the interests of the whole country, on the interests of the people of Russia. Whoever is in charge of running their own business (this is a very important task), is in charge of only that. Therefore, thinking that by restricting Russian business they will somehow influence the authorities... that is absolutely senseless, it is just stupid, foolish."Medvedev noted that Western countries do not understand that Russians will "stand up for the country, will be a guide to the policy of the country" in this sort of situation. He added that "such restrictions, deprivations, these only bring people together, consolidate people, not divide them. And that is their main miscalculation, this is the weakness of these foolish sanctions."Speaking to Sputnik and RT, Medvedev pointed out that Russia's special military operation in Ukraine proceeds as planned and will continue until goals of demilitarisation and 'de-Nazification are achieved. The deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council stressed that the operation was kicked off primarily because the goals set by Moscow were not achieved diplomatically.On 24 February, Russia launched a military operation in Ukraine after the Donbass republics of Donetsk and Lugansk that had been recognised by Moscow as independent few days prior, appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have imposed numerous packages of sanctions against Moscow, targeting Russian officials and entities, businesses, media, and financial institutions. Some foreign companies have decided to "suspend their operations" in Russia altogether. https://sputniknews.com/20220323/indian-economist-western-sanctions-will-create-two-trading-blocs-wont-hit-russia-in-long-term-1094122667.html ukraine west Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 russia, ukraine, sanctions, west BEIRUT, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on Friday that his country is ready to supply Lebanon with wheat and other food products amid a possible shortage that may be caused by the Ukraine-Russia conflict, according to a statement by Lebanon's Presidency. "I suggest holding bilateral meetings between the relevant ministers in both countries to discuss details and work mechanisms in this regard," Amir-Abdollahian said during his meeting with Lebanese President Michel Aoun. The Iranian foreign minister reiterated his country's readiness to support Lebanon in all fields, saying he has discussed with Lebanese officials potential cooperation opportunities. Amir-Abdollahian also conveyed to Aoun the Iranian president's appreciation for the efforts made by Aoun to promote stability and unity in Lebanon and activate Lebanese-Iranian relations. For his part, Aoun thanked Iran for its continuous support for the Lebanese people during crises, especially after the Beirut port explosions. The Lebanese president asked Iran to help Lebanon find a solution to the Syrian refugees' crisis which poses a great social and financial burden on the country. Amir-Abdollahian arrived on Thursday in Lebanon to discuss and exchange views with Lebanese officials on various developments on the regional and international levels. https://sputniknews.com/20220325/nato-being-persuaded-to-deploy-troops-in-western-ukraine--this-is-insanity-us-military-expert-says-1094185004.html NATO Being Persuaded to Deploy Troops in Western Ukraine & This is Insanity, US Military Expert Says NATO Being Persuaded to Deploy Troops in Western Ukraine & This is Insanity, US Military Expert Says Following the Western press' claims that Russia's Ukraine operation has "stalled" and that Moscow may use "chemical or bio weapons" out of despair, US DoD... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T11:27+0000 2022-03-25T11:27+0000 2022-03-25T11:27+0000 situation in ukraine us world russia europe ukraine chemical weapons biological weapons nato neo-nazi /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/14/1094035205_116:0:3757:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_18117676bad014dc1e50f95a9784c175.jpg Sputnik: Speaking to Maverick Multimedia on 19 March, you said that Russias special operation in Ukraine is "close to being over" in Russia's favour and that Moscow's military op will later be studied by specialists. What's so special about Russia's operation, in your opinion?Scott Ritter: I think the thing that separates the Russian special operation in Ukraine, apart from other military operations of this nature, is the fact that Russia does not intend to occupy Ukraine. This is something that the Russian leadership has said from the very start. A military operation that is designed to occupy is a much more complicated operation requiring significantly more troops. It is about holding cities, holding roads, holding specific geographical areas. This kind of focus allows Russia to avoid the trap of being compelled to carry out operations to conquer territory, instead, to focus on a more specific task of eliminating military formations with the goal of eventually leaving Ukraine.Sputnik: Why are the Western mainstream media continuing to claim that Russia's Ukraine operation has stalled? Does it mean that they do not understand Russia's strategy and objectives? Or does this narrative serve some other purposes?Scott Ritter: I think there are two reasons why the West is mischaracterising the Russian military operation in Ukraine. First is that the West is evaluating this as if it were Russia's intent to occupy Ukraine. From the very start, the fact that Russia is coming in with only 200,000 troops makes no military sense when we are speaking of a nation of 40 million people with a combined military capability of around 600,000 troops. The other aspect of the mischaracterisation is that there is an information warfare aspect to this war. The West is hopeful that they will be able to use the Russian operation in Ukraine as a vehicle to motivate domestic political unrest in Russia that will at a minimum compel the Russian leadership to withdraw from Ukraine with its mission unfinished, and at a maximum lead to the overthrow, the removal of the Russian president and the Russian government, sort of a colour revolution, if you'd like to say so. In order to do this, they are creating a picture of a military disaster in Ukraine on the part of the Russian military, and they're trying to project this narrative of a military disaster back into Russia in an effort to demoralise the Russian population and provide the impetus for massive popular demonstrations against the Russian government.Sputnik: Western pundits, politicians and experts are speculating about Russia's "possible chemical attack" in Ukraine. They have not presented evidence that Russia possesses such weapons, nor provided any proof that such plans exist. What could be the primary purpose of this narrative?Scott Ritter: The current narrative being put out by Western leaders and the Western media about the Russians preparing a chemical weapons attack in Ukraine is born of the standard reaction when one side is caught doing something that they shouldn't have been doing and they seek to project blame onto the other side. There is no doubt in my mind that the Russians are not preparing a chemical weapons attack. This makes no sense from both a military and political standpoint. Plus, it presumes the existence of a military-scale chemical warfare capability in Russia that Russia simply doesn't possess.But what has happened is that Russia has discovered biological research facilities inside Ukraine, operated by the United States Department of Defense, and they've discovered certain research activities which are difficult to explain by the United States that could have offensive biological warfare capacity. And the United States is embarrassed by this. So, it's deflecting the narrative back on to Russia. And in doing so, they expand the narrative based upon past allegations that Russia supported chemical weapons used by the Syrian government in Syria, that Russia used chemical agents against the Skripal family in the United Kingdom. That Russia used chemical agents against the political dissident Navalny in Russia. And therefore, because Russia is "guilty" of all three of these things, Russia is preparing to use chemical weapons in Ukraine. It's an absurdity. It's ridiculous, but it's part and parcel of the ongoing information warfare campaign being waged by the West against Russia.Sputnik: NATO has been increasing its military presence along its eastern borders since the beginning of the Russian special operation in Ukraine. What's behind this military build-up, in your opinion?Scott Ritter: The ongoing NATO build-up on its eastern flank, I believe, is an exercise in confidence-building on the part of NATO. We are talking about an organisation that has just gone through, in this past summer, a terribly demoralising withdrawal from Afghanistan. One that made it question its relationship with the premiere power in NATO, the United States. And question the ongoing viability of NATO as a military alliance. I mean what is the purpose of NATO? The Russian incursion into Ukraine has breathed new life into those who believe that there is an ongoing purpose to NATO. But it is one thing to say NATO is relevant, it is another thing to make NATO relevant. And one of the things we know about NATO in the past decade or so is that it is militarily impotent. It doesn't have viable military capacity.There are ongoing discussions in Brussels right now in the emergency summit that NATO has convened about the possibility of putting NATO's peacekeeping forces into western Ukraine. You know, this is insanity. Under any circumstances, NATO does not have the ability to do this and prevail. But again, they've assembled these forces, they're looking in the mirror, they think they like what they see and they think that there's real muscle there. And, who knows, they may be compelled to believe that they have more capability than they really do and try to project these forces in the west of Ukraine, in which case there will be, unfortunately, a military clash between NATO and Russia.Sputnik: What are the odds of NATO troops getting involved in the Ukraine conflict?Scott Ritter: If someone had asked me at the beginning of the Russian incursion into Ukraine what are the odds of NATO getting involved? I would say zero because NATO had made it clear that it was not going to get involved in any fight between Ukraine and Russia on Ukrainian territory. But as this conflict goes on, as millions and millions of Ukrainians seek refuge in NATO countries, we're now looking at an economic and humanitarian catastrophe for NATO. And there are now people talking about not just imposing a no-fly zone, but actually putting NATO peacekeepers on the ground in western Ukraine.I don't think NATO is going to make the decision today to send peacekeepers in, but I do think this issue is being discussed and will be tabled for consideration at a later date. And that later date could come sooner rather than later if more and more refugees appear at the border between Ukraine and NATO nations like Romania, Hungary, and Poland. https://sputniknews.com/20220312/whats-behind-washingtons-denial-of-biowarfare-weapons-programme-in-ukraine-1093810839.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ekaterina Blinova us, world, russia, europe, ukraine, chemical weapons, biological weapons, nato, neo-nazi, azov battalion, opinion https://sputniknews.com/20220325/no-nato-bases-in-norway-pm-insists-1094170003.html Norwegian Prime Minister Says No to NATO Bases Norwegian Prime Minister Says No to NATO Bases In accordance with a landmark 1949 declaration, which Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre has cited regarding NATO bases, Norway refrains from hosting foreign... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T05:22+0000 2022-03-25T05:22+0000 2022-03-25T05:40+0000 situation in ukraine norway scandinavia military & intelligence russia ukraine nato /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/104461/95/1044619595_0:63:3073:1791_1920x0_80_0_0_0b96c52b538eeaff2ed563e60b1d96db.jpg As NATO has decided to respond to the conflict in Ukraine with a significant build-up of forces in the East, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre said that increased Allied presence in Norway is not an option.In response to Russia's special military operation to "demilitarise and de-Nazify" Ukraine, which the West keeps portraying as invasion, NATO doubled its battlegroups on the alliance's eastern flank. In addition to existing battlegroups in the Baltic States and Poland, multinational NATO forces will be stationed in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia. According to Stre, though, Norway will not reconsider its time-tested policy on military bases on the country's territory.Norway's landmark declaration on military bases from 1949 stipulates that the Nordic country shall never receive bases for foreign military forces on its territory in peacetime.In addition, Norway claims to have refrained from holding Allied exercises near the Russian border.I believe that the principles we have had for Allied exercises have served Norway, our neighbourhood, and NATO well, Stre said.This spring, the Norwegian parliament will decide on a new defence agreement with the United States. The agreement was entered into by the previous Solberg government in the spring of 2021, but will be presented for approval this spring. It may give the Americans the right to set up infrastructure at several Norwegian military bases, including Rygge, Sola, Evenes and Ramsund. Russia reacted strongly to the agreement, arguing it constituted a militarisation of Norway.Previously, Norway received forces from the US Marine Corps on a rotary basis. The Vrnes Air Station also serves as a storage base for the US Armed Forces as part of the Marine Corps Prepositioning Program-Norway. Despite criticism from the opposition parties, the government has stated that the agreement is not in conflict with Norwegian policy on military bases.Overall, Norwegian-Russian relations, which date back hundreds of years to the Viking Age, have over the recent decade years become increasingly fraught due to reciprocal military build-ups in the north, numerous military jet interceptions, spying accusations, and an overall harsher rhetoric that puts a strain on decades-long partnership. norway scandinavia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Igor Kuznetsov Igor Kuznetsov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Igor Kuznetsov norway, scandinavia, military & intelligence, russia, ukraine, nato https://sputniknews.com/20220325/poland-presidents-plane-makes-emergency-landing-in-warsaw-1094188769.html Polish President's Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Warsaw Polish President's Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Warsaw This comes as the Polish and US presidents are scheduled to meet in Rzeszow for a bilateral meeting later in the day. 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T13:34+0000 2022-03-25T13:34+0000 2022-03-25T14:37+0000 poland plane warsaw /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094190075_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_6567858f2c69acc2402e35fb35e029d0.jpg The plane of Polish President Andrzej Duda has arrived in Rzescow after a delay caused by an emergency landing it had to make in Warsaw.Earlier on Friday, Poland's presidential office said that the plane had to return to the Polish capital for an emergency landing. "There was an emergency landing of the plane with President Duda on board. The plane returned to Warsaw," the head of the Polish presidency's International Policy Bureau, Jakub Kumoch, said, quoted by the PAP news agency. Duda was on his way to Rzeszow where his meeting with US President Joe Biden will take place.The US president had already arrived there.Rzeszow is 100km from the border with Ukraine. The two presidents are scheduled to meet there with servicemen of the US 82 Airborne division recently deployed to Poland amid Russia's special military operation in Ukraine.US President Biden is at present on a two-day tour in Europe. First, he attended an extraordinary summit of NATO leaders and G7 and EU events in Brussels, and then travelled to Warsaw for a meeting with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda. https://sputniknews.com/20220325/president-biden-addresses-nato-in-brussels-1094164493.html poland warsaw Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sofia Chegodaeva Sofia Chegodaeva News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sofia Chegodaeva poland, plane, warsaw https://sputniknews.com/20220325/pray-do-tell-mrs-patel-home-sec-tells-pranksters-uk-ready-to-deprive-russians-of-basic-rights-1094192387.html Pray Do Tell, Mrs Patel: Home Sec Tells Pranksters UK Ready to Deprive Russians of Basic Rights Pray Do Tell, Mrs Patel: Home Sec Tells Pranksters UK Ready to Deprive Russians of Basic Rights The Home Secretary confirmed last week that she had been tricked into a conversation with Russian pranksters posing as the Ukrainian prime minister soon after... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T15:45+0000 2022-03-25T15:45+0000 2022-03-26T08:54+0000 priti patel vovan and lexus interview /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094192196_20:0:1382:766_1920x0_80_0_0_3b23336340054682d033d00b8e69d620.png Russian pranksters Vladimir Vovan Kuznetsov and Alexei Lexus Stolyarov released the full video of their conversation with UK Home Secretary Priti Patel while disguised as Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. The clip offers insights into the Home Offices response to the crisis between the West and Russia, from lobbying within Interpol aimed at kicking Russia out of the international policing body, to the seizure of Russian tycoon-owned assets and even "special screening" for Russian nationals seeking to enter the UK.A video of the call was originally posted on the pranksters' official YouTube channel, which was blocked by the platform on Saturday.InterpolCommenting on her governments efforts to eject Russia from Interpol, Patel complained that the bodys reaction so far has been absolutely feeble and very weak.They shouldve just gone for a blanket suspensions because of the barbarians that Russia are basically, and the way in which they abuse Interpol systems, Patel said. She promised to pursue the matter with the UKs Five Eyes intelligence alliance, and the US especially. This is also a test for America to get leaning into the system and to really make sure that we can have tougher measures against Russia, she said.The Home Secretary have her assurance that support for Britains stance wasnt limited to western nations, and that Kenya has been a big ally and a big supporter and a big voice.Keeping Allies in LinePatel promised that the UK would do its part to keep allies in line generally, and make sure that they are more robust in their support for Kiev.And I think, Prime Minister, if I may say so, not just on Interpol but on other issues, you see some of our allies working at a different level compared with the United Kingdom. Youll find that we are out there in a very, very strong and forceful way, and that there are others trying to catch up, she said.RefugeesThanked by the Ukrainian Prime Minister for the Home Offices simplification of UK visa procedures for Ukrainians, Patel reported that, as of 15 March, more than 4,000 visas had been issued to date for Ukrainian nationals to come to the United Kingdom to be reunited with their family. Patel promised to simplify the process further, and gave her personal reassurance to making this scheme work.Trolled by her interviewer, who said he was happy that the UK wasnt worried about Ukrainian nationalists, Banderites and neo-Nazis coming to the country under the guise of refugees, Patel assured him that Britons are not afraid. Clearly theyre not. For us the support is very significant here. It really is, she said.Russian Property, Russian RightsPatel also briefed her interlocutor on the governments new powers to deprive Russian tycoons affiliated with the Russian government of property in the UK.These powers, she said, will enable us as a government to do two things first of all, to clamp down on illicit Russian funds in London, but also in terms of the ability to go after their wealth, and their wealth could be their Ferraris, it could be their properties, it could be a range of assets, through new laws that we have brought in.Patel also revealed that she is in the midst of drafting legislation that would limit the influence of Russian agents in the UK.Asked whether perhaps all Russians in the UK should have their rights restricted for supporting the Russian government, including through checks in a special way on entering the country, Patel pledged that there was work taking place.AssangeEncouraged by the pranksters to keep working with organisations such as Bellingcat while holding investigative journalist Julian Assange locked up in prison, Patel assured her interlocutor that our approach is very, very clear in terms of the organisations we work with.And of course, in certain cases, such as the Assange case, we have a judicial process that has to work within the United Kingdom. And when it comes to some of our laws such as extradition, of course thats in the hands of the courts, she added.Englishwoman Plays It DirtyAt the end of the interview, Patel was asked to repeat the well-known Slava Ukraini (Glory to Ukraine) expression used by Ukrainian nationalists going back to the Second World War. She was also trolled into saying Anglichanka Gadit!, a Russian colloquialism meaning An Englishwoman makes mischief or The Englishwoman plays it dirty, a reference to the 19th-century foreign policy of Queen Victoria against Russia.Patel confirmed in a tweet last week that she had been duped into giving an interview to the Russian pranksters after Defence Secretary Ben Wallace tweeted that he had also been spoken to by a Russian imposter claiming to be the Ukrainian PM.The Wallace video call, held while the Defence Secretary was travelling in Poland, provided important details about the UKs strategy in the Russia-West crisis over Ukraine, including plans to sail the countrys Navy into the Black Sea, the state of weapons deliveries, and even veiled support for a Ukrainian nuclear weapons programme.Vovan and Lexus have gained notoriety all over the world for their pranks on politicians, celebrities and other public figures. https://sputniknews.com/20220312/us-independent-agency-calls-on-white-house-to-get-russia-expelled-from-interpol-reports-say-1093800531.html https://sputniknews.com/20220313/uk-may-use-sanctioned-houses-of-russians-to-relocate-ukrainian-refugees-1093831412.html https://sputniknews.com/20220321/arab-members-of-israeli-parliament-snub-zelenskys-knesset-speech-blame-nato-for-ukraine-crisis-1094044859.html https://sputniknews.com/20220324/sputnik-finds-documents-on-uk-training-ukrainian-soldiers-for-fighting-in-donbass-1094135011.html https://sputniknews.com/20220314/wikileaks-julian-assange-denied-right-to-appeal-extradition-decision-to-uk-supreme-court-1093869242.html https://sputniknews.com/20220324/arms-for-ukraine-mercs--nukes-pranksters-who-fooled-uk-defence-chief-release-full-video-of-convo-1094157903.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov priti patel, vovan and lexus, interview https://sputniknews.com/20220325/president-biden-addresses-nato-in-brussels-1094164493.html President Biden Addresses NATO in Brussels President Biden Addresses NATO in Brussels On todays episode of The Backstory, host Jamarl Thomas and Manila Chan discussed current events including North Korea test-firing intercontinental ballistic... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T08:53+0000 2022-03-25T08:53+0000 2022-03-25T08:53+0000 us the backstory patriot missile system oil yemen europe refugees russia facebook /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/18/1094164465_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_ee128bc4437e767345c9f85486dfba3f.jpg President Biden Addresses NATO in Brussels President Biden Addresses NATO in Brussels GUESTCraig Jardula - Co-Host of The Convo Couch | Bipartisan Support for the Military-Industrial Complex, Chemical Weapons in Ukraine, and Conspiracy Theories Becoming RealityJason Bassler - Cofounder of The Free Thought Project | Facebook Policy Change, Babylon Bee Suspended by Twitter for Accurate Satire, and Lawmakers in Bed with Big TechIn the first hour, Rachel spoke with Craig Jardula about the US sending more weapons to Saudi Arabia, New York Mayor Eric Adams, and the U.S. government afraid of independent journalists. Craig discussed the importance of independent media and the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Craig talked about Biden's speech in Brussels and food shortages.In the second hour, Rachel spoke with Jason Bassler about decentralizing from big tech, lawmakers in bed, and the effects of social media on children. Jason discussed his work on the Free Thought Project and more people leaving big tech platforms. Jason spoke on the rise of censorship and the corporate media pushing for World War III.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this programme are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. us yemen Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Lee Stranahan https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png Lee Stranahan https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Lee Stranahan https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png us, the backstory, patriot missile system, oil, yemen, europe, refugees, russia, facebook, , radio https://sputniknews.com/20220325/red-line-aussie-commentator-calls-for-solomon-islands-to-be-invaded-over-security-deal-with-china-1094186865.html 'Red Line': Aussie Commentator Calls For Solomon Islands to Be Invaded Over Security Deal With China 'Red Line': Aussie Commentator Calls For Solomon Islands to Be Invaded Over Security Deal With China Both China and the Solomon Islands have defended a security cooperation agreement which the two sides have been working on. China's Foreign Ministry spokesman... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T16:30+0000 2022-03-25T16:30+0000 2022-03-25T16:30+0000 australia china solomon islands asia-pacific new zealand peter dutton pacific ocean /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094194374_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_2f22bd92bb5fd39cb6f3591cb3902640.jpg An Australian commentator has called upon Canberra to invade the Solomon Islands before the Pacific nation seals its security agreement with China, a draft of which was leaked online on Thursday.The bilateral security cooperation pact in question envisages Chinese vessels carrying out logistical replenishments, stopovers and transition in the Pacific nation, according to a leaked draft of the security agreement. It also states that relevant forces of China can be used to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects on the Solomon Islands.Llewellyn-Smith warned that sabotaging the proposed security pact is vital as stationing a Chinese carrier so close to Australia could be the end of our sovereignty and democracy.Llewellyn-Smith claimed that in case of a potential disagreement between Canberra and Beijing, the Chinese government could open the hatches on its Solomon-based cruise missiles and ask us to reconsider.The columnist likened the security deal to the Cuban missile crisis, arguing that Beijing must be driven out of the south Pacific by all means necessary. He also urged Prime Minister Scott Morrison to enlist the help of Washington in getting the security deal overturned.The Cuban missile was a month-long episode in 1962, during the Cold War between the erstwhile Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) and the US. Washington and Moscow got tantalisingly close to a nuclear war after the latter matched the stationing of American missiles in Italy and Turkey with its nuclear-capable ballistic missile deployments in Cuba.The leaked draft has evoked fearful reactions from Australia and New Zealand, both part of several US-led security groupings such as Five Eyes (FVEV) and ANZUS (a non-binding trilateral security pact). Australia is also part of US-led groupings such as the Quad and AUKUS, which Beijing says are directed to contain its rising influence in the Asia-Pacific region.On Thursday, Australias High Commissioner in the Solomon Islands, Lachlan Strahan, announced $20 million in support for the Pacific nation. The Australian representative also met Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare before announcing the financial aid.New Zealands Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta ssid that such agreements will always be the right of any sovereign country to enter into.The draft of the security pact surfaced against the backdrop of growing security ties between the Solomon Islands and China. The Pacific nation switched its diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China in 2019, after a meeting between Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. China is also the Solomon Islands largest trading partner, and grants duty-free access to 97 percent of exports from the islands.Last December, Prime Minister Sogavare invited Chinese riot police to quell violent demonstrations in the capital Honiara. The protestors were aggrieved at the the governments decision to abandon diplomatic support for Taiwan in favour of Beijing. https://sputniknews.com/20220324/china-to-set-up-its-first-base-in-pacific-under-proposed-security-pact-with-solomon-islands-1094141356.html australia china solomon islands asia-pacific new zealand pacific ocean Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Dhairya Maheshwari Dhairya Maheshwari News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Dhairya Maheshwari australia, china, solomon islands, asia-pacific, new zealand, peter dutton, pacific ocean https://sputniknews.com/20220325/report-hunter-biden-helped-secure-millions-for-dod-contractor-working-on-pandemic-causing-research-1094203705.html Report: Hunter Biden Helped Secure Millions for DoD Contractor Working on Pandemic-Causing Research Report: Hunter Biden Helped Secure Millions for DoD Contractor Working on Pandemic-Causing Research Earlier, the head of the Russian radiation, chemical and biological defense forces, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, stated that the Hunter Biden Investment... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T20:37+0000 2022-03-25T20:37+0000 2022-03-25T22:12+0000 laptop us russia biolab hunter biden ukraine ukraine crisis /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/107725/20/1077252025_0:18:2001:1143_1920x0_80_0_0_092a72725c9a803f9b5d9b3e39a83b00.jpg Russia's assertion that US President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, helped finance a US military "bioweapons" research program in Ukraine seems to be legit, The Daily Mail reported on Friday.Citing the evidence from emails obtained from the notorious abandoned laptop of the president's son, the outlet reported that he helped secure millions of dollars of funding for Metabiota, a Department of Defense contractor specializing in research on pandemic-causing diseases that could be used as bioweapons.Biden also introduced Metabiota to an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian gas firm, Burisma, for a "science project" involving high biosecurity level labs in the Eastern European nation.According to the report, Metabiota is a medical data company, but its vice president wrote Hunter in 2014 to discuss how they could "assert Ukraine's cultural and economic independence from Russia," thus giving rise to speculation about the company's goals.Hunter may have reportedly played a key role in ensuring Metabiota was able to perform pathogen research close to the Russian border, according to emails and defense contracts obtained by the outlet.The younger Biden and his colleagues at Rosemont Seneca Technology Partners (RSTP), an investment firm he purportedly owned, consistently raised millions of dollars for technology companies, and Metabiota was not an exception.Hunter and his coworkers reportedly exchanged emails about how the company's medical data monitoring may become a crucial tool for governments and businesses attempting to spot infectious disease outbreaks. However, Hunter was also allegedly heavily involved in Metabiota's activities in Ukraine.In Hunter's April 2014 investor pitches, he reportedly stated that they not only helped the company receive financing, but also helped "get new customers," including "government agencies in the case of Metabiota."The company's vice president, Mary Guttieri, wrote a memo to Biden, outlining the unexplained goal of moving Ukraine closer to the West, according to the report.Guttieri also reportedly played a key role in Metabiota's Ukraine operations, meeting with other company executives and US and Ukrainian military officials in October 2016 to discuss "cooperation in surveillance and prevention of especially dangerous infectious diseases, including zoonotic diseases in Ukraine and neighboring countries."According to the Daily Mail, Burisma executive Vadym Pozharskyi responded to Hunter four days after Guttieri's April 2014 email, indicating that the vice president's son had presented a "science project" involving Burisma, on whose board of directors he served, and Metabiota in Ukraine.Pozharskyi purportedly asked Biden to take a look at "few initial points" of the purposes to look into "the potential of this as you called, 'Science Ukraine' project."Pozharskyi claimed in an email to Hunter that B&V had worked on "similar or the same projects" as the proposed contract for Metabiota and that he had known several of such biological research projects in his previous role as a Ukrainian government official.The outlet quoted US government expenditure records, which mentioned that Metabiota was awarded a $18.4 million contract by the Department of Defense between February 2014 and November 2016, with $307,091 allotted for "Ukraine research projects." In 2010, the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency purportedly commissioned B&V to build a Biological Safety Level 3 laboratory in Odessa, Ukraine, which "provided enhanced equipment and training to effectively, safely and securely identify especially dangerous pathogens." Such labs are reportedly used to "study infectious agents or toxins that may be transmitted through the air and cause potentially lethal infections."On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia will demand explanations about the involvement of the younger Biden in biological laboratories in Ukraine.Peskov stressed that the issue of biological laboratories in Ukraine is "very sensitive information - both for us and for the whole world." He also noted that in addition to Russia, China also demanded an explanation of Hunter's connection with these biological laboratories.The Kremlin spokesman suggested that the US is trying to divert attention by alleging that Russia would use chemical weapons, which Moscow vehemently denied. New data sharply raises the question about "what the Americans were doing in Ukraine and what could happen because of all this research."Let's stay in touch no matter what! Follow our Telegram channel to get all the latest news: https://t.me/sputniknewsus https://sputniknews.com/20220325/laptop-ukraine--biolabs-new-hunter-biden-scandals-threaten-to-axe-joes-possible-2024-bid-1094179122.html https://sputniknews.com/20220325/covert-work-on-deadly-pathogens-how-us-military-biolabs-infiltrated-ukraine-1094193541.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Kirill Kurevlev Kirill Kurevlev News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Kirill Kurevlev laptop, us, russia, biolab, hunter biden, ukraine, ukraine crisis https://sputniknews.com/20220325/russia-to-demand-explanation-over-hunter-bidens-links-to-biolabs-in-ukraine-kremlin-says-1094181208.html Russia to Demand Explanation Over Hunter Biden's Links to Biolabs in Ukraine, Kremlin Says Russia to Demand Explanation Over Hunter Biden's Links to Biolabs in Ukraine, Kremlin Says The Russian presidential spokesman also referred to US speculations about the so-called "Russian chemical weapons" threat as an attempt to divert attention... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T10:01+0000 2022-03-25T10:01+0000 2022-03-25T11:13+0000 situation in ukraine world hunter biden biolab ukraine russia chemical weapons /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094183643_0:0:3070:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_e713b394521a53a3cb30edf8bf8f40dd.jpg Russia will demand explanation of the involvement of Hunter Biden in funding biolabs in Ukraine, the Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.He added that US 'warning' of Russia allegedly planning to use chemical weapons during its special operation in Ukraine is a tactic to divert attention from American biolabs in the country. Peskov also commented on Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky's claims about the Russian army using phosphorus bombs during the operation, stressing that Russia has never violated the Chemical Weapons Convention.Earlier this week, the Russian Defence Ministry revealed new information about US-funded biolabs in eastern Ukraine, saying that one of the companies linked to these laboratories was founded by US President Joe Biden's son Hunter and Christopher Heinz, the stepson of former US Secretary of State John Kerry. According to Russias Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Troops chief Igor Kirillov, they managed to trace the scheme of interaction between US government bodies and Ukraine's biolabs. The Rosemont Seneca $2.4 billion capital investment fund managed by Hunter Biden was among the companies involved in the financing of these activities. https://sputniknews.com/20220322/moscow-slams-us-claims-on-chemical-weapons-in-russia-as-malicious-insinuations-1094077647.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sofia Chegodaeva Sofia Chegodaeva News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sofia Chegodaeva world, hunter biden, biolab, ukraine, russia, chemical weapons https://sputniknews.com/20220325/russian-ambassador-summoned-to-french-foreign-ministry-1094193022.html Russian Ambassador Summoned to French Foreign Ministry Russian Ambassador Summoned to French Foreign Ministry PARIS (Sputnik) - The French Foreign Ministry on Friday summoned the Russian ambassador in Paris, Alexey Meshkov, over a post in social media, the Russian... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T15:49+0000 2022-03-25T15:49+0000 2022-03-25T15:49+0000 france russia ambassador /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/106347/92/1063479228_0:292:5142:3184_1920x0_80_0_0_4fc4d06b56c1ab356b69894adee2fc80.jpg "The Russian ambassador in Paris was summoned to the French Foreign Ministry today. We made sure that in Paris they carefully read our publications on Twitter, which set out the official position of Russia on various issues," the embassy said in a statement. france Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 france, russia, ambassador https://sputniknews.com/20220325/sandra-bullock-and-channing-tatum-reveal-they-first-met-after-their-daughters-clashed-in-preschool-1094167040.html Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum Reveal They First Met After Their Daughters Clashed in Preschool Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum Reveal They First Met After Their Daughters Clashed in Preschool Film stars Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum recently revealed that the first time they met each other was in the principals office because their daughters... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T02:00+0000 2022-03-25T02:00+0000 2022-03-25T01:58+0000 sandra bullock channing tatum popular culture /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094167245_183:0:1198:571_1920x0_80_0_0_c7f2a72ca87a92696cb8c63f35cb2cf3.png During a Wednesday sit-down interview with host James Corden of The Late Late Show, Tatum explained, We have two very, very strong-willed little girls, you know, that at that young age were very much buttin heads. With Bullock saying she wondered if she needed to call Tatum or his now ex-wife Jenna Dewan to resolve the girls differences.Bullocks daughter Laila, now 10, and Tatums daughter Everly, now 8, apparently resolved their differences after the principal challenged them to see who could be the nicest to the other.Bullock explains that the girls took the challenge set by the principal to heart as the two began performing sweet favors for each other, such as bringing each other little Dixie cups of water.Tatum admitted that he was excited to meet Bullock after only seeing her in passing at the Oscars, Oh my God, oh my God, theres Sandra Bullock! recounted the 41 year-old.And I saw him in Magic Mike, responded Bullock, prompting the audience to holler and cheer. Magic Mike of course, is the 2012 film about a young group of male strippers, which is loosely based on Tatums own experiences as an 18 year-old stripper in Tampa, Florida.You didnt go, Oh my God, oh my god? joked Tatum.Oh I went, Oh my God, answered Bullock, but it was in a different way.Earlier this month, Bullock told The New York Times that their daughters had become close in the Dominican Republic while she and Tatum over a three-month period filmed The Lost City, which also stars actor Daniel Radcliffe.The Lost City is an action-comedy coming out on Friday in which Bullock plays a romance novelist who is kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire (played by Radcliffe), and Tatum is a cover model who takes it upon himself to rescue her.Let's stay in touch no matter what! Follow our Telegram channel to get all the latest news: https://t.me/sputniknewsus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Mary Manley https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/01/0b/1092187887_0:0:2048:2049_100x100_80_0_0_0c2cc4c84f89aff034cc55bb01fb6697.jpg sandra bullock, channing tatum, popular culture JERUSALEM, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A senior Israeli military delegation led by Tal Kelman, the military official in charge of Iran affairs, wrapped up a series of meetings in Morocco this week, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said Friday. The visit was broken to the public by Avichay Adraee, the Arab spokesperson of the IDF, via his Twitter account. During the visit to Morocco's capital Rabat, Kelman met with the chief of Morocco's military Belkhir El Farouk, and other senior Moroccan officers, according to Adraee's tweet. The two delegations reviewed "regional and international challenges ... and opportunities on military cooperation in the areas of training and rehabilitation, in addition to operation and intelligence fields," wrote Adraee. A memorandum of understanding on military cooperation was signed, he added. Israel and Morocco signed a historic agreement for the establishment of full diplomatic relations in December 2020. A similar normalization agreement was also signed with Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Sudan. https://sputniknews.com/20220325/scholars-west-well-aware-of-racism-neo-nazism--atrocities-in-ukraine-but-keeps-it-on-hush-hush-1094201705.html West Well Aware of Racism, Neo-Nazism & Atrocities in Ukraine But Keeps It on Hush-Hush - Scholars West Well Aware of Racism, Neo-Nazism & Atrocities in Ukraine But Keeps It on Hush-Hush - Scholars As Russia continues to conduct its special operation in Ukraine to denazify the county, social media are circulating sinister photos and videos of Ukrainians... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T18:31+0000 2022-03-25T18:31+0000 2022-03-26T14:13+0000 situation in ukraine russia europe ukraine azov battalion neo-nazi european union torture atrocities /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/17/1094102586_0:0:3011:1694_1920x0_80_0_0_69edab4ec05485428836fe3443f2868b.jpg "Probably as any sane person, I'm simply terrified to see these horrors in terms of lynching people, kicking them, trying to somehow smash their identity through tying them to the lampposts and painting their faces in the colour of the Ukrainian flag," says Adriel Kasonta, a London-based foreign affairs analyst and former chairman of the International Affairs Committee at the Bow Group think tank. "This is terrifying, that is beyond any human beings dignity, it's really terrifying to see these pictures."Many reported atrocities are being committed by Ukrainian nationalists and the neo-Nazi Azov Battalion. Being incorporated into the National Guard in 2014 the group is subordinate to the Ukrainian authorities. The Azov Battalion, which openly wears the neo-Nazi Wolfsangel insignia, is notorious for attacking and displacing residents in eastern Ukraine, as well as raping and torturing detainees in Donbass, according to a 2016 UN report by the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OCHA).Incidents involving taping and whipping of Ukrainian civilians occur in areas where Ukrainian nationalists are most active: particularly, in Kharkov, Lvov, Cherkassy, and Dnepropetrovsk. Civilians are tied to electric poles or trees with tape, sometimes their faces are smeared with paint or green antiseptic dye, they are whipped and left in the cold. Photos of the victims and footage of the punishment are widely shared on social media networks.Among those targeted are the Roma people, one of Ukraine's ethnic minorities. One photo shows a Roma family, including children, being tied to a pole with their faces painted with green dye in the city of Lvov. There is no evidence that these people committed crimes, nor is there any provision in Ukrainian legislation authorising the use of such brutal methods of punishment.The Western mainstream media either remains silent about the ongoing arbitrariness or tries to portray the instances of the human rights abuse as local civilians' efforts to fight "looters and bandits by themselves."However, the discovery of a torture chamber in the basement of a building previously occupied by the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the village of Kryakovka, Lugansk region, tells another story."In this basement there was, so to speak, an impromptu torture chamber, from where we took a local resident tormented to death," said Lugansk People's Republic militia serviceman. "There are traces of blood on the floor. Judging by the state of the body, he was shot in the head during the retreat."Yet another infamous torture site codenamed "Library" was located in the International Airport of Mariupol, the Donetsk region. Documentary evidence indicated that the site belonged to the Azov Battalion. Those who disagreed with the policies of the Ukrainian authorities after the 2014 coup were detained, tortured and even killed there.'Everyone is Perfectly Aware of What's Going On'"It is astonishing and saddened that these facts are not loudly condemned by the various humanitarian NGOs in the West," says Tiberio Graziani, chairman at Vision & Global Trends, International Institute for Global Analyses.However, according to Kasonta, everyone in the West is perfectly aware of what is happening in Ukraine and how Ukrainian nationalists, the Azov Battalion, and violent mobs are treating regular citizens and ethnic minorities in Ukraine. Racism and xenophobia have long penetrated into the fabric of Ukrainian society, according to the analyst.Thus, it comes as no surprise that African students were turned back by Ukrainian border guards while attempting to cross into Poland. They stopped us at the border and told us that Blacks were not allowed. But we could see White people going through, a Guinea student recalled as quoted by France 24 on 28 February.Meanwhile, the nationalist agenda became part of the Ukrainian education system. According to Ukrainian outlet STRANA.ua, the nationalist projects received up to half of all the funds allocated by the Ukrainian government for children's and youth organisations in 2020 alone.In March 2014, CNN admitted that "far-right, anti-Semitic, anti-Russian, and openly fascist groups have existed and do exist as a blight on modern Ukraine." Two years earlier the European Parliament's resolution denounced "the rising nationalistic sentiment in Ukraine." The Guardian quoted the Azov commander, Andriy Biletsky, as saying in 2010 that "Ukraine's mission was to "lead the white races of the world in a final crusadeagainst Semite-led Untermenschen [subhumans]."While human rights have been weaponised and monopolised by the West, "now the so-called human rights watchers are blind to the fact that human rights are being violated in Ukraine by Ukrainians, they are only concentrated on alleged crimes committed against Ukrainians by Russians," according to the foreign affairs analyst."This is very disturbing because it shows that the double standard is very clear, that we are not living in a world where we can objectively condemn someone, if someone is committing human rights violations," he says. "But we are only supposed to condemn those who are labelled by the United States or the collective West as the human rights violators. This is not human rights, if human rights and international law are used arbitrarily by one state to condemn its enemies, then the international law or law at large is not serving its purpose. This is the double standard."Regardless of Kiev's dark record of human rights abuses and xenophobia, the EU which applauded Black Lives Matter anti-racism marches in summer 2020 is backing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski's bid for membership stressing that "Ukraine belongs to our European family." https://sputniknews.com/20220304/why-is-the-west-silent-about-ukrainian-neo-nazi-movements-azov-battalion--bandera-legacy-1093561142.html ukraine european union Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ekaterina Blinova russia, europe, ukraine, azov battalion, neo-nazi, european union, torture, atrocities https://sputniknews.com/20220325/scoop-india-okays-russian-firms-investments-in-debt-securities-activating-rupee-ruble-transactions-1094172942.html Scoop: India Okays Russian Firms' Investments in Debt Securities Activating Rupee-Ruble Transactions Scoop: India Okays Russian Firms' Investments in Debt Securities Activating Rupee-Ruble Transactions The Indian government is expected to formally announce a rupee-ruble payment arrangement next week to allow trade with Russia, bypassing US sanctions. The US... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T07:33+0000 2022-03-25T07:33+0000 2022-03-25T07:33+0000 india russia debt industries reserve bank of india (rbi) ruble rupee narendra modi sanctions military operation /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/0c/0a/1091419818_0:16:2787:1585_1920x0_80_0_0_12f39398ec406bdc038d497547d7ff3c.jpg The Narendra Modi government has approved a proposal forwarded by Moscow that allows Russian firms to invest in debt securities issued by Indian companies. Sources said that the rules regarding External Commercial Borrowings have been relaxed for the Russian entities to invest in bonds issued by Indian firms.External Commercial Borrowings have benefited Indian Inc. immensely over the years as it is a cheaper source of financing. Indian firms have raised $31.18 billion in the financial year 2022 against the backdrop of a stable currency and the availability of more affordable funds in the overseas market during the economic crisis.The earnings on the investments would be transferred to the Russian entities in rubles through a decades-old account which has existed with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This will also reduce the negative impact of rupee devaluation on the cost of borrowings as a strong dollar makes overseas fundraising costlier.On Thursday, Russias Trade Representation in India said that a rupee-ruble channel of payments is already operating.Experts have pointed out that sanctions imposed by the US and its allies in response to Moscows special military operation do not prohibit facilitating rupee-ruble transactions.The Biden Administration has warned Chinese entities of possible sanctions if they bypass US sanctions on Russia. However, the US remains cautious in making such remarks against India, even as New Delhi stressed that it would purchase oil and gas and operate a rupee-ruble payment mechanism to continue trade transactions with Russia.On Thursday, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said in parliament that there is no question of linking the Ukraine situation to issues of trade. However, Aditya Pareek also advised India to remain cautious as the Biden administration may continue to impose additional sanctions in the days to come. The implicit threat of secondary US sanctions will remain no matter how craftily India might try to navigate the situation, and this applies to letting Russian entities invest in bonds of Indian companies, Pareek added.The US announced additional sanctions on more than 400 Russian officials and business people amid ongoing operation by Russian armed forces in Ukraine. The military operation started on 24 February at the request of the people of Donbass, who have been facing Kievs aggression for eight years. donbass kiev Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Rishikesh Kumar https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/08/04/1080055820_0:0:388:389_100x100_80_0_0_40018ee210946d65d49ffba4f4c008e1.jpg Rishikesh Kumar https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/08/04/1080055820_0:0:388:389_100x100_80_0_0_40018ee210946d65d49ffba4f4c008e1.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Rishikesh Kumar https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/08/04/1080055820_0:0:388:389_100x100_80_0_0_40018ee210946d65d49ffba4f4c008e1.jpg india, russia, debt, industries, reserve bank of india (rbi), ruble, rupee, narendra modi, sanctions, military operation, donbass, kiev, nato, us federal reserve https://sputniknews.com/20220325/switzerland-will-not-ban-russian-media-sputnik--rt-1094191124.html Switzerland Will Not Ban Russian Media Sputnik & RT Switzerland Will Not Ban Russian Media Sputnik & RT Earlier this year, Switzerland joined a number of European countries which decided to impose sanctions against Russia. This was on account of Moscow's military... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T14:41+0000 2022-03-25T14:41+0000 2022-03-25T15:24+0000 switzerland sputnik rt /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/0c/10/1091560292_0:119:3071:1846_1920x0_80_0_0_b943c7b871e3321d6f642181c150f9ba.jpg Switzerland will not ban Russian media organisations Sputnik and RT, according to a statement made by the country's government on Friday.Russian state-run media has been facing immense pressure in the EU recently after the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine. President of the European Commission, Ursula Von der Leyen, announced that RT and Sputnik would be banned across the EU over their coverage of the Ukraine conflict. Russia slammed the move as an act of censorship and "manipulation of the information agenda". switzerland Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sofia Chegodaeva Sofia Chegodaeva News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sofia Chegodaeva switzerland, sputnik, rt https://sputniknews.com/20220325/tens-of-thousands-of-people-due-at-mass-ceremony-to-see-uttar-pradesh-chief-sworn-in-1094175342.html Tens of Thousands of People Due at Mass Ceremony To See Uttar Pradesh Chief Sworn In Tens of Thousands of People Due at Mass Ceremony To See Uttar Pradesh Chief Sworn In On Thursday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) politician Yogi Adityanath was unanimously chosen as leader of the BJP's legislature party in Lucknow, paving the way... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T10:55+0000 2022-03-25T10:55+0000 2022-03-25T10:55+0000 india india uttar pradesh bharatiya janata party (bjp) yogi adityanath narendra modi narendra modi /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094180685_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_98fc3751f91907af8dcdfea2cb6d8015.jpg BJP politician Yogi Adityanath will make history when he is sworn in as Uttar Pradesh's state chief on Friday in Lucknow's Ekana Stadium.This is the first time in 37 years that an incumbent state chief and his party have been re-elected after completing a full five-year term.The mass swearing-in ceremony is expected to be attended by at least 85,000 visitors, with chief guests including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, federal Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP state chiefs of other states.Adityanath has also invited the head of the state's main opposition party and former state chief Akhilesh Yadav to the ceremony.In addition to this, approximately 500 soothsayers are expected to attended the event. A Lucknow-based journalist, Ramanuj, told Sputnik that the city has been decorated for the swearing-in ceremony with flowers, hoardings, tents and lights. BJP workers have been dancing and distributing sweets outside Lucknow's BJP office and Adityanath's residence. They have also performed special Hindu rituals, including 'Jal Abhishek' (water offerings to the deities) at more than 27,000 temples.Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Adityanath thanked Prime Minister Modi for his guidance and said: "There were several developmental projects successfully carried out in the state in the past five years with the support of Prime Minister Modi.""For the first time, people realised that homes for the poor could be built... and that Uttar Pradesh can be riot free," Adityanath added.Adityanath - usually seen wearing saffron robes since, as well as being a politician he is a monk - was a surprise choice when the BJP won the 2017 state polls in Uttar Pradesh. A five-time parliamentarian, Adityanath has emerged as one of the most famous faces across the state. His ardent followers believe he could be the BJP's next prime ministerial candidate.The BJP recently won the Uttar Pradesh state assembly polls by a considerable margin, bagging 255 seats in the 403-member legislature. In 2017, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won 325 seats in the state polls.The Samajwadi Party, the main opposition party, won 111 seats this time. In 2017 polls, it secured 47 seats in the state polls. india uttar pradesh Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Deexa Khanduri https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0c/1e/1081607388_0:0:961:960_100x100_80_0_0_e9e931b8c1e18fb41f3074e2145d7a3a.jpg india, india, uttar pradesh, bharatiya janata party (bjp), yogi adityanath, narendra modi, narendra modi https://sputniknews.com/20220325/us-eu-set-up-task-force-to-reduce-europes-dependence-on-russian-gas---white-house-1094177769.html US, EU Set Up 'Task Force' to Reduce Europe's Dependence on Russian Gas US, EU Set Up 'Task Force' to Reduce Europe's Dependence on Russian Gas Earlier, the measure was announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen ahead of her meeting with US President Joe Biden on Friday. 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T08:38+0000 2022-03-25T08:38+0000 2022-03-25T09:41+0000 world us eu russia gas /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e5/0b/1a/1091047214_0:82:3349:1966_1920x0_80_0_0_42cd64cf91f2256f0fbd90f9274be717.jpg The US and the EU have announced the creation of a 'task force' to reduce Europe's dependence on Russian gas. US President Joe Biden said during his meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday that "we are coming together to reduce Europe's dependence on Russian energy". Von der Leyen, for her part, said that she expects US gas to replace Russian gas in the EU. According to the White House's statement, "the United States will work with international partners and strive to ensure additional LNG volumes for the EU market of at least 15 bcm in 2022, with expected increases going forward."Russia supplies 40% of the EU's gas and over a quarter of the oil it imports.Also on Friday, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo commented on the EU's plans to reduce the impact of high energy prices on consumers, saying that the EU needed to "buy together and intervene in the market to reduce prices". Natural gas prices in Europe have been rising dramatically since last year over growing energy demand, amid an economic recovery after months of COVID lockdowns and a limited supply. The need for the EU's energy security became even more pressing amid Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, and unprecedented sanctions imposed by the US and its allies against Russia. https://sputniknews.com/20220323/frances-totalenergies-ceo-says-russian-gas-supply-to-europe-essential-1094120944.html eu Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sofia Chegodaeva Sofia Chegodaeva News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sofia Chegodaeva world, us, eu, russia, gas https://sputniknews.com/20220325/us-sanctions-firms-individuals-in-russia-china--north-korea-for-alleged-arms-proliferation-1094166822.html US Sanctions Firms, Individuals in Russia, China & North Korea for Alleged Arms Proliferation US Sanctions Firms, Individuals in Russia, China & North Korea for Alleged Arms Proliferation WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States sanctioned six entities based in China, Russia, and North Korea for allegedly being involved in proliferation... 25.03.2022, Sputnik International 2022-03-25T01:49+0000 2022-03-25T01:49+0000 2022-03-25T01:47+0000 us us sanctions asia & pacific north korea arms control russia china /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e6/03/19/1094166931_0:0:3326:1872_1920x0_80_0_0_b9c874b9c58f3079c99e9248fd96b86b.jpg "The United States today announced sanctions on five entities and individuals located in Russia and the DPRK and one entity in the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) for proliferation activities under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act (INKSNA)," the State Department said in a press release on Thursday.The sanctions targeted Russian entities Ardis Group and PFK Profpodshipnik along with Russian individual Igor Aleksandrovich Michurin. It also included sanctions against North Korean entity Second Academy of Natural Science Foreign Affairs Bureau (SANS FAB) and individual Ri Sung Chol (aka Ri Sung-chol) for allegedly transferring sensitive items to North Koreas missile program, the release added. China's Zhengzhou Nanbei Instrument Equipment was added for allegedly supplying Syria with equipment controlled by the Australia Group chemical and biological weapons nonproliferation regime, according to the release.The sanctions have been announced to last for a period of two years, the department pointed out, and they will include limits on US government procurement, assistance, and exports.State Department spokesman Ned Price said in his statement that the imposition of sanctions against China entities "calls attention to the role of PRC entities in proliferation and shortcomings in the PRCs implementation of export controls and its nonproliferation track record." "We will continue to work to impede these programs and use our sanctions authorities to spotlight the foreign suppliers, such as these entities in the PRC and Russia that provide sensitive materials and technology to the DPRK and Syria," he said.Earlier, the North Korean state news agency reported that the nation had successfully tested the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time since its introduction in 2017. The launch was said to have been personally attended by the country's leader, Kim Jong Un.Let's stay in touch no matter what! Follow our Telegram channel to get all the latest news: https://t.me/sputniknewsus https://sputniknews.com/20220324/north-korea-successfully-tested-hwasong-17-icbm-missile-in-latest-launch-dprk-media-says-1094163558.html china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2022 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 us, us sanctions, asia & pacific, north korea, arms control, russia, china Open class trotter Combs Hanover made his return to the racetrack on Friday (March 25) after a five-month rest, and the five-year-old looked eager to test those top-class waters once again. With conditioner and regular pilot Paul MacDonell at the controls, Combs Hanover did all the work on the front end in his Friday morning qualifying test at Woodbine Mohawk Park. He fronted his four rivals at every call, casually but confidently controlling the tempo through early fractions of :30.1, :59.3 and 1:28.3 before opening up on his competition around the far turn. A :29.1 final stanza was enough to post a double-digit win margin with the mile timed in 1:57.4. Michael and Chris Storms of Picton, Ont. hold the papers on Combs Hanover (Archangel - Chez Lucie), a winner of eight races lifetime with a mark of 1:52 and more than $180,000 in earnings. The Ontario Sires Stakes graduate climbed up the class ladder last spring and then became a regular contender in the Preferred ranks over the summer for his connections. Expect to see Combs Hanover return to that Monday night feature at Mohawk in the upcoming weeks. The full video replay from the Friday qualifying session is available below. To view the full results from the Friday qualifying session, click the following link: Friday Results - Woodbine Mohawk Park (Qualifiers). Chuck Winner, an internationally recognized expert in public affairs, crisis communications, and campaign management, who served on the California Horse Racing Board from 2012 to 2019, five of those years as chairman, passed away Thursday morning, March 24, from natural causes at the age of 81. Mr. Winner guided the CHRB through difficult times, most notably during the winter of 2019 when a rash of equine fatalities at Santa Anita Park attracted worldwide scrutiny. He led the push for improved safety measures to protect horses and riders, which resulted in greater equine health and welfare throughout California. After advising Governor Gavin Newsoms office that he would not be seeking reappointment after he completed his second term as a racing commissioner on July 26, 2019, Mr. Winner said, Its been a challenging yet fulfilling seven years. My colleagues and I have faced some challenging and critical issues. I hope that we have made a positive difference. Mr. Winner is survived by his wife, Annie, and four children: Justyn, Ethan, Nicole, and Zach. Private funeral arrangements are pending. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Chuck Winner. (CHRB) A tea exhibitor invites visitors to try a cup of tea at the HORECA trade show in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 24, 2022. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) After years of suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the HORECA trade show came back this year in Lebanon to reconnect people in the food and agriculture sectors. BEIRUT, March 24 (Xinhua) -- As visitors make their way through the crowded HORECA, a major trade show in Beirut that concludes on Thursday, they could hardly tell that Lebanon's food industry has been taking the hit of the country's unprecedented financial crisis. After years of suspension due to the COVID-19, the three-day trade event came back this year to reconnect people in the food and agriculture sector, Joumana Dammous Salame, the founder of HORECA's sponsor hospitality services, told Xinhua. "It is a hub where people in the food and agriculture field can meet, exchange expertise and gain business opportunities while joining in various discussions in sideline panels," Salame explained. Visitors try the drinks at a booth at the HORECA trade show in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 24, 2022. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) Chadi Tannous, chief product officer at Three Brothers Distillery, said he wants to introduce his products to new clients from Lebanon and abroad, and the event allows him to meet with businessmen from Asia and Europe. "Although we have considerable sales in the Lebanese market, we are in need of U.S. dollars to be able to maintain our operations," Tannous told Xinhua. Lebanon has been suffering from an unprecedented financial crisis with a shortage of foreign currency reserves which has caused a collapse in the local currency, plunging over 78 percent of the population into poverty. Walid Abi Sleiman, sales manager at food factory Societe Michel Najjar, also attended the event to explore new opportunities in the local and overseas markets. Photo taken on March 24, 2022 shows the food booths at the HORECA trade show in Beirut, Lebanon. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) Abi Sleiman told Xinhua most business requests he received during the event were about exporting the Lebanese products, noting that the weak national currency has made the export of Lebanese products more competitive than selling them in the local market. For his part, Jimmy Farhat, sales executive at MG Hotel Supplies, a factory producing hotel utensils and equipment, told Xinhua he is hopeful about the future of business in Lebanon, despite the numerous challenges and difficulties facing the country, which is why he is keen to take part in trade events such as HORECA. "We will never give up on Lebanon," Farhat said, adding that hotels and restaurants prefer to buy locally produced goods to help Lebanese companies sustain their operations amid the current crisis. He said his factory received requests from the hospitality industry in Syria, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Egypt. Photo taken on March 24, 2022 shows the view of the HORECA trade show held in Beirut, Lebanon. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) This year's HORECA also features Lebanese aid groups and empowerment organizations that are helping the vulnerable. Rene Moawad Foundation, with a focus on sustainable human development, has supported 1,300 Lebanese women in producing food for overseas markets. "We participated after three years of absence to act as an intermediary between our beneficiaries and foreign importers which will enable us to expand the export market for these women," said Beauty Geitani, field coordinator at the foundation. "We should never lose hope despite the current situation, this is why we are trying to support vulnerable communities at this time," she said. Regarding the state of public health in Culpeper County, Things look pretty good. That was the message Wednesday from Dr. Trice Gravatte, the brand new health director of the five-county health district, speaking in the waning days of the two-year COVID pandemic. He made the remarks during the annual State of the Community program of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce, on Wednesday. A local family doctor for 33 years, Gravatte said he visited Rockwater Park earlier this week and was pleased to see folks playing Frisbee and kids on the playground. I saw a lot of smiling faces without masks, thank God. What a nice time of the year when we are starting to think about Delta as being an airline and Corona being a beer, he said. COVID case counts continue to drop in Culpeper, the health district director said. I bring you good news of the state of our health that the most recent report from our hospital is that there were zero COVID admissionsRight now we are working with our state health department to help transition Culpeper to a world of endemic and also a world where we are being proactive, not reactive, Gravatte said. One in five citizens of Culpeper had a reported case of the novel coronavirus, he said, sharing end data of the pandemic. There were other cases not reported, Gravatte said, and 143 deaths. As we try to give you good news today, I want to share with you the rates are down and that right now weve taken leave from where England is. With that note, we are excited about encouraging people to get boosted, he said. COVID booster shoots are available at all local health departments in the district as well as doctors offices, he said. Culpepers COVID community transmission level is in the green, Gravatte said. Folks have the capacity to follow health department guidelines and wear a mask only if they want, without any strong encouragement from us, he said. The health department works in various other areas aside from the pandemic including environmental health, restaurant inspections, family planning, immunizations, rabies investigations, drug overdose prevention and nutrition for women, infants and children. The health department also coordinates with groups such as the PATH Foundation and Culpeper Wellness on addressing public health issues, including chronic diseases and cancer, Gravatte said. We work with drug treatment, community centers, elected officials and faith institutions. As we think about the health in our community we also offer how it relates to U.S. data, the health district director said. There are challenges in heart disease, cancer and that c word we are all dealing with, too, he said of COVID. Each of the five counties in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District have higher incidences of heart disease compared to Virginia and U.S., according to a chart Gravatte showed. In Culpeper, around 6 percent of adults have heart disease, around 5.8 percent in Fauquier, 7 percent in Orange, and 8 percent each in Madison and Rappahannock. Statewide, less than 4 percent of Virginians have heart disease and its around 4 percent nationwide, the chart showed. As we think about issues in our community, we want to be mindful we have a lot of great, healthy, smart people on this call committed to taking care of themselves and our community. But there are people who arent on this call, who cant get on this call or may not be able to see it on TV when it comes out, the health district director said. Those people are some of the ones who are higher risk for heart disease we see in our community. As we try to work with nutrition and other areas we have in our control we hope to bend the curve in that. Culpeper County is also above the national and state average for cancer death rates, according to a chart shown during State of the Community. The pandemic greatly diminished access to preventative care, Gravatte said, noting recent efforts at the health department helping people get tested for breast and cervical cancer and to quit smoking. Thats on our radar and we want to get Culpeper at or below average for the U.S. and our district, he said. Gravatte said the health department is also committed to driving down opiate overdoes. In our community, those rates have been higher than Virginia for a while, theyre ticking up everywhere, and we are bringing the tools we have to bring a rescue agent called Narcan available to everybody who asks for it, he said, showing another slide. The numbers right there speak for themselveswe dont want to be the leader in our district anymore. Social services, law enforcement, the hospital, and the community services board are among the partners working with VDH, Gravatte said. We are working hard in front and behind the scenes to change those numbers, he said. Mental health and suicide also remains a problem, Gravate said: We are committed to working to bend the curve thereall of those things are on our watch as your health department. The brand new health district director, on the job since Feb. 1, celebrated the volunteers who help the health department serve the community. We couldnt do what we do without their support, Gravatte said. In 2020 and 2021, volunteers with the Medical Reserve Corps gave more than 12,000 hours. Corps membership grew during COVID from 293 volunteers to 520. Gravatte concluded his comments, Culpeper is going the right way. We have your back and are honored to be in the program of wellness here. Read in Sundays edition about other State of the Community presentations from Lisa Peacock, Bryan Rothamel and Carl Stafford. Build your health & fitness knowledge Sign up here to get the latest health & fitness updates in your inbox every week! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Joanne and Chip Russell live in one of the most idylic spots in Culpeper: Sandy Springs Farm near Stevensburg. They want it to stay that way. But next door, Amazon Data Services contractor proposes to build a 435,000-square-foot, 5-story-tall data center to serve the internet-services provider previously focused on Northern Virginia. The Russell family vehemently opposes Amazons plan, which the Planning Commission rejected March 9 by a 5-4 vote. The big question remains whether the Board of Supervisors will rezone the site, the 243-acre Magnolia Equestrian Center, to allow something other than agricultural use. Imagine buildings that are five-plus stories tall and 500,000 square feet, give or take, on this rural landscape, Chip Russell said in an interview this week. The data center would make Stevensburg a completely different place, he said. Our neighbor Irene Carnes told us a year ago that someone would be bringing a first-class facility to her land that would be a boon, Russell said. She said that in our living room. ... We havent talked about it since. Russell expressed his skepticism at the time, he said. His family doesnt want to see a major, power-hungry commercial development land in what is practically their front yard, he said. But as longtime Stevensburg residents, their concerns extend to the larger community, far beyond the bounds of the familys 255-acre farm, Russell said. This rolling land, well watered by gushing springs at the base of the distinctive Hanbroughs Ridge, has been the Russell familys home since the 1960s. My family has been blessed to own Sandy Springs Farm in Stevensburg, he said. It is a retreat, a safe havensuch a wonderful placewhere we have raised three children. Russell and his family members have concerns about noise from the facilitys power-handling gear, its visual impacts on whats now a rural and historic landscape, increased traffic on Route 3, and how the data centers demand for cooling water would affect neighboring wells, he said. Data centers are notorious water hogs, using millions of gallons to cool their equipment, Russell said. If the supervisors approve this, they will guarantee someone in this community is going to have their land taken from them by eminent domain, he said. And it will be a significant taking. Russell likened the data center to a massive commercial greenhouse built in Elkwood, near Brandy Station, whose lightseasily seen from Stevensburgilluminate the night sky for many miles around. It looks like the Death Star, he said. Russell said he doesnt trust the viewshed renderings submitted by the applicant. Every view theyve shown is taken from below the facility to make it blend in, he said. Theres also a question of what the development would portend for the area, Russell said. The availability of Dominions high-capacity power lines through Stevensburg from Fauquier county to Gordonsville could open many nearby Culpeper properties to development for data centers and solar power plants, he said. When Culpeper officials update the countys land-use plan, they should discuss and address that issue, Russell said. Solar plants need to be situated in communities with sensitivity about their operation, he said. The Russells, who enjoy their farms quietlistening at night to the spring peepers and other creatures that rely on its springsworry about noise from the data center. If youre an urban dweller, hearing a loud hum 24/7 may not mean that much to you, but it does to us, Russell said. The family knows people working at Northern Virginia data centers who constantly must wear headphones to communicate inside those facilities, he said. Russell said his family is also concerned about the centers impact on neighboring Salubria, Culpeper Countys oldest surviving brick manor house, and Hansbroughs Ridge, where the Civil Wars Battle of Brandy Station opened on June 9, 1863. Built circa 1753, Salubria is owned by The Memorial Foundation of the Germanna Colonies in Virginia, which opens it for public tours and special events. Historians consider the imposing house, which still has its original interior woodwork, one of Virginias best examples of high-style Georgian architecture. The manse was built by the Rev. John Thompson, rector of Culpepers Little Fork Church, for his wife, Butler Brayne Spotswood Thompson. She was the widow of Alexander Spotswood, the Virginia royal governor who had imported two shiploads of German craftsmen to develop his sprawling properties on the British colonys western frontier. In the 19th century, the Battle of Brandy Stations decisive first phase was fought on the southern foot of Hansbroughs Ridge, the most prominent landscape feature for miles around. The American Battlefield Trust owns part of the ridge, and its acreage is destined to be incorporated in a battlefields state park planned for Culpeper County. The view from the ridge, which the trust says has the largest concentration of untouched Civil War encampment features in the United States, and from Sandy Spring Farms front acreage looks directly down onto the data-center site. More than 6,000 Union soldiers lived on the ridge for five months before the Battle of the Wilderness in May 1864. Chip and Joanne Russell, who appreciate that Civil War history and patrol the ridge daily, share the trusts concerns about how the data center would affect the historic landscape. Stevensburg resident Desy Campbell has said Magnolia Equestrian Centers tract is too large an area to build a project in the middle of nowhere. Stevensburg District resident Susan Ralston says the center would dominate the areas landscape and ruin its rural character. For visitors to appreciate, Salubria needs to remain in an agricultural setting, Germanna foundation researcher Kathy Ellis said, adding that Route 3 ought not be turned into an industrial-use corridor. Northern Virginia attorny John Foote, representing the developer, told the Planning Commission the data center would be well-buffered and screened from adjoining farmland. Foote said allowing the project would not set a precedent for more development in Stevensburg and along Route 3. On Monday, the public is invited to join the Culpeper County Board of Supervisors for a free history tour of Salubria and Hansbroughs Ridge. People should meet at 10 a.m. in Stevensburg Baptist Church at 19393 York Road. Tour participants must register Friday by emailing katherine@JTHG.org. Star-Exponent staff writer Alison Brophy Champion contributed to this report. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Members from the Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) Foundation made a stop at Western Sugar Cooperative in a trek across Nebraska celebrating National Agriculture Week. The stop was the last of a statewide tour. President of NEFB Foundation Mark McHargue explained the importance of agriculture from the eastern to the western side of Nebraska, recognizing the different cultural and geographical differences that the foundation works to understand. Agriculture has a tremendous story to tell, McHargue said. Every year, were using less fertilizer, less water, less energy but producing more crops and livestock and that is a great story. Kevin Hall, a third generation sugar beet grower in Scotts Bluff County, was on-hand to explain the economic impact the sugar beet grower has in Nebraska. He said it costs $1,100 to $1,200 an acre to grow sugar beets and 42,000 acres are grown annually in Nebraska generating around $45 million in revenue for the state. All farmers, not just beet farmers, are an important component of the revenue structure in Nebraska, Hall said. Farming isnt always easy, but I love what I do. I want the same great life here in Nebraska for my children and for generations to come. Hall also discussed the current drought condition. He said farmers are adjusting by transitioning to more no-till acres to hold water in the topsoil longer. Western Sugar vice president Jerry Darnell said the sugar factory is one of only a few facilities in Nebraska that generates water processing sugar beets, returning it back to the North Platte River. Darnell also said the sugar beet factory in Scottsbluff will be installing two new natural gas boilers this summer, eliminating the two coal fired boilers. He said the change will not only help improve air quality, but it will be setting up the facility for future generations. Though Nebraska is a leading state in the ag industry, Megahn Schafer, executive director for the NEFB Foundation, said that most Nebraska students are three to four generations removed from the farm. Schafer said going into classrooms across the state to reach those students and educate them on the importance of the ag industry and how it impacts their lives is a key mission of the foundation. Its not only the food that they eat, the fuel that they use in their cars, but it is a meaningful way of life, Schafer said. Its the economy, and meaningful careers here in Nebraska that are supported by our number one industry of agriculture. According to a statement from NEFB Foundations vice president of communication strategies, Tina Henderson, agriculture contributes more than $21.4 billion to Nebraskas economy. This contribution is an investment in the environment, local infrastructure, public schools, and is made possible through improved access to markets. Think about everything you have done today. The food you eat, clothes you wear, and the fuel that transports you are all a part of your life because of agriculture, McHargue said. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation strives to help people understand agriculture by providing information and empowering them to make informed decisions for their families and their communities. Nicole Heldt is a reporter with the Star-Herald, covering agriculture. She can be reached at 308-632-9044 or by email at nheldt@starherald.com. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Chadron Police arrested a 19-year-old Chadron State College student Tuesday, March 22, on suspicion of sexual assault. Police arrested Malik Ahmed-Hosie, 19, after obtaining a warrant charging him with first-degree sexual assault, a Class II felony, according to a press release from Chadron Chief of Police Rick Hickstein. He was taken to Dawes County Jail and bail was set at $10,000. Hickstein said an investigation began after two Chadron officers were called to the Chadron Community Hospital on March 20 for a report of sexual assault. Officers obtained statements and collected evidence. On March 22, investigator Dusty Bryner obtained a search warrant for a Chadron residence, collected evidence and Bryner and officers completed additional interviews. Bryner told the Star-Herald the investigation is still ongoing. Submit Your News We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Nebraska Public Media will host an hour-long debate with four of the Republican candidates who are running for the 2022 Nebraska governors race. Debate participants include Falls City agri-businessman Charles Herbster; state senator Brett Lindstrom; Breland Ridenour from Omaha; and former state senator Theresa Thibodeau. The SAT exam will move from paper and pencil to a digital format, administrators announced Tuesday, saying the shift will boost its relevancy as more colleges make standardized tests optional for admission. Test-takers will be allowed to use their own laptops or tablets but they'll still have to sit for the test at a monitored testing site or in school, not at home. The format change is scheduled to roll out internationally next year and in the U.S. in 2024. It will also shave an hour from the current version, bringing the reading, writing and math assessment from three hours to about two. "The digital SAT will be easier to take, easier to give, and more relevant," said Priscilla Rodriguez, vice president of College Readiness Assessments at the New York City-based College Board, which administers the SAT and related PSAT. "We're not simply putting the current SAT on a digital platform. We're taking full advantage of what delivering an assessment digitally makes possible." Keep scrolling for a ranking of the best college in every state Once essential for college applications, scores from admission tests like the SAT and rival ACT carry less weight today as colleges and universities pay more attention to the sum of student achievements and activities throughout high school. Amid criticism that the exams favor wealthy, white applicants and disadvantage minority and low-income students, an increasing number of schools have in recent years adopted test-optional policies, which let students decide whether to include scores with their applications. The pandemic accelerated the trend as testing sessions were canceled or inaccessible. Nearly 80% of bachelor's degree-granting institutions are not requiring test scores from students applying for fall 2022, according to a December tally by the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, a watchdog group that opposes standardized testing. The group, known as FairTest, said at least 1,400 of them have extended the policy through at least the fall 2023 admissions cycle. About 1.5 million members of the class of 2021 took the SAT at least once, down from 2.2 million in the previous year. A College Board survey found many students want to take the SAT to preserve the option of submitting the scores and qualifying for certain scholarships. Rodriguez said the digital version will be delivered in a format more familiar to students who regularly learn and test online at school. Also, student score reports will not only focus on connecting students with four-year colleges and scholarships, but also provide information about two-year college and workforce training options. That reflects an increase in the number of students who are given the exam during a designated SAT day at school, with some districts requiring students take it. About 60% of students who take the SAT do so at school, Rodriguez said. "We want to present students with a wider range of information and resources about their post-secondary options," she said. Scores will be available in days, rather than weeks, she said. There have been cases through the years of sets of paper exams getting lost in the mail. "The digital version, I thought, was a lot less stressful than the paper and pencil version. It felt a lot more familiar," said Natalia Cossio, 16, of Fairfax County, Virginia, who took part in a November pilot after first taking the PSAT on paper. She said the digital format would solve some logistical issues she's seen, like students bringing mechanical pencils instead of the required No. 2 variety, or advanced calculators that are not allowed. The digital version includes a basic calculator for the math section. The College Board said students without a personal or school-issued device will be provided one for test day. *** Submit Your News We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form You know who benefits the most from liberal media bias? Conservatives. I spent much of the last 25 years writing about liberal media bias. Heck, I grew up on the stuff. My father, a longtime editor, used to joke that he worked behind enemy lines. Hed often tutor me about the likes of Walter Duranty, the New York Times Moscow correspondent who whitewashed Stalins crimes and won a Pulitzer in the process, or Herbert Matthews, the reporter whose Cuba coverage inspired the famous cartoon of Fidel Castro saying, I got my job through the New York Times. Dan Rather, a CBS News institution with some well-documented biases of his own, used to say liberal media bias was a myth. Suffice it to say, I think he was wrong, and continues to be wrong. But something has changed. The modern conservative movement begins in the mid-20th century, and for most of that time the media referred to three TV networks, two newspapers and a few newsmagazines all located within walking distance of each other in Manhattan. Rounding out the list were the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times and a handful of similarly liberal big city newspapers. During this era, the media had incredible power to set the agenda. Disagree if you wish, just know that for conservatives this was an article of faith. Irritation at this center-left conventional wisdom, which dominated not just the media, but academia, created the pearl of modern conservatism. When he launched National Review, William F. Buckley proclaimed that his journal (where I worked for 20 years) would stand athwart History, yelling stop. The talk radio revolution pioneered by Rush Limbaugh and the rise of Fox News can only be understood as a rebellion against the hegemony real or perceived of the liberal media. The story of how that hegemony was shattered by cable news and the internet is by now familiar. But whats interesting is that even as the reigning journalistic gatekeepers were dethroned, conservative rage against the media intensified. In 2008, Sarah Palin, John McCains running mate, became a right-wing darling in large part because the mainstream media hated her. In 2012, Newt Gingrichs presidential campaigns early successes stemmed almost entirely from his relentless focus on attacking the destructive, vicious, negative nature of much of the news media. Whatever you make of his broadsides, its worth noting they were delivered well after Fox had become a ratings behemoth and a slew of right-wing news and opinion outlets had been launched. Its almost impossible to exaggerate how much of Donald Trumps candidacy and presidency were entwined with the rights animosity for what Gingrich had called the elite media. Trumps war on fake news his contribution to right-wing rhetoric was so total he felt perfectly free to dub the press the enemy of the people, praise a politician who physically attacked a journalist and rail against the First Amendment. Ignore the substance of the criticisms. As an objective matter, this obsession with the elite medias alleged monopoly has intensified in tandem with the unraveling of that monopoly. Republican politicians dont need the elite media to get their messages out anymore. Indeed, often the best thing that can happen to a Republican politician is to earn the scorn of such outlets. Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida understands this better than most. Hes made media hostility central to his brand. If the corporate press nationally isnt attacking me, he says, then Im probably not doing my job. (Oddly, his definition of corporate press doesnt include Fox News, where he appears so often he should probably have his mail delivered to the green room.) If Republican voters havent gotten the news that the monolithic media isnt nearly the monolith it once was, neither has the media itself. When 60 Minutes did a shoddy piece on DeSantis, it was tantamount to an in-kind donation to the governor. Much of the press is caught in a kind of Baptists and bootleggers loop, in which opposing forces become symbiotically co-dependent. Thanks in part to the blurring of reporting with partisan punditry, particularly on cable news and social media, not to mention the larger trends of tribal polarization, attacks from the left often benefit their right-wing targets (and vice versa). Weirder still, favorable coverage is often no favor. Right-wing denunciations of defund the police a fringe position among elected Democrats did far less damage to Democrats than the coverage the idea got from sympathetic media. There are no easy answers to the problem, but one thing that would help is more skeptical tough love for politicians and political causes from the outlets most inclined to help them. Because the help isnt helping. 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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe From a distance, Kym Garveys farm in Milaca, Minn., looks like it hosts a herd of long-eared, shaggy-haired horses. But once youre within patting distance, its easy to see the difference between Garveys 40-or-so donkeys and their more skittish equine cousins. The donkeys approach in search of scratches, then nuzzle up to any receptive companion. Their eager bray sounds like a rhythmic honk, crossed with a howl and a wheeze. They really like to be with people, said Garvey, who operates the nonprofit donkey rescue Save the Brays. A group of horses will come over and see if you have treats and say hi, and then theyll walk off, she explained. But a donkey will stand there with you all day long. The personality is kind of like a big dog. The reputations of the two equine species couldnt be more different. Horses are often seen as status symbols associated with racing, riding or fox hunting. Meanwhile, donkeys are viewed as lowly laborers Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem to signal his humility. Garvey, who grew up with horses, switched her allegiance to donkeys after falling in love with the much-maligned species, which she bestows with affection and pet names (goofy old boy and squeaky geeky among them). As she rehabilitates and rehomes hundreds of long-eared equines, Garvey spreads her donkey allegiance to volunteers and adoptive families around the region, who say they find caring for the animals both fun and therapeutic. Garvey hopes Save the Brays can raise awareness of a misunderstood species whose unique needs are often overlooked. Horses are such a prized possession, she explained. Donkeys are known as beasts of burden and theyre just kind of forgotten about. Theyre the most abused animals in the world because in other countries theyre used so much for work. Growing popularity Most of the worlds nearly 50 million donkeys are used for agricultural labor and as pack animals. But in the United States, they are mostly a pet that youre going to love on, as Garvey puts it. Donkeys popularity here has been growing, due to their ability to provide companionship as well as drive carts, or carry people and supplies. Donkeys are relatively easy to care for and dont require as much feed as horses, Garvey noted. And theres a lot of interest in saddling up the larger varieties. Its hard to find mammoth donkeys now because so many people want them for riding, she explained. Some people use donkeys as livestock guardians, but Garvey, a former large animal veterinary technician, cautions against simply putting them out with the sheep, goats, horses or cows without accounting for donkeys specific behaviors and needs. Other animals feed isnt appropriate, she noted, and the donkeys playful nature can lead to their accidentally harming a smaller animal. Donkeys temperaments are different from those of horses, Garvey added. Horses can be reactive to every bump in the trail, while donkeys offer a mellower ride. Their reputation for being stubborn is simply a result of their being more deliberate than flightier horses. The need for rescue After informally assisting donkeys for years and realizing there were no donkey-specific rescues in the area, Garvey made Save the Brays an official nonprofit in 2016. Lately, Garvey has had up to 60 animals in her care at one time (her herd typically includes a few mules, too, which are the offspring of a male donkey and female horse). Save the Brays raises money by selling calendars and hosting fundraisers, including one on April 3, and maintains an Amazon wish list for anyone wanting to gift everything from stable blankets to purple glitter hoof polish. Because donkeys lifespan can reach 40 to 50 years, some arrive at Save the Brays due to outliving their owners capacity to care for them, or owners financial stress. Other donkeys come to Garvey through the Minnesota Hooved Animal Rescue Foundation (MHARF), which receives animals seized by law enforcement, often due to being undernourished, or lacking health care or safe, sanitary shelter. Because MHARF focuses on horses, its executive director, Drew Fitzpatrick, has appreciated being able to send donkeys to Garvey. I can trust her, Fitzpatrick said. She knows what shes doing. Fitzpatrick sees parallels between the poor treatment of equines needing rescue and elderly people in America. To see anything be taken advantage of and spurned and turned away and treated like an afterthought, she said. The older I get, I realize that it happens to all of us. Garvey has purchased donkeys at livestock auctions, to save those at risk of being killed for their hides. Gelatin produced from donkey skins is used in a popular Chinese medicine, and its demand has led to theft, poaching and inhumane treatment of donkeys worldwide. The rehoming process Some animals arrive at Save the Brays with health problems so substantial they need to be euthanized the part of the work Garvey finds most difficult. The rest typically stay about five months, though a few special-needs animals live out their days at the farm. After getting a medical workup and hoof trim, the animals, which often lack handling skills, are acclimated to people and trained. As soon as they can raise all their hooves for trimming and are comfortable being haltered and led, Garvey can start looking for an adoptive home. Kelly Schmitz, of Glenwood City, Wis., already owned and fostered horses before adopting a pair of miniature donkeys from Save the Brays this spring. She was interested in adding the sweet little dudes to her herd as companion animals who could help repel coyotes. Schmitz learned the nuances of donkey care from Garvey and has inferred a few things on her own. If a horse swings its butt around toward you, get the heck out of there its probably going to kick, Schmitz said. If a little donkey swings his butt towards you, he wants his butt scratched. Garvey has introduced many volunteers to the joys of donkey care, which involves grooming, snuggling, taking them for walks and, of course, scooping poop. Volunteer Katie Bloome, a longtime horse lover in South St. Paul, has found her regular farm visits therapeutic. Standing out in the pasture with a herd of donkeys around me and just scratching them and giving them some love theres nothing quite like that, she said. Because thats all they want. Theyre very loving creatures. Bloome said she finds it especially rewarding to earn the trust of animals who are fearful or withdrawn due to previous abuse or neglect. She recently began fostering a Save the Brays mule and calls training it, the best part of my day. It heals my soul every time I go and work with these animals, she said. The Iredell County Public Library recently noted a historic milestone. It was 100 years ago on Feb. 22, 1922, that what we now know as the Iredell County Public Library began. It can trace its beginnings to the Statesville Womans Club, which organized in October 1921 with Mrs. B.F. Long (Mary Alice Robbins Long) as the first president. Their first civic project was the creation of a permanent public library for the city of Statesville. The Statesville Womans Club Library formally opened on Saturday, Feb. 25, 1922. The founding of a permanent library for Statesville had not come easy, though efforts were being made almost from the countys creation in 1788. The Jan. 4, 1822, issue of the Weekly Raleigh Register on page one announced A LIST OF ACTS, Passed by the General Assembly of this State at the Session of 1821. Act No. 27 was To incorporate the Union Library Society in the county of Iredell. Dr. Phillip F. Laugenour reported in The Sentinel, April 27, 1916, that The people in this section took great interest in educating the young and the diffusion of knowledge. For this last purpose there was an association with a library, kept at the house of J.P. McRee, where the books were distributed every three months. The association was dissolved in 1825 and the books were sold out. The March 31, 1882, issue of The Landmark reported that in 1841 a public library was established in Statesville. A number of valuable books were bought and the library did a vast amount of good in educating and developing the literary tastes of the people. The article reports that the Rev. Prof. Elisha F. Rockwell is attempting to locate the books from the original 1841 collection to start a new library. On Sept. 4, 1885, The Landmark reports on a Circulating Library being operated by local bookseller, Mr. T.M. Mills who for a one-dollar subscription will provide access to a whole years worth of reading. The problem for these early attempts at establishing a library was a lack of public funding. This changed on March 9, 1897, when the N.C. State Legislature passed, An act to permit the establishment of public libraries. Tax laws prior to this act did not allow the spending of taxpayer money for public libraries. The 1897 Act established That it should be lawful for the board of alderman or the board of commissioners of any city or incorporated town in the state of N.C. having more than one thousand inhabitants, to provide for the establishment of a public library in said city or town. Despite the change in tax law no move was made on the part of Statesville to establish a library. I sometimes wonder if the newspaper made Edith Ausley cry that day. I wouldnt be surprised. She had worked on it for so long and had everything planned out. She probably could see it when she closed her eyes. It would be white marble with tall columns to the right and left of the entrance. You would ascend from ground level up steps to large prominent double doors. The steps would symbolize a persons elevation by learning while the lamps on either side of the door would symbolize enlightenment. It must have been particularly painful as the vote wasnt even close. The results were given in the May 9, 1913, issue of The Landmark. The Carnegie Library proposal was defeated in the municipal primary Tuesday by a majority of 80 votes. The total vote for the library was 164 and the vote against it was 244. The municipal election to authorize the Statesville Board of Aldermen to levy a special tax to support a Carnegie Library was held on Tuesday, May 6, 1913. The election was in accordance with an act of the N.C. State Legislature requiring that such an election be held if 25% of the voters petition for it. It was Edith Ausley who led the campaign to gather the signatures of the voters to present to the Alderman. There would be no beautiful Carnegie Library in Statesville. Edith Louise Fawcett was born March 16, 1872, in London, Ontario. She moved to Mount Airy with her parents when she was 16 where her family started the First National Bank. On April 20, 1898, she married Daniel McNair Ausley from Lumber Bridge. Edith had met Daniel after he became the Railroad Agent for the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railroad Co. in Mount. Airy. The couple later moved to Newport News, Va., where Daniel went into the bank business with the City Bank. In 1900, Edith and her husband moved to Statesville where Daniel started the Statesville Loan and Trust Company, which later becomes the Commercial National Bank. He built the bank building on the northwest corner of South Center and Court streets. The building with its huge granite columns is still there today beside the old courthouse. In 1903, Edith Ausley starts a free public library in Statesville called the Reading Room Library in rooms given freely in a building on West Broad Street, owned by Dr. John J. Mott. Edith is member of the State Federation of Womens Clubs and serves as the librarian. She contacts the Lend a Hand Library in Boston to start the librarys book collection. To raise funds for materials and operation she creates an Everybodys Day celebration in Statesville. On Aug. 25, 1903, The Semi-Weekly Landmark announces, Everybodys Day, next Saturday, promises to be of unusual interest. Everybody is talking about it and everybody is expected to be here. Since the library is to be open to everyone Mrs. Ausley creates a holiday for everyone as a fundraising event to benefit the new library. Everybodys Day became a Statesville tradition for a few years. The holiday was a huge success as The Semi-Weekly Landmark reported on Sept. 1, 1903, that between 2,500 and 3,000 people attended the event and $85.15 was raised for the library fund. Contests held included a fat mans race, a bicycle race, a wheelbarrow race, a bag race, a parade through downtown Statesville and a contest for the best decorated vehicle. Prizes were awarded for the family with the most children and to the oldest person in attendance (Louis Moore from Bethany, age 94) There was a fiddle contest (old style), a greasy pole-climbing contest, a bicycle race, and a wheelbarrow race. A wedding was held in the show window of the Statesville Housefurnishing Co. store with an admission fee of 10 cents. The ceremony was performed by Squire W.C. Mills, who married Mr. Louis Franklin Carpenter and Miss Bettie Gant. The happy couple received a bedstead as a wedding gift. A large board was erected with painted pictures of a baby and raccoon and holes where their heads should have been. People would stick their heads through the holes and other people would pay to throw at their heads. Mr. J.S. Fry won, but was disqualified for having previous practice. He had bet policeman J.N. Morgan that he could hit his head from a certain distance with a rock the day before. Morgan was game, but Fry missed and instead hit a 10-year-old boy standing nearby. Fry gave the kid 10 cents to keep quiet about it, but he squealed and Fry was disqualified. The Nov. 20, 1903, issue of The Landmark reports that Mrs. Ausley has asked philanthropist and steel industrialist Andrew Carnegie for $5,000 to build a Carnegie library in Statesville. Books from the Reading Library are also being circulated among the rural schools as they have no libraries. The Landmark reports on March 9, 1906, that Carnegie has agreed to give $5,000 for a library in Statesville once the conditions are met and a site selected. Shortly thereafter on March 27, 1906, a fire destroys the Reading Room Library though many of the books are saved. The library is then moved to the D.V. Mills building for a year and a half and then to the W.L. Heller store. There is a photo of the interior of the Statesville Reading Room Library on Mulberry Street in 1907 on display now at the entrance of the library. A site for the Statesville Carnegie Library is found when Mrs. S.A. Sharpe offers to donate a lot on the corner of Meeting and Sharpe streets for the library, but the May 10, 1910, Landmark reports that the Statesville Board of Aldermen have rejected the proposed library citing the costs. To receive the Carnegie donation the city must appropriate 10 cent per year for maintenance which would have amounted to $500. This brings us back to 1913. Edith Ausley has over the past 10 years established 42 rural libraries in Iredell County with 1,288 volumes, but she is still pushing for a Carnegie Library in Statesville. She is now chairwoman of Statesvilles Womens Twentieth Century Club and has 1,750 books to put in the library. She has the site being donated for free on the corner of Meeting and Sharpe streets near downtown Statesville and only two blocks from the graded school. She leads a campaign to gather enough signatures on a petition to allow the Board of Aldermen schedule a referendum to allow voters to accept a library tax of $500 per year. She gathers support from the community. The newspaper quotes Mary Charles who says, Build your library before it is too late. The interest on the capital invested in this building may not come back to you in dollars and cents, but it will be repaid, it will be doubled, even tripled, by the many strong-hearted men and women that will emerge from its doors in future life. The Carnegie Foundation does not give money to build libraries in small towns, but with Statesville they have made an exception. In fact, they have offered to give the city $10,000 if they will support it with $1,000 per year, but Ausley seeks only a $5,000 building. The results given in the newspaper in her hands means there will be no beautiful white marble Carnegie library with columns in Statesville. Joel Reese is the local history librarian at the Iredell County Public Library. GENEVA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Gilbert F. Houngbo from Togo will be the next Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), the organization announced on Friday. He was elected by the United Nations (UN) agency's Governing Body, comprising representatives of governments, workers and employers, during their meeting in Geneva. Houngbo, former prime minister of Togo, will be the 11th head of the agency, and the first African to hold the post. His five-year term will begin on Oct. 1, 2022. The current Director-General, Guy Ryder, from the United Kingdom, has held the office since 2012. Four other candidates from the Republic of Korea, South Africa, France and Australia participated in the elections. Founded in 1919, the ILO has the mandate to promote decent work for all. It has 187 member states. Iredell County announced on Thursday that Timothy Moore has been selected as the Iredell County veteran service manager. Tim has a clear love and passion for serving veterans. His energy, coupled with his determination to be a strong advocate for our veterans, makes him a great addition to the Iredell County team, County Manager Beth Mull said. His first day of employment is April 4. Moore is a medically retired noncommissioned officer of the U.S. Army, with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2009-10 and Operation Enduring Freedom from 2011-12. Upon his retirement, he relocated to North Carolina and began his life of advocacy as a veteran services employment specialist with Goodwill Career Connections in Catawba, Alexander and Caldwell counties. He later accepted a job with the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs as the lead veterans service officer and office manager for the Morganton Veteran Service Center, and was later transferred to the Hickory Veteran Service Center. Through his advocacy, he has helped countless veterans to have their voices heard within the Department of Veterans Affairs, allowing them to receive federal benefits and access to healthcare throughout the 15-county district that he has represented with the state, one of which is Iredell County, Mull said in a news release. Moore currently holds a bachelor of science degree from Montreat College in psychology and human services and is in pursuit of his masters degree in public administration. Moore replaces Brad Stroud, who retired in December. Follow Ben Gibson on Facebook and Twitter at @BenGibsonSRL Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Compared to Ukraine, Russia has not used its many UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) much during the current invasion. This is apparently due to the bad experience Russia has had using UAVs in Ukraine since 2014. Since 2014 Ukraine has developed its own UAV force which has proven superior to what the Russians have. Then there is the economic angle. In early 2017 Russia revealed that it had increased the number of modern UAVs in service from 180 in 2011 to over 2,000. The ones now in service are apparently mostly models that have already been seen in action. These include Grana1-1, Granat-2, Granat-4, Zavasta, Forpost, Zala-421, Irkut-10, Orlan 10, Eleron-3SV Takhion and Zastava. Procurement and development slowed after 2017 because of sanctions imposed after the 2014 Russian attack on Ukraine. Russia continued using their UAVs in Ukraine, Syria, Armenia and Libya. Russia did introduce new models, but not in large numbers. There was a similar shortage of guided bombs and missiles for aircraft and large UAVs. Meanwhile Russia developed special versions of some UAVs to operate inside Russia. Orlan-10 is one of few UAVs that Russia developed a special version of for functioning in Arctic environments. Orlan 10 weighs about 15 kilograms (33 pounds) and can carry a payload of up to 6 kilograms of various kinds of recon equipment, including infrared cameras, or an array of multiple cameras used for creating 3-dimensional maps. Its 95-octane gasoline powered engine provides a cruise speed of 90 to 150 kilometers an hour, a service ceiling of about 5,000 meters, and a flight endurance of 18 hours. Together with control and launch equipment, the Orlan-10 costs approximately $480,000. The aircraft is launched via a portable, folding catapult, and lands by shutting down the engine and deploying a parachute. The Eleron-3SV costs about $55,000 and is a battery powered, 4.3 kg (7.49 pounds) UAV traveling at speeds of from 70 to 130 kilometers an hour. Flight endurance of up to 2 hours, and maximum altitude of 5,000 meters (16,000 feet). It is launched by throwing it and can land by flying close to the ground and shutting its engine off. Most Russian UAVs require a catapult, often vehicle mounted, to get airborne and land by flying close to the ground and turning the motor off. In some models a small parachute is deployed. These crash landings often require some repairs before reuse. Larger UAVs are fewer in number and can operate from a road or air base. In 2014 Russia began licensed production of the Israeli Searcher 2 UAV (as the Russian Forpost). This came after seven years of negotiations and user trials by Russian troops. The Searcher 2 is a half-ton aircraft with an endurance of 20 hours, max altitude of 7,500 meters (23,000 feet) and can operate up to 300 kilometers from the operator. It can carry a 120 kg (264 pound) payload. In 2012 Searcher 2 was tested in northern Russia during cold weather and performed well despite extremely colder temperatures (especially on the ground, where it got to -30 Centigrade). In 2016 Israel suspended the Russian license for the Searcher 2, apparently because of accusations that Russia had violated the terms of license which prohibited use in a combat zone. Back in 2004 negotiations to set up an Israeli UAV factory in Russia, as a joint venture, were stalled over potential problems with the transfer of UAV technology to Russia. The U.S. and Israel have been most successful in developing efficient UAVs in the last few decades, as a result of firms in both countries developing new technologies and manufacturing techniques that overcame many of the problems that hamper UAVs designed in Russia, China and many other countries. While UAVs are basically low-tech, putting them together so that they are effective and reliable has proved to be quite difficult. There was some trepidation about transferring those UAV manufacturing technologies to Russia, as the Russians might in turn transfer that tech, or high-grade UAVs, to countries like Iran, China, Syria or North Korea. It took a while to sort all this out. Russia also produced the Israeli Bird-Eye 400 under license as the Zastava. Russia first approached Israel to purchase UAVs in 2007. That resulted in Russia buying over fifty aircraft, including the Bird-Eye 400, I-View MK150 and Searcher 2. The Bird-Eye 400 is a 4 kg (9 pound) micro-UAV with a maximum endurance of 80 minutes, max ceiling of 320 meters (1,000 feet) and can operate 15 kilometers from the operator. It is mainly for use by small infantry units. The I-View MK150 is a 250 kg (550 pound) aircraft with a seven-hour endurance, max altitude of 5,500 meters (17,000 feet) and can operate up to 150 kilometers from the operator. It can carry a 20 kg (44 pound) payload, which enables day and night vidcams. It can take off using an airfield, or from a truck mounted launcher. It can land on an airfield or via parachute. It is usually employed to support brigades. Current Russian UAVs are a big improvement on earlier Russian efforts and make good use of proven Western UAV design and construction technology. Most modern UAVs are not high-tech and it was always baffling why the Russians insisted on holding on to their older UAV technology for so long. What stirred the Russians to change might be the success of micro-UAVs like the American RQ-11 Raven. While much less capable than their bigger cousins, micro-UAVs offer certain benefits not achievable before (small, cheap, reliable, easy to use and not dependent on airfields). Micro-UAVs can be deployed in large numbers, often by small infantry units or by artillery spotters, granting frontline ground units fast, easy, cheap and direct access to a part of surveillance capabilities that before had to be requested from and organized by higher level headquarters, which often prevented the vital intelligence from arriving to the ground troops in time, especially in poorly organized, heavily bureaucratic militaries, like those favored by China and Russia. In addition to all the new Russian UAVs put in service after 2017 Russia was working on even larger and more advanced models. In 2015 a Russian firm revealed that they were developing the one-ton Inokhodets (similar to the MQ-1 Predator) and the 4.5-ton Altius-M (similar to the MQ-9 Reaper) UAVs. Since then, Russia has revealed even larger, jet powered UAVs designed to replace some manned warplanes like the American five-ton Reaper and 13-ton jet powered Global Hawk did. The U.S. sent Ukraine early model Raven UAVs in 2017 and the Ukrainians reported that its lack of encrypted communications made the UAV vulnerable to Russians jamming the signal and forcing the Raven down or simply eavesdropping and seeing whatever the Ukrainian operator was seeing. Current Ravens have an encrypted control signals and the Americans quickly replaced the older Ravens with the latest model. The Ukrainians also pointed out that in 2016 they had begun using the locally developed and manufactured PD-1 UAV. A similar effort produced the smaller PC-1 later in 2017. In 2015 Ukrainian civilians organized an effort to raise money and design and build a UAV locally. This PD-1 (Peoples Drone 1) was ready for service in mid-2016. This was all done by Ukrainian engineers, programmers and model aircraft enthusiasts who obtained OTS (off-the-shelf) components from suppliers locally and in Australia, China and the Czech Republic. The PD-1 was tested and accepted by the Ukrainian military and entered service in August 2016. American and NATO advisers witnessed the testing and were not surprised that PD-1 was equal to many American and Israeli UAVs of the same size and performance, but were impressed that it was built at a cost of less than $25,000 each. It proved to be as secure from Russian hackers and jamming as Western models. Ukraine soon offered the PD-1 for export. The PD-1 is a 33 kg (73 pound) aircraft with an 8 kg (17 pound) payload. It is 2.54 meters (8.2 feet) long with a wingspan of 3.19 meters (10.2 feet). It lands and takes off on a tricycle landing gear and can also be catapulted into the air and recovered via a parachute. The gasoline engine drives a pusher propeller for speeds of 70-140 kilometers an hour at altitudes as high as 3,000 meters (nearly 10,000 feet, out of range of most anti-aircraft guns and portable missiles). Endurance is six hours. PD-1 can take off and land under software control and can fly missions autonomously (which are hack and jam proof) and available sensors can either store video onboard or stream HD (1080p) video back to the controller who can view it in real time. This video signal is encrypted as is the control signal. It has worked under combat conditions against the best the Russians have to use against them. The fact that a bunch of civilian engineers quickly organized an effort to deliver a world-class UAV at a low price got a lot of commanders concerned about what might be going on in Syria, Iraq and the autonomous Kurdish provinces in northern Iraq. Islamic terror groups as well as more secular groups like the Kurds have adapted existing commercial UAVs, especially the quad-copter designs, to military purposes. These UAVs cost about a thousand dollars each, compared to $35,000 each for the Raven the American military has been using since 2003. The problem is not the performance of Raven, it has been excellent, but the cost and peacetime attitudes towards training expenses cause problems. Lower ranking commanders point out that when their troops, most of them with combat experience using Raven, are not training for combat they suddenly find themselves being ordered to use their Ravens less because, while they are cheap in a wartime situation (where they save American lives), in peacetime money is more of an issue and risking the loss of Ravens is considered unacceptable. At least it is unacceptable to the people who control the budget. But if the troops had cheaper UAVs they could, literally, get away with losing more of them in peacetime training. The Ukrainian team that developed the PD-1 then developed a cheaper, more expendable design called the PC-1, which is basically a quad-copter design durable for military use. The PC-1 also has an optional weapons package and is similar to the Switchblade design American troops have been using. Unlike Switchblade, PC-1 is more agile and reusable. By early 2017 the PC-1 was available as a 3.5 kg (7.7 pound) quad copter with an endurance of 30 minutes, ceiling of 2,000 meters (6,400 feet). PC-1 can operate up to five kilometers from the controller, normally operates at low altitudes (50-400 meters) and carries a stabilized day/night vidcam and is easily upgraded. Current flight software allows for autonomous operation. A similar Ukrainian led to the development of the Punisher UAV, which was ready for service at the end of 2021 and quietly began operations soon after the February 24 invasion. The team that designed the Punisher was composed of veterans of the fighting in eastern Ukraine since 2014. They formed a company, UA Dynamics, with the help of investors and are now manufacturing Punishers as quickly as they can at locations they want to keep secret from the Russians who would be eager to add Punisher manufacturing facilities to their target list. Punisher is a small UAV with a 2,33-meter (15 foot) wingspan and payload of two kg (4.4 pounds). The payload can consist of one guided bomb or three smaller ones. Max altitude is 400 meters (1,300 feet) but endurance is up to three hours with a top speed of 52 kilometers an hour. Punisher uses a reconnaissance UAV to spot and verify targets, then pass the location to Punisher which launches a guided bomb to hit the target. The main targets are Russian supply trucks. Punisher has been able to operate deeper into Russian occupied territory than the larger Turkish TB2 UAV. Once Punisher expends its payload it uses its GPS guidance to return it to its base for reloading and recharging of its batteries, a process that takes about seven minutes. There is minimal communication between Punisher and its target spotter UAV, making it difficult for Russians to spot it via electronic signals. Punisher is small, quiet and difficult to spot from the ground or from the air. So far Punishers have been responsible for at least a hundred successful attacks on Russian vehicles and Russian efforts to detect, much less shoot down, a Punisher have failed. There are no independent civilian UAV development projects in Russia so Ukraine has an edge in battlefield UAVs as well as many other aspects of modern warfare that Russia demonstrated it is not prepared for. A Chilhowie man was arrested Wednesday evening following a high-speed chase on Interstate 81. According to a release from the Washington County Sheriffs Office, the department received a report of a stolen truck out of Meadowview around 6 p.m. Unable to locate the truck after following several leads, WCSO forwarded the information to the Smyth County Sheriffs Office. Hours later, around 10 p.m., WCSO was alerted to a SCSO southbound pursuit involving the truck on I-81 reaching speeds of more than 100 mph. Once the pursuit crossed into Washington County, the deputy investigating the stolen vehicle deployed spike strips to stop the truck, the release said. After hitting the spike strip, the truck crossed the interstate median into oncoming traffic, where its driver, 20-year-old Jessee William McGhee, exited the truck and took off on foot, according to the release The release said McGhee then broke into a home on Camkell Lane in Glade Spring while brandishing a knife at the homeowner. After a brief foot pursuit, McGhee was taken into custody without incident near the residence. In Washington County, McGhee is charged with breaking and entering while armed, grand larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of stolen property, eluding police and reckless driving. In Smyth County, he is charged with eluding police, reckless driving, driving without a license, and failing to stop while entering a highway. According to court records, McGhee is still on probation in Smyth County for an unlawful wounding conviction after he was found guilty of stabbing another man in the abdomen during an altercation. The Smyth County Sheriffs Office, Chilhowie Police Department, Glade Spring Police Department, Virginia State Police, U.S. Forestry Service and the U.S. Marshals Service assisted in the pursuit. By Christina Feerick Special to the Wytheville Enterprise Ukraine may be thousands of miles away from Wytheville - but its as close as a FaceTime call to family struggling to survive a war. Yana Blevins is an assistant teacher at Minnick Wytheville Adapted School who grew up in Russia, traveled to the U.S. as a college student, married a man from Chilhowie, and has settled with her husband and son in Marion. "Its my new home now," she said. But Blevins extended family remains in Russia and Ukraine and as the bombings continue, so do her desperate prayers. I still cant believe its happening its surreal, she said. The majority of Russians dont support the war because they have family ties to Ukraine. Russians and Ukrainians have always been friends. Were like a big family." After three years with enCircle, shes now dedicated to bridging the gap letting people know the war in Ukraine isnt "over there" its right here, in our own backyard. Blevins contacts family members through Facebook. "I check on my family every day to make sure theyre OK. I hate that I cant do anything about it. Ive offered to transfer some money, but they say they have enough food (and) their houses are fine, she said. But of course, other people are not so fortunate. Weve been praying a lot. Its hard, its very hard." While her prayers continue halfway around the world, she is mindful of her own blessings here at home. "Praise God for another day, for peace, and for everything you have, Blevins said. More than 2.5 million people have fled Ukraine, but Blevins family has decided to stay put. Her cousin lives in Kharkiv, a city of nearly 1.5 million people in northeast Ukraine, and confides that even though he can hear gunfire and shelling constantly, hes unwilling to abandon his apartment. Hes doing a great job, she said. He is helping people, and trying to accommodate them with housing and trying to find a place for them to go where they will still be safe. There has been a lot of destruction in his city; a lot of military bases were destroyed. Some parts of the city are leveled, but he is still able to go out and walk and try to help the community. "They didnt believe the intentions of Russia to invade, she added. They thought everything was going to be fine and there would be a political solution to the problem. They expect part of the city to be leveled but refuse to leave. They will still hold their ground, no matter what, Blevins said. Blevins met her husband, John, while participating in a student exchange program and working at the old Tuscan Italian Grill in Abingdon. My husband and I got married in Russia, and as soon as the paperwork was finalized, I moved here permanently eight years ago, she said. The couple has a 4-year-old son, Collin. Regarding Blevins story, Minnick Principal Derrick Spence said unity is a message he often emphasizes with Minnick educational staff and Yanas familys story is a perfect example. "Whether its someone who looks different than us or thinks different than us, whatever it may be, were all connected. At the end of the day, what happens in one part of the world will affect all parts of the world, Spence said. Yana couldnt agree more and is grateful for the support of her enCircle coworkers and Minnick students, who recently made cards in the colors of the Ukrainian flag blue and gold for Blevins. "I am very blessed, she said. Keep thinking about us and praying for us. Thats all you can do. I believe in the power of prayer, that God can handle anything that it will turn for the better." "As we follow the horrible events unfolding, let's remember that Ukraine is as close to us as Yana, right here in Minnick School Building #10, Spence said. Christina Feerick is director of communications and marketing for enCircle, formerly Lutheran Family Services of Virginia. Wytheville Enterprise reporter Millie Rothrock contributed to this article. CLARK COUNTY The Cowlitz Indian Tribe donated a fire engine last week amid Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescues call for additional funds for more vehicles and staff to lower response times. The fire department, which serves the area surrounding the tribes reservation and casino in Ridgefield, says the board is considering adding a levy to the August ballot to add two new ambulances and dozens of staff members to combat rising response times. The commission was scheduled to vote Thursday evening on whether to add the measure to the ballot. Levy Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue Chief John Nohr said the up-to-date engine ensures the department can respond quickly with the right equipment to its roughly 4,900 annual calls. Earlier this month, Nohr said department crews are taking longer to reach people in need due to increased emergency calls and delays from its contracted private ambulance company. Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue responded to roughly 18% more emergency calls in 2021 compared to the year before, and 57% more since 2016, according to a department report released March 3. The department says, overall, the time to respond to high-priority emergencies has increased 11% since 2019. The revenue from the proposed levy would purchase two department ambulances to use as backups when the contracted company American Medical Response, or AMR, is delayed, Nohr said. The levy revenue also would pay for around 23 more hired staff members. The levy would cost up to $250 a year for the owner of a $500,000 home, and be between $0.45 to 0.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value, says the department. The department covers 125 square miles, across Cowlitz and Clark counties, in Ridgefield, La Center and Woodland. Engine The new fire engine, with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe insignia on the rear cab doors, was blessed by Cowlitz Tribe Spiritual Leader Tanna Engdahl on March 18 during a ceremony at the casino. Later, crews at the Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue station in La Center pushed the roughly $600,000 engine into its assigned bay a fire department tradition to celebrate new rigs. Nohr said the tradition began in the 1800s because horse-drawn engines couldnt reverse into bays. Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue collaborates with the tribes planning efforts and offers safety advice as our development grows, said Cowlitz Indian Tribe Chairman David Barnett in a statement. In 2017, the tribe opened the ilani casino near the Cowlitz Reservation. We are honored to support their life-saving efforts in our community with the gift of a new fire engine, Barnett said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Findings of a criminal investigation into a high-ranking official in Cowlitz County Superior Court were sent to the prosecuting attorneys office this week, officials say. A criminal probe into Cowlitz County Superior Court Administrator Chad Connors was sent to the Cowlitz County Prosecuting Attorneys Office around Wednesday, said Clark County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Brent Waddell. Cowlitz County Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Jurvakainen said he sent the report to the Lewis County Prosecuting Attorney's Office to decide whether to bring charges. Jurvakainen said a prosecutor outside the county would deter conflicts in a case involving a court employee. Connors, who has worked for Superior Court for almost two decades, has not been arrested or charged as of Thursday afternoon. Investigation Waddell said the alleged crime occurred in Cowlitz County. Waddell would not comment on how long the Clark County Sheriffs Office investigated Connors, or what alleged crime he may have committed. Waddell said the Clark County Sheriffs Office conducted the probe to maintain the integrity of the investigation, as opposed to having the probe led by a Cowlitz County law enforcement agency with ties to Connors. Leave Cowlitz County Superior Court Judge Gary Bashor said Connors was placed on leave Feb. 15. He would not clarify why Connors was placed on leave or whether his absence is related to the investigation. Bashor said he could not comment on details of a persons employment. Bashor, who is the presiding Superior Court judge, said Connors started working at Superior Court in 2005. A previous report by The Daily News says Connors was hired to oversee juvenile court in 2005 and has overseen the juvenile detention center since 2009. Superior Court is the highest court in Cowlitz County and reviews cases like felony crimes, civil matters over $75,000, family law and juvenile criminal cases. Love 1 Funny 5 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 8 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A statewide student health survey shows that since 2018 mental health concerns like depression remain high for Cowlitz County students, but reveals a decrease in drug and alcohol abuse among them. Fewer students are drinking, smoking cigarettes or vaping since 2018, according to the 2021 Cowlitz County results from the Washington State Health Care Authority survey released Tuesday. About 60% of county students in sixth, eighth and 10th grades responded to the survey. More students in 2021 said drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes posed a risk to their health, according to the survey. Sarah Mariani, section manager with the authoritys behavioral health division, said the survey could not provide all the answers but could help inform families and schools on students current struggles. Parents and adult caregivers are one of the most influential factors as to whether they use substances, Mariani said. Having that positive relationship between parents and their children is really important. In 2021, about one in 10 sophomores reported having an alcoholic drink in the last 30 days, down about 8% from 2018. A similar decline in drinking was reported by sixth- and eighth-grade students. Deb Drandoff, director of prevention and youth services with the local Educational Service District No. 112, said several factors can contribute to teen drug and alcohol abuse, like accessibility, self-medication and socialization. Still, the survey shows a steep drop from 2010 in terms of teens who abuse drugs or drink alcohol, she said. A lot of this data is very unexpected, Drandoff said, noting feelings of depression has remained stable since 2010. Im surprised it wasnt more, just based on what we heard anecdotally. Eighth-grade students who said they experienced bullying in the last month decreased since 2018. Nearly seven in 10 students interviewed said they felt they could turn to someone in their community to talk to about important issues. However, fewer students in eighth and 10th grades said they felt like the adults in the school would almost always, or often, try to stop bullying. Cowlitz County students reported slightly higher levels of depression than in 2018. About 40% of 10th- and eighth-graders this year said they felt consistently sad or hopeless in the last two weeks. In 2018, 39% of those in 10th grade and 34% of eighth-grade students reported these feelings. Contemplating suicide among eighth-graders remained the same since the 2018 survey, with 18% who said they seriously considered ending their lives in the past year. According to the survey, Native American students are at the highest risk of depression, with 50% who reported feeling consistently sad or hopeless. Female students and those who self-identify as gay or bisexual are three to four times more likely to experience suicidal ideation and depression, according to the health care authority. Among 10th-grade students overall, suicidal ideation decreased in 2021. This year, 20% said they considered suicide, whereas in 2018, 24% of the students gave the same answer. We saw persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, Mariani said. The rates of students reporting those feelings have remained steady. Its still concerning. Students overall enjoyment in school dropped during 2021 from around 36% in 2018 to about 30%, according to the survey. Drandoff said the survey also showed about 75% of the interviewed county students felt somewhat or very hopeful. More than 80% of the students said they felt safe at school. Mariani said more than 200,000 students statewide responded to the survey, which works to give each school district a picture of the main concerns in their schools and tools on how to help. Im not sure we necessarily have more mental illness, but we definitely have kids who struggled these past two years, Drandoff said. This is just the beginning of the story. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Daily News Students in Need drive has reached $1,542. The drive raises money for the Lower Columbia College Student Success Fund. The fund makes grants to help students overcome financial humps that might otherwise force them to drop out of school. All proceeds from the fund go to the college because the newspaper absorbs all administrative costs. This is the drives seventh year, and its fundraising goal is to raise $35,000 by May 1. To donate online, go to www.tdn.com/students and click on the donate button. Latest donations $1,000: Krist Novoselic. $100: David Felthous, Judith Whipple, Jane Johnson and Gloria Bailey. $50: Ida Gaspro and Wendy Hall. $41: Tana Senn. $1: Jamie Nelson Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. NASA: An asteroid named 2022 FH is headed towards Earth today. Know the risk factors and details of this space rock. NASA: After a number of asteroids passed very near Earth earlier this week, a new asteroid has appeared on the horizon. This asteroid, which is as big as a house, will be approaching Earth today. The asteroid, named 2022 FH, is particularly concerning because compared to all the other asteroids we have seen this week, it will be coming closest to the Earth. As such, there is always a risk that even the slightest deviation from its path will result in the asteroid being trapped by Earths gravitational pull, causing it to strike our planet. NASA is monitoring the movements of the asteroid and at the moment it looks that 2022 FH will make a safe passage. But things can change, as they did when a very small asteroid, that was earlier set to pass close to Earth actually ended up crashing on Earth - read story here. According to NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, asteroid 2022 FH is an 18 meters wide asteroid, which is as large as a multi-floored house. The asteroid will make its closest approach to Earth at a distance of 1,580,000 kilometers. For reference, this is less than one-thirds of the distance of the other two asteroids that passed Earth and caused quite a concern as potentially hazardous. Despite its smaller size, the near Earth object (NEO) can cause quite a disaster if it ends up hitting the Earth. Looking for a smartphone? To check mobile finder click here. Also read: Asteroid 2022 FH headed towards Earth The 2022 FH has a smaller orbit compared to the other two asteroids we saw recently. At its perihelion (the point in its orbit where it is closest to the Sun), it goes as close as the orbit of Mercury. At its aphelion (the point in orbit where it is furthest away from the Sun), it almost traces up to Mars orbit. This asteroid made its last close approach to Earth in October 2019. However this is the closest the asteroid has ever come to our planet. Further, according to NASAs calculations, it will not come this close till September 2052! If you want to know more about this asteroid, you can go to NASAs Small Body Database by clicking this link. An interesting fact about 2022 FH is that it has a large deposit of silica, which is used in making silicon chips. With a global shortage of silicon chips, asteroids like these can be extremely crucial to mankind to conduct an extraterrestrial mining mission. Today, vivo Malaysia just announced the price and availability of the vivo Y21T. The first sales will begin on 26 March 2022 where customers can purchase at all vivo concept stores, authorised dealers, vivo Malaysias official E-store , as well as vivo Malaysias official flagship store on Shopee and Lazada . The official price is RM899 only. To get down to the tech specs, the Y21T has a triple rear camera consisting of a 50MP (main) + 2MP (bokeh) + 2MP (macro) setup that supports Super Night Mode and Super HDR. The front camera is just 8MP but has a Super Night Selfie and Portrait Mode that you can personalise. Meanwhile, the front camera is hanging out on the top middle of the 6.51-inch HD+ display. On the other hand, the Y21T features a Snapdragon 680 chipset, 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. You'd be surprised to know that this phone also has Extended RAM albeit up to 2GB only. Like most budget-friendly phones, its battery is 5000mAh and supports 18W FlashCharge technology. It's running on FunTouch OS 12 based on Android 12. The Y21T will be available in Midnight Blue and Pearl White for the Malaysian market. Judging the specs and price, we think it's not so bad on paper. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com. A farmer works at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Nueva Ecija province, the Philippines on March 25, 2022. The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) MANILA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. Dar said PhilSCAT, as an important initiative aided by China, has helped the Philippines increase its rice production thanks to the introduction of hybrid rice introduced from China. "We can use agricultural technology to increase our local food production, and hybrid rice technology is one on top of the other interventions like good agricultural practices," Dar told reporters. Dar also thanked China for donating urea fertilizer and farm machinery units to help ensure food security amid the global food supply challenge. "Unity is needed in this time of crisis for us to sustain food security in this country," Dar said. Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said the project has undergone three development phases over the past two decades. "Proud to see this project bore rich fruits and became a model of agricultural cooperation between our two countries," he said. "We hope that we will continue to work even closer together with the Philippines to improve the people's livelihood and ensure food security," Huang added. Established in 2001, PhilSCAT was dedicated to enhancing communication and technical cooperation in agriculture. The third phase of the technical cooperation, which was launched in 2018, aims for expert exchanges for technical cooperation, high-yielding hybrid rice cultivation, and establishments of seed production technology demonstration sites. A farmer works at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Nueva Ecija province, the Philippines on March 25, 2022. The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) A farmer works at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Nueva Ecija province, the Philippines on March 25, 2022. The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) A farmer works at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Nueva Ecija province, the Philippines on March 25, 2022. The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) A farmer works at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Nueva Ecija province, the Philippines on March 25, 2022. The Philippines is reaping fruits of its agricultural collaboration with China in increasing food supply and safeguarding food security in the country, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said on Friday. Dar made the remarks at a ceremony marking the inauguration of new breeding laboratories at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) in Munoz city in Nueva Ecija province, north of Manila. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) President Joe Biden listens as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, at the U.S. Mission in Brussels, Friday, March 25, 2022, in Brussels. Credit: AP Photo/Evan Vucci The European Union and United States made a breakthrough in their yearslong battle over the privacy of data that flows across the Atlantic with a preliminary agreement Friday that paves the way for Europeans' personal information to be stored in the U.S. President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the deal during Biden's stop in Brussels while on a European tour amid Russia's war in Ukraine. Business groups hailed the announcement, saying it will provide relief to thousands of companies, including tech giants like Google and Facebook, that faced uncertainty over their ability to send data between the U.S. and Europe, which has much stricter regulations on data privacy. Data may be related to employees or customers and users, and companies use it for all types of online advertising, purchases and communications. The agreement came hours after EU officials agreed on sweeping new digital rules to rein in the power of big tech companies such as Facebook and Google. "Today we've agreed to unprecedented protections for data privacy and security for our citizens," Biden said. "This new arrangement will enhance the Privacy Shield framework, promote growth and innovation in Europe and the United States, and help companiesboth small and largecompete in the digital economy." Von der Leyen said the agreement "will enable predictable and trustworthy data flows between the EU and the U.S., safeguarding privacy and civil liberties." The data includes "any information that we voluntarily provide or generate when using services and products online," said Alexandre Roure, an official with the tech trade group CCIA. That includes names, ID numbers and geolocation data, online identifiers like IP addresses and emails, and other information that tech companies use to target ads. The deal stems from a complaint filed a decade ago by Austrian lawyer and privacy activist Max Schrems, who was concerned about how Facebook handled his data in light of revelations about U.S. government cybersnooping from former U.S. National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden. Along the way, a ruling by the EU's top court struck down the Privacy Shield agreement covering transatlantic data transfers because it fell afoul of stringent data privacy standards in the 27-nation bloc. Companies were forced to rely on stock legal contracts to continue the transfers, while some scrambled to localize their data or suspend transfers. In a joint statement, the U.S. and EU said the agreement addresses concerns raised by the court, with the U.S. bringing in reforms to beef up privacy and civil liberties protections "applicable to signals intelligence activities," referring to the collection of emails, text messages and other electronic communications by intelligence agencies. The U.S. will put in place "new safeguards to ensure signals surveillance activities are necessary and proportionate in the pursuit of defined national security objectives," the statement said. The dispute had raised the prospect that Facebook would have to revamp its data centers to ensure European data is kept out of the U.S. The new agreement "will help keep people connected and services running," Facebook head of global affairs Nick Clegg tweeted. "It will provide invaluable certainty for American & European companies of all sizes, including Meta, who rely on transferring data quickly and safely." Google said it commended the work by the EU and U.S. to "safeguard transatlantic data transfers." Schrems said the latest deal could get tied up in the courts because his Vienna-based group NOYB would analyze it in depth and challenge anything that's not in line with EU law. "Customers and businesses face more years of legal uncertainty," Schrems said. Explore further Facebook may have to stop moving EU user data to US 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain EU lawmakers and officials have agreed the main points of a landmark piece of legislation, known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), that aims to loosen the grip held by Big Tech on life online. Here are five rules included in the law that will force the likes of Google, Apple, Meta and Amazon to change their ways. - Save the startupsBig tech companies make billions of dollars in profit every year and some of the windfall goes to scooping up start-ups and innovators. This rankles authorities, who accuse the giants of using their war chests to snuff out potential rivals before they become a threat. Under the new rules all buyouts, no matter how small, will have to be notified to the European Commission, the EU's executive arm based in Brussels. - Messaging unityAfter multiple scandals that hit Meta-owned Facebook, many users chose to swap the giant's Messenger or WhatsApp messaging services for alternatives, such as Signal or Telegram. Yet the market power of Meta's services remains strong, making it difficult for WhatsApp dissenters to keep messaging links with family and friends. To solve this, the DMA imposes interoperability between messaging apps, all while demanding that communications remain encrypted from user to user. - Fair shopping on AmazonAmazon is a major shopping platform for thousands of companies to sell their wares online. But suspicions are rife that the online giant abuses its role as a marketplace to better position its own products as a retailer. The DMA will ban this conflict of interest, as well as demand that the gatekeepers share key information with business customers. - Open the App StoreAround the world, Apple has strenuously defended the sanctity of its App Store, barring companies from using their own payment systems or being downloaded outside the Apple store. Despite warnings that opening up iPhones would pose a security threat, the DMA will force Apple to allow software to be downloaded and for payments to be made outside its store. Failure to comply could carry fines in the billions of dollarsbig enough even for the world's biggest company by market value to pay attention. Any gatekeeper platform that locks in customers to use pre-installed services, such as a web browser, mapping or weather information, will also face fines. - Ad transparencyGoogle's search engine and Meta's Facebook and Instagram are the world's biggest online advertisers, a status that critics say the companies abuse by accumulating valuable data about customers and keeping it to themselves. The DMA will force the tech giants to reveal much more to advertisers and publishers on how their ads work and on an ad's actual effectiveness. This will make companies less beholden to Google or Facebook on understanding their customers and potentially encourage firms to get their message out in new ways. Explore further EU in final push for Big Tech crackdown 2022 AFP Google says it is releasing a new version of its software that would not store IP addresses, the unique code that can identify individual computers, and has built data centres in Europe. Lax laws and sweetheart deals are becoming a thing of the past for big tech firms, particularly in Europe where a series of rulings is posing a major threat to one of Google's flagship products. More than half of the world's websites use Google Analytics to help their owners understand the behaviour of users. The software, which deploys cookies to track user behaviour, costs nothing in cash termsthough the vast trove of data helps to fuel Google's massive profits. However, in 2020 the framework overseeing how personal data is transferred from the EU to US was struck down by EU judges over concerns about snooping by US spy agencies. Activists have since filed dozens of cases with regulators in Europe arguing that the tool breaches the fundamental rights of EU nationals. Regulators in several countries have ruled in favour of the activists and declared Google Analytics incompatible with European data privacy regulation (GDPR). The rulings leave many European firms in a bind. They can ditch Google and move to a privacy-compliant option that costs money, or wait it out and hope for a solution from Google, the regulators or the politicians. On Friday, the US and EU announced they had agreed in principle a new framework to allow data transfers, but did not provide further details. Austrian lawyer Max Schrems, who spearheaded the campaign to invalidate the previous agreements, wrote on Twitter that it seemed like another "patchwork" approach with no substantial reform to US snooping rules. "Let's wait for a text, but my first bet is it will fail again," he wrote. Potential fixes Last week, Google said it would release a new version of its software that would not store IP addresses, the unique code that can identify individual computers. The US firm has also built data centres in Europe. However, the impact of these potential fixes is unclear. Regulators have not yet commented. "Data protection authorities do not have the solution," says Florence Raynal of French regulator CNIL, which has ruled against Google. "That solution must be provided by governments at a political level." US companies are subject to a law known as the Cloud Act that allows US security agencies to access the data of foreign citizens regardless of where it is stored. Although Google has argued that the risk posed by the Cloud Act is theoretical, it nevertheless makes it difficult for US firms to comply with the GDPR. 'At a crossroads' Marie-Laure Denis, head of CNIL, which is seen as a leader whose rulings are followed by other regulators, summed up the dilemma at a conference of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) in Paris last week. She said of American companies that "their business model should evolve, or the American legal framework should evolve". But she accepted that the situation for European firms using Google Analytics was "complicated". Pascal Thisse, who runs an agency advising companies on how to comply with GDPR, says firms find themselves "at a crossroads" with no clear idea of the path to take. "If you tell a client who uses Google Ads to remove Google Analytics, everything collapses because it is the foundation of the system," he says. But to comply with European rulings, companies would need to prove that US intelligence is not interested in the data collectedan undertaking well beyond the means of small firms. Lawyer Schrems also accepts there is no easy fix. "It's hard for us because usually we try to litigate stuff where there is a solution and in this case we have a political problem," he told a virtual event last week before the US-EU announcement. He said US law allowed mass surveillance on non-American citizens, which clashed with the EU's charter on fundamental rights. "Either the US changes its laws or the European Union changes its fundamental founding principles," he said. Explore further Google spars with EU activists after Austria data defeat 2022 AFP Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain At least seven forest fires continue to burn around the Russian-held Chernobyl nuclear site in Ukraine, raising fears radionuclides could spread from the defunct facility. Earlier this week, the Ukrainian parliament issued a statement blaming the fires on shelling or arson by Russian forces that captured the site in February. According to the statement, the fires now cover an area ten times larger than the emergency criteria for the site's exclusion zone, but the ongoing war prevents firefighters from putting them out. Nuclear power plants are not designed to be in war zones. They are highly complex technologies that can be sensitive to even minor disturbances. Nuclear disasters are caused by a mix of technical, environmental, social and political conditions. And these contingencies don't always match with the branding of nuclear energy as peaceful, safe and sustainable. This contrast is at its starkest in war zones, but also in the growing advocacy for nuclear energy as a low-carbon solution to climate change. A wildfire started on 19th March in the Chernobyl exclusion zone is still burning. The fire is located 20km from the nuclear power plant and 10km from the Vector nuclear waste storage site. pic.twitter.com/l7uRTicFy3 Balkan Air Monitor (@AirBalkan) March 23, 2022 Are nuclear disasters really beyond expectation? Consider how Tokyo Electric Power Company knew in 2008 that a tsunami of more than 15.7m could hit Fukushima Daiichi, but did nothing to prepare. Or consider the current situation at the Chernobyl nuclear power complex. The site has experienced years of hot and dry environmental conditions and contains dry plant material filled with uranium-derived radionuclides from the 1986 nuclear disaster. While the threat of wildfires in the Chernobyl exclusion zone exists even in peacetime, the Russian takeover increased concerns because soldiers could be cooking, smoking or firing weapons in the area. As was the case in 2020, fires in the exclusion zone could again result in uranium-derived radionuclides being transported to neighboring countries. Expecting the possible onset of a war-induced nuclear disaster, people and schools in Scandinavia and across Europe have begun purchasing iodine tablets. These pills are used to saturate people's thyroid glands to prevent the absorption of radioactive iodine-131, which could be released if one of Ukraine's nuclear reactors or nuclear waste storage facilities were to be damaged in the war. However, as the case of Fukushima Daiichi highlights, even when there were documented warnings of potential environmental disturbances to the plant's operations, Japanese officials continued to describe the disaster as "soteigai" (beyond expectation). As wind and rain carried uranium-derived radionuclides throughout Japan and around the world, these materials were continually described as "safe" to live alongside, drink and eat. As their measurable levels increased, so did the expectation that people simply needed to accept the new risks to their health. Maintaining the narrative of nuclear safety Getting people to accept new threats to their health often involves the exertion of social power. In post-2011 Japan, those who questioned the safety of eating or feeding their children uranium-derived radionuclides were quickly characterized as "fuan" (anxious) or accused of spreading "fuhyohigai" (harmful rumors). We can see how the dominant story of nuclear safety needed to be maintained for nuclear energy to uphold its branding as peaceful and safe, even as materials from nuclear reactors spilled into people's everyday lives. The "sustainable" part of nuclear energy's branding depends on abstract calculations which often only consider carbon emissions produced during a nuclear reactor's operation. But nuclear power plants do not exist out of relationship with land and water. They require the mining, transport and enrichment of uranium, as well as the development of nuclear waste storage facilities which must last thousands of years. It is impossible to label the technology as green or sustainable without taking into account the entire life cycle of a nuclear reactor and its infrastructures. Nuclear colonialism The United Nations recognizes the importance of both social and environmental aspects of sustainability. This raises the question of whether nuclear energy's carbon footprint is a reliable sustainability metric. Particularly because there are various other forms of pollution and harm that arise from nuclear technologies. For example, a disproportionate amount of nuclear activity takes place on the lands of Indigenous people and in ways that perpetuate nuclear colonialism. Uranium mining and nuclear waste disposal are essential aspects of both nuclear energy and nuclear weapons. The symbolic split between "peaceful" nuclear energy and "murderous" nuclear weapons is only possible if we ignore the material aspects of nuclear technologies (uranium mining, waste storage) and the experiences of Indigenous and other marginalized communities. In the case of nuclear weapons, Indigenous lands (in the US, Australia and the Pacific, the Arctic and elsewhere) were the direct or indirect targets of most nuclear weapons testing. And uranium mining for both nuclear weapons and nuclear energy continues to harm Indigenous communities in Canada, Australia, the US, India and beyond. Nuclear energy's need for stability In early March, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general Rafael Mariano Grossi told reporters that Russia's takeover of Ukraine's Chernobyl and Zaporizhzhia nuclear power complexes had left the IAEA "in completely uncharted waters." His comment resembles Japanese officials' portrayal of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster almost 11 years earlier. Grossi outlined seven indispensable pillars necessary to ensure nuclear reactors, nuclear fuel storage pools and nuclear waste storage facilities remain safe and secure: The physical integrity of the facilities must be maintained All safety and security systems and equipment must be fully functional at all times Operating staff must be able to fulfil their safety and security duties and have the capacity to make decisions free of undue pressure There must be secure off-site power supply from the grid for all nuclear sites There must be uninterrupted logistical supply chains and transportation to and from the sites There must be effective on-site and off-site radiation monitoring systems, emergency preparedness and response measures There must be reliable communications with the regulator and others. Grossi also said everyone (including Russia) had agreed to uphold these pillars. However, the IAEA later reported the Russian military breached pillars three and seven at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power complex. And pillars four and six were breached when the Chernobyl nuclear power complex lost off-site power and when its radiation monitoring systems stopped functioning. As I witness the horrors of the war in Ukraine, I hope the IAEA will hold the Russian government to their word and use associated memorandums to prevent the release of more uranium-derived radionuclides into the environment. I also hope we will use this opportunity to take a critical look at nuclear energy's branding. Particularly how upholding the "peaceful, safe and sustainable" brand can require overlooking the material consequences of nuclear technologies, as well as the material contingencies nuclear reactors, nuclear waste storage facilities, uranium mines and other nuclear infrastructures face in an increasingly unstable world. Explore further Why people rush for iodine tablets over nuclear, cancer risk This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. There was plenty of news to share during the celebration Wednesday of the sixth anniversary of One Million Cups in Brunswick. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. A man shops at a food fair ahead of Ramadan in Cairo, Egypt, on March 24, 2022. Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) by Mahmoud Fouly CAIRO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Signs reading "Welcome Ramadan" in Arabic and posters showing traditional Ramadan lanterns are seen at the entrance of the food commodity fair with dozens of booths selling cooking oil, rice, pasta, meat, chicken, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and other commodities that Egyptians usually consume in large amounts during Ramadan. The fair was inaugurated by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly on March 24 and will continue until the end of the month, with the purpose of easing the consequences of rising prices for citizens, especially in the light of the global influence of the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict. People of all ages, especially housewives, are seen everywhere in the one-week expo, shopping for what they need in their kitchens and refrigerators during the holy month that begins in early April. "The fair combines all necessary food products of all manufacturers in one place with very nice prices compared to those elsewhere. It's really a very important expo," said Egyptian housewife Salwa Fekry, as she held a shopping cart filled with packs of butter, margarine, pasta and rice, and bottles of cooking oil. With eye-catchy price tags, flyers, and posters to appeal to the shoppers, the fair looked like a competition between the booths of well-known foodstuff manufacturers in Egypt offering a large variety of their products with luring discounts. Salespeople said the turnout of visitors on the first day of the fair was very high, expecting larger turnouts in the coming few days with the countdown ticking for Ramadan. "The turnout is very good and the sales are much better compared to previous years. It helps ease price hikes because the products are sold at lower prices, so it's a good opportunity to bring some joy to the people ahead of the holy month of Ramadan," Hesham Anas, a marketing assistant manager at one of the booths, told Xinhua. Mohamed El-Sheikh, who had got his shopping cart stacked with boxes and packs of different food commodities in a little while, said shopping for Ramadan necessities itself brings joy to his heart. "The prices are luring, so everyone is buying a lot of things here. But it's not just about prices. These kinds of expos gather Egyptian people and make them happy amid the atmosphere and spirit of the advent of Ramadan," the 72-year-old man told Xinhua. The Welcome Ramadan fair, which is held annually in Cairo over the past few years, is supervised by the government in cooperation with the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce. "The fair is held on an area of 12,000 square meters with more than 165 companies offering their commodities at affordable prices," Madbouly said in remarks following his inauguration of the fair. "I reviewed the prices myself and made sure there're very large discounts," the Egyptian prime minister added. Although the fair lasts only one week in Cairo, there will be about 8,000 stalls nationwide selling the same low-price food commodities during Ramadan and even for a while after the holy month to help the citizens facing increasing prices, according to the Egyptian prime minister. There are also similar initiatives held by the Egyptian army and the Egyptian interior ministry that sell low-price food commodities to citizens in street mobile and fixed kiosks across the country to help reduce the burdens of price hikes. People shop at a food fair ahead of Ramadan in Cairo, Egypt, on March 24, 2022. Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) People shop at a food fair ahead of Ramadan in Cairo, Egypt, on March 24, 2022. Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) A man shops at a food fair ahead of Ramadan in Cairo, Egypt, on March 24, 2022. Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) A man shops at a food fair ahead of Ramadan in Cairo, Egypt, on March 24, 2022. Crowds of Egyptians thronged to an exhibition center in Cairo to buy food commodities with discounts offered at a huge expo sponsored by the government to ease price hikes a few days ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) Clute, TX (77531) Today Partly cloudy and windy. High 84F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. Low near 70F. SSW winds shifting to NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%. PENHOOKVeterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10840 Penhook has scheduled its annual community fish fry, Saturday, April 16 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Snow Creek Fire and Rescue Squad on 7049 Snow Creek Road in Penhook. An $8 meal includes fresh fish, fries, slaw, desert and drink. The meal is pick-up only. Proceeds from this fundraiser support Scout of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Patriots Pen, Voice of Democracy and other post programs. Post 10840 plans on recognizing an outstanding leader in the Franklin County Air Force ROTC, and plans educational events for veterans on benefits and support programs that are available to them. Post 10840 accepts donations. For information, call Ken Barrow, (540) 493-6648. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10840 is having a Vietnam Veterans Day program Tuesday, March 29 at the Franklin County Veterans Memorial Park at noon. Please contact Ken Barrow, (540) 493-6648, or Andre Perry, (540) 521-0530 by Friday to provide the post with a head count, so that it has enough 50th Anniversary pins. After joining an uprising at the U.S. Capitol, a former Rocky Mount police officer returned home and destroyed a cell phone that held incriminating evidence against him, new charges allege. Thomas T.J. Robertson who is scheduled to be tried next month on charges that include wielding a wooden stick during the insurrection was named in a superseding indictment filed Thursday in Washington D.C.s federal court. The indictment charges that on Jan. 13, 2021, Robertson did alter, destroy, mutilate and conceal at least one cell phone with the intent to make it unavailable to law enforcement. On the same day, Robertson, 49, and fellow police officer Jacob Fracker were arrested on charges of participating in the riots the week before. Fracker, 30, pleaded guilty last week to his role in the events of Jan. 6, 2021. The two were charged after a selfie photograph of them posing in front of a statue inside the Capitol appeared on Facebook. Robertson, who has been held without bond since last summer, also faces five other charges that include violently entering the Capitol, disorderly conduct, participating in a civil disorder and obstructing an official proceeding. Shortly after the Nov. 3, 2020, elections, Robertson began to express anger on Facebook about then-President Donald Trumps loss to Joe Biden, which many supporters of the former president believe was caused by voter fraud. In a Dec. 18 post, Robertson referenced an open armed rebellion and stated, Im prepared to start one here and know a bunch of like-minded and trained individuals, according to court documents. Robertson, Fracker and a third person drove to Washington D.C. the morning of Jan. 6 to attend a rally at which Trump spoke. If you dont fight like hell, youre not going to have a country anymore, Trump told the crowd. Off-duty at the time, Robertson and Fracker then joined a mob as it broke windows and rammed through doors of the Capitol, where a special session of Congress was meeting to certify the election results. Robertson wore a gas mask, an indictment alleges, and used a large wooden stick to impede police offices who were trying to defend the Capitol. After Robertson and Fracker posed for the photograph that would soon lead to their arrest, they headed back to Rocky Mount. The following week, early on Jan. 13, federal authorities called the two police officers and informed them of outstanding warrants against them. Robertson and Fracker agreed to turn themselves in. Before going to Roanoke, Fracker drove to Robertsons home in Ferrum, where he left his daughter in the care of Robertsons wife. While at the home, he gave his cell phone to Robertson at the older mans request. Robertson then put his phone and Frackers in an ammunition can, according to court documents. After they had appeared before a federal magistrate, Robertson told Fracker that he had taken care of the cell phones, authorities said in court documents filed last week, which did not detail what happened to the devices. The indictment filed Thursday charges that Robertson destroyed one or more cell phones with the intent of making them unavailable for a grand jury investigation that was continuing. Shortly after they were charged, Robertson and Fracker were fired from their jobs with the Rocky Mount Police Department. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. MANILA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines will revert to pre-pandemic entry rules for fully vaccinated foreign nationals from visa-required countries starting on April 1, a presidential spokesperson said on Friday. "Foreign nationals may enter the Philippines without the need of an entry exemption document (EED) provided they comply with the applicable visa requirements and immigration entry and departure formalities," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Kristian Ablan said. During the pandemic, the Philippines imposed the EED for incoming travelers from visa-required countries. In a televised press conference, Ablan said foreign nationals must be fully vaccinated except only for children below 12 years old traveling with their fully vaccinated foreign parents. He added that entering foreign nationals must present "acceptable proof of vaccination," a negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours, or a negative laboratory-based antigen test taken within 24 hours before departure from the country of origin. "Once admitted into the country, they are no longer required to observe facility-based quarantine but shall self-monitor for any sign or symptom for seven days from arrival," Ablan added. The new policy opens the country to all travelers, including tourists, to enter the Southeast Asian country famous for world-class white-sand beaches, diving resorts, and century-old Roman Catholic churches. The announcement of the new entry policy came five days after Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order easing the entry of foreign tourists into the country to boost international tourism, increase foreign investments, and restore jobs in the tourism sector. The measure is part of the government's effort to accelerate and sustain the country's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. On Feb. 10, the Philippines reopened its doors to foreign leisure travelers from 157 visa-free countries and regions after over two years of pandemic lockdown. The country further opened its doors to travelers from visa-required countries this month. The curtailed production and exportation of natural gas and crude oil from Russia continues to plague the worlds economy, with Europe being the most threatened. While Europe uses the gas for home heating and generation of electricity, more distant nations, especially those in South America, need nitrogen fertilizers which are made from natural gas. The short supply of pesticides, plastics, fuels, and the sanctions and transportation problems, worsen the impact for virtually all industries and businesses in addition to crop producers. Natural gas for April delivery shot up to the highest level in a year hitting $5.57 per million BTUs on Friday. May crude oil went for $113 per barrel, up about $8. War worries continue While in Brussels, President Biden requested all G-20 nations to expel Russia from that economic group and join the U.S. in imposing additional sanctions, providing more aid, and accepting refugees from Ukraine. Reports continue to circulate that the President is also strategizing how to respond if Russia uses nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. The war-related tightness in grains, especially wheat, continued to support U.S. crop prices, along with the fuel and energy markets. Meanwhile, Russia is suffering from sanctions in the opposite way, as they are unable to sell energy to nations who typically purchase it from them. Wheat for May traded at $11, May corn brought $7.55 May beans grew to $17.10 while May oats jumped a huge 65 cents per bushel to $7.25 at Fridays close. Bird flu helps hogs fly Concerns of avian flu worsening this spring are growing. If avian flu gets out of hand, it could cause massive slaughtering of poultry across the U.S. and increase the need for pork and beef. In 2015, the flu wiped out millions of birds, leading some analysts to predict a major impact on hog and cattle prices this season. Since pork is generally cheaper than beef, those shopping for poultry alternatives often turn to pork before beef, making hogs the first recipient of the possible poultry shortage. Bird flu is rarely contagious to humans. At Fridays close, April hogs were $1.075 per pound, up 5 cents on the week. Opinions are solely the writers. Walt Breitinger is a commodity futures broker in Valparaiso, Indiana. He can be reached at 800-411-3888 or www.indianafutures.com. This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell any market. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CARBONDALE Ten years following the death of Molly Young, many continue to fight for justice in the case while still grieving the loss. Young, of Marion, died March 24, 2012 at the age of 21. A memorial service is being held in her honor this Sunday, March 27, at 2 p.m. in Turley Park next to the Murdale Shopping Center in Carbondale. Through the 10-year journey for justice, her father, Larry Young, has continued to keep Mollys legacy and name alive through helping others with their cases, passing Mollys Law and erecting "Justice for Molly" signs throughout the region. Molly told us once, I think someday I'm going to be famous, Larry Young said in a recent interview with The Southern. It was like a premonition. There was about 400 people that were at the first protest the first year it happened. There's been all kinds of people. I believe her name will live on forever now. She won't be forgotten victim. She stands for something now. Mollys cause of death has been disputed. Investigators initially ruled it a suicide, but a subsequent analysis resulted in her death being categorized as undetermined. Molly was found dead in the Carbondale apartment bedroom of her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Richie Minton, who was a Carbondale police dispatcher at the time, according to previous accounts from authorities. On March 24, 2012, the Illinois State Police Zone 7 Investigations were requested by the Carbondale Police Department to investigate the death. Molly, who is right-handed, died from a single gunshot wound just above the ear on the left side of her head. No fingerprints were found on the gun, a .45-caliber pistol owned by Minton, according to investigators. Gunshot residue evidence was inconclusive. At the Jackson County Coroners inquest on Jan. 31, 2013, an Illinois State Police Special Agent at the time, Aaron Cooper, read transcripts of text messages from Youngs cellphone that showed the 21-year-old Marion native was suicidal in the hours before her death between 4:45 and 5:45 a.m. A text message from Youngs cellphone at 4:41 a.m. stated she would shoot myself in the head. More than a dozen entries filled with suicidal threats were found in Youngs personal journals, Cooper said. Police also found an undated suicide note to her family that was never delivered, the investigator said. Later, on August 19, 2013, the Illinois State's Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor office was appointed to review the circumstances surrounding her death. For this article, The Southern attempted to reach Minton for comment but he never responded. The Southern attempted to reach him through his LinkedIn profile, as it appears no other social media accounts for Minton could be found. To this day, Larry Young believes Minton shot his daughter. Ultimately no charges were brought against Minton because of what authorities described as insufficient evidence. Prosecutors with the Appellate Prosecutors office thoroughly reviewed the case and indicated there was insufficient evidence to support an indictment, an ISP spokesperson said this week. The investigation remains open and ongoing and no further information will be released at this time. The Illinois State Police continues to keep the Young family in our thoughts and prayers as the loss of any life is devastating. According to previous reports, Minton had already retained a lawyer by the time police arrived at his home, located in the 500 block of North Westridge Drive. Minton, who did not attend the hearing on Jan. 31, was out drinking in the hours before Youngs death. Cooper said the gunshot would have been loud, but if Minton was passed out," he could have slept through it. Minton also changed out of a pair of pajama bottoms with blood spatter, Carbondale police told troopers. He was exiting his bathroom when city police arrived about 9 a.m. to answer a 911 call. Cooper said he was never allowed to speak to Minton, who had a lawyer by the time Cooper arrived at Carbondales police station to interview Minton. The Carbondale Police Department declined comment, citing an open investigation, when The Southern reached out this week about the case. However, they did say their thoughts and prayers are with the Young family. A black mark Even as the case remains open, it's left a black mark on the community, as many feel the States Attorney at the time and the Carbondale police did not handle the investigation appropriately, according to Larry Young. Despite the case no longer being in his jurisdiction, current Jackson County States Attorney Joseph Cervantez said he has continued to review the case with the hope that it will come to a conclusion one day. While the ultimate tragedy was Mollys loss of a life, a second tragedy was lack of transparency both with her family and the community, according to Cervantez. Many didn't like the way that it was portrayed initially from the State's Attorney's Office, Cervantez said. I always feel that no matter what, victims are still victims. Victims families need to be treated as victims. They should be invited into the office. There should be no whispering, no secrets, no conspiracies that form. The public should never have to do their own investigation. A community should never have to investigate themselves. If everything was transparent, those things wouldn't exist. Larry Young has continued to fight for his daughter, filing dozens of Freedom of Information Act Requests, running his "Justice for Molly" Facebook Page, and fighting for legislation. To this day, the recognizable deep green "Justice for Molly" yard signs that sprouted up in the years since the case was first opened remain visible across Southern Illinois. Larry Young continues to fight while battling the grief of losing his daughter. You got a grieving process of your daughter not having grandkids and a whole lifetime of experiences with her and all that, Larry Young said. Then you also have the grieving process of 'Why are they doing this? Why are they not communicating with the victim's family? Why are they not trying to get to the truth?' Sometimes you never get over grief especially when there's no closure. When there's no resolution. It's open. It's undetermined. Thats what Molly's case is. Mollys Law is just one of the many ways Mollys legacy lived on. The bill, introduced in February of 2016 and signed into law on July 19, 2016, gives plaintiffs more time to bring forward wrongful death cases that stem from allegedly intentional and criminal conduct, according to the Illinois State Bar Association's website. It also allows disappointed FOIA requesters to ask the attorney generals office to review denials. Molly's father, Larry Young, tried to obtain information related to his daughter's death, but his Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests took a long time to process, according to the ISBA website. By the time he filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Minton, whom Young believes shot his daughter, the two-year statute of limitations had expired. Young's case was dismissed as untimely. Larry Young is even working with other families who have been in a similar situation to pass another law that would not allow spouses to immediately get executorship in cases where suspicious circumstances or foul play may have occurred, Larry Young said. He has even helped countless others as they fight for justice for their loved ones. One case was that of Pravin Varughese whose death was ruled to be caused by hypothermia, according to Monica Zukas, a key supporter in the cases of Molly and Pravin. If there was no Molly young case, there would not have been justice for Pravin, Zukas said. There's no doubt in my mind. Everything that Larry went through (and fought for) ... benefited Pravin. We got to put Pravins justice on the fast track because of everything he had to fight for with Molly. After years of fighting for Pravin, the case was reexamined by a special prosecutors office and a jury in 2018 found Gaege Bethune guilty after a two-week trial in Jackson County. But on the day he was to be sentenced, the judge set aside the verdict after identifying an issue with the wording of the charging document. Even after Bethunes charges were dismissed for a new trial, family and friends feel they have received justice. The same cannot be said for Mollys case though, and as Larry Young and Molly's family continues to grieve. We are going to get justice, Larry Young said. We're going to prevent this from happening to a lot of other people. I love you, Molly. A full timeline of articles documenting Mollys case can be viewed here: https://thesouthern.com/timeline-molly-young-case/collection_899e3cba-04ed-11e3-831b-001a4bcf887a.html. The "Justice for Molly" Facebook event can be found here: https://fb.me/e/18WIWK0xD. The Illinois State Police requests anyone with additional information to contact ISP Zone 7 at (618) 542-2171 EXT. 1202. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CARBONDALE Six high school girls felt the heat as they underwent a job-shadowing program of women firefighters fighting the stigma in a male-dominated field. Carbondale firefighters Courtney Looft and Abigail Burnham created the Badd Axe Ladies program this year to give six girls from Carbondale Community High School a chance to experience hands-on training in the field something women dont get the chance to do so early on. When I was younger, I had my father as an opportunity to get experience interacting with firefighters, Looft said. It just got me thinking that the girls that don't have that. All the girls that have entered our program have said, 'I didn't even know this was something I could do.' I want to make sure that girls know that they can do anything. They don't have limits if they are determined enough. Two girls went through a full day of training at a time. The girls would start their day at 9 a.m. at the firehouse where they would meet all the on-duty crew, get a tour of the station and then get outfitted with gear. They then spent the rest of the morning going through drills like mazes, breaking down walls and practicing with forcible entry doors, according to Looft. Finally, the day ended with a live fire exercise where the girls went through a fake house that had a live fire inside. That was arguably the most exciting part for 18-year-old Lily Bishop. The training spanned three different days in March. We chose to start the program this coming March because March is International Womens Month, Burnham said. We feel and hope that this will encourage girls in the Carbondale community, and (hopefully) eventually the surrounding region, to get a unique opportunity to ask women questions about working in the fire service and possibly pursuing a career of their own. The training did feel different to Rachel Wagner, 17, than most male-dominated fields because she was taught by women. It definitely makes it more realistic, Wagner said. I guess with a lot of things that are more male-dominated fields when I participate in it, there's definitely a lot of help, you know. So, this is a lot. I feel like it's more about getting an idea of what it would actually be like, because we can see the woman actually doing it instead of just being helped out all the time. While neither girl is sure of what they want to do in their career they do say the training has increased their likelihood to pursue firefighting the ultimate goal of the program. We feel that we have both been given an incredible opportunity to pursue a career that we both love, but we want to encourage more girls to know that they can do the same job that a man can do, Burnham said. It is still very uncommon in non-metropolitan areas such as the Southern Illinois region to see a woman on a fire department, much less two as is the case for Carbondale Fire Department. We want to use that opportunity to give back to the community and give every girl that wants to learn, a chance to see what being a woman in the fire service is and can be. The girls have walked away with more than a sense of a potential career path. Now they also have a newfound respect for firefighters. It was exhausting, Bishop said. The constant crawling, and then the oxygen and all the clothes and stuff, like it added a lot of weight. It was just tiring and hot. I definitely have a lot of respect for what they do. Their work is so important, and it's hard. It's really hard. I got to see firsthand how hard it is. While this years training only included students from Carbondale Community High School and single day training sessions, both Looft and Burnham hope to expand the program. If they're thinking that's something I want to do. I want to inspire that and empower them, Looft said. To let them know that they have that ability to do it. Just because you're a female and people might question like do you really have the strength to do that? Sometimes it doesn't even matter if you have the strength, it's about technique. It's about how you're going to use your tools or your body to accomplish a task. You have to learn to adapt to situations the way that you can accomplish them. To keep up to date with other future programs, visit the Carbondale Fire Department's Facebook page. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CHICAGO The Chicago City Council has voted to pay nearly $1.7 million to five people, including a Black woman who said police dragged her from a car by her hair at a shopping mall amid unrest following George Floyd's 2020 killing. The council voted 34-13 Wednesday to approve the $1.67 million settlement of a federal civil rights lawsuit Mia Wright and four relatives filed against the city. Wright was a passenger in a car that arrived at the Brickyard Mall on May 31, 2020, amid widespread looting in the days after Floyd, a Black man, was killed by a white Minneapolis police officer. Wright said she and four relatives drove to the mall to go shopping and did not realize it was closed due to the unrest. The lawsuit alleges police officers suddenly surrounded their car, broke the windows with their batons and pulled Wright out of the vehicle by her hair. Wright alleged that the confrontation left her blind in one eye from flying glass caused by police breaking the car windows. Officers said they thought some members of Wright's group were attempting to break into a store at the mall to steal goods, city lawyer Caroline Fronczak has said, but the officers also acknowledged nobody in the group matched the descriptions of the suspected looters. After an investigation, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability recommended eight officers face discipline for their actions in the incident, ranging from firing to reprimands, and Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown agreed with the recommendations, Fronczak said. Under terms of the settlement, Wright will receive $650,000 in damages, while the other four people who were in the car with her will get $243,750 each, WBBM-TV reported. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 JACKSONVILLE Republican U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis has signed on as a co-sponsor of legislation that would require providers to follow notification laws in a minor's resident state when the minor travels to another state for an abortion. Illinois recently repealed its notification law, which required the parents of a minor be informed their child was seeking an abortion. Notification will not be required after June 1. Davis, of Taylorville, represents the 13th Congressional District, but is running for reelection in the redrawn 15th Congressional District. He faces incumbent U.S. Rep. Mary Miller of Oakland in the Republican primary. About 1,180 of the 46,243 abortions performed in Illinois in 2020 were for girls 17 and under 1,092 age 15 to 17 and 88 under 15 years old, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. That number was down from 1,343 for the same age group the year prior. Restrictions in neighboring states, particularly Missouri, have raised the expectation that more women will travel to Illinois for abortions. State health department statistics show increases in the total number of women from other states having abortions in Illinois: the most significant increases were 6,578 from Missouri in 2020 compared to 4,494 in 2019; 531 from Wisconsin, up from 495 the year before; and Kentucky, which rose to 142 in 2020 compared to 99 the prior year. While the federal legislation H.R. 2223, the Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act would apply only to minors, Davis said the repeal of notification was "far outside the mainstream" of most states. "The extreme abortion expansion laws pushed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois Democrats are a disgrace," Davis said. "I am proudly pro-life and strongly support the rights of parents to be involved in their children's lives. This legislation I'm supporting would make sure that when a minor crosses state lines into Illinois to receive an abortion, their home state's parental involvement in abortion laws are upheld." He said it would be a "small step we can take to protect life and ensure parents can be there for their children during an incredibly difficult moment in their life." Pritzker signed legislation in 2019 making abortion a "fundamental right" in Illinois, repealing restrictions on late-term abortion, and expanding taxpayer funding of abortion. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 FOREST PARK Classes are due to resume Monday for more than 4,000 students in a suburban Chicago school district after striking teachers reached agreement on a new contract. Striking Proviso High School teachers reached a tentative agreement Wednesday with the school board on a three-year contract for teachers in the district's three high schools, the Chicago Tribune reported. "We are pleased to reach an agreement that prioritizes our students, parents and communities," Proviso Teachers Union Local 571 President Maggie Riley said in a statement. "Our membership will be voting on the tentative agreement next week," Riley said. District 209 School Board President Rodney Alexander said in a statement the union and district officials "are pleased to announce we have reached a tentative agreement on the terms of a three-year contract." "The Board, District administrators and teachers look forward to continuing to work together to maintain and enhance the quality of education and fiscal stability of District 209 for the benefit of our students, staff and community," Alexander said. Alexander said all classes and extracurricular activities will resume on Monday and "specific contract terms will be available for public release" after the union and school board officially vote to approve the agreement. Students are on spring break this week. The strike began March 4. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Orangeburg County is preparing to turn a historic downtown building over to Claflin University. The university has received a $3 million in federal funds to improve the Way Building on Memorial Plaza to turn it into the Claflin University Downtown Community Center. It will house the Claflin University Center for Social Justice, Pathway from Prison program, young professionals studio housing and a business incubator site. The building, which is located at the corner of Russell Street and Church Street, could also house some retail, Orangeburg County Administrator Harold Young said. Orangeburg County Council on Monday gave unanimous first reading approval to the sale of the property to the university. While specific details of the contract were not immediately disclosed, Young said the property will most likely be deeded over to the university with an arrangement between the county and the university on the future use of the property. The Way Building on Memorial Plaza formerly housed S.H. Kress & Company. In February 1960, Black students at then-South Carolina State College and then-Claflin College both are now universities heard about efforts to integrate lunch counters in Greensboro, N.C. They were inspired to do the same in Orangeburg. When local students were turned away from the Kress lunch counter in Orangeburg, they began a series of sit-ins. Kress then closed its lunch counter. Other downtown store owners reacted in similar fashion. The Way Property Company Inc. eventually purchased the 31,000-square-foot building. Way Property Company LLC offered the property as is to Orangeburg County for $10 in 2012. Orangeburg County then entered into an agreement with the Shuler Group Inc. for the property in July 2017. "We have been approached by Claflin to take over that agreement we originally had with the Shuler Group," Young told County Council on Monday. He said all the legal due diligence has been done to end the countys agreement with the Shuler Group. We want to extend this opportunity to Claflin University to do further development on the Kress facility to help with our mission to assist the city in the revitalization of downtown Orangeburg, he said. Young said there is still capital project sales tax money set aside for improving the Way Building. The money has been used to remove asbestos from the building. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A 32-year-old Bowman man is accused of impregnating a 12-year-old. Sheldon Santell Harrison, of Moss Street, is charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor. He was taken into custody Tuesday. Bamberg Police Chief Kevin Pendarvis received a call from a nurse at Summerville Medical Center on March 1 telling him that a 13-year-old had just given birth at their facility, an incident report states. The girl told medical staff that she didnt know she was pregnant and hadnt received any prenatal care, the nurse said. The girls mother told Pendarvis that she didnt know her daughter was sexually active and pregnant until the day before her grandchild was born, the report states. The girl was taken to the hospital on Feb. 28 and gave birth the next day. Harrisons warrant accuses him of sexual battery with a 12-year-old on multiple occasions between May 2021 and August 2021 and fathering a child with the girl, who is now 13. The alleged sexual battery took place at Harrisons home, the warrant states. Harrison appeared before Orangeburg County Magistrate Gary Doremus on Wednesday. Shortly after his bond hearing, Harrison posted the $25,000 surety bond set by Doremus. Harrison is not allowed to have any direct or third-party contact with the girl or her family while hes on bond. If convicted of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, Harrison faces up to 20 years in prison. Under South Carolina law, first-degree criminal sexual conduct typically applies when victims are 11 and under, while the second-degree charge can apply when the victim is between 11 and 14. Contact the writer: mbrown@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5545. Follow on Twitter: @MRBrownTandD Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 11 Sad 19 Angry 54 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Ketanji Brown Jackson is certain to be approved by the Senate as the first Black female U.S. Supreme Court justice. And she is likely to get at least a few Republican votes, which she should. The nominee has been through two confirmation processes in the U.S. Senate for federal court appointments and received support previously from Republicans including U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. That is as it should be. The president holds the power to select a nominee for the Supreme Court. The nominees qualifications and track record are to be the criteria for Senate confirmation. Disagreeing with the nominees politics is not sufficient reason to derail the jurist. Or at least that is how it is supposed to be. Graham may yet vote for Jackson as the new justice, but he and other Republicans are not going to fail to remind the Democrats with their one-vote majority in the Senate provided by Vice President Kamala Harris vote about the way nominees by President Donald Trump were brutalized in an effort to find some way to keep them off the court. Senators have a right and responsibility to question the nominee extensively about her record and approach to the role of justice. It can be done, however, without the attacks that marked hearings on Trump nominees. Graham is not taking it easy. In remarks to the Senate Judiciary Committee, he said to Jackson: "As to the historic nature of your appointment, I understand. But when I get lectured about this from my Democratic colleagues, I remember Janice Rogers Brown, an African American woman, who was filibustered by the same people praising you. I remember Miguel Estrada, one of the finest people I ever met -- completely wiped out, didn't make it through the Gang of 14 he didn't make the cut. Well-lived life, just completely ruined. So if you're a Hispanic or African American conservative, it's about your philosophy. Now it's going to be about the historic nature of the pick." Graham continued: Michelle Childs, a District Court judge from South Carolina, supported by Jim Clyburn, was in the mix this Arabella group is funded by Soros and some other liberal billionaire, they've got so many groups within their group, I can't name them all now. But they basically said if you pick [Judge] Childs, you may have a primary opponent. The AFL-CIO said Judge Childs was a union-buster. The attacks from the left against Judges Childs were really pretty vicious to be honest with you." And further: I think it does matter that the groups that came to your aid at the expense of Judge Childs, how did that happen and why were they doing what they were doing? What is it about your nomination that the most liberal people under the umbrella of Arabella threw in their money, their time, their support and threatened Joe Biden if he picked Judge Childs? I want to know more about that. I want to know about your judicial philosophy, because people on the left, the far extreme part of the left, believed that you were the best bet, and I want to know why they reached that conclusion." By the time the process is over, Americans will be left with no doubt that Republicans believe Jackson will be a liberal activist judge. Yet they will not have gone so far as to attack her in the ways Democrats did Trump appointments. That will prevent Democrats from getting political ammunition for the November election. As to what kind of judge Jackson will be, she contends activism is not in her judicial DNA, saying she would be an independent jurist who will decide cases without fear or favor emphasizing her neutrality on the bench. If she follows that course, she will be the latest in a line of high court judges that did not turn out to be nearly as liberal or conservative as their opponents contended they would be. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 China denounces U.S.'s "prior knowledge" claim of Russian military operation in Ukraine Xinhua) 08:09, March 25, 2022 BEIJING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson Thursday denounced the claim that China had prior knowledge of Russia's military operation in Ukraine as disinformation. The spread of such disinformation by the United States is intended to shirk responsibility and smear China, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense. "We believe that to resolve the current crisis, we must uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and respect and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," said Wu. It is crucial to adhere to the principle of indivisible security and accommodate the legitimate security concerns of the parties involved, Wu added. He stressed the need to settle disputes by peaceful means through dialogue and negotiation, and keep in mind the long-term peace and stability of the region and put in place a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. "What China has done is in stark contrast to that of the United States, which has created and shifted crisis to others, and reaped gains from it," Wu said. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) ANKARA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that cooperation on natural gas is crucial for the improvement of Turkey-Israel ties and suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett could pay a visit to Turkey, state-run TRT broadcaster reported. One of the most important steps that Turkey and Israel can take together will be cooperation on natural gas resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Turkish leader told a group of journalists before boarding a return flight from a NATO summit in Brussels. The Turkish foreign and energy ministers will visit Israel for discussions on the issue, Erdogan said, adding the global energy crisis will "open new doors" for Turkey. Erdogan also said the visit of Israeli President Issac Herzog in early March is a turning point for the long-strained bilateral ties. "Israeli Prime Minister Bennett may come as well. Upon his visit, there may be a chance to start a new era in Turkey-Israel ties," Erdogan said, adding it will have "positive repercussions on the Palestinian issue." But some Israeli news outlets quoted a governmental source as saying there are "no concrete plans" for Bennett to visit Turkey. The relations between the two regional powers began to sour in 2010 when a Turkish-led flotilla attempting to break Israel's blockade on the Gaza Strip clashed with Israeli forces, leaving 10 Turks on board dead. This subscription will allow existing subscribers of The World to access all of our online content, including the E-Editions area. NOTE: To claim your access to the site, you will need to enter the Last Name and First Name that is tied to your subscription in this format: SMITH, JOHN If you need help with exactly how your specific name needs be entered, please email us at admin@countrymedia.net or call us at 1-541 266 6047. Chu tich UBND TP. Ho Chi Minh Phan Van Mai a co chi ao go kho cho nhung vuong mac oi voi viec xac nhan hoan tat nghia vu ve nha o xa hoi trong cac du an phat trien nha o thuong mai, phat trien o thi sau khi nghe bao cao va y kien tu ai dien cua cac so, nganh. Today A mix of clouds and sun. High 86F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms developing late. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Tomorrow Thunderstorms in the morning, then partly cloudy late. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%. BEIRUT As an international law firm announced a British court's judgment in favor of a depositor against two Lebanese banks, the British embassy in Beirut said on Friday it was "deeply concerned" by Lebanese banks closing accounts belonging to people who are nationals or residents of the United Kingdom. The British High Court of Justice had previously ruled in favor of a Lebanese-British businessman, Vatche Manoukian, in a complaint against Lebanese banks, Bank Audi and SGBL for having refused to execute requests to transfer funds from Lebanon to abroad in 2019. The Feb. 28 UK court order required Lebanon's Bank Audi and its peer SGBL to transfer $4 million to a client, the first UK ruling obliging Lebanese banks to transfer dollars out of the banking system, raising the prospect of similar actions. The law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Pasiner LLP, which represents Manoukian, announced Friday that the court handed down its "fully reasoned judgment" in the case, in favor of the depositor. The law firm described the decision as "groundbreaking in being the first full merits judgment in any jurisdiction on the international transfer rights of banking customers under Lebanese law." Also on Friday, the British Embassy in Lebanon embassy said that "unilateral action" by banks had singled out account holders on the basis of their British residency or nationality, in "what appears to be a targeted and discriminatory manner." The statement did not name any lenders in Lebanon's crisis-hit banking sector, where more than $100 billion of hard currency savings remain stuck, with most depositors unable to access their funds. A union for savers with funds stuck in Lebanese banks says that more than 50 British savers have been in touch because their accounts were unilaterally closed or they feared their closure, since the Feb. 28 UK court ruling ordering the two Lebanese banks to transfer funds to Manoukian. Lebanon's financial system collapsed in 2019 under the weight of massive public debts caused by decades of corruption, waste and patronage by the government, which borrowed heavily from the Lebanese banks. In the absence of any capital control law in Lebanon, banks began imposing informal restrictions on withdrawals and transfers abroad as the financial system collapsed in 2019. These controls were never formalised with legislation and have been challenged in local and international courts, with mixed results. Legal tussles between banks and depositors seeking their cash are also playing out in Lebanon. And, in response, more banks have been closing accounts and issuing cheques for the balance without consulting clients, lawyers acting for depositors say. British Ambassador Ian Collard urged "the Lebanese authorities to ensure that all depositors are properly and fairly treated, and he underlined the importance of Lebanese banks not discriminating against account holders on the basis of their British nationality or residency". In meetings with officials including the central bank governor and the prime minister, he "made clear his concerns about the treatment of British national and British resident depositors", the statement said. (Reporting by Enas Alashray; Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Susan Fenton) Nearly two decades after being sentenced to death, Dale Wayne Eaton was ordered Friday to spend the rest of his life in prison without the chance of parole or commutation. Eaton was convicted of the kidnapping, rape and murder of Lisa Marie Kimmell, which took place in Casper in 1988. Friday was the 34-year anniversary of Kimmells disappearance. Eatons trial and conviction took place in 2004, and he was originally sentenced to death. But court appeals kept that punishment from being carried out, and prosecutors decided not to seek the death penalty in September after a competency hearing found he was unfit to proceed. Before Eaton was sentenced again, two of Kimmells sisters and her mother delivered victim impact statements Friday inside a Natrona County district courtroom. Kimmells older sister, Sherry Odegard, said the original sentence shouldve been upheld. Sheila Kimmell, Lisas mother, asked Eaton to look at her and her daughters, pointing out that he has not in the past. He obliged. Please. Hear us, she said. Our pain has spanned the minutes, the hours, the days, the weeks. All of Lisa Kimmells family members addressed Eaton and his counsel directly. Odegard took particular issue with the defenses argument that Eaton had a difficult childhood and that his mental health did not equip him to withstand a capital punishment hearing. A tough childhood doesnt excuse ... his health issues dont excuse, Odegard said. He knows right from wrong, and so do you. Shame on you Mr. OBrien. Eaton, who is suffering from declining health, is not the victim, Kimmells youngest sister, Stacy Pitts, noted. It feels so unjust that Dale Wayne Eaton has been provided three square meals a day, Pitts said. Eaton did not originally intend to speak. After Eaton consulted with his defense attorney, lawyer Sean OBrien said that his client had asked him to apologize on his behalf. Sheila Kimmel said she did not accept the apology because it did not come from him directly. The Kimmell family decided years ago that they wanted to pursue capital punishment in Eatons case, but it was not about blood lust. In fact, they said that if Eaton apologized and revealed his other victims, they would not pursue the death penalty. Sheila Kimmell repeated this point Friday, but the closest they got was an apology from OBrien and some overheard whispers. Assistant District Attorney Michael Blonigen, who prosecuted Eaton, told the Star-Tribune that he overheard Eaton tell his lawyers that hes had nightmares about the murder and that shes the only person Ive ever killed. *** For years, Eaton was the only person in the state on death row. A sentencing hearing was set for January. The hearing is mostly a formality, since Eaton was already set to spend the rest of his life in prison after prosecutors backed off the death penalty last fall. Members of the Kimmell family came from Montana and Colorado, prepared to give a statement. But Eaton didnt show. Court records show a transportation order signed by a Natrona County district court judge in November. In the days after the hearing, the Department of Corrections said it never received the order to move Eaton to Casper from the Wyoming Medium Correctional Institution in Torrington for the January date. Typically, a DOC spokesperson said, those orders will be passed from the court to the district attorney, then to the sheriffs office and the DOC. But a sheriffs spokesperson said their office wasnt involved in this particular order. Blonigen said the prosecutors office had a copy of the transport order from November, but wasnt sure why it didnt make it to the prison. Wyoming hasnt used the penalty in 30 years, since Mark Hopkinson was executed in 1992. You have the death sentence, but you dont have the death penalty, Blonigen said Friday. *** Fridays hearing comes nearly 34 years after Kimmells death, on the anniversary of her disappearance from Denver. I was 13 when my sister was killed and Im 47 now, Pitts told Eaton. Even after all these years, Im still so angry. Kimmell was traveling from Colorado to Billings to see family when she went missing. About a week later, she was found dead in the North Platte. The case was unsolved until 2002, when DNA evidence linked her death to Eaton. Her car was soon found buried on his property in Moneta, and he was convicted in 2004 of kidnapping, raping and murdering her. Sheila Kimmell said Friday that she believes that Eaton had other victims before and after her daughters death. In 2006, on what would have been Kimmells 36th birthday, the family burned Eatons property to the ground after winning it in a lawsuit. Eaton was sentenced to death after a jury found him guilty on all counts. But before he was set to be executed in 2010, he received a stay. A federal judge took him off death row in 2014, and the September evaluation put the final quash on the penalty in his case. Technically, the defense still has 30 days to appeal the latest sentencing, but Blonigen said hes received no indication that Eatons lawyers will proceed down that path. Kimmells family say they feel like they have a sense of finality, but not closure. This just closes another chapter of a long book, Sheila Kimmell said. Hopefully, this is the last chapter. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 8 Angry 6 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Victoria Eavis State politics reporter Follow Victoria Eavis 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 FRC Action Files Federal Lawsuit Over Biden Airline Mask Mandate NEWS PROVIDED BY FRC Action March 24, 2022 WASHINGTON, March 24, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- Last night, Family Research Council Action, the legislative affiliate of Family Research Council, filed a federal lawsuit against the Biden administration in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas over the federal mask mandate on all airplanes. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of FRC Action, two FRC Action members who live in Texas, and a child. Tony Perkins is participating in the case both as president of FRC Action and as the father of the child. The lawsuit argues in part: "As researchers have now had ample opportunity to test the effectiveness of wearing masks as part of combating the spread of COVID-19, studies show that masks are actually ineffective, particularly the cloth masks and surgical masks commonly worn. Given that wearing cloth or surgical masks satisfy the mask mandate, it is not effective at stopping COVID-19 in airports or on airplanes...Planes are a very low-risk environment for contracting or spreading COVID-19. According to a survey of epidemiologists, planes are safer than bars, theaters, gyms, and restaurants." The lawsuits asks that the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas place a nationwide preliminary and permanent injunction on the Biden administration's mask mandate on flights. On the lawsuit, Perkins commented: "Given what we have learned over the past two years, this overreaching government mask mandate on the 2.9 million Americans who fly on a typical day is not based on science. In some cases, masks have actually proven detrimental to adults and children. Air in airplanes is filtered at a more frequent rate than countless other settings, and it is one of the least conducive environments for the spreading of a virus. "On behalf of our 26,000 members across the country, FRC Action believes these authoritarian mandates must be challenged. The Biden administration, along with a number of other local governments across the country, has exploited the COVID pandemic, used it to suffocate our freedoms unnecessarily, and in some cases target churches and people of faith," Perkins concluded. To read the complaint in FRC Action et al. v. Biden et al. please see: https://www.frcaction.org/get.cfm?i=LK22C01 The lawsuit was filed on behalf of FRC Action by Ken Klukowski, a senior counsel at Schaerr Jaffe LLP. SOURCE FRC Action CONTACT: J.P. Duffy or Joshua Arnold, 866-FRC-NEWS, 866-372-6397 Finding enough firefighters to staff seasonal Montana crews is difficult, compounded by experienced personnel transferring to other agencies offering higher pay. It is an absolute challenge every year, said Sonya Germann, Forestry Division administrator for the state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. She made the comment while addressing the Environmental Quality Council during its meeting in Helena on Wednesday. We have never really been able to fully staff all of our positions, she added. Germann said shes pleasantly surprised by the number of applicants so far this year, yet there are probably state fire engines that will be unstaffed. Its hard work. Its low pay. And not a lot of people want to come and fight fire because it is so incredibly hard and the hazards associated with that, she said. Its also mentally challenging. In a survey answered by 1,841 federal firefighters, the advocacy group Grassroots Wildland Firefighters found 73% were regularly worried about the possibility of an accident. Sixty percent said their partners have been impacted by an incident at work that resulted in mental health challenges. Extended absence physically and/or emotionally was the number-one stressor, the survey found. We especially lose people who are highly qualified, Germann added. It takes a particular thing for somebody to want to stay working for DNRC. I think they stay because of our organization, but that same qualified position can make a lot more money going elsewhere. And we often see that. So we have seen a trend of losing our highly qualified people. And weve seen issues with recruitment. Germann complimented Gov. Greg Gianforte for raising the hourly wages for wildland firefighters in the face of another dry summer with much of the state in drought conditions. In January, the governors office announced an increase of $1.70 an hour in pay, bringing the minimum base pay to $15.50 an hour in order to compete with other states for personnel. Also in January, the Biden Administration announced it was raising the base pay for federal firefighters to $15 an hour with recruitment and retention bonuses. Even this raise pales compared to what California pays state crews. According to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who wrote in an August Los Angeles Times opinion article, Cal Fire was paying around $66,336 for entry-level employees compared to the Forest Services $28,078. Feinstein also noted the Forest Service was 730 employees shy of its total goal of 5,000 firefighters in 2020 while Cal Fire hired 3,000 additional temporary firefighters. The Idaho Legislature just approved hazard pay of up to 25% above hourly wages for its firefighters, something the DNRC is also examining as a possible proposal to the Montana Legislature, Germann said. In honor of former West Yellowstone smokejumper Tim Hart, Grassroots Wildland Firefighters is backing a bill with his name. Hart died last June, 11 days after sustaining injuries in a hard landing while parachuting into the Eicks fire in New Mexico. Hart lived in Cody, Wyoming. Wildland firefighters deserve to be recognized and compensated for the grueling conditions in which they work and for putting their lives on the line every day, Michelle Hart, Tims wife, said in advocating for the bill. This legislation is a major step forward in achieving that goal. The Tim Hart Wildland Firefighter Classification and Pay Parity Act was introduced in the House in October. It would raise base pay to no less than $36,163 with cost of living adjustments each year, guaranteed hazardous duty pay when conditions warrant, a housing allowance when 50 miles from home and recruitment and retention bonuses. So far this year Montana has already had 49 fires burn across 74 acres, compared to last year at this date when 134 fires had burned 9,000 acres, Germann reported. The states current fire account contains $50.9 million with a projection that $49 million will be needed in the 2022 fiscal year, Germann said. She went on to praise the partnerships the DNRC has in responding to fires in cooperation with tribal and county fire agencies, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Wildfire doesnt recognize boundaries or fence lines, neither does smoke, neither do insects or disease, Germann said. We have to be working together, and we have to be doing a lot more of it. Thats the whole premise of the [Montana] Forest Action Plan. We have massive issues. We have 9 million acres of the forested land out there that is facing significant wildfire risk and forest health issues. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys speech to Congress last week may not have been the Churchillian moment people had hoped for, but it got the job done. He asked for what his country needed, plainly, simply, and without folding into a grand discourse on the responsibilities of the worlds democracies to keep it safe from fascism as the late, great British leader might have. Zelenskyys remarks showed him to be a most practical man, leading a country under siege. He should get all he asked for, all of it and more. He wont, because the Biden administration fails to accept that his fight is our fight, whether we like it or not. Some in Congress insist on shying away from that reality as well, going so far as to shamefully vote against suspending normal trade relations with Russia and Belarus as one more punishment for the aggressive war of national interest being waged against Ukraine. Zelenskyy can see what far too many policymakers and influencers in the United States cannot. As he explained to Congress, the Russian attack on Ukraine is a brutal offensive against our values, basic human values. It threw tanks and planes against our freedom, against our right to live freely in our own country, choosing our own future against our desire for happiness, against our national dreams, just like the same dreams you have, you Americans, just like anyone else in the United States. America has been called to the fight and must answer in the affirmative. Thus far, the Biden administration has been leading from the back, reluctant to place the United States in the center of the global stage where it belongs. To Zelenskyys requests, it responded with a firm, unforgivable no. The sanctions were slow in coming and have not, contrary to what White House spokesman Jen Psakis boast crushed the Russian economy. The military aid most needed is blocked, by design and by bureaucratic inertia. Most importantly, because the national security establishment is more worried about what might come next if Putin were ousted, his country still has avenues available to trade with the rest of the world. It doesnt have to be that way. It wasnt all that long ago when Democrats like Biden led a global effort to isolate a sovereign state over a domestic matter the rest of the civilized world considered an offense against God and man. How does the invasion of Ukraine not call for a boycott of Russia and its Balearian ally led by the United States any less vigorous than what America and the other freedom-loving peoples of the world did to bring the Republic of South Africas apartheid government to its knees? The time to wreck the Russian economy, to give an incentive for the Russian people to throw off their masters in pursuit of a genuine democratic system is at hand. George Washington wisely warned against any involvement in messy foreign entanglements when America was a new nation needing time to find its feet. Wise advice at the time, it became increasingly dangerous as the nation grew in economic might and military power until isolationism proved very, very costly to overcome. From Teddy Roosevelt to today, the United States has strutted boldly across the world stage, stealing the scene from every pretender to global leadership from the Kaiser to Stalin to Saddam Hussein. We have expended American lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to defend the right of people to live free. This time that is not being asked of us. Zelenskyy and his people have shown they can and will fight. Some even say they are winning. Fear of what Putin might do if hes backed into a corner cannot be allowed to be the determinant of U.S. policy. Fight now or fight later. Thats the choice. We found that out in 1917. And in 1941. And in 1950. And at other times when the fascists on the left and right threatened freedom. Today is not much different except Zelenskyy is asking only for the tools needed, as Churchill famously said so many years ago So we may finish the job. Its up to America to make sure he gets them. Peter Roff is a senior fellow at Frontiers of Freedom and a former U.S. News and World Report contributing editor who appears regularly as a commentator on the One America News network. Email him at RoffColumns@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @Peter Roff Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Bandits in Morvant assaulted and robbed a 54-year-old woman of everything she had on her on The issue of school violence has resurfaced with such an intensity that it has the nations Arizonas U.S. senators are asking President Joe Biden to keep a public health policy in place that allows the government to quickly expel migrants who enter the country without documentation, even as migrants and human rights groups call for an end to the policy and a restoration of the asylum process. Democratic Sens. Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly said in a March 24 letter that an abrupt end to Title 42, originally put in place by the Trump administration in response to the pandemic, would greatly increase strain on Arizona border communities. Given the impacts that changes to Title 42 could have on border communities, border security, and migrants, we urge your Administration not to make any changes to Title 42 implementation until you are completely ready to execute and coordinate a comprehensive plan that ensures a secure, orderly, and humane process at the border, the senators wrote. They said removing Title 42 without a firm plan in place risks the health and safety of Arizona communities and migrants. Any changes to Title 42 require coordination between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Departments of Homeland Security, State, Justice and Health and Human Services, the senators said. Also needed are planning and communication with border communities and stakeholders, including local government leaders and community organizations providing services to migrants, they said. Such groups in Arizona have not been consulted about Title 42 changes, the letter says. Until the Administration does that type of consultation with local government leaders and nonprofits along the border, it is premature to consider changes to Title 42 authorities. The senators said they have seen no evidence of any plan that would maintain a humane and orderly process if the government ends Title 42. Migrants have a different wish Three days before Sinema and Kelly sent their letter, hundreds of migrants and supporters marched in downtown Nogales, Sonora, calling for an end to Title 42. The migrants marching on March 21, the two-year anniversary of the policy, said Title 42 essentially cuts them off from applying for asylum, a process thats enshrined in both international and domestic law. The Biden administration has to decide whether to renew the policy in early April, and migrants and their advocates hope to see it end and the asylum process restored. We will continue to advocate for peoples rights to be respected, said Chelsea Sachau, managing attorney of the Florence Projects Border Action Team, which provides free legal services to migrants. Under Title 42, the U.S. has expelled more than 1.7 million migrants, often into dangerous situations similar to why they left their homes, such as threats of violence, extortion and discriminatory rents and wages. One such migrant, Victor, fled Guerrero, Mexico, with his wife and three children when his life was threatened. He asked the Star not to use his last name because he doesnt feel safe from the threats that caused them to leave their home. With a sibling living in Phoenix, Victor had hoped when he and his family arrived at the border eight months ago, they would be allowed to seek political asylum in the U.S. Like so many others, he feels they have nothing left to do now but wait for Title 42 to end. We hope President Biden listens to us, Victor said. We dont want any handouts. We just want stability and security for our children. New resources Many humanitarian aid organizations along the border are already stretched thin. Organizations and migrant shelters are in place to help but they need more resources from the federal government, says Sachau. The $1.5 trillion spending bill that became law on March 15 does contain more resources, including $150 million for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program to assist migrants, a 36% increase from last year. Locally and nationwide, migrant-aid organizations have been waiting for the federal government to come through with more funding to replenish dwindling resources. Since March 2021, Pima County has received more than $10 million from last years allocation to the program, run by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The county and local humanitarian organizations had been waiting anxiously for the new allocation in order to continue covering the $1.3 million monthly they are now spending on programs that provide services to asylum seekers, a cost that would likely increase if Title 42 was ended. Apart from the $150 million for local communities to assist migrants, new border funding includes: $100 million for Border Patrol hiring and retention; More than $1.2 billion for border management costs, including migrant processing and transportation, personnel overtime and other costs; $200 million for two permanent processing facilities near the border to help manage migrant flows, improve efficiency and protect migrants and communities; $275 million to address the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services backlog by hiring additional personnel, including asylum officers and refugee officers; More than $340 million for border-security and port-of-entry technology. Contact reporter Danyelle Khmara at dkhmara@tucson.com or 573-4223 . On Twitter: @DanyelleKhmara Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. While CEO of a major regional auto-repair chain in Tucson, Jeff Artzi became convinced there had to be a better way to serve customers than the traditional auto-shop experience. In 2014, Artzi launched his auto repair company, Oro Valley-based OOROO Auto, around providing a better workplace culture and using technology to provide a more efficient customer experience. Today, the company has three Tucson-area shops that have been offering mobile repair service for several years and recently launched a subscription-based maintenance program, with plans to expand its footprint regionally. Artzi said his companys high-tech, high-touch approach has the potential to fundamentally change an auto-repair industry that has in many cases failed to respond to the needs of customers and employees alike. He described the time-honored dance car owners go through to get their cars fixed: booking an appointment, driving to the shop, getting a diagnosis and bill estimate and either waiting for repairs or arranging rides home and back. This is an industry that is not known for its culture, internal culture, and its not known for its customer experiences, as you well know if you own a car, said Artzi, who served as CEO of the Tucson-based auto-repair chain Brake Masters from 2008 to 2013. Its just not fun, and it isnt fun internally either. People typically arent treated well in our industry theyre hired quickly, theyre discarded quickly. And culture is an afterthought. Artzi said he started OOROO because he didnt feel like he could make the disruptive kinds of changes he had in mind at Brake Masters, which at the time had 90 locations from Texas to California. Thats with no disrespect to the people at Brake Masters theyre great guys, said Artzi, who holds an MBA from New York Universitys Stern School of Business and studied for his CPA certification at the University of Arizona. But I wanted to do something different, and the only way to do that is to build a culture from the ground up. To form a base for his startup company in 2014, Artzi bought an existing auto shop in Oro Valley and named it OOROO simple adding an o before and after Oro as an eye-catching name signifying the company was something new in the industry, he said. The company has since added shops in Green Valley and in February, in Vail, and also offers mobile service with a fleet of three service vans. For its 25 employees, which include auto techs with decades of experience, OOROO offers above-industry pay, health benefits, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan with a company match and weekends off. Artzis wife, Sara, handles all the human resources and customer-service matters for OOROO as Chief Feel Good Officer. We operate in the auto care industry but take our cues from technology companies and hospitality at the intersection of high tech and high touch, Artzi said. OOROO Autos attention to company culture and customer service has helped it win two Better Business Bureau awards for ethics, two Tucson Metro Chamber Copper Cactus Awards one for small-company Best Place to Work in 2020 and an Innovation Award in 2018 as well as an Arizona Daily Star Readers Choice Award and other accolades. The company promotes a fun and energetic workplace atmosphere, and Artzi said he took his initial cues from companies like Southwest Airlines. Going mobile OOROO didnt start offering mobile repairs until 2018 but it was always in the companys business plan, Artzi said. Its a business model that weve been working on from day one and the mobile component comes right out of our mission statement. Its about expertise, safety, care and convenience. So of course, were going to take our services to where people work or live. The idea of mobile auto-repair service isnt new such services have long been offered mainly by independent mechanics or small shops and limited emergency services such as battery and tire repairs are commonplace. But the major repair chains have largely been slow to adapt to changing customer needs, Artzi said. Now, driven by technology and, to some degree, the growth of on-demand home services in general related to the pandemic, mobile auto repair is starting to take off nationally. Several well-funded startups, including RepairSmith and YourMechanic.com, offer mobile service essentially by providing an online platform to schedule service with local independent mechanics and handling pricing and billing. The value of parts alone used in mobile auto repairs of cars and light trucks rose from $265 million to $487 million between 2016 and 2020 growing more than 20 times faster than the value of all parts sales to auto shops and mobile techs combined, according to Lang Marketing, an Indiana-based market research firm that tracks the market for aftermarket parts used for many common maintenance and repair jobs. Millennials, who as the generations change become the primary buying force in the aftermarket, are much more inclined to use mobile repair than for example baby boomers or Generation X, said Jim Lang, president of Lang Marketing, adding that millennials are much more likely to shop online in general. The pandemic helped because people didnt want to go to a service shop and sit in a waiting room, Lang added. Some of that has subsided, but more importantly now with the increase in gas prices, there will be an uptick in mobile repair among consumers because they dont want to drive to get an oil change performed if that service can be performed in their driveway. For regular OOROO customer Bethany Fernandez-Pogue, its a matter of time and convenience. Its a lot easier for me to work from home, so I can work, they show up and then its a five-minute conversation where I can give them the information about the vehicle, then I can go about my day while they do what they need to do, said Fernandez-Pogue, who works as an analyst for Southwest Gas and lives on the Northwest side. No rides, no taking 30 to 45 minutes out of my day to drive over there, she said, noting that her mother referred her to OOROO after a having good experiences at its Oro Valley shop. Artzi acknowledges he has some well-funded, established competition for mobile services, such as RepairSmith, which came out of an incubation program backed by Mercedes-Benz in 2018 and raised $42 million in venture-capital funding last year. YourMechanic Services was founded in 2012 out of Silicon Valleys Y Combinator and has raised more than $40 million from investors including actor Ashton Kutcher. But Artzi said those companies have had trouble keeping up service and quality, he said, noting that RepairSmith no longer serves Tucson and both companies have had mixed reviews. Subscribing to success? In November, OOROO launched a service subscription program which allows customers to pay one monthly fee per vehicle $19.95 per domestic car and $29.99 for European imports and receive a suite of standard auto care services, including up to three oil changes annually, wiper blade and filter changes and a 10% discount on all other repairs. The Happy Car Club also includes a three-year or 36,000-mile warranty on parts OOROO installs, and enrollment in the companys 3%-back rewards program for purchases and referrals. OOROO has worked with some major local employers, including ADP and Geico, to allow access for mobile repairs in their employee lots, especially during the pandemic, Artzi said, adding that employers could potentially subsidize subscriptions to the car-maintenance club as an employee benefit. Looking ahead, Artzi said the company plans to expand both its shop and mobile operations, with at least one more shop in the Tucson area and future expansion into Phoenix and beyond. But Artzi said amid new offering and expansion, the company will always maintain its customer-focused mission. The critical piece is, the thing we talk about in our huddles, is that we can never forget to focus on the car right in front of us we call them human transport machines because we dont ever want to forget that theres going to be a human being thats going to be driving this car, with a car seat in a the backseat and spouse beside them. Contact senior reporter David Wichner at dwichner@tucson.com or 520-573-4181. On Twitter: @dwichner. On Facebook: Facebook.com/DailyStarBiz Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Former state legislator and justice of the peace Keith Bee is indigent, his attorney claimed in the run-up to his March 16 sentencing for tax crimes. But property records in Pima County and elsewhere suggest he still owns millions of dollars in property, as the Tucson Sentinel first reported March 19. Not only that, but court fillings show he lived primarily in Casa Grande when he was a justice of the peace representing the eastern Tucson area. Attorney Michael Piccarretta called Bee indigent in a sentencing memorandum he filed March 9, noting that he is living in a 720-square-foot mobile home, working up to 100 hours per week. But Pima County assessors records list Bee as the owner of three properties on Tucsons far east side with full cash value of more than $3 million. Bee also lived in Casa Grande, 75 miles away from his east-side district, while representing that district as justice of the peace, the sentencing memorandum makes clear. Responding to federal prosecutors claims about how Bee used his property, Piccarretta wrote: The truth is that the Saguaro Monument property was never used as a personal residence for Mr. Bee or his family. Mr. Bee and his family resided in Casa Grande during this entire period of time. At the time, Bee put on election filings an address on the east side of the Tucson area. On Thursday, Piccarreta explained the reference to indigence by saying You can have assets, but if your debits out-weight your assets, youre indigent. As to the residency issue, Piccarreta said: During that period, he was living primarily in Casa Grande, but he also had a residence that hes owned forever in Pima County. Most of the time he put his head on the pillow in Casa Grande, but he also had a residence here in Tucson. Bee served in the state House, then the Senate, from 1991 to 2001 and was succeeded by his brother Tim. Keith Bee was appointed justice of the peace in 2007 and served until he was indicted in 2018. In the indictment, he was accused of claiming luxury personal expenses as expenses of his bus company. In a plea agreement, he acknowledged filing a false tax return, and he was sentenced to six months in prison. Hernandez misses votes When state representatives voted on three of the biggest bills of the session Thursday, one Tucson Democrat was missing. Hernandez, who is running for the Democratic nomination for Congress in southeastern Arizonas CD6, did not return a text message Thursday seeking comment. Other Democrats said he had flown to Washington, D.C., for an education policy conference. His absence drew criticism from some fellow Democrats and progressives, who said he should have been there even though Republicans hold a 31-29 majority. Tomas Robles, co-executive director of Living United for Change in Arizona, or LUCHA, said it reminded him of the passage of SB 1070, when some Democrats simply didnt show up to vote. All it takes is for a Republican to have a flat tire or not show up for us to be able to kill a bill, he said. Masters NFT fundraising Blake Masters, the Tucsonan who is running for the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate, has pioneered the use of NFTs for fundraising. Already, he reported, hes raised $550,000 for his campaign by selling nonfungible tokens. If you dont know what a NFT is, then this fundraiser probably isnt for you. Its for the Silicon Valley types and crypto-currency enthusiasts whom Masters counts among his supporters. Masters, as you may know, made his name while working for tech mogul Peter Thiel in Silicon Valley. He announced March 16 hes resigned his positions running Thiel Capital and the Thiel Foundation. On Thursday, Masters opened the sale of more NFTs as a fundraiser for his campaign. They are NFTs of the graphics from the original volume of the book he co-authored with Thiel Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future. If sold individually, they could rake in up to $4 million for his campaign, but Masters is selling them in reduced-price packs of up to 60 NFTs for the maximum allowed contribution of $5,800 each. Ironically, Masters campaign has labeled one category of NFT collectors Rocket Boys. If he wins the nomination, hell be running against Democratic U.S. Senator Mark Kelley, a former astronaut. New JP scours for signatures Many candidates are in a last-minute scramble to get enough voters signatures to qualify for the ballot. For one new Pima County officeholder, its more like a first-minute scramble. Deborah Martinez was appointed constable for Pima Countys precinct 8 on March 15. She is replacing the resigned constable Kristen Randall, who had two more years left on her term. In the meantime there must be a new election for the official to fill out Randalls term. The deadline to gather 377 valid signatures to get on this years ballot is April 4. And the guideline for how many signatures you really need to gather to ensure qualification is about double the minimum required at least 700. So, along with starting her new job, Martinez has been touring the precinct, getting signatures to get on this years ballot. Normally, a candidate would have four years. I just have two weeks, Martinez said. Contact columnist Tim Steller at tsteller@tucson.com or 520-807-7789. On Twitter: @senyorreporter Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. FORT WORTH, Texas It turned out to be one of the greatest commercials for Chevrolet trucks. And now the 16-year-old driver will be rewarded. Bruce Lowrie Chrevrolet in Fort Worth says it is gifting Riley Leon a brand new 2022 red Chevy Silverado truck after his 2004 model was flipped on its side and spun around by a tornado on Monday in Elgin, according to WFAA/Ch. 8 and KXAS/Ch. 5. Bruce Lowrie Chevrolet in Fort Worth says it will gift the 16-year-old caught in a Texas tornado with a new truck. https://t.co/pGQY7gGdhm Fort Worth Star-Telegram (@startelegram) March 25, 2022 Leon was behind the wheel Monday afternoon when the tornado hit his truck. Video shot by a storm chaser went viral and Leon has done national interviews, including with ABC's "Good Morning America." Leon said he was returning from a job interview at an Elgin Whataburger when the tornado flipped his truck onto its right side, spun it around 360 degrees and nearly into a ditch before whipping it back upright. Leon was able to drive a little bit down the highway before pulling over. He escaped with only a few scratches on his left arm, he said. A representative of Bruce Lowrie Chevrolet said they felt bad for Leon after seeing the video. Leon is expected to be in Fort Worth on Saturday to receive the truck. New wheels will come in handy, too, because he starts his Whataburger job on Monday. "They started calling my tornado boy," Leon said of his high school classmates once they heard about his ordeal. *** Photos: See tornadoes' deadly destruction over the years May 22, 2011: Joplin, Missouri April 2011: Southeastern U.S. Feb. 5, 2008: 'Super Tuesday' outbreak April 2014: Southeast and Midwest May 20, 2013: Moore, Oklahoma March 18, 1925: Missouri, Illinois and Indiana May 11, 1953: Waco, Texas Nov. 6, 2005: Evansville, Indiana May 10, 2008: Southwest Missouri May 25, 2008: Iowa Feb. 29, 2012: Illinois Feb. 11, 2009: Oklahoma April 28, 2011: Virginia June 8, 1984: Barneveld, Wisconsin May 1955: Udall, Kansas March 2, 2012: Indiana October 2013: Nebraska May 4, 2003: Missouri June 11, 2008: Iowa July 8, 2014: Upstate New York Dec. 10-11, 2021: Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio Valley, southern US (c)2022 the Fort Worth Star-Telegram Visit the Fort Worth Star-Telegram at www.star-telegram.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. An Arizona man was sentenced Thursday to 36 months of probation and will have to spend 90 days in a halfway house for his part in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol. U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss also ordered Micajah Joel Jackson to pay $1,000 in fines and $500 in restitution, noting at sentencing that Jackson was at the forefront of the horrific events of the day. You were at the forefront, you were at the top of the stairs, you were the first to enter the Senate wing door, you were on the threshold of the House chambers, Moss said. You were in the midst of it and you knew you shouldnt be and theres no denying that. But Moss did not impose the 60 days of jail time requested by prosecutors, who said Jackson has failed to show remorse for his actions. And Jackson, who reportedly lives in Maricops and pleaded guilty to one count of parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building for his part in the attack, only said at sentencing that he wants to move on with my life. Jackson, 26, is one of nine Arizona residents charged in connection with the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, when thousands of protesters marched from a rally near the White House where then-President Donald Trump repeated his claims that the election had been stolen. Trump urged the crowd to march on the Capitol, where Congress was meeting to certify President Joe Bidens victory, telling the mob they would never take back our country with weakness. The crowd quickly overwhelmed a vastly outnumbered Capitol Police force, which was defending the Capitol with little more than portable fencing, and hundreds eventually forced their way into the building. The assault sent lawmakers, and then-Vice President Mike Pence, scrambling for safety and halted the certification of the election for hours. In the months since, federal officials have arrested more than 775 people who face charges ranging from being in a restricted area to seditious conspiracy. The Justice Department said that 224 have pleaded guilty, most to misdemeanor charges connected with the breach. Jackson originally faced four counts, including knowingly entering a restricted building, disorderly and disruptive conduct, and violent entry and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building. He agreed to plead guilty in October to the parading, demonstrating or picketing charge, a misdemeanor offense that carries a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment and $5,000 in fines. Court documents say Jackson, a Marine Corps veteran, traveled alone from Arizona to Washington to protest the certification of the 2020 election results. Charging documents include photos and video from social media that show Jackson, masked and carrying a flag, marching down the National Mall with members of the Proud Boys from Arizona. The prosecutor said Jackson was wearing an orange armband that the Proud Boys used to identify themselves. Jackson has said he is not affiliated with the right-wing group but was merely walking with them that day, but prosecutors dispute that claim, pointing to photos on Proud Boy social media sites where Jackson is shown posing with members of the group in the months before Jan. 6. Jackson wound up in the Capitol as part of the insurrection, even though he knew he was not allowed and should not have been there, he acknowledged in court documents. At Thursdays hearing, Moss called Jacksons actions that day a huge, huge mistake. Im not saying that huge mistake that you made that day is something that is an indelible issue for your character, but I think its something you have to recognize, Moss said. Jackson said little, and what he did say fell short of an apology. Its been a really stressful, long year dealing with a lot of disabilities from the military. Id like to move on with my life and do what I have to do as a young man, keep learning, he said to the judge. Moss repeatedly questioned Jacksons sincerity and remorse during the half-hour hearing. That was echoed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Murphy, who said Jacksons claim that he did not take part in any of the mayhem that occurred just isnt how it happened. But Jacksons attorney, Maria Jacob, said her client chose to follow the problems that day and was not a member of the problem. She asked Moss to impose a sentence of two years of probation, compared to Murphys request for jail time and three years of probation. Ultimately, Moss handed down a sentence of three years probation with time in a halfway house, noting that Jackson didnt engage in any violence on Jan. 6. But Moss reiterated to Jackson that the events of Jan. 6 will always remain a chilling moment in history. I dont think any of us in our lifetime will ever see it again, a moment in which you question whether our democracy is under assault, and whether in fact, we are not going to have a peaceful transition of power in the country, Moss said. For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org . Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Battle over the ballots The Republicans are hellbent on changing the ways Americans cast their votes in elections, while making it more difficult for the officials in charge of counting and certifying everyone's vote. Im having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we have been voting early by mail for decades, now all of sudden its wrong and change is needed according to Republicans. There has been no proof whatsoever of any wrongdoing in the way votes have been cast or counted. Surely there are more important matters that will help our nation that the GOP and Republicans can investigate and enact changes on. One thing is for certain, no obstacle or voting change will prevent me from voting and I wont be voting for the party that starts with R. Thanks for making my ballot selections easier. Max LaPlante Southeast side Talk, talk, talk on education Regarding recent Republican wrangling of school funding. If you ever want to know what a society truly holds important, dont listen to the rhetoric. Ignore the wish list. Skip the speeches to the big cheering crowds. Blow off all the I believe statements made by politicians and general public alike. To learn what a society holds important, what it really holds near and dear to its heart, look at what that society actually pays for. When we search our collective couches, where do we send our change? That is the No. 1 priority of a society. Anything else is just delusional lies. Signed, a teacher that has had enough of hearing about how important education is. David Reynolds East side Actual victims of war crimes Re: the March 20 article "These refugees have an easier go." I find it difficult to believe that the United States is not opening its arms to the abundance of immigrants leaving Ukraine. They are truly victims of war crimes and in need of our help. I think Joe Biden has essentially opened our southern borders, but he has turned his back on the victims of the worst humanitarian disaster in my memory. He is not alone in this slight, Congress has no problem approving a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine but hasnt addressed this issue. We should treat the Ukrainian people at least as well as our southern neighbors. They are victims of verifiable war crimes. Victor Panizzon Northwest side Improve slate of candidates All his life he wanted to be president. When he got the job he wasn't up to it. Almost no one has been. Only four or five have been, none in this century. The same can be said about every incumbent, in any and every office in the land. Look what we, and most other states, have for governors. And attorneys general. Most particularly, state legislators. And senators and House representatives. It's to laugh, when not crying. And being embarrassed. The villain is self-selection: Who asked any of them to run? We need a process by which voters ask people if they want to run for office every office. Those who are willing then do a primary when necessary, to select those to be the final candidate when necessary, in the general election. Hopefully, we minimize the ego-driven, those with an agenda, those with a power need. We might actually get service. Charles Larson Green Valley No time like the present Re: the March 14 letter "Time to ditch fossil fuels." Thanks to the letter writer for reminding us of this critical time to take action to battle climate change. Indeed, this is a perfect time, with the world coming together to battle Ukraines invaders, Congress working together to pass a bipartisan budget, and the pandemic shining a light on the equity crisis we face. In addition to bringing the free world together to support Ukraine, the president also announced hosting this years funding conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and malaria. The Global Fund works with middle- and low-income countries to strengthen health care systems, save lives and battle pandemics, including COVID. Last years increase to the child tax credit showed we can cut domestic poverty if we take action. So speak up to those who represent you and lets move Congress to battle all of these current challenges, the time is now for this combined moonshot." Willie Dickerson Northwest side Hopeful teacher presses forward I am a teacher. Here is why and how I keep on teaching: I do the Dory: "Just keep swimming." I took time off from teaching, worked as a substitute, in customer service, as an independent consultant, ran for political office. I realized the best place for me is in a school, understanding the spheres of control, influence, concern and bubbling up (setting healthy boundaries). I remember my intent and purpose. I know the standards, I explain how my teaching uses evidence-based instruction, that I teach the standards, and help students become effective communicators, complex thinkers, self-motivated learners. I remember these truths: "We plant seeds as educators." "It takes time for people to learn." "People learn in different ways." I keep teaching. I press on, in spite of the ugliness of the world. If you haven't read it recently, check out Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise." I believe in humanity, so I press on. Felicia Chew Midtown Independents hold the key Re: the March 20 article "State GOP to voters: How dare you?" I have known for years that the only way to stop playing whack-a-mole with the bad bills at the Legislature was to get different people elected. But how? Lynne Hudson in her recent op-ed had a brilliant idea: Get moderate Republicans to run for office and convince independents to request a Republican ballot for the primary. Bingo! We would get the extremists out so real dialogue could take place at the Capitol. Thank you, Lynne! If this actually happened we could stop spending our time getting petitions signed and sit back and enjoy life in our beautiful state. Kathleen Dubbs West side Weaponization of fear, anger There is a political technique that has been used in this country that has been used in the past by several leaders of foreign countries. It involves the creation of an unreal menace that is used to frighten and anger followers of a political party. This fear and anger is weaponized by the leader for political gain. This created menace is usually something that runs totally contrary to patriotic beliefs and therefore causes outrage, victimhood and vengeance. The purpose of created menaces is the manipulation of thinking, division of political stances and the rejection of other political ideas. Donald Trumps claim that the 2020 election was stolen is an example of this technique. There was outrage and anger, and vengeance was taken. The rioters on Jan. 6 felt that they had to correct a wrong, but the wrong they were correcting was a phantom. Creating menaces was and is common in fascist politics. It behooves the electorate to be able to detect this treacherous technique before it metastasizes. Steve Rasmussen Foothills Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: Mountain lions are essential to ecosystems. Their cached kills provide food for many other wildlife species, their selective predation keeps herds free of disease, and their presence protects sensitive waterways from overgrazing and degradation. These magnificent and charismatic carnivores should be allowed to not only survive, but also flourish. A small number of hunters kill between 300-350 mountain lions in Arizona every year. Of the many areas with high levels of mountain lion hunting, Game Management Unit 33, which borders the east side of Tucson and encompasses East Saguaro National Park, is one of the worst. According to state hunting records, hunters killed an average of 14 mountain lions per year in Unit 33 from 2015-2020, the highest level of any hunting unit in Arizona. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is responsible for managing mountain lion hunting. It determines the dates and length of the hunting seasons, as well as the gender and total number of mountain lions hunters can harvest each year. The number of female lions that are killed is important as adult females spend over 75% of their time raising kittens, according to the AZGFD. Right now, the AZGFD is updating its five-year hunt guidelines, and it plans to maintain current mountain lion hunting levels and season structures. So why should we care? First, mountain lion hunting can cause significant animal cruelty. Most hunters use hounds to chase lions until they are exhausted, cornered and shot. Additionally, hunters who kill female mountain lions can orphan their kittens. Take Poppy, a kitten found pawing at the door of a chicken coop in the winter of 2020-2021, shortly after an adult female was killed in the area. Luckily, officials brought Poppy to the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center. Most are not so lucky. When hunters kill female lions, any kittens they have under 6 months old have only a 4% chance of survival. In 2020, the most recent hunting season for which harvest data is available, 10 out of 14 mountain lions killed in Unit 33 were female, according to the AZGFDs data. Second, mountain lion hunting can exacerbate human-lion conflicts such as livestock depredations and complaints from people when mountain lions enter urban areas. Researchers hypothesize that this phenomenon may occur because consistent removal of established adult mountain lions shifts the age class to young, dispersing mountain lions. These youngsters are less familiar with the new territory they venture into, less experienced at hunting, and more likely to seek easier prey such as pets or livestock. Third, mountain lion hunting is not necessary for protecting prey populations. Mountain lions and deer, their main prey source, co-evolved for millennia before modern levels of hunting began. Moreover, a recent study of 11 Western states found no correlation between deer populations and mountain lion hunting in most states. Interestingly, for the states that did exhibit a correlation, the correlation was negative, meaning more lion hunting actually coincided with decreased deer populations the following year. If mountain lion hunting continues, it should at least be managed in a way to reduce cruelty, mitigate conflict and allow lions to flourish. To this end, a peer-reviewed study from Wildlife Society Bulletin recommends limiting hunting to a maximum of 14% of the adult lion population, which AZGFD estimates is 1,470 individuals. That means no more than 206 lions killed per year, way under current hunting levels. Another peer-reviewed study from experts at the conservation group Panthera also recommends prohibiting hunting when female lions have kittens, which AZGFD biologists estimate occurs from August to December. Currently, the AZGFD allows lion hunting during this time. Prioritizing mountain lion stewardship not only helps lions, but also the myriad wildlife species that benefit from their presence, as well as the Arizonans who live among them. Please consider attending the Arizona Game and Fish Commission meeting on April 1 at the Phoenix AZGFD office or at your regional AZGFD office where the meeting will be broadcast live. Those who attend at an AZGFD office can give a two-minute comment on the hunt guidelines, the second item on the meeting agenda. If you comment, please encourage the commission to adopt common sense and humane measures for mountain lion stewardship. For more information on mountain lion hunting in Arizona and how to improve the management of our states mountain lions visit https://mountainlion.org/us/arizona/#!action For more information on attending the April 1 meeting visit https://azgfd-portal-wordpress-pantheon.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/archive/4.01.22-CommAgenda.pdf Logan Christian is a conservation advocate for Mountain Lion Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to ensuring the mountain lions survive and flourish in the wild. Logan oversees MLFs conservation work in Arizona and several other western states. Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: Sunday, on my way home from Salt Lake City, I stopped at Lake Powell to have a look at the reservoir now that the water level has reached an all-time low (see the Arizona Daily Star, Monday, March 21). Its sobering to see the back of the dam with the generator inlets almost completely exposed. Just 30 or so feet lower and Glen Canyon Dam will no longer be able to produce power. If that happens, managers also worry that their ability to control the rivers flow will be technically precarious, relying on systems not designed for that use. I was returning from a conference held by the Wallace Stegner Center of the University of Utah and the Water and Tribes Initiative. The meeting was entitled The Colorado River Compact: Navigating the Future which began with a historical discussion of the 100-year-old agreement that apportioned water among the seven basin states. Presentations then quickly turned to the current challenges facing the river and the 40 million people depending on it. On the second day, one of the speakers, John Entsminger, general manager of the Nevada Water Authority, summarized the future in one word pain. The math is simple. Basin water users, including Mexico, are taking 14 million acre-feet (MAF) of water per year. But the river only supplies about 12.5 MAF. Climate change will whittle that down to 11 MAF, maybe more. It just doesnt add up. Since the original compact was signed, others with rights have come calling. Mexico receives an allocation. Of the 22 tribes in Arizona, 11 are yet to be allocated water. Others reminded us of the living river the system of plants and animals that have always been here, are threatened, and need a share. Upper Basin states Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming have yet to take the water they say they have coming under the original agreement. The principal cause of the coming crisis isnt just users. Its climate change. One scientist said we should stop calling this a drought because it suggests something temporary. Unchecked, things will get worse, not better. Because of climate change, summer rains in the mountains have been far below normal. The resultant drying of the soils means that normal winter snowfalls result in runoffs that are only 70% of average. Add in the effects of hotter basin temperatures losses from increased evaporation and transpiration through plants means even less water for us. The Colorado River Compact was spurred by federal leadership interested in the future of the Southwest. Todays problems on the river also requires federal leadership, but this time it is the states and their residents that must provide the political will needed to make the hard decisions about water use and climate. Dithering, hoping that a consensus will emerge that leaves us whole and others on the hook, will not work. We cannot afford to realize the fear expressed by scientist Brad Udall, son of our own Morris Udall, at the conference when he worried that it may be easier to watch the system crash than to take a political position that involves blowback from constituents. What to do? I will let my members of Congress know that we need swift action on climate, and that I am ready for the hard choices needed to save our problematic and brilliant Colorado River system. In Arizona, we need to cut water use now to prepare us for a much leaner future and to create surpluses to shore up our struggling reservoirs. Nationally, we need a price on the carbon in fossil fuels to limit warming and stem the destruction of climate change. I will call on local and state leaders, assuring them that they have my support for the difficult decisions to come, but those decisions must be made. Waiting to act will surely lead to a day when no options are left, and all that remains is pain. Edward Beshore is a retired astronomer and co-leader of the Tucson chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby. He lives in Tucson. Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. The Roundtable is ending the 2020 to 2021 season with a talk by our own Steve Reggentin who has more presentations to the Roundtable than anyone. Steves talk will be on the Battle of Midway. It will be presented on Monday, April 4 at 1 p.m. in the Mountainview East Ballroom. Midway Island is located in the Pacific Ocean about halfway between San Francisco and Japan. At the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Midway Island was occupied by the United States but was coveted by Japan from which further air strikes on Hawaii could be launched. It would also give Japan more breathing room as they were shaken by the Doolittle raid in April 1942. The Japanese planned to invade Midway after delivering a decisive blow to American sea power in the area. Of course, the Americans saw Midway as a launching platform to begin the island-hopping campaign leading to the subjugation of Japan A month before the Battle of Midway the two antagonists engaged in the battle of the Coral Sea. This sea battle is generally thought of as indecisive by historians, but it did surprise the over-confident Japanese military and thwarted its plans to invade New Guinea, thus threatening Australia. Some of the questions Steve will explore: Register for more free articles. Log in Sign up How did the Americans break the Japanese code and what did desalinization of water have to do with it? What was the strength of the American Pacific Fleet seven-months after the disaster at Pearl Harbor? Did the commander-in-chief of the Japanese Fleet, Isoroku Yamamoto, screw up by spreading his assets too thin? Was the U.S. taking a gamble in placing untested Admiral Chester Nimitz in charge of the Pacific fleet? How did the loss of its four carriers seal the fate of the Japanese viv-a vis its ability to compete with the industrial might of the U.S.? Again, join us Monday, April 4, at 1 p.m., in the Mountainview East Ballroom. If you are not on our email list, send a note to sreggentin@gmail.com. The Roundtable does not charge dues. However, we do ask for a one-dollar donation at the door to cover taking our guest speakers to lunch at one of our restaurants and to cover travel expenses when necessary. The wine industry is one of a number of professions where women hold disproportionately fewer seats at the table than men. While every aspect of this business remains a male dominated environment, the culture is slowly changing. In company ownership, vineyard management and winemaking, women are slowly assuming more leadership roles and having great success in the process. In this and subsequent articles I would like to showcase a few examples of women who are making their mark in the wine world. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know Lisa Strid, head winemaker for Aridus Wine Company. At a relatively young age, Lisa has risen to a senior position within the wine production profession and several of her wines have recently garnered recognition on a national level. Lisa basically stumbled into the profession while spending weekends assisting her uncle, tending vines and making wine at his farm and large hobby vineyard in Washington State. She was attracted by both the physical nature of the work, as well as the level of artistry it takes to produce quality wines. It was this experience that motivated Lisa to change careers. While earning her Bachelor of Science in Food Science with a concentration in Enology & Viticulture at Oregon State University, Lisa had the opportunity to intern at Alexana Winery in Oregons Willamette Valley, drawing experience from assisting in the production of small batch, premium Pinot Noir and Riesling. After graduation, she took a position at E&J Gallo Winery, one of the largest producers in the world. At Gallo, she initially worked on the Specialty Winemaking team. After a couple of years, she was promoted to the role of Research Winemaker. In this position, she focused on the use of emerging technology and the exploration of process-driven changes to target different wine styles. In 2016, the opportunity to assume the winemaker role at Aridus Wine Company in Willcox, AZ presented itself and Lisa decided the time was right to leave California and take on this leadership position within one of the countrys emerging wine regions. Considered a mid-sized winery on the national scale, Aridus is one of the largest producers in Arizona, releasing about 5,500 cases a year across a dozen different varietal wines and blends. The company originally used contract fruit, purchased from growers in Arizona, New Mexico and California, but is in the process of transitioning to using estate only grapes sourced from their 28-acre vineyard in the foothills of the Chiricahua Mountains of southern Arizona. Register for more free articles. Log in Sign up During one of my conversations with Lisa at the winery, I was struck by her focus: the attention to detail relating to every aspect of the winemaking process. For Lisa, winemaking is a matter of deftly balancing technology and artistry. There is also little doubt about the passion that she has for her work; a drive to produce the very best wine possible. Because Arizona wines are still relatively unknown across the broader consumer market, Lisa feels an added responsibility to make wines that can showcase the potential of Arizona wineries. Lisa admits that there is still room to address the issues surrounding equity and inclusion within the wine industry. Over the course of her education and career she has observed conversations and incidents reflecting the bias that still exists within the wine world. On occasion even customers are surprised when they learn that she is the companys winemaker, thinking that the physicality of certain aspects of the position necessitates a man to do the job. That being said, Lisa considers herself fully accepted and respected in her current situation in that she is surrounded by a great team and the owners of Aridus, Scott and Joan Dahmer, are wonderful people to work for. You probably wont find Lisas wines in your local retail establishments; they focus on primarily direct to consumer sales through their wine club and out of their tasting rooms in Scottsdale and Willcox, Arizona. Aridus wines can be purchased online at ariduswineco.com. Having had the opportunity to sample a number of their wines across several vintages I feel confident to offer my endorsement. If you havent had the opportunity to try wines from Arizona, Aridus is good place to start. Salute. Tom Oetinger holds an advanced certification in wine & spirits from the WSET in London, England. He is available to assist you with your wine events or answer your wine questions. Tom also offers a free email service, recommending high quality, good value wines available locally. Contact / subscribe at tjo1913@gmail.com The public is welcome to come to the First Baptist Church of Coweta to meet candidates for national, state and Wagoner County offices on the Oklahoma ballot. American Legion Post 226 will host their fourth Meet & Greet and Pie Auction on April 22. The meet and greet starts at 6:15 p.m. and the pie auction starts at 7 p.m. The First Baptist Church is located at 15296 OK-72 in Coweta. Post 226 members are in the process of sending invitations out to all of the candidates. The meet and greet and pie auction have been well-attended by candidates and voters over the years. The last event Post 226 members hosted was in 2018 when there were a handful of candidates running for Oklahoma Governor, District 1 Representative and others. Grant Huskey, with American Legion Post 226, said he is expecting a similar, if not greater, turnout than 2018. We are really encouraging people to come out and meet the candidates, Huskey said. The meet and greet will be perfect for that. The candidates will be able to distribute information and meet the voters. Each candidate will be allowed 55 seconds to speak. In between speakers, deserts will be auctioned off. They will also draw for valuable door prizes. There will be light refreshments while voters visit with the candidates at the meet and greet. All proceeds from the event go back to the community at American Legion Post 226. The post generated over $4,000 from the event in 2018 all funds that were used for scholarships, sponsored events and building utilities. American Legion is the nations largest veterans service organization. Post 226 sponsors boys and girls state, sponsors and provides scholarships to the Constitutional Oratorical Contest. They also support numerous events throughout the year to promote patriotism and to assist members of the community. A man who admitted to causing second- and third-degree burns on his 4-year-old son when he placed him in scalding bathtub water was sentenced to time already served in prison Thursday. The two-year sentence for Grant Jackson IV, 41, was in accordance with a plea agreement with federal prosecutors, who picked up his case in December 2020. Jackson had already served a four-year state prison sentence for the crime when the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals in March 2021 overturned his conviction and prison term after finding that the state did not have jurisdiction to prosecute him under the U.S. Supreme Courts July 2020 McGirt decision. A Tulsa County District Court jury found Jackson guilty of child abuse in 2016 and recommended a four-year prison sentence, which Jackson discharged in 2019. A federal grand jury initially charged Jackson with child abuse in Indian Country. Prosecutors filed an amended charge of child neglect in November, just days prior to Jackson agreeing to plead guilty with the stipulated sentence. Police arrested Jackson after officers were called to a south Tulsa hospital emergency room on Nov. 1, 2014. His son was admitted to the hospital with severe burns from the waist down, according to an arrest report. Jackson placed the child in the hot water as punishment for soiling his pants, according to court records The child was later flown by medical helicopter to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Galveston, Texas, with deep second- and third-degree burns to 31 percent of his body, according to law enforcement. The court agreement states factors considered in opting for a plea deal included the trauma a second trial would cause the victim and his family. The document also states the child has healed from his injuries and has no contact with the defendant. Featured video: Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A security guard who pepper-sprayed a man unprovoked outside an east Tulsa motel in 2020 and then shot him, claiming self-defense, was found guilty of manslaughter on Thursday and sentenced to 12 years in prison. Christopher Straight, who resigned as a sergeant from the Tulsa County Sheriffs Office in 2018 amid an internal investigation that would have resulted in his demotion, was working as a security guard at Knights Inn near 11th Street and Garnett Road, on June 6, 2020. A manager had asked Carlos Carson, a 36-year-old guest at the motel, to leave the property after Carson reportedly complained about vandalism to his vehicle. Straight told detectives Carson had said he would beat his a after Straight told Carson he needed to leave. Carson went to place some belongings in his car, and on surveillance video published by the Washington Post, he can be seen walking back toward the motel in a non-aggressive manner, carrying a beverage cup, when Straight steps out of his truck and, from behind his vehicle door, shoots a stream of pepper spray from several feet away toward Carsons face. Carson staggers before throwing his cup and coming after Straight, hitting him repeatedly with his fists and trying to pull him from the vehicle he stepped back into. About 20 seconds of struggle later, Straight grabbed his firearm and shot Carson, who was Black. Straight later acknowledged to police that Carson was not being physically aggressive at all at the moment he sprayed him but said he had used the irritant to deter Carson from becoming aggressive. He said he planned to detain Carson for trespassing until police arrived. As Assistant District Attorney Kevin Gray argued, a defendant cannot initiate a physical altercation, and then claim self-defense when he shoots the victim. A jury Gray described as being particularly attentive to the evidence of the case and thoughtful in their consideration of a verdict agreed. They found Straight guilty of first-degree manslaughter in the heat of passion during a trial in early March and recommended he serve a sentence of 12 years. During his formal sentencing Thursday, deputies used a wheelchair to bring Straight, whose attorney described him as severely overweight, into District Judge Tracy Priddys courtroom though he was able to stand and walk on his own. Two of Carsons family members who were present, his mother and one of his sons, stood before Priddy and addressed Straight. Phyllis Anderson told Straight her heart has broken every day since he killed her son, and she offered a blanket thanks to everyone in the courtroom who brought Straight to justice, saying she hopes Carson can now rest easier. Carsons 16-year-old son, Kadin Saffell, began his statement by offering his familys forgiveness and later directed Straight to repentance, reminding him that God is his final judge. Walking Straight through the consequences of his actions, Saffell reminded Straight that his decisions not only took Carson away from his children, but also took Straight away from his own children for 12 years. That will eventually come to an end after many opportunities for contact with family and in-custody visitations, he said, but Carson will never have that chance. Carsons killing came in the midst of a national reckoning over racism and police brutality following the death of George Floyd, a Black man, under the knee of a white Minnesotan police officer. Carsons brother Tulsa Police Officer Ananias Carson has since been accused in an unrelated accessory to a felony case in Tulsa District Court. Straights attorney, Jim Linger, described Straights actions as a departure from what was normal or expected in his life and urged Priddy to consider his health and letters written by several family members and friends testifying to Straights personality and work performance. However, after his departure from law enforcement, Straight was fired from one private security company and investigated by TPD while working for another after he allegedly pepper-sprayed a Black woman in another unprovoked attack, the Washington Post reported. His 13 years of employment at the Tulsa County jail were also checkered with internal investigations and discipline, and federal court records indicate he was the subject of three lawsuits by jail inmates related to his behavior while on duty, according to Tulsa World archives. Priddy called the shooting incredibly tragic and said she found no reason not to follow the jurys recommended sentence. Straight is required to serve at least 85% of his sentence under state law, and he will receive credit toward that total for any time he has already been in custody. He will not face a fine in accordance with the jurys recommendation, Priddy said. Linger notified the court of his intent to appeal the decision, and Straight requested immediate transportation to Oklahoma Department of Corrections custody. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Voters in Jenks Public Schools Ward 2 are being asked to head to the polls on April 5 as school board President Terry Keeling has drawn a challenger for his seat. One of 10 Tulsa area school board seats on the general election ballot, Ward 2 covers the southeastern corner of Jenks Public Schools attendance area. Early walk-in voting is scheduled for March 31 and April 1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Tulsa County Election Board. The current board president, Keeling ran unopposed in 2017. Two of his three children have graduated from Jenks Public Schools and the third currently attends Jenks High School. Despite having a professional background in finance and dealing with large organizations through his work as a managing partner with RDK and Associates, Keeling said he was still taken aback upon learning the ins and outs of running the growing district after he joined the school board. I knew how the school was operating from a parent perspective, but you have no clue until you get on the board, see what the administration deals with and see what actually happens and as a business, how you maneuver, he said, comparing the learning process to drinking from a fire hose. Its a huge district. Its $90 million in revenue. Its $900 million in net assessed value. Its 1,600-plus employees and 12,000-plus students. Its a major organization. Acknowledging the staffing challenges Jenks and other area school districts faced even prior to COVID-19, Keeling said he sees the school boards primary role is that of an advocate. That advocacy comes in an array of forms he said, including seeking out ways to provide additional support for students and district employees and lobbying the state legislature for laws and budget moves that help Jenks and other school districts retain employees. From our level, it (advocacy) is all about support, Keeling said. Its support of the teachers and support of the administration. Weve done a good job with that. If weve had any issues with the teachers, its been more along the lines of whether we should be wearing masks. Its never been about funding weve been very supportive about that. Citing that need to provide support for the district and its staff as well as the potential lack of oversight, Keeling is opposed to vouchers. A measure failed late Wednesday night in the Oklahoma Senate that would have allowed families to receive public education funds to pay for tuition or other expenses associated with attending a private school. Any voucher system that takes away from public schools, I cant support, he said. Im there to support public education. I believe in it. Keelings opponent, Ashley Cross, did not respond to multiple email requests for an interview. The man who answered calls to the number listed on Cross campaign committee paperwork filed with Jenks Public Schools said it was a wrong number. She also withdrew from a candidate forum hosted Tuesday night by Jenks Public Schools Parent-Teacher Organization. On her campaigns website, Cross says she is concerned about inappropriate materials and oversexualization being pushed in schools. However, she does not provide a definition of either notion nor does she list any specific actions to address either topic if elected to the board. Additionally, Jenks Public Schools says it has not received any parent complaints or challenges about any of its library materials within the last five years. According to the biography posted on her campaign website, Cross has three students attending Jenks Public Schools. She is an officer for the Parent-Teacher Association at Jenks Southeast Elementary School and serves on the board of directors for the Jenks Public Schools Foundation. Featured video: Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The film crews are apparently returning to Osage County. Osage Nation Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear said he was advised Killers of the Flower Moon is tentatively slated to film additional scenes of a traditional community dance in mid-May in Osage County. I heard that Mr. Scorsese and the producers are going to come back and try to get a better ending by showing everyone who was an extra in a social dance where everyones having a good time, he said Friday during an appearance at the Tulsa Press Club. Theyre coming back in mid-May, which is pretty soon. I was told they were coming back to film that to get a better ending than what really happened. I can assure that after all this madness, we didnt say Lets have a social dance! Directed by Martin Scorsese, the movie is an adaptation of David Granns best-selling book of the same name and chronicles the Reign of Terror when Osage citizens were systematically killed for their oil money. Principal photography wrapped in September, and the film is expected to be released later this year. During Fridays appearance at the Press Club, the principal chief reiterated that the film is not sponsored by the Osage Nation, but the tribe did cooperate with the production team on several aspects to ensure cultural and historic accuracy. Mr. Scorsese has told us it is a movie that the Osage will be proud of, he said. In addition to the film, Standing Bear touched on the impact of the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma on the Pawhuska-based tribe. The 2020 decision affirmed that at least with respect to criminal jurisdiction, the Muscogee Nations reservation was not disestablished and has since been extended to apply to five other Oklahoma tribes. Although the tribe has briefs submitted in multiple pending cases, the decision has not been applied to the Osage Nations surface level reservation. The tribe still holds the mineral rights for all of Osage County. The U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling in 2010 that the tribes surface level reservation was disestablished, but relied on extratextual information that was summarily dismissed a decade later by the U.S. Supreme Court in the McGirt opinion. To date, the tribe has not added any more prosecutors, judges, police officers or detention facility space in anticipation of a favorable ruling. However, Standing Bear said discussions about that need and how to pay for it are underway. Youd better be willing to pay the price (of victory), which is courts, police and facilities, he said. Otherwise, youre going to get criticized like they are getting criticized that youve got criminals running around. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Oklahoma House of Representatives turned the clock back after a fashion on Thursday, but not because of anything to do with timekeeping. Eight years ago, the Republican-led Legislature and Republican Gov. Mary Fallin pushed through state pension reforms that included phasing out the Oklahoma Public Employee Retirement Systems defined-benefit pension in favor of a defined contribution 401k-type plan. Thursday, the Republican-led House reversed course and voted to bring back the defined benefit system. The decision was made (in 2014) to move the state employees to a defined contribution system, said Rep. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, in explaining his House Bill 2486. That happened, but there were a lot of exceptions, so not everyone got put in there and not everyone got put into the new system. As a result, said Frix, OPERS is continuing to operate two retirement systems, which means higher administrative costs. Besides that, Frix said, state agencies prefer the pension system because it helps recruit and retain employees. Several House members, including Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, and Rep. Mark Lepak, took issue with both the substance of HB 2486 and the manner in which it found its way to the House floor without going through the Banking and Pensions Committee. The switch to a defined contribution system was part of a larger initiative to put the states various pension plans on sound actuarial footings after decades of precarious finances. That has largely been accomplished, but Frix said the improvement hasnt had much to do with the OPERS switch. OPERS is the second-largest of the states seven pension funds, after the Oklahoma Teacher Retirement System, and was the only one switched to a defined contribution plan. Existing employees, however, were allowed to stay in the existing plan, with only new hires required to go into the new system. According to Frix, the change has made hiring and retaining state employees more difficult. Before the switch, he said, the state tended to pay less than the private sector but had a better retirement plan. Now it still pays less but no longer offers a significantly better retirement benefit. HB 2468 passed 68-23 ahead of Thursdays deadline for House bills to be voted on in the House. Also beating Thursdays deadline: HB 2025, by Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, which would require medical marijuana licenses be displayed in a conspicuous location or manner easily visible to any person entering the business. The bills purpose, Steagall said, is to help law enforcement identify illegal operations. HB 3280, by Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, which would limit the land owned by the state and federal government to 10% of the states land surface. HB 3294, by Humphrey, directs the Department of Corrections to begin sending savings from 2016s State Question 780 to local governments for community treatment programs as specified under a companion measure, SQ 781. DOC and state officials have quarreled since the two state questions were adopted over the amount of money involved. HB 4287, by Rep. Dean Davis, R-Broken Arrow, which passed on reconsideration after failing Wednesday night. The measure requires prepackaging of most medical marijuana products, which some in the business complained will raise costs, but which Davis and others said will help cut down on illegal sales. After a number of changes, including the size of packages (between one-half ounce and three ounces) and an extension of the effective date to Jan. 1, the bill passed Thursday 78-9. Featured video: Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Although holding your nations highest military award for valor entitles you to a certain celebrity status, Jack Montgomery never embraced it. In fact, the idea of having anything named after him likely would not have sat too well. I wondered about that what he would have thought when we were doing it, said Don Nichols, who led the effort several years ago to have the Jack C. Montgomery Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Muskogee renamed for his late hero. He mightve been a little embarrassed, Nichols admitted. He was the kind of guy that if you were to introduce him as a Medal of Honor recipient rather than just a veteran, it would upset him. He wanted to be just a veteran. With this Friday being national Medal of Honor Day, I was thinking about 1st Lt. Montgomery, who died in 2002. He was one of a handful of Native Americans awarded the Medal of Honor during World War II. Most of those WWII recipients had Oklahoma ties. But its the ties that connected Montgomery, a longtime Muskogee resident, and fellow recipient Ernest Childers, from Broken Arrow, that really jumped out at me. Born less than a year apart, their lives followed similar paths. Both graduated from Chilocco Indian Agricultural School near Newkirk. Both volunteered for service in 1937. And both were sent to Italy with the 45th Infantry, where each received the Medal of Honor for their actions. Moreover, both have been honored in their home state, with facilities being named after them. But how their names are remembered in the future could well be affected by recent news concerning each. The late Lt. Col. Childers, whose name is on a school in Broken Arrow and the VA outpatient clinic in Tulsa, is among the names being considered as a replacement for Confederate names on various Army bases around the south and in Texas. At the same time, however, word of a planned systemwide VA reorganization has put the future of Montgomerys name in question. The Muskogee VA hospital was recently recommended for closure, with future services to be centralized in Tulsa. Nichols, a Vietnam veteran and commander of Muskogees Order of the Purple Heart chapter, is staunchly opposed to closing the facility. Hes in the early stages of organizing a petition drive to try to stop it from happening. It cant help but remind him of a similar petition drive he led years ago, and hes hopeful of similar success. It was Nichols and fellow supporters who collected thousands of signatures to have the facility named for Montgomery in 2007. Nichols, who also was involved with renaming the outpatient clinic for Childers, said he got to know and admire Montgomery through the state Department of Veterans Affairs. Montgomery, who worked for the department after his service, hired Nichols to work at the Muskogee office. Montgomery cared deeply about the VA hospital, Nichols said. During the last years of his life, he volunteered there as a trolley driver, transporting veterans and their families from the facilitys parking lot to its entrance. Most of the guys riding with him probably never would have guessed they were being driven around by a Medal of Honor recipient, Nichols said, adding that Montgomery certainly would never have mentioned it. Nichols also had Montgomery memorialized with a bronze bust by Cherokee artist Troy Jackson. Its located at the Cherokee Nation Veterans Services Center in Tahlequah. But no tribute to Montgomery is as visible as the Muskogee hospital. His name disappearing from so prominent a public place would be a shame, Nichols said. However, the bigger shame, he added, would be the closure itself. And he has no doubt Montgomery would agree with him. One of the reasons Nichols is opposing closure is because of Mr. Montgomery and how he would feel about it. He would want to be able to speak for the people. Such as all the veterans living in southeastern Oklahoma, who will have to travel much further for services, Nichols said. If Montgomery were here today, the sight of his name on the building might make him a little uncomfortable. But Nichols is convinced he would speak up to keep it open. I know where his heart would be, Nichols said. Bottom line, he would care most not because his name was on it, but because of the veterans it serves. Nichols invites anyone interested in supporting his effort to keep the VA hospital open to contact him at 918-931-8632. From October 2021: Groundbreaking on Veterans Hospital in Tulsa Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The populations in both Tulsa County and the Tulsa metro area increased during the height of the pandemic, with credit for some of the gains going to a local incentive program. Figures released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau indicate the Tulsa metropolitan area population increased by 7,399 from July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021. The 7,399 person, or 0.7% gain in overall population, brought the total Tulsa metropolitan area population to 1,023,988, data shows. The Tulsa metropolitan statistical area is made up of the combined populations of Tulsa, Creek, Okmulgee, Osage, Pawnee, Rogers and Wagoner counties. The increases in population came as larger metropolitan areas such as New York, Chicago and Los Angeles all reported a decline in residents between July 2020 and July 2021. Meanwhile, Tulsa County was among 49 counties in the state that saw an increase in residents during the same one-year period. The Tulsa County population increased by 2,701, or from 670,157 to 672,858 between July 1, 2020 and July 1, 2021, according to U.S. Census Bureau population estimates. Of the 2,701 net total increase in Tulsa County population, the Census Bureau attributed 965 of the population gain to residents moving here from other states. An estimated 418 additional residents living here was attributed to gains in international migration in Tulsa County with the balance of the gain due to there being more births than deaths, referred to as the natural change. With a 965-resident net increase in domestic migration in Tulsa County, it stands to reason that a Tulsa program aimed at luring new residents to the city helped contribute to the gain. Launched in November 2018 by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, Tulsa Remote offers $10,000 to out-of-state workers willing to move to Tulsa and work remotely. While the program should be credited with some of the population increase, it isnt the only reason, said Justin Harlan, Tulsa Remote managing director. The program has brought more than 1,500 remote workers to the city over a three-year period, about 900 of whom moved here in 2021, Harlan said. So I think a lot of this is due to Tulsa becoming more attractive to folks across the country and we certainly have played a role in that, but I think its really an attribution to Tulsa as a whole becoming a really great place to be, Harlan said. In 2021 alone, the program has brought $62 million in new local earnings to the city of Tulsa, Harlan said. Given its success, the program is in no danger of going away anytime soon, he said. If this $10,000 is what gets people here to give Tulsa a chance, and we continue to see this type of economic impact on the city, well continue to do this, Harlan said. Featured video: Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Recently, U.S. Sen. James Lankford declined a debate, saying he didnt want to give his opponent free air time. School board candidates in Jenks and Union are refusing to appear in forums hosted by parent groups with the incumbents they are challenging. This comes just three months after the Republican National Committee notified the Commission on Presidential Debates that it plans to prohibit its candidates from participating in its debates. Is this end of political debates? If so, its bad for voter education and will harm good governance. Campaigns are big business, with consultants curating images for candidates, from talking points to wardrobes. This approach gives a meticulously planned perception of a person, accurate or not. Replacing debates and forums will be slick, pre-packaged personas built around consumer marketing. No more will candidates need to explain their positions; they could just surround themselves with like-minded people and repeat phrases. This is already a growing problem for voters who want to find out more about candidates. Social media ushered in a way to bypass the traditional vetting of candidates. Its put power in the hands of political parties and special interests. Voters get a watered-down, one-sided view of people wanting to run government. For constituents challenging candidates in that online space, they may find themselves blocked and shut out from the conversation. The insistence on written questions allows a candidate to have someone else answer or check to ensure their responses fit a chosen narrative. How is this different from propaganda? If candidates are unwilling to meet people of differing views before they take office, there is no incentive to act differently once given power. By isolating from opponents and the public, it becomes easier to demonize the other, continuing to sow divides rather than find common ground. Lankfords loudest challenger is Tulsa Pastor Jackson Lahmeyer, who fits on the edge of the political right. Reasons Lankford has given for not debating are that it would be a side show and give his opponent free air time. Lankford, however, would receive the same amount of air time. With public debates, there is always a chance it could become a circus if a candidate starts acting like a fool. But voters need to see that unfold. Voters need to see how candidates conduct themselves, especially when under pressure or faced with unusual circumstances. Can candidates think well on their feet? How do they react to questions from the public? Are they mean or respectful? Are they knowledgeable beyond talking points? When Lankford ran in 2016, he received more votes from Oklahomans (980,892) than Trump (949,136). More voters came out four years later, so its unclear how that would have shaken out in 2020. This level of approval gives Lankford cover. Not appearing likely wont hurt his campaign because he has a track record of successful re-elections. Thats what happened when U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe refused to debate his Democrat challenger Abby Broyles two years ago. He still won with 63% approval. A high level of support shouldnt be an excuse to not engage in public forums and debates. If anything, it ought to be viewed as opportunities to reaffirm what voters believe. For unknown candidates, avoidance makes no sense. In Jenks and Union schools, candidates opposing the incumbents have pulled out of public forums hosted by parent-teacher organizations, claiming biased processes or organizations. In Union, only a student-led event doubling as a voter registration drive attracted both candidates simultaneously. So far, both candidates have agreed to be on a Facebook Live forum later this week. But parents know that online is no substitute for in-person. The refusal to enter public debates and forums is playing out at the national level as the RNC challenges the commission that hosts the presidential and vice presidential debates. The commission was founded by the Republican and Democratic parties in 1987 to permanently implement the debates as part of the election. Although touted as nonpartisan, conservatives in recent years have complained the process favors Democrats. However, the commission negotiates with the candidates on terms and format. The RNC has stated it wants more of a direct role, rather than the commission going to the qualifying candidates. In a letter sent to the commission in January, other RNC complaints were about holding the first debate earlier and accusing the group of selecting biased moderators, changing the agreed-upon format and failing to maintain nonpartisanship. Thats still being worked out, but its possible Americans may not see their president in a debate, breaking a long American custom. The modern presidential debate started with the 1960 televised John F. Kennedy versus Richard Nixon event. But the tradition is considered to have started with the 1856 Illinois senate race between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas. School boards, city councils, legislatures and Congress require group efforts. To get something done, members must be able to work with others. Public forums and debates give voters a look at the ability of candidates to do that. Public debates and forums have served Americans well, allowing voters a better chance at knowing candidates. Voters deserve better than campaign theater and need to demand candidates keep this American tradition. Subscribe to Daily Headlines Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Jenks School Board incumbent Terry Keeling deserves re-election on April 5 after weathering a difficult time in governing education by keeping a focus on students and working with other board members. Representing the far southeast corner of the district, he was elected in 2018, the same month as the teacher walkout. Two years later came the unprecedented pandemic. Through this, the Jenks School Board successfully navigated challenging circumstances and remains a high academic performer among public school districts. Its members did this by setting aside partisanship to hone in on what Jenks students, staff and families needed. Keeling played a role in providing this level-headed guidance and oversight of the district. He is the president and partner in a bank consulting firm with three children who have graduated or are enrolled in Jenks schools. His wife is a Jenks graduate. His financial expertise is valuable in understanding the complexities of public education budgets. A board members main responsibilities are approving a budget and overseeing the work of the superintendent. Keelings fiscal management has served the district well, noting that for years the Jenks audits have found no recommended adjustments. Jenks is one of Oklahomas fastest growing cities, along with its student population. Since 2010, the citys population has jumped about 49%, and the student enrollment has increased by 21%. Goodand earlyplanning put regular bond issues for schools in front of voters for approval, constructing an impressive campus of buildings, technology and transportation. That investment eased the current population growth. Maintaining that infrastructure as the city continues to expand is among Keelings priorities. Though, he says the biggest challenge for Jenks schools is teacher and staff retentiona problem facing schools statewide. Jenks schools has a reputation of high academic achievement, but some schools have pockets of struggling students. This concerns Keeling, who would like to see more done to help under-served students. His challenger, Ashley Cross, did not respond to an invitation by the editorial board to talk about her positions. Her online campaign site lists wanting a practical approach to COVID and opposing critical race theory and the over-sexualization being pushed in our schools Pronouns, inappropriate materials, etc. Keeling understands the job of a school board member is to listen to the public and work with those who have disagreements. He has been a good representative for Ward 2. We endorse Keeling for his proven ability at prioritizing all students, collaborating with others and tracking the districts financial health. Subscribe to Daily Headlines Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Here are todays leading news stories: COVID-19 Updates -- Vietnams Ministry of Health reported 120,000 COVID-19 cases on Thursday, raising the national tally to 8,599,751, with 4,826,024 recoveries and 42,145 deaths. Society -- The Peoples Court in north-central Nghe An Province gave on Thursday a life sentence to a 38-year-old former police officer for illegally trading narcotics in 2020. -- Authorities in northern Thai Binh Province confirmed on Thursday they were looking for the family members of a newborn baby girl after she was found inside a cardboard box on a local street earlier the same day. -- Nguyen Phuong Hang, a Vietnamese businesswoman who became famous with her Facebook livestream videos, was arrested on Thursday for abusing democratic freedoms to infringe upon the interests of the state, and the rights and interests of individuals. -- The refinancing procedures for a VND10 trillion (US$437 million) anti-flooding project in Ho Chi Minh City have been finished, allowing the project to possibly reach completion within this year. -- Police in north-central Ha Tinh affirmed Thursday they were investigating a case where a tenth grader was assaulted by a local man last week, which caused the young girl to suffer a brain concussion. -- Officers in Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City have separated a 12-year-old girl from her mother after CCTV footage of the woman beating the young girl was posted to social media earlier this week. Business -- State-owned enterprises (SOEs) should play a pioneering role in renovation and science-technology development, and demonstrate their leading role of the economy, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said during a national videoconference with SOEs on Thursday. Lifestyle -- Thousands of people witnessed the Legendary My Son Night, an outdoor art performance that recreates the values of Cham culture, at the My Son relic site in central Quang Nam Province on Thursday evening. The show is also a new tourism product aimed to attract more visitors to the site. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Ho Chi Minh Citys authorities said on Thursday morning that they were investigating an article and a video published online which purportedly show a mom hitting her biological daughter with a plastic chair. The article, titled 12-year-old girl is abused by own mother for four years, prompting her aunts to call out for help, was published earlier this week. Upon being notified of the case, the People's Committee of Phu Nhuan District in Ho Chi Minh City asked local police to investigate the incident. According to police, the girl was identified as V.T.K., a 12-year-old who lives with her mother, V.L.H.T., 31, and aunts in the district. A health check carried out at Phu Nhuan District Hospital showed that K. was suffering from slight pain on the left side of her brain, left wrist, and left hand. She also had swelling on her left temporal lobe, as well as scratches on her skin and fingers. She is currently in stable condition. While speaking with local police, K.s aunts denied the abuse had been going on for several years. The article which published the original story claimed that the abuse had been going on for four years and that K. had once told her mom to beat me to death. T. sometimes scolds or punishes her daughter when she is mischievous or makes mistakes, an aunt said. Following an extensive investigation into the incident, police determined that it was a misunderstanding. T. admitted that she sometimes gets angry and yells at her daughter, particularly during times of financial and personal struggles. District authorities have requested that K. be temporarily isolated from T. and that an aunt is assigned to protect the child. Police are also continuing to collect testimonies and evidence in order to clarify the case and handle the situation in accordance with the law. K.s parents were never married and K.'s dad left her family when she was just baby. She grew up living with her grandma as T. worked abroad in Singapore for eight years, said local police. K. moved in with T. when she returned to Vietnam. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Police in the north-central Vietnamese province of Ha Tinh affirmed on Thursday that they were investigating an assault by a local man on a tenth grader that caused the young girl to suffer a concussion. The case was reported to local police by Bui Thi Nguyet, a 42-year-old resident of Duc Tho District in Ha Tinh Province. Nguyets 16-year-old daughter, T.B.T.L., and a friend visited a grocery store owned by 39-year-old T.V.T. to buy sewing needles on the afternoon of January 16. Upon their arrival, L.s friend went into the store and spoke with T. while L. waited outside. As T. insisted that the friend purchase a box of sewing needles, the friend left the store without buying anything. After the friend told L. about T.s rejection to sell needles in separate pieces, L. asked, Why do we need a full box of needles? To sew your mouth? T. then began to chase the two girls, pulling the friend off of an electric bike and then hitting L. several times. The two girls returned to L.s house shortly after the assault. L.s family took her to Duc Tho District General Hospital before transferring her to Ha Tinh General Hospital, where she was diagnosed with a concussion. L.s family then demanded local police charge T. for intentionally causing injury to her. My daughter has had many headaches and is in a state of panic since leaving the hospital, Nguyet said. Shes recently had convulsions and vomited at school. Weve had to take her to the hospital for further treatment. Tran Thanh Tuan, deputy head of the public security bureau of Duc Tho District, said officers are working on the case and that there are viable grounds for prosecution against T. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Nguyen Phuong Hang, a Vietnamese CEO who became an Internet sensation thanks to her Facebook live-streams, was arrested on Thursday evening for abusing democratic freedoms. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Public Security arrested and initiated legal proceedings against Hang, CEO of Dai Nam JSC, for abusing democratic freedoms to infringe upon the interests of the state and the rights and interests of individuals. The decision was approved by the municipal Peoples Procuracy. Officers also searched Hangs houses in District 1 and District 3, Ho Chi Minh City on the same night and confiscated several documents related to the case. An officer reads the decision to prosecute and arrest Nguyen Phuong Hang at the police station in Ho Chi Minh City, March 24, 2022. Photo: Vietnam Government Portal Hang had taken advantage of her influence and used social networks to organize many live broadcasts during which she shared unverified information related to other people's private lives, the municipal Department of Public Security stated in its information portal. The woman often insulted and slandered other people during her live-streams, it added. Hang was previously banned from leaving the country from February 16 to April 29 over multiple accusations of slander and insults. Nguyen Phuong Hang during her Facebook live-stream During her Facebook live-streams from March 2021, Hang accused many celebrities of pocketing donations for flood-stricken residents in central Vietnam in 2020. Officers under the Ministry of Public Security later investigated these allegations and concluded that the artists did not commit fraud or appropriate charitable money. Multiple celebrities and some journalists also accused Hang of slandering and humiliating other people. Police search the house of Nguyen Phuong Hang in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, March 24, 2022. Photo: Minh Hoa / Tuoi Tre Police search the house of Nguyen Phuong Hang in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, March 24, 2022. Photo: Minh Hoa / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Tuesday is Budget 2022 with Live coverage across ABC, ABC News channel and iview. Coverage begins at 7:30pm AEDT as the Treasurer Josh Frydenberg hands down his Federal Budget live from Canberra. From 8pm, Leigh Sales hosts Budget 2022 Special featuring live coverage of the budget announcement and interviews with the Treasurer and Shadow Treasurer. She will be joined by Insiders host David Speers, Political Editor Andrew Probyn and Chief Political Correspondent Laura Tingle. Jeremy Fernandez will also convene a panel of undecided voters to gauge their reaction to Budget 2022. And the reaction continues from 9pm with extended analysis by David Speers and interviews with experts to help unpack the Budget and what it means for critical parts of the Australian economy and the Morrison governments re-election prospects. At 10pm The Business Budget Special with Kathryn Robinson will be talking to leaders of the Australian business community for their reaction to the budget. On ABC Radio, there will be an extended Budget edition of PM from 6:30pm (AEDT) including economic and political analysis from David Lipson and our team in Canberra, to help interpret the facts and figures and explain what it all means for you and your family. Following Tuesdays Budget 2022 Special, ABC NEWS online will continue to bring you the latest budget news and information, as well as stories to help you unpack what the budget means for you and your family. The ABC will also broadcast Opposition Leader Anthony Albaneses Budget Reply speech at 7:30pm (AEDT) on Thursday 31 March, followed by a special edition of 7.30 at 8pm. *Tuesday 29 March live on ABC News and ABC iview (7.30pm AEDT), and ABC TV (7.30 local time). On Sundays 60 Minutes Tara Brown talks with Stella Moris, wife of Julian Assange. Just Married London in spring is a perfect place and time to get married. And so it was for Stella Moris on Wednesday. Like all brides, her wedding was unforgettable, but it was also a ceremony unlike any other. Her husband is Australian Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, which meant the happy couple swapped vows in Englands toughest maximum-security jail, Belmarsh Prison. As their infant sons Gabriel and Max watched on, Stella and Julian promised to try to lead as normal a life as possible. But as Tara Brown reports, thats a bittersweet commitment, with the groom facing extradition to the United States and the prospect of 175 more years in jail if convicted of espionage. Reporter: Tara Brown Producers: Natalie Clancy, Naomi Shivaraman Inescapable Accused and then dubiously convicted of spying, what Australian academic Kylie Moore-Gilbert endured, locked up in brutal Iranian prisons for more than two years, would have broken most people. It wasnt just the torment of being in solitary confinement for most of that time, she also withstood relentless interrogations as well as other extreme psychological torture. But worst of all, the probable reason she remained imprisoned for so long is just bizarre. For the first time, she explains how one of her captors, a sleazy prison boss, fell for her. As Kylie tells Sarah Abo, it was a frightening attraction that plunged her into an inescapably dangerous love triangle. Reporter: Sarah Abo Producer: Garry McNab 8:40pm Sunday March 27 on Nine. EXCLUSIVE: Episodes of Hillsong TV have been pulled from Network 10 after Pastor Brian Houston resigned this week as head of the Church. The show has screened weekly at 6:30am on Sunday mornings but this coming Sunday is replaced by a repeat of Farm to Fork. A Network 10 spokesperson said, Network 10 has confirmed that Hillsong TV will no longer be part of its schedule and has deleted all episodes from its streaming service 10 Play. TV Tonight understands it was Hillsong Church which requested the broadcast be withdrawn, after an investigation into two incidents involving Mr Houston found he had breached the churchs moral code of conduct for pastors. But programming will continue at Foxtel, which includes both Australian and US religious content. A Foxtel spokesperson said, We understand Mr Houston has left Hillsong and the Hillsong channel remains available on Foxtel. Fetch TV which also screens the programme has been contacted for comment. Episodes formerly on 10 Play. ABC Chair Ita Buttrose will deliver 2022 Andrew Olle Media Lecture to be held in Sydney on Friday 17 June, marking the national broadcasters 90th anniversary year. The lecture is held in honour of one of iconic broadcasters, Andrew Olle, at The Ivy Ballroom, hosted by ABC Radio Sydney Drive presenter Richard Glover. Previous speakers include Peter FitzSimons, Lisa Wilkinson, Caroline Wilson, Joseph Kahn, Waleed Aly, Helen McCabe, Kate McClymont, Mark Colvin, Laurie Oakes, Ray Martin AM, John Hartigan, John Doyle AM, Lachlan Murdoch, Kerry Stokes AC and Jana Wendt. Andrew Olle was for many Australians the gold standard of broadcasting, a trusted and much-loved journalist whose programs and broadcasts were not to be missed, Ita Buttrose said. I was proud to call him a friend and I am honoured to deliver the lecture that not only carries his name but that also celebrates the journalism he stood by. This has extra significance given the ABCs own 90th anniversary celebrations. Managing Director of the ABC, David Anderson, said, Ita is synonymous with success in the Australian media, having held some of the most senior roles in newspapers, television, radio and magazines. She has made a huge contribution to the evolution of media in this country and as Chair of the ABC, continues to provide unparalleled leadership. I have no doubt that Itas 2022 Andrew Olle Media Lecture will be an insightful, revealing, thought-provoking and personal look at the role the fourth estate plays in Australia and where its heading. It will be broadcast nationally on ABC Radios Nightlife from 11.00pm on Friday 17 June and available on the ABC NEWS channel and ABC iview, with times to be announced. Ita Buttrose is one of Australias best known and most influential media executives and the countrys most celebrated female journalist. Ita came from a media background. Her father, Charles, was a distinguished editor and war correspondent, who later became the ABCs Deputy Manager. Ita started as a copygirl at the age of 15, for The Australian Womens Weekly the magazine she later edited. She was the founding editor of Cleo magazine in 1972 and was the first woman to be appointed editor of Sydneys Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph newspapers in the 1980s. She was named Australian of the Year in 2013 and was inducted into the Australian Media Hall of Fame in 2017. She is a founding member and former president of Chief Executive Women and is patron of Dementia Australia and the Macular Disease Foundation as well as Emeritus Director of Arthritis Australia. Northern Pictures hit dating documentary Love on the Spectrum is getting a US adaptation on Netflix. The series follows people on the autism spectrum as they navigate the world of dating and relationships. The Australian series has picked up multiple awards including Rockie Awards, Real Screen Awards, New York Festivals TV & Film Awards, and screened two seasons on ABC. It will screen internationally on Netflix (Australian broadcast is TBA). Karina Holden and Cian OClery from Northern Pictures are Executive Producers. Studio audiences are set to return to The Sunday Project. Just 30 people will be admitted to 10s Pyrmont studios beginning this Sunday. The return comes after two years of no audience members at Melbourne or Sydney broadcasts and despite very strict rules still in place for Network 10 staff. All audience members must be 16 years and over, fully vaccinated and masked. The Project is yet to confirm audience members for its Melbourne editions at Como. You can apply for tix here. Tyler, TX (75702) Today Strong thunderstorms likely. Damaging winds and large hail with some storms. High 73F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected.. Tonight Some passing clouds. Low 57F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. By Maureen Schlangen New fellowships made possible by a gift to the University of Dayton by the Marianist Province of the United States will support two innovative projects that draw upon the materials and expertise of the Marian Library one in the modern use of the rosary, the other in viewing illness and disability in terms of religion and health communication. The Marian Library fellowships one for a visiting scholar and one for a resident scholar commemorate the recent incorporation of the International Marian Research Institute into the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Dayton. Visiting Scholar Fellowship Alyssa Maldonado-Estrada, an assistant professor of religion at Kalamazoo College and editor of the journal Material Religion, received the Marian Library Visiting Scholar Fellowship for the project Reinventing the Rosary: Innovation and Catholic Prayer. The rosary has been a fixture of Catholic prayer life for centuries, Maldonado-Estrada says. Its most familiar form a string of grouped beads with a separate strand ending in a crucifix, is familiar to the point of being iconic. But according to Maldonado-Estrada, the design of the rosary isnt locked in. In the 20th and 21st centuries, the rosary has undergone marked transformations that appeal to modern needs, interests and lifestyles using new technology, materials, media and trends. My project will tell the story of the many inventors, devotees and marketers who remade the rosary as both a novelty and coveted consumer object one that was technologically and spiritually advanced to fit into the lives of modern consumers. In the past century, these variations have included rosaries that speak, electronic rosaries, rosaries that attach to steering wheels, smartphone rosary apps and rosaries with secret compartments for relics and other sacred materials. She plans to use the Marian Librarys collections of rosaries, holy cards, pamphlets and other materials to study centuries of rosary devotion. The fellowship provides Maldonado-Estrada with $3,000 for travel, living and research expenses. Resident Scholar Fellowship Liz Hutter, an assistant professor of English at the University of Dayton, will receive the Marian Library Resident Scholar Fellowship for the project Reading, Writing, and Seeing Health and Disability in Community at Lourdes Sanctuary. An account from the writer Flannery OConnor, whose cousin suggested a pilgrimage to Lourdes as a healing intervention for a chronic illness, prompted Hutters interest in pursuing what she sees as a binary logic often associated with Lourdes, the shrine commemorating the 1858 apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous. OConnor made a distinction clear to her cousin: I am going as a pilgrim, not a patient. Religious beliefs and spiritual practices play a role in how many people understand their illnesses or disabilities, Hutter posits. At the same time, religious institutions and spiritual communities are commonly involved in health promotion and communication around illness and disability. These individual beliefs and institutional practices merge on the therapeutic and spiritual landscape of the Lourdes sanctuary. Using materials and expertise in the Marian Library, she plans to examine Lourdes from multiple disciplines as not only a place for individual reflection and healing, but also as a space for examining community relationships and access to community services for persons with neurological, physical, sensory and other disabilities. By employing a disability studies perspective, she says, she plans to destabilize the rigid distinction OConnor articulated between pilgrim and patient. The four- to eight-week summer residency carries a stipend of $3,000. Hutter will share highlights from her fellowship and a report on her ongoing project at a fall colloquium. Quality resources, quality scholarship Jana Bennett, professor of moral theology and chair of the Department of Religious Studies, says the new awards will draw attention to some of the University of Daytons greatest assets and expertise. These research fellowships enable expansion of the Colleges and Department of Religious Studies academic focus in Marian theology, Bennett says. In addition, having these scholars in residence whose focus is on Mary will foster awareness and dialogue about Marian theology and aspects of the Marian Library. That will bring a positive impact to students in our department's undergraduate and graduate programs in Marian theology. More information More information about the Marian Library Fellowships is available on the Marian Library website. Photo: Alyssa Maldonado-Estrada (left), Liz Hutter (right) By Donya Mills '22 The Montgomery County Jail serves as an example of many of the challenges facing the criminal justice system in our country. The jail is severely overcapacity, which impacts health and hygiene, as well as the general safety of detainees and staff. During the heavier waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, the County Sheriff, working with judges and public defenders released a significant number of people to help reduce the spread of the virus inside the jail since it is a small and confined place where social distancing is impossible. The reduction of the size of the jail population demonstrated that Montgomery County Jail can reduce the number of people in detention when needed. The current Montgomery County Jail is dangerously overcrowded. It was designed to hold 443 individuals, however, the daily average before the pandemic was regularly between 700 and 800 people. Montgomery County hopes to build a new jail, to increase the capacity of beds available. Responding to this plan, the Montgomery County Jail Coalition's purpose is to advocate for the increased use of diversion programs and reforms to lower the population size of the new jail rather than to build a bigger jail. The Coalition believes that the County should be moving in the direction of using incarceration as a last resort, as required by international human rights norms, and investing instead in diversion programs, such as community-based mental health services. As a Criminal Justice Studies major, I knew this Coalition was something I wanted to be a part of. Over the last summer, I began working with the Coalition and conducted thorough research in order to develop a fact sheet. This fact sheet informs citizens of the goals of the Coalition and the benefits of redirecting individuals away from incarceration as required by human rights standards. Implementing reforms and diversion programs can reduce the recidivism rate, decrease the amount of money needed to build a new jail and help the broader community. The diversion programs I researched focused on cashless bail, citation in lieu of arrest, mental health facilities, and treatment for drug and alcohol abuse disorder. While I was conducting my research, I further solidified my knowledge of the current jail system and the need for reform. The jail system in the United States was originally designed for rehabilitative purposes, but it has evolved into a more punitive system over time. Instead of addressing the reasons why people are detained, jails focus on punishing those who are already there. People with mental illnesses often worsen while confined, trapping them in the system. Mental health services can address many fundamental causes of a crime while lowering the jail population and increasing the safety of the community. By establishing community-based programs that focus on drug and alcohol abuse disorders, people are able to receive treatment for their addictions. Because Ohio has one of the worst rates of opioid addiction and overdoses, this could particularly benefit Montgomery County. Citizens who cannot afford rehabilitation should not be incarcerated in order to receive treatment. The jail system in the United States needs to refocus on rehabilitating offenders instead of punishing them in order to help build a better community. My research also revealed that in many cases poor individuals and minorities are being held in jail for pretrial detention because they are unable to afford bail. To make this criminal justice system more equitable, cash bail should be eliminated. This reform would not only reduce the jail population but also save the county about 7 million dollars annually. Low-level charges, such as shoplifting, should be given a citation instead of incarceration. A citation in lieu of arrest means that an officer issues a ticket to the offender that releases to appear in court at a later date or pay a fine. The current Montgomery County Jail is holding a larger population than it was built for and with different demands than the facility was originally built for. It was built in 1964 with an addition in 1993. While its capacity is 444 beds, the number of inmates has doubled in recent years. In addition, the county jail only has 12 special needs beds. So, the Montgomery county officials asked a contractor, Henningson, Durham, and Richardson, P.C. (HDR), to provide a report detailing options for renovating the current facility or building a new jail. The contractor estimated the new jail will cost $177 million to $202 million dollars. After receiving the report, the county commissioners, the sheriff and the county administrator said they will put the plans on hold. The Coalition argues that the costs of the new jail could be cut by adopting reform and diversion initiatives. The first option provided by HDR is a jail that holds up to 938 beds, divided into 464 general population beds and 474 special needs beds to care for those with medical needs, mental health needs, and drug and alcohol abuse disorders. If diversion programs were implemented that focus on rehabilitating people with such needs, like mental health facilities outside of a jail setting, this can eliminate almost half the beds proposed. In addition, to ensure the general population does not exceed the capacity of beds, reforms that seek to keep individuals out of pre-trial detention also need to be implemented. The Coalition estimates that cashless bail and citation in lieu of arrest could reduce the Montgomery County Jail population by around 50%. Being a part of the Montgomery County Jail Coalition has shown me that I can make a difference in my community by collaborating with others. There are various points of view in a wide group of stakeholders so it is important to be receptive to anything everyone has to offer. Since not every idea can be carried out, Ive learned to stay focused on the goals of the Coalition. This allows the group to remain on a clear path of what the Coalition needs to get done to implement change. The experience has also aided me in determining what I want to do after graduation. I would like to contribute to criminal justice reform by continuing working with coalitions and even starting a nonprofit in the future. By networking with people I've met through the Coalition and my work with HRC, I am keen to become a community organizer throughout the Dayton area. My aim is to make an impact in changing the criminal justice system. Donya Mills is currently a Senior at UD majoring in Criminal Justice. She is a student intern at the Human Rights Center and passionate about establishing equity for underprivileged communities and a criminal justice system that is fair to everyone. PARIS (Reuters) - French telecoms company Orange has picked Jacques Aschenbroich, the chairman of Valeo, to become its next chairman, newspaper Le Monde reported in its Friday issue, citing a source close to the matter. Orange declined to comment while Valeo did not immediately reply to a Reuters request for comment. The nomination of Aschenbroich, 67, is due to be confirmed by a board vote on March 30 and will be submitted to shareholders during a general meeting scheduled on May 19, Le Monde added. The move comes amid a wider governance revamp at Orange in which the French state holds a 13% stake. End January, the company named Christel Heydemann its new chief executive, making her the first woman to lead France's biggest telecoms operator. Stephane Richard left Orange after a court convicted him of complicity of misuse of public funds. (Reporting by Matthieu Protard, Benoit Van Overstraeten; Editing by Tassilo Hummel) liviu_hzn Wins Retro Week $100K Challenge As Main Event Approaches March 25 2022 Matthew Pitt Editor The $888,000 guaranteed Retro Week has reached the halfway stage at 888poker with 14 champions crowned. Those champions now have a sufficient bankroll to buy into the upcoming $300,000 guaranteed $215 Retro Week Main Event. Romania's "liviu_hzn" is the player who has won the biggest prize of Retro Week so far after they turned their $90 investment into $16,330. The Romanian came out on top of a 1,363-strong field in the $90 buy-in $100,000 guaranteed Sunday Challenge. The top 180 finishers shared $111,766, with British grinder "EZ.PZ" bursting the money bubble. A min-cash weighed in at $223.53 but this increased to $1,542 by the time only nine players remained. Nicolas "PKaiser" Fierro, a player with almost $13 million in online poker winnings, was the first of the finalists heading for the exits. "JulioFantin" of Brazil and Albania's "LLudockha" were the next casualties; they banked $2,022 and $2,671, respectively. 888poker Ambassador Vivian Saliba Hoping for "New Memories" in Retro Week Two more Brazilians fell in quick succession and saw their 888poker accounts swell by $3,553 and $4,771. "luish64" was the first of the Samba stars to fall, and "azevado45" joined his fellow countryman on the rail after. liviu_hzn doubled before azevado45 when their aces held against the ace-six of "Agharazi" and they never looked back from this point. "R3li_able" fell in fourth for $6,448 who lost when liviu_hzn's king-queen came from behind to best their ace-nine. Then heads-up was set when "Ii1Ii1" ran their last four big blinds with jack-seven into the queen-ten of liviu_hzn. 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New depositing players can receive a free $88 just for creating their account (this is a free 20 to United Kingdom residents). You can download 888poker here. Your first deposit of $10 or more is matched 100% up to a maximum of $400 in the form of a releasable bonus. You receive 2 bonus points for every $1 you contribute to the cash game rake or pay in tournament fees, and your welcome bonus releases into your account in $10 increments each time you hit 100 bonus points. Remember to use the bonus code "Welcome100". Facing charges of arson and assaulting multiple people, while also recovering from burns, a Mart man sits in confinement in the McLennan County Jail, held on around $145,000 bond, court and jail records show. Authorities arrested Justin Wade Lewis, 38, of Mart, on March 13 on four felony charges before putting him on a helicopter flight to a burn center in Dallas, his arrest affidavit states. He was arraigned Wednesday at McLennan County Courthouse, court documents show. Charges against Lewis include first-degree felony aggravated assault on a public servant, second-degree felony arson, and two third-degree felonies assault by strangling and assault with a deadly weapon, according to court and jail documents. Mart police and firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 300 block of North Lumpkin Street at around 9:30 p.m. on March 13, the defendants arrest affidavit states. First responders found a recreational vehicle or mobile home fully engulfed in fire upon arrival, the affidavit states. Officers found Lewis, with visible burns on his face and arms, standing in the doorway of the burning structure, the affidavit states. Responding officers reported he did not comply with instructions to come outside, instead going back into the burning structure. When he did emerge from the fire, Lewis wielded a knife at the responding officers, according to the affidavit. A woman at the scene of the fire told authorities Lewis threatened her life verbally, choked her, poured gasoline on her and attempted to set her on fire, the affidavits states. She told authorities that instead of burning her, Lewis set himself and the structure on fire, the affidavit states. After the Lewis treatment for his burns in Dallas, authorities transported him to McLennan County for arraignment. He remains in custody in the county jail on his four felony charges and about $145,000 bond. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The state of Texas agreed this week to drop sexual assault charges against former Falls County Sheriff Ricky Scaman in a plea deal that requires him to surrender his peace officers license and pay a $1,000 fine. Scaman pleaded no-contest to a misdemeanor count of official oppression in a plea deal that retired Visiting Judge Burt Carnes accepted Monday. He was given two years of deferred adjudication probation and is eligible to have his record expunged if he completes the term, according to his attorney, Shane Phelps of Bryan. Scaman was indicted in 2020 on two charges of sexual assault, accusing him of groping two government employees, accusations he denied. A second indictment in August 2021 expanded the charges to include two counts of assault on a public servant and three counts of official oppression, with three victims involved. Scaman ran for reelection in November even with the indictment pending and his license suspended, but he lost to Democrat Joe Lopez, who won 59% of the vote. Scaman was facing an April trial, but it was canceled after Phelps consulted with prosecutors with the Texas Attorney Generals Office. Phelps said the prosecutor recognized the sexual assault charges were not sustainable. The problem with these kinds of cases is that an allegation can cause people to make horrendously incorrect judgments about somebody like Ricky Scaman, Phelps said. It has done a lot of damage to his reputation. He has maintained his innocence. I didnt think they would be able to get a guilty verdict, and obviously, the state took a hard look at the case and (agreed). Im sorry Ricky had to go through having sex offense charges against him. The Texas Attorney Generals Office did not return a phone call and email Thursday seeking comment on the case. Meanwhile, Scaman in the last two years has settled federal lawsuits from two other women who accused him of sexual misconduct. A former dispatcher and jailer who accused him of groping and sexually assaulting her won an out-of-court settlement of $10,000. A former assistant chief deputy in the sheriffs office also won an out-of-court settlement of $60,000 from a lawsuit that accused Scaman of gender discrimination, sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A man is known by the company he keeps. The origin of that well-worn line is a fable by Aesop called, fittingly, The Ass and His Purchaser. As it goes, a man brings a new donkey home, and when he sees that it chooses to sidle up next to the laziest and greediest beast in the stable, the man tries to return the donkey, saying, I could see what sort of beast he is from the companion he chose for himself. The Bible is replete with similar riffs on this theme. Proverbs 13:20: Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Im personally partial to the words of the famed Oklahoma sage Garth Brooks, who said proudly, Ive got friends in low places. Well, if the new resident scholars of the American far-right are to be known by the company they keep, theyre not only associating with fools theyve got friends in the lowest of places. The Kremlin, to be exact. From Fox News personalities to members of the U.S. Congress, right-wing Russian apologists here in America are being cheerfully boosted by Vladimir Putins state TV, Russian agitprop Twitter accounts, Russian diplomats and even Moscow officials. It is a chilling sight to see. Fox News primetime star Tucker Carlsons clips are played regularly on Russian TV networks. In one, sounding an awful lot like Putin but with a St. Georges accent, he asks, Is Ukraine really a sovereign country? Back in February, Carlson called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a dictator, and hes argued that Putin whose senseless and criminal war has already killed at least a thousand Ukrainians and more than 7,000 of his own Russian troops isnt all that bad, really. Carlsons been such an effective Putin booster, in fact, that the regime reportedly distributed instructions to Russian media to use more of his clips. According to a document obtained by Mother Jones, outlets were reportedly told, It is essential to use as much as possible fragments of broadcasts of the popular Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who sharply criticises [sic] the actions of the United States [and] NATO, [and] their negative role in unleashing the conflict in Ukraine Foxs light touch on Putin isnt limited to Carlson. Other hosts and guests have parroted Russian talking points either to slam President Biden or push baseless conspiracy theories. And all to Putins delight, presumably. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had nothing but kind words for Fox News, calling it the lone American media outlet trying to represent some alternative points of view. Russian state media has some other useful idiots here in America, too. Outlets there have been running clips of Madison Cawthorn, the Trump Youth congressman who bragged about his trip to the vacation house of the Fuhrer, in which he tells a town hall audience: Remember that Zelenskyy is a thug. Remember that the Ukrainian government is incredibly corrupt, and it is incredibly evil, and it has been pushing woke ideologies. Not to be left out, a cadre of right-wing women are vying for Putins affections, too. Former Fox News castoff Lara Logan, who has the unenviable distinction of being condemned by the Auschwitz Memorial, has been boosted by Kremlin Twitter accounts for her utterly bizarre assertions that Ukrainian soldiers are mostly Nazis and occultists, among others. In what can only be described as a Muscovite fever dream, she also called Zelenskyy a puppet, insisted Russias invasion is going great, spread Russian propaganda about Ukrainian bioweapon labs, and sympathized with the suffering of wait for it Putins family during World War II. So of course Russias deputy permanent representative to the U.N., Alexander Alimov, tweeted out her interview. The Kremlin couldnt have scripted it better. Candace Owens, whos sad girls arent taught how to make their husbands a sandwich anymore, shared with her Twitter followers that Ukraine wasnt a thing until 1989. Ukraine is indeed older than Taylor Swift, but Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum was all of us when she retorted, Behold the face of pure ignorance. Owens also insists WE are at fault for Putins war of aggression in Ukraine, so just STOP talking about Russia and invade Canada instead. But it was her Russian Lives Matter tweet that got her a retweet from the Russian Embassy. She hasnt made the club yet, but Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is working hard at it. Speaking from the House floor last week, the Jewish space laser aficionado regaled the crowd with a story about how Putin and Trump just want to get the bioweapons out of Ukraine. Her star turn on Russian TV is just one conspiracy theory away. When a ruthless Russian dictator is a big fan, youre definitely doing it wrong. Just imagine the ignominy of being Hitlers favorite cable news host, or Saddams favorite political analyst, or Pol Pots favorite pol. Imagine being used for propaganda thats helping to invade a sovereign nation and murder thousands of innocent people. Imagine being this wrong about the world. S.E. Cupp is the host of S.E. Cupp Unfiltered on CNN. A political commentator and longtime conservative, she is author of Losing Our Religion: The Liberal Medias Attack on Christianity and co-author of Why Youre Wrong About the Right: Behind the Myths. The infrastructure revelation included hackings between 2012 and 2018 but served as a warning from the Biden administration of Russia's ability to execute such attacks. On Thursday, the Justice Department announced charges against four Russian officials, accusing them of engaging in a series of cyberattacks against critical infrastructure in the United States, including a nuclear power plant in Kansas and compromising a petrochemical facility in Saudi Arabia, according to the Justice Department. The disclosure included cyber incidents that occurred between 2012 and 2018. Still, it also served as another warning from the Biden administration about Russia's ability to carry out similar operations in the future. In just a few days, President Biden issued a warning to businesses that Moscow may undertake similar attacks in reprisal for countries that have aggressively condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "While today's criminal charges are a continuation of earlier actions, they serve as a stark reminder of the essential need for American businesses to bolster their defenses and remain vigilant," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco in a statement. According to the assessment, "Russian state-sponsored hackers pose a significant and persistent threat to critical infrastructure in the United States and worldwide." The four officials, three of whom are members of Russia's domestic intelligence agency, the Federal Security Service, or F.S.B., are accused of breaching hundreds of energy companies around the world, demonstrating the "dark art of the possible," according to a Justice Department official during a press briefing on the case on Wednesday. According to cyber researchers, the claims clearly support what they have been arguing for years: Russia was behind the intrusions. No one has been apprehended among the Russian officials accused of carrying out the attacks thus far. On Monday, President Joe Biden issued a warning to private firms, pushing them to strengthen their defenses. According to national security experts, firms should report any suspicious conduct to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (F.B.I.) and other institutions that are capable of responding to suspected breaches. On Thursday, the allegations against Evgeny V. Gladkikh, 36, a computer programmer for the Russian Ministry of Defense, were announced. Gladkikh is suspected of using Triton malware to enter a foreign petrochemical plant in 2017, causing the facility to be forced to shut down twice. Even though the plant's location was not stated explicitly in the indictment, the circumstances of the attack imply that it was in Saudi Arabia at the time. An investigation found evidence that the infiltration was meant to set off an explosion but that the attempt was foiled by a coding mistake. It was discovered by the security system, which prompted the computer to shut down, enabling researchers to trace the virus's path and decode its code. Court records show that Mr. Gladkikh and other hackers persisted despite the setback, conducting research on refineries in the United States and attempting to penetrate the systems of an American company that handled critical infrastructure sites in the United States the following year according to court records. He was charged with one count of conspiracy to cause damage to an energy facility, one count of trying to cause damage to an energy facility, and one count of conspiracy to commit computer fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Cybersecurity specialists think that the Triton virus is particularly dangerous because it can cause catastrophic failures at power plants worldwide, many of which employ the same software as the Saudi Arabian plant. In 2017, its use signaled a dramatic escalation in Russia's cyber capabilities, demonstrating that the country was ready and capable of damaging critical infrastructure and launching a breach with potentially fatal consequences. According to John Hultquist, vice president of intelligence analysis at cybersecurity firm Mandiant, "It was distinct from anything we'd seen prior because it marked a new step in what was feasible." According to a second accusation, three Federal Security Service officers, Pavel Akulov, 36, Mikhail M. Gavrilov, 42, and Marat V. Tyukov, 39, were accused of engaging in a multi-year effort target and breach the computer systems of hundreds of energy sector companies throughout the globe. Members of the security agency's cybercrime team, which goes by a variety of names, including "Dragonfly," "Berzerk Bear," "Energy-Bear," and "Crouching Yeti," are alleged to be responsible for the arrests. Mr. Hultquist said that the gang has "ten years of experience operating against critical infrastructure in the United States." According to the source, "they were looking at state and municipal networks and airports in 2020." In addition to hacking the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation, which runs a nuclear power plant in Burlington, Kan., Mr. Akulov, Mr. Gavrilov, and Mr. Tyukov are accused of hacking other firms that operate critical infrastructure, including oil and gas corporations and utility companies. According to the indictment, between 2012 and 2017, the three persons gained unauthorized access to the computer systems of oil and gas, energy, nuclear power plant, and utility companies. They surreptitiously monitored those systems throughout that time period. According to court filings, they targeted the software and hardware that controls the equipment in power plants, giving the Russian government the ability to disrupt and destroy such computer systems if they so chose. For gaining access to computer networks, they used a number of approaches, including spearphishing attacks on more than 3,300 workers at more than 500 American and international companies. Some of them successfully targeted government entities such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, while others were not. A plot to inflict physical damage to an energy facility, computer fraud and abuse and conspiracy to commit wire fraud were among the charges brought against the three Russian security operatives. Mr. Akulov and Mr. Gavrilov were charged with aggravated identity theft, a distinct offense. According to Mr. Hultquist, the Russian cyber groups routinely conduct surveillance on critical infrastructure before compromising it and lingering in computer systems for months or years before taking action. "It's a kind of disaster preparation," he said. This is the procedure through which they get access but do not necessarily act upon it. It is intended to let us know that they are capable of replying to our questions. Russia preparing to launch cyberattacks in the U.S., F.B.I. says Hector Baldiviezo has been promoted to small business lender for Lincoln Savings Bank at the Waterloo Tower Park branch. In 2016, Baldiviezo joined LSB as the assistant branch manager of the Waterloo branch. He then took over as the Hudson branch manager in 2018. WATERLOO Relatives of Terrell Rello Flowers told Stephen Devon Phillips they felt betrayed as Phillips was sentenced to prison for taking his life. You walked into my house as family and left running like the coward you are, as a life-long enemy, Andrew Flowers, Terrells brother, said in a letter that was read by prosecutors. If it had been a car accident or a deadly illness, it probably wouldnt cut as deep. But because it was someone who I trusted to let come into my home makes the pain worse, the brothers letter said. Terrell Flowers brothers had treated Phillips like one of their own. That ended on May 15, 2020, when authorities said Phillips shot and killed Terrell Flowers, 30, in Andrew Flowers Crescent Place home following an argument. Phillips then drove to Linwood Avenue where he robbed an acquaintance. Phillips was convicted of first-degree robbery and first-degree murder in separate trials, and on Thursday Judge Linda Fangman sentenced him to life in prison without parole for the murder which was added to 25 years for the robbery. She also ordered him to pay $150,000 in restitution to Terrell Flowers estate. It was deliberate, and it was a choice that you made, Fangman said After already being in a position where you took a gun and took a persons life, you pointed that gun at another person and threatened them. That shows me you are a danger to the community at large. Phillips briefly apologized to the brothers during the hearing, but he continued to contend that he acted in self-defense when Terrell Flowers had pointed a gun at him. I didnt mean to kill Terrell, Phillips said. During trial, prosecutors said Phillips warned them he was going to shoot up the house following the argument. He then then texted Flowers that he was fina die before returning to the home about 26 minutes later with a 9 mm pistol. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. WATERLOO Police are investigating an early morning shooting that sent one person to the hospital. Officers were called to a report of a shooting at 406 Oneida St. at about 3:20 a.m. Friday. As police were responding, a man was taken by private vehicle to UnityPoint-Health Allen Hospital with a gunshot wound. The man suffered a bullet wound to the back, and police said his injuries dont appear to be life threatening. No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. WAVERLY Wartburg College Professor Michael Bechtel was astonished at the rapid growth of both vegetables and fish in his experiments with aquaponics. We started with lettuce, and we couldnt eat all the lettuce that came on. From the time we got the sprouts coming up, time to harvest was 10 days. Same with tomatoes. We started tomato seeds and before long, we had Frankenstein-looking tomato vines 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The stems couldnt hold up the tomatoes, he recalled. Once everything gets set up, its crazy and amazing how fast everything grows. Weve been growing strawberries, and the plants will kill themselves producing strawberries. Bechtels system is Ioponics, abbreviated from Iowa aquaponics, which combines aquaculture, or raising fish, with hydroponics, or growing plants without soil. An integrated micro-system is created which uses aerobic bacteria to transform fish waste (ammonia/nitrites) into plant nutrients (nitrates). The program already has made a splash for teaching about biosystems in elementary and middle schools in Iowa and beyond. In the past year, Bechtel and a team of Wartburg students have placed 129 Ioponics systems in 55 of Iowas 99 counties, in schools, libraries and other educational settings. Bechtel also has installed systems in 12 different states, including Alaska and Colorado. And for the second time, the program was made available to all Iowa educators through the Iowa Governors STEM Advisory Councils STEM Scale-Up Program. The state award supports the program for year-round hands-on learning at schools, as well as after-school programs, youth groups, libraries and other educational programs. The award pays for the physical materials and continued technical support for the aquaponics system, which comes with cross-curricular lesson plans for PK-12 students that align with Iowa Core and Next Generation Science Standard prepared by Bechtel. Classrooms and other programs submitted applications in late winter, and recipients will be announced in April. Aquaponics began through Wartburg students undergraduate research projects. Nine years ago, one of Bechtels students, Ryan Zinkel, asked a question about hydroponics that sparked the professors interest. He described his subsequent research and program development as pretty much a vertical learning curve. That first experience proved successful enough that after Bechtels first vegetable harvest, the 50 tilapia hed purchased to fertilize the water had multiplied to 52. Those fish got pretty good sized, so we harvested them and had a fish fry, he said, with a laugh. These arent stereotypical fish bowls, Bechtel pointed out. Hes developed three systems that can be purchased, beginning with a micro-sized suitable for elementary students or younger that includes a 2-gallon plastic container. It can support two fish (endlers or guppies are suggested) with a plants in netted cups above the fish. Biology students at Wartburg maintain a system like this to meet class requirements as a way to illustrate an ecosystem. The 30-gallon system is a fish tank with a trough above the tank, and a 75-gallon size with a double-trough system that can be customized. An LED light is required and a water pump circulates water through the troughs and back into the tank that supports larger fish, such as koi. Crayfish, shrimp, catfish, tilapia, shrimp and mini lobsters are other possibilities. Each produces waste that breaks down into nutrients that feed the plants. Systems are accompanied by lesson plans that meet national science and agricultural standards. After several years, Wartburg College administrators told Bechtel, Mike, its yours, run with it, he recalled, and he repays that encouragement with a percentage of sales. Ioponics has limitless possibilities, Bechtel enthused. Theres a teacher at Turkey Valley who hooked systems together and started breeding bluegill. Another teacher added a couple of hydroponics systems to make a 40-gallon system. You can set it up, add onto it, raise shrimp prawns it really is limitless and fun. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. By Russian_Village A survivor of six heart attacks and a brain tumor, a grumpy bear of a man, whom has declared Russia as his new and wonderful home. His wife is a true Russian Sweet Pea of a girl and she puts up with this bear of a guy and keeps him in line. Thank God for my Sweet Pea and Russia. Chinese military vows resolute countermeasures against provocation to destabilize Taiwan Strait Xinhua) 08:13, March 25, 2022 BEIJING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson on Thursday said the Chinese People's Liberation Army stands ready to take all necessary means to resolutely counteract any provocation that undermines China's core interests and destabilizes the Taiwan Strait. Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to attempts of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party to link Ukraine issue with Taiwan question and the speculation of mainland's "military threat" by some U.S. politicians. Wu said Taiwan is not Ukraine, as the Taiwan question is China's internal affair that brooks no foreign interference. No individual or force can stand in the way of China's reunification, he added. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) The USA of the Western Empire is starting to look extremely desperate: (At present day) 1. A Massive Propaganda Operation to try and bury and spread the blame on the the bio-weapons under US control within Ukraine and not the least, much of the world 2. Russian basic core firepower, still slowly blooming in the Spring season. Has scared the bejeebers out of the USA and cronies 3. India, China, Gulf leaders all telling US//UK where to go and even the bedraggled Iran and Venezuela have been given attention, as the USA Empire gasps in its death thralls. Done in by self-afflicted wounds 4. At the moment it looks a toss up if next move is a major false flag in Ukraine or to dig the hole deeper by sanctioning China and maybe dig even deeper by sanctioning India also A lot and actually all countries, (including so called US Allies) are watching the US quietly, while we throw our tantrums and scoops of sand out of the sandbox at everyone around us.these countries are silently backing away, slowly away, as to not draw attention to themselves and making other plans It was happening before, and now its accelerating, due to the fact that no one and I mean no one is safe from the temper tantrums that the Empire is expressing Just maybe a bit of reality should be expressed? (To allow anyone to understand that how the USA is treating Russia is what and is the USA. Nothing more and nothing less. Lets grab a couple of the 10s of thousands of examples in USA history.) The USA as a beacon of light was and is doomed from the very first beginnings of its inception.an inception that has falsified information from day one, due to the nature of the beasts that invaded the North American continent long ago When a beacon of light in shiny armor is pure propaganda? You will one day see the masks come off and the curtains pull back Lets just begin with the falsification that Columbus discovered America.now that one is definitely a good entry for the lying club of the year award. Then look at who settled the America as we know it We also like to express how escaping religious prosecution was a good reason that so many wandered to and killed the natives of what we call USA. The fact is that the USA was founded by the scum of the European world and it was a dumping ground for all the rift raft in the European proper. The European leaders thought that it was a good place to get the rats away from the home front. Thus, what could be expected of such people, whom were tossed away from society in the first place? What better place than across the vast ocean? Fooled them Nothing in USA history stands up to its expressed history desires and writings The process of independence that we all celebrate is so marred with deceit and lies that even Columbus and his antics looks like saintly in comparison. Just look it all up and read The Civil War in the USA is probably the most incredulous work of propaganda that ever was created and all because the South wanted to just get away from the scum of the Northern America. Nothing to do with slavery and all to do with different people and different mindsets. yet the North rose to the occasion and lets just say, The beat down they finally gave the South, whom desired to be their own country, is akin to a slaughter bordering upon southern genocide to farther northern goals and desires The stuff left out of the history books should make you cringe But, we must regress: We could talk all day about the American Indians and what happened to them. Yet, what sums it up for me is when I discovered the real information about what the Indians call, The Trail of Tears! I discovered that without a doubt that my country was founded upon indecent and immoral reasons and when your roots are scum? You are scum The Trail of Tears is who Americans are and what Americans are and it is nothing more and nothing less.It was my first realization of many examples of what we as people did and look at the world. One example is all it takes to then decided to open you eyes and look around you But, there are endless examples and all day, all week and all year we could bring examples of deceit, lies, death, rape and pillaging by the shiny beacon of light we embrace as called the USA Just in modern times wars and sanctions illegally tossed at the world, mostly in the same vein as we founded our country. We desire to control and defeat at all costs to the opponent. Just contemplate: Vietnam, WW2, WW1, Spanish American war, Korean War, Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Venezuela, Iran, Cuba, North Korea, Zimbabwe, Yemen, actually the list is endless and sanctions are war acts and no different than boots on the ground Everything can be looked up and everything that I talk about is in written form in libraries all over the world. At least for now.if the USA and cronies win? We will see a rewriting of history like Orwell could only blush over. For could he have dreamed that we would embrace the 1984 novel and use it as a guide? Therefore, we are back to present day and Russia. With a new level of propaganda that exceeds all done in the past put together. The genocide of Russia was unmasked not long ago and no matter how you want to explain it? The masks have come off, the Western World has yanked the curtains back and are in the open looking at who to destroy to cover up the sins of the many nations that make up the Western Empire of Lies Russia is who stepped up and said, Stop and No More! Thus, Russia is taking the brunt of the vile anger of the Western Empire at being blocked.yet, countries are scared and not sure what to do. If the demon (or Great Satan as Iran calls the USA), wins? The bottom line is that the USA and its cronies as I simply call the Western Empire of Lies. Is looking at either 1. They lose and we learn all the truth about what they have done to humanity and more! And Or 2. They win and eradicate evidence of everything they have done against humanity and we have a boot on our neck for eternity We are fighting for our lives as human right now and good or bad.it is time to pick a side.you either want to live as free humans or you want to live as human slaves The truth is: We need Gods help and Russia needs our help by our God within us WtR Troy Driver, accused of killing Naomi Irion, has been formally charged with murder and will be held without bail at the Lyon County Jail. The arraignment happened Friday, April 8th at a hearing at the Canal Township Justice Court in Fernley. Driver appeared via zoom from Yerington. The Lyon County District Attorneys Office says Troy Driver fatally shot Naomi Irion before burying her body in the desert, according to an amended criminal complaint. Lyon County District Attorney Stephen Rye filed the amended criminal complaint Tuesday adding first-degree murder and other crimes to the kidnapping charge already facing 41-year-old Troy Driver. Driver is accused of kidnapping Irion from the Fernley Walmart parking lot on March 12, and killing her on or before March 25 - the same day Driver was arrested for kidnapping. Four days later, authorities say investigators acted on a tip and found her body in a grave near the Churchill County line. Drivers been held in the Lyon County Jail in Fernley on $750,000 bondable bail since his arrest. Hes now accused of first-degree murder with the use of a deadly weapon, first-degree kidnapping, robbery, burglary of a motor vehicle and destroying evidence, according to the new complaint Rye filed Tuesday in Canal Township Justice Court in Fernley. Drivers public defender, Mario Walther, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The complaint said Driver shot Irion in Churchill County northeast of Fernley, where he took her for the purpose of committing sexual assault and/or purpose of killing her. The document also alleged that Driver destroyed her cell phone and left pieces in Lyon, Churchill, Pershing, Humboldt and Eureka counties. The Lyon County Sheriff's Office says Driver shot Irion in the head and chest. The local community has been rallying around this family since this all started - there are a couple of events this weekend. Kim Lovett, a Fernley resident says, "For this to happen is a scary thing, that even in our quiet little sleepy town that we have predators out there that would do something like this." A devastated community that carried hopes of finding Naomi for weeks, and went on countless searches with her family. They said this outcome wasn't one anyone wanted. Some of the resident we spoke with extended their condolences to Naomi's family, and want them to know they are supported. Tisha Leija, another Fernley resident visibly upset told us, "I can't even imagine... the first thing I thought of was poor mom...poor mom...very sad. " ---------------------------------------------------------- The man accused of kidnapping Naomi Irion will stay in Lyon County Jail on $750,000 bondable bail. 41-year-old Troy E. Driver was arrested and booked into the jail last Friday. He's officially now charged with first degree kidnapping, a felony. "Should the defendant post bail, he will not be released from custody until a GPS monitoring device is installed," Judge Lori Matheus, Canal Township Justice Court said. The judge set Driver's preliminary hearing for April 12 for 1:30pm. Irion's family attended the court hearing. "It does look like they're going to be posting bail, from what I understand, so he's the only one who can help us bring Naomi home," Casey Valley, Irion's brother said. "He's the only one that we know about." If he does get released from jail, Driver will be ordered to stay out of Fernley. He also must not contact Irion's family. Driver has a criminal history. According to old articles in the Ukiah Daily Journal, he pleaded guilty to accessory to murder after the fact for his role in a 1997 homicide in Willits, California. He was 17 years old at the time of the murder. The article says Driver stuffed the body of an alleged drug dealer, Paul Steven Rodriguez in a trunk and then left it in a wooded area. The article says he pleaded guilty to three charges of robbery and one of burglary. A judge sentenced him to 15 years in prison but the article said he could have been released after serving 12. "It is upsetting to me that there is people out here in the general public that have these capabilities with this kind of past and people should be more aware of that," Naomi's brother, Casey Valley, said. "We talk about sex offenders all the time but where is the list with this guy?" Deputies also announced Friday, March 25th that Driver's Chevy truck was impounded and is being processed for possible evidence. This photo below, shows the truck being taken into evidence. David Ausano took the picture from his porch in Fallon, the night of March 25, 2022. A second public search was organized for Saturday, March 26th, 2022 by Naomi's brother, Casey Valley. In a Facebook post, he asked community members to gather at Love's Travel Stop on Commerce Center Drive in Fernley, Saturday at 10am. Valley says, "this will be the first of a few areas of a concentrated search." He also requested no pets or children. During the search on March 26th, more than 110 people showed up to help find Naomi. Diana Irion says she's been getting massages from all over the country from people who want to help her family. Casey Valley tells us, "Today's search covered more ground, if not just as much, as last weekends search." -------------------------------------------------------- On Thursday, March 24th, Lyon County Deputies said they identified a potential witness vehicle and occupant(s) that appears in the Walmart parking lot minutes before Naomi was abducted. They say they've contacted the occupant of the car. The 4-door sedan enters the east Walmart parking lot at approximately 5:15 a.m. and then drives around the median on the east side before parking at the the southeast corner of the Walmart building. Police were able to locate the vehicle with help from the public. Irion was last seen March 12th at the parking lot at the Fernley Walmart. Her car was found a few days later and is undergoing processing for possible evidence. The Lyon County Sheriff's Office held a press conference on Tuesday, along with Irion's family where again they asked for the public's help in finding her, adding they are getting "hundreds" of tips everyday. They also mentioned that her car, which was found a few days after her disappearance, is still undergoing processing for any related evidence. Her family also made another plea for help, with her mother saying, "please save my daughter. Bring her home." Because Irion's possible kidnapping happened near I-80, her mother also said that her daughter could be anywhere in the U.S. by now. Irion's sister and brother also spoke, mentioning that tips to law enforcement can stay anonymous, if need be. He also said that another search will happen this Saturday. During the weekend, the Lyon County Sheriff's Office released new surveillance video from the Walmart parking lot where Naomi was reportedly last seen. The footage shows the suspect standing in front of the Walmart entrance, pacing the east side of the building, before walking toward the front of cars with their headlights on. Authorities say this footage was recorded minutes before Naomi was abducted. If you were in the east Walmart parking lot between 4:30 and 5:30 a.m. on March 12th, 2022 and have not been contacted by law enforcement, reach out to the Lyon County Sheriffs Office, Major Crimes Bureau. The Lyon County Sheriffs Office can be reached at 775-463-6620, Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 or by email at detective@lyon-county.org. Authorities said a cell phone ping led officers to the Wadsworth area last week. She was last seen wearing a blue Panasonic company shirt, gray cardigan sweater, gray pants, brown boots and was carrying a black purse. She had an iPhone, Airpods and a fidget spinner. She is 511 tall, weighs about 230 pounds and has green eyes. Her hair is currently dyed black and she has a septum piercing and smiley face tattoo on her right ankle. On Thursday, March 17th, Lyon County deputies announced that they were working with the Pyramid Lake Police Department and the FBI near Highway 427 in Wadsworth searching for evidence related to the disappearance of Naomi Irion. They asked the public to stay away from the area as not to damage any evidence. Her family made a public plea on Thursday for her safe return. Authorities also thanked the Fernley community for their help. Her family members said that they are in contact with police about the case's progression. On Friday, supporters gathered at the Round Table Pizza in Fernley to make signs to post around town in hopes of someone recognizing Irion's photo and calling police with information. The newest released photos show Irion on the morning she was last seen and also include a person of interest. The investigation now indicates that the suspect may be driving a dark 2020 or newer Chevrolet, 2500, High Country 4-Door Pickup Truck. Authorities say the forensic evidence collected by investigators show that her disappearance is 'suspicious' in nature and that the driver of the truck "has a direct connection to her disappearance and her current whereabouts." Previous video surveillance showed that person walking from a nearby 'homeless camp' looking in cars. The unknown person then gets into the driver's seat of Irion's Mercury Sable and then leaves with her in the passenger seat. During the course of the investigation, evidence was discovered leading investigators to believe Naomis disappearance was suspicious in nature. Her 1992 blue Sable has a Nevada license plate of 595T37 was located in a industrial park in Fernley and has since been searched and forensically analyzed. The first vehicle photo with the plate is Naomi's actual vehicle. The second vehicle photo is a stock photo and not her actual car. If you have any information, contact Lyon County Sheriff's Office with case number 22ly01068 at 775-463-6620, or call or text your anonymous tip to Secret Witness at 775-322-4900. Weather Alert ...WINDY TODAY THROUGH SUNDAY, MUCH COLDER TEMPERATURES SUNDAY INTO EARLY NEXT WEEK WITH PERIODS OF RAIN AND SNOW SHOWERS... --Today and Friday-- * As has been a repeating story lately, gusty winds will return again today and Friday. Strongest winds will be near and north of US-50 today, spreading across the entire region Friday. Winds will decrease overnight into early Friday morning for valley locations, but are unlikely to completely let up, while ridge winds will remain strong tonight. * Winds will bring travel difficulties both in the air and on the ground. Travel restrictions for high profile vehicles are possible. Check with CalTrans and/or NDOT for the current road information. Areas of blowing dust are possible both afternoons downwind of the Carson Sink and other desert locations, possibly affecting portions of I-80, US-50, and US-95. In addition, backcountry and ski recreation could be impacted along with choppy conditions on area lakes. * A few light showers with minimal liquid totals are possible in far northern Nevada and northeast California. --Mother's Day Weekend into Next Week-- * It will remain breezy throughout the weekend, with a secondary max in wind speeds on Sunday due to a strong cold front. This front will usher in a much colder air mass Mother's Day into the first half of next week. Temperatures will be 15-25 degrees below normal. While there is still some uncertainty due to winds and cloud cover, it's possible we could have frost and freeze concerns Sunday-Tuesday nights. Might want to watch those sprinklers and protect any sensitive vegetation. * We will see periods of rain and snow/pellet showers along with slight chances for thunderstorms Sunday through Tuesday. There are solid chances for snow levels to fall to all valley floors by Sunday evening, which may catch many off guard. Mountain passes could see light snow accumulation on roadways during the overnight periods. It will be harder to see any roadway snow accumulation for lower valleys given the time of the year. ...WIND ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 5 AM PDT SATURDAY... * WHAT...Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph expected. Wind gusts up to 65 mph for wind prone locations. Wave heights on Pyramid Lake of 2 to 4 feet. * WHERE...Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Western Nevada Basin and Range including Pyramid Lake. * WHEN...From 11 AM this morning to 5 AM PDT Saturday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Dangerous boating conditions on Pyramid Lake. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Winds will be lighter tonight into early Friday morning for lower valleys before once again increasing during the day Friday and lasting into the night Friday night. Areas of blowing dust are possible downwind of the Carson Sink, which could bring reduced visibility to I-80, US-95, and US-50. Travel restrictions are possible for high profile vehicles. Check with NDOT for the latest on road conditions. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Now is the time to secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, holiday decorations, and trash cans before winds increase which could blow these items away. The best thing to do is prepare ahead of time by making sure you have extra food and water on hand, flashlights with spare batteries and/or candles in the event of a power outage. && The thing that struck me is that this happened over a short time period, says Steven M. Smith, an epidemiologist focused on medications in the Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, who was not involved in the study. There are lots of us who use Tylenol for aches and pains on a not-infrequent basis, but [this study shows] it doesnt take much to experience an increase in blood pressure. That sort of increase, especially if its sustained, puts us at risk for adverse consequences in terms of strokes, heart attacks and death. High blood pressure is the number one preventable cause of heart disease and stroke in the U.S., according to the AHA, and it is second on the list of preventable causes of death for any reason, right behind smoking. Nearly half of U.S. adults (47 percent, or 116 million) have high blood pressure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports. Early warnings Acetaminophen became the pain reliever of choice for people with high blood pressure and/or heart disease almost by default. In 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began taking a closer look at NSAIDs after the prescription painkiller rofecoxib (Vioxx) was voluntarily taken off the market in the wake of evidence showing the drug increased the risk of heart attacks and strokes. In taking a closer look at other NSAIDs both prescription and over-the-counter non-aspirin NSAIDs the FDA found sufficient evidence to mandate a warning about the risk on all NSAID labels. Acetaminophen, meanwhile, was largely deemed a safer alternative, even as studies began to question the effect of the analgesic on blood pressure. A number of reports have suggested that Tylenol increases blood pressure and may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, but these studies were pushed to the side because there were limitations to the studies, says Smith, whose research is focused on medication outcomes in people with hypertension. The recent report in Circulation, however, is the most rigorous study to date on this topic, he says. Talk with your doctor about best options What, then, is the safest pain medication? Thats a question anyone with high blood pressure, heart disease or for that matter kidney disease should ask their health care provider, says cardiologist Donald Lloyd-Jones, M.D., chair of the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and president of the AHA. And yet, research suggests these conversations arent taking place. Nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure and only 53 percent of those who take over-the-counter pain relievers check with their doctor before taking them, according to a 2021 survey commissioned by the AHA. For a long time, NSAIDs have been recognized as being problematic in patients with heart failure, hypertension and kidney disease, Smith says. With acetaminophen, theres the same problematic effect with blood pressure, yet we dont recognize that as being a problem. But that doesnt necessarily mean acetaminophen is off-limits, especially if you take it only on occasion. The risks of using acetaminophen for fever or aches and pains every once in a while even for people who have hypertension are quite low, Smith adds. The real issue is for people who are taking it every day. However, he warns against taking effervescent acetaminophen, citing research just published in European Heart Journal. The fizzy, dissolvable tablets are high in sodium and are associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease in people with and without high blood pressure. There are other considerations as well, Lloyd-Jones says. Unlike acetaminophen, most of the NSAIDs compete directly with aspirin, so people who need aspirin because theyve had a heart attack, stroke or a stent procedure should be careful not to lose the protection they are getting from aspirin by taking one of these other medications. This is much less of a concern with acetaminophen. NSAIDs are also much more likely to cause stomach bleeding than acetaminophen. A Bridgeport resident was sentenced Thursday to 15 years in prison for participating in gang-related shootings, including a shooting in front of a state courthouse in Bridgeport in January 2020, according to federal authorities. Diomie Blackwell, also known as Yamo, 25, also was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to three years of supervised release, according to federal authorities. Advertisement Emergency personnel respond to a shooting outside at he Golden Hill Street courthouse Bridgeport, Conn., Monday, Jan. 27, 2020. (Ned Gerard /Hearst Connecticut Media via AP) (Ned Gerard / AP) Federal officials said, citing court documents and statements made in court, that the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service and Bridgeport Police have been investigating multiple Bridgeport-based gangs whose members are involved in narcotics trafficking, murder and other acts of violence and Blackwell has been a member of the Greene Homes Boyz (GHB/Hotz), a gang based in the Charles F. Greene Homes Housing Complex in Bridgeports North End, whose members and associates distributed heroin, crack cocaine, marijuana and Percocet pills; committed numerous acts of violence against rival gang members and other individuals, and celebrated their criminal conduct on social media websites such as Facebook and YouTube. GHB/Hotz members and associates also committed acts of intimidation and made threats to deter potential witnesses to their crimes and to protect gang members and associates from detection and prosecution by law enforcement authorities, federal officials said in a statement. Advertisement Authorities said the investigation found that on Feb. 7, 2018, Blackwell and an associate shot and attempted to kill MJ, a member or associate of the 150 gang in a residential neighborhood. Then, on Jan. 27. 2020, Blackwell and others attempted to kill members and associates of the East End gang in a brazen afternoon shooting in front of a Bridgeport courthouse at 172 Golden Hill St., federal officials said in the statement. Authorities said four victims were shot while sitting inside a car; one victim was shot in the side of his chest and became paralyzed and another victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his back, shoulder and wrist. The car had about 23 entry bullet holes in the drivers side and windshield area, the statement said. Blackwell has been in custody since August 6, 2020; he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity on Oct. 4, 2021, the statement said The investigation was done by ATF, the FBIs Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police and the Bridgeport States Attorneys Office, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory and the Stratford and Naugatuck police departments, the statement said. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick, Rahul Kale, Karen L. Peck and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis. Flint water advocate pleased to see supplemental spending bill includes more than $1 billion for water infrastructure President Joe Biden announced a new initiative meant to deprive Russian President Vladimir Putin of European energy profits that Biden says are used to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine. Additional Significant Intercepts - Mt Stirling Gold Project Perth, Mar 25, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Torian Resources Limited's ( ASX:TNR ) ongoing drilling campaign at its flagship Mt Stirling Project in Western Australia's Eastern Goldfields has returned additional significant gold intercepts, extending mineralisation beyond previous resource boundaries.Ahead of announcing a new Total Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) next month, drilling across 160 holes at Mt Stirling's identified MS Viserion Gold System was highlighted by a 33m intersection from 196m @ 1.78 g/t Au; and 5m @ 8.52 g/t Au which includes 2m @ 16.19 g/t Au and 1m @ 20.70 g/t Au.The company has now completed 16,792m of Reverse Circulation (RC) infill and extension drilling at MS Viserion, where the strike extends 1.2km SW to NW and 250m at depth.Mt Stirling hosts a current JORC compliant total mineral resource estimate of 118,400 gold ounces and lies 8km northwest of Red 5's ( ASX:RED ) King of Hills gold mine, which has produced more than 1 million ounces of gold to date.Torian has targeted multiple gold zones and targets, and has reported the following recent major gold intercepts:1360N 5m @ 2.67 g/t Au from 169m (MSRC273); inc 1m @ 5.12 g/t Au from 169m1480N 8m @ 1.85 g/t Au from 234m (MSRC272); inc 1m @ 6.89 g/t Au from 235m1560N 18m @ 1.94 g/t Au from 159m (MSRC280); inc 1m @ 4.17 g/t Au from 169m1600N 4m @ 2.62 g/t Au from 24m (MSRC254); inc 1m @ 4.68 g/t Au from 24m11m @ 2.61 g/t Au from 184m (MSRC266); inc 1m @ 9.54 g/t Au from 188m1640N 33m @ 1.78 g/t Au from 196m (MSRC262); inc 1m @ 8.99 g/t Au from 210m1800N 5m @ 8.52 g/t Au from 235m (MSRC283); inc 2m @ 16.19 g/t Au from 236m;and 1m @ 20.70 g/t Au from 237m2000N 2m @ 3.83 g/t Au from 8m (MSRC276); inc 1m @ 6.03 g/t Au from 8m4m @ 2.58 g/t Au from 231m (MSRC276); inc 1m @ 4.03 g/t Au from 232m2040N 6m @ 1.95 g/t Au from 188m (MSRC177) ; inc 1m @ 4.01 g.t Au from 192mTorian Executive Director, Mr Peretz Schapiro, said the drilling results had increased the company's confidence in Mt Stirling's upcoming Mineral Resource Estimate."We have identified a multitude of structural prospective down-dip and along plunge gold target zones at MS Viserion for continued resource ounce discovery and expansion," Mr Schapiro said."Two RC rigs are now conducting a further 3,481m of extensional drilling over 21 holes, ahead of the upcoming resource update, and an Optimisation Study thereafter."Mr Schapiro said results from the Skywing prospect were currently being reviewed while further drilling was also planned to potentially delineate a maiden resource at Estera, as well as follow up on the Hydra and Tyrannus high grade targets where significant assays were returned.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About Torian Resources Limited Torian Resources Ltd (ASX:TNR) is a gold exploration and development company with an extensive and strategic land holding comprising eight projects and over 400km2 of tenure in the Goldfields Region of Western Australia. Torian's flagship project, Zuleika, is located along the world-class Zuleika Shear. The Zuleika Shear is the fourth largest gold producing region in Australia and consistently produces some of the country's highest grade and lowest cost gold mines. Torian's Zuleika project lies north and partly along strike of several major gold deposits including Northern Star's (ASX:NST) 7.0Moz East Kundana Joint Venture and Evolutions (ASX:EVN) 1.8Moz Frogs Legs and White Foil deposits. Torian's other projects include the strategically located Mt Stirling and Malcolm Projects in the Leonora region (near Red 5's King of the Hills Project), where it recently completed updated Mineral Resource Estimates and preliminary scoping studies, and a suite of other projects in the Kalgoorlie region including Credo Well JV Zuleika JV, Bonnie Vale, Gibraltar and Mount Monger/Wombola. Homicide detectives landed another case after a man shot in February recently died at an Albuquerque hospital. Gilbert Gallegos, an Albuquerque Police Department spokesman, said Verlon Tyler Weahkee, 36, died at the hospital on March 20. APDs Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation, he said. Gallegos said police were initially called on Feb. 20 to investigate a shooting in the 2700 block of Kathryn, west of Girard. Albuquerque Fire Rescue found Weahkee and took him to the hospital to be treated for gunshot wounds. Gallegos said APDs Gun Violence Reduction Unit was investigating the incident before Weahkee died. APD has investigated 23 homicides across the city so far this year, matching the total seen by this time in 2021. A former Espanola city manager was charged Thursday for allegedly stealing about $18,000 in checks and cash from the city in 2019. A criminal compliant filed by the New Mexico Attorney Generals office alleges that David Valdez stole a bank bag containing the cash and checks from Espanola City Hall just 10 days after he started work as city manager in April 2019. Investigators with the Attorney Generals office also found that Valdez lost nearly $20,000 at three New Mexico casinos from March to May 2019, according to the criminal complaint. After an analysis and comparison of Valdezs financial statements and casino records, it appeared that Valdez had an obsessive gambling habit, the complaint alleges. Documents showed that Valdez had a consistent spending pattern when he received income, legally or illegally, indicating he immediately gambled a majority of those funds at the casinos, it said. Valdez was charged Thursday in 1st Judicial District court with larceny of $2,500 to $20,000 and misuse and deposit of public money, both felonies. Court records show that Valdez, who now lives in Colorado City, Colorado, had been convicted of theft charges for crimes that occurred before he was hired as Espanolas city manager on April 1, 2019. He was fired during a closed executive city council meeting on July 9, 2019. Valdez did not immediately respond to voicemail messages left Thursday, and its unclear if he has an attorney. In September 2019, the Pueblo County Sheriffs Office filed felony charges of theft and embezzlement of public property against Valdez for alleged thefts that occurred while he was employed as district manager for the Colorado City Metropolitan District, according to the criminal complaint. Valdez resigned his post with Colorado City in October 2018. Pueblo County Sheriffs Office investigators told New Mexico Attorney General officials that Valdez had been investigated in two separate matters involving fraud and embezzlement in Colorado City, the complaint said. On July 10, 2020, Valdez pleaded guilty to felony theft of between $20,000 and $100,000, the complaint said. He was ordered to pay restitution of about $25,000 and to perform 200 hours of community service. The Espanola theft occurred about April 12, 2019, when city employees discovered the theft of a bank bag containing $18,224 in checks and cash payments made by utility customers missing from a vault at Espanola City Hall, the complaint said. Investigators viewed security video showing that Valdez walked toward the back of the utilities office where the vault is located and returning two minutes later with a black leather case under his arm, the complaint alleges. Of the four people observed alone in the vault on the day the bank bag went missing, Valdez was the only person who does not have daily responsibilities in the vault or utilities office, the complaint said. Based on the evidence, it is both probable and reasonable that Valdez had both the means and the opportunity to steal the City Hall utilities deposit from the vault on April 12, 2019, it said. Records recovered by the New Mexico Attorney Generals office show that in the days after the utility deposits were reported stolen, Valdez lost a total of $4,801 at New Mexico casinos from April 15-25, 2019, the complaint said. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal On a normal day, there is an energizing buzz, an almost electric crackle of excitement in the University of New Mexicos Anatomy Lab as 130 students explore 30 or so donor cadavers, handling organs, observing arteries, probing nerves. A textbook doesnt help with the 3D aspects of the body, said Alyssa Yocky, 25, a first-year medical student at UNM. In the lab, you can move (a cadavers) muscles around, see how the muscles shorten or contract and affect movement. It really gives you a learning experience you cant get anywhere else. That very vital education, however, is experiencing a setback now because of a sharp downturn in the number of donated bodies arriving at the School of Medicine. Amy Rosenbaum, director of UNMs Anatomical Donation Program, said the Anatomy Lab needs 75 bodies each year for students and resident physicians but has only 23 now. People have to be preregistered to donate their bodies to us, Rosenbaum said. Everyone is so worried about COVID, they are not thinking ahead, not preplanning. People stopped calling us, stopped asking questions. Another problem, she said, is getting bodies that are available to the lab. We would like to get a cadaver within 24 hours of death, she said. Funeral homes help get bodies to us and also prepare the death certificates. But because of COVID, funeral homes are stretched to the limits. Some lost staff. Ambulance services may have gone out of business. Right now, because of transportation issues, we are only taking bodies from the Albuquerque-Santa Fe-Los Alamos area. Learning and discovery Anatomy lab is the primary class for first-year students studying to be medical doctors, physician assistants, physical therapists and occupational therapists. Its head-to-toe hands-on learning and discovery, said Mary Garcia, an Anatomy Lab tech. Just handling the bodies helps students develop interests and skills they did not even know they had. It grounds them. Oh my gosh. Im in medical school. Im on a mission.' Usually, four students are assigned to a single cadaver. But Rosenbaum said the lab is considering new strategies because of the lack of bodies. She said it may come to one group of students dissecting one side of a body and another group dissecting the other side. Normal days in the Anatomy Lab, operated by the School of Medicines Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, have been difficult to come by the past couple of years. In 2020, COVID restrictions limited student contact with each other and with donor bodies. My class came into medical school the summer of 2020, the height of the pandemic, said Devin Maez, a second-year UNM medical school student. We had to bypass most of our medical lab. Instructors used an online medical program. They did allow us to go (into the lab) to observe a body for what we were studying that week. Our professors did an incredible job, so we are grateful for that. But we did not get the hands-on experience. You cant replicate the experience you get working with your hands on the body. Maez, an Albuquerque Academy graduate who did his undergraduate work at UNM, intends to pursue a surgical specialty, so he was able to do some work on cadavers as part of a UNM surgical interest group. You need an understanding of where (body parts) are in relationship to others, particularly those of us with surgical interests, he said. You need an understanding of what you are cutting through. No body alike Every part of a donor body muscles, arteries, nerves, every part, in fact, except the skin is examined by students in the Anatomy Lab, which is located on the second floor of UNMs Domenici Center for Health Sciences Education. Julie Jordan, a doctor of physical therapy and a lecturer in anatomy at UNMs School of Medicine, said dissecting a cadaver teaches students that human bodies are different not only from pictures in a textbook but also from each other. Every body is different in some way, she said. There is a wide variation of normal as far as the artery distribution pattern is concerned. The heart and other organs may have developmental differences. What underlying conditions may that suggest? She said that anatomy lab is the School of Medicines foundational course. It is the first time some of these first-year students have been in the presence of a dead body, Jordan said. There are a lot of ahas happening. And some people may have emotional reactions. Now that COVID restrictions have been relaxed, full classes of students, all of whom are required to wear masks, are filling up the Anatomy Lab once more. There will be more than 100 M.D. and P.A. students taking part in the anatomy lab class that starts at the end of July. But unless there is an increase in donor bodies being received by that time, there will be fewer cadavers in attendance. Not every body Rosenbaum said 3,000 people are signed up to donate their bodies to the Anatomy Lab. But we dont know when they are going to die, she said. Jordan said some people signed up to donate their bodies so many years ago that the students who will be assigned to dissect those bodies had not been born at the time. And Rosenbaum noted that some people on the donor list may not live in the area anymore. The bodies of donors who die outside of New Mexico are not accepted for the program. There are many other reasons why donor bodies are rejected. Because of the biohazardous risk they pose to students and staff, bodies infected with COVID-19, viral hepatitis B or C, HIV, tuberculosis, active venereal disease and other contagious diseases, or bodies that have been subjected to IV drug abuse, are not accepted. Neither are the bodies of people who have died as the result of some kind of trauma car accidents, homicide, drug overdose, anything requiring an autopsy. With the exception of cornea donations, the bodies of organ donors are not appropriate for dissection. Neither are obese bodies or those that have had recent surgery. Donor cadavers need to be the product of death by natural causes, people who die in their sleep, people who die of heart attacks or cancer, Rosenbaum said. There is no age limitation for body donors, but a person may donate only his or her body and individuals may withdraw from the program at any time they wish. Rosenbaum said it is important that donors inform their next of kin of their wish to donate their bodies, and also important that they let relatives know if they decide to pull out of the program. Cadavers , which are embalmed when they arrive at UNM , remain at the school for 18 to 24 months and are then cremated. The ashes are returned to relatives or the donors representatives, or are interred in an ossuary, an underground space the university maintains at an Albuquerque cemetery. Not all medical schools make the ashes of donor bodies available to survivors. We offer them this connection of giving their loved ones back, lab tech Garcia said. Rite of passage Respect and gratitude are the sentiments most often expressed by School of Medicine staff and students when they talk about the people who donate their bodies for study in the Anatomy Lab. Donors expect their bodies to be treated with respect and expect their bodies to contribute to education, Jordan said. In fact, Rosenbaum said teachers and instructors make up the largest group contributing their bodies to the School of Medicine. Yocky, a La Cueva High alumna who did her undergraduate work at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, remembers that she and her fellow students were particularly quiet during their first anatomy lab class at UNM. You are just in awe of the fact you can work with the donors to do dissections, she said. You feel so lucky in that moment. You are in there a couple of times a week, and you develop an emotional attachment to your donor. You are truly grateful. It will make us better physicians. Before COVID-19 made public gatherings a problem, the medical school had a memorial service in the spring during which staff, students, survivors and friends paid tribute to donors with slideshows, eulogies, poems and shared memories. Even now, students who wish to do so may spend some quiet time with their donor body on the final day of lab. At that time, students who want to know may learn the identity of the donor and something about him or her. Yocky said her donor was a 98-year-old woman who had died of a condition associated with her gall bladder. She had been a teacher and had worked with the Red Cross during World War II, Yocky said. She seemed to do so much for her community. In lab, when you are holding someones brain, you realize its not just a structure. This was someones personality. Medical student Maez said that for many, anatomy lab serves as a rite of passage into medical studies. Our education really depends on the graciousness of our donors, he said. You get a fundamental understanding of life and that giving back does not necessarily end with passing away. Body donation program People interested in learning more about donating their bodies to medical research at the University of New Mexico may call 505-272-5555, or go online and search for UNM Anatomical Donation Program. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal Its a Thursday morning and La Quiche Parisienne Bistro owner Bruno Barachin is baking pastries and quiche to stock his shelves for customers looking to grab a bite. Customers are flooding into the Northeast Heights eatery and one employee is working the register and waiting tables. Barachin is having a hard time finding workers he says he needs a new cook, a dishwasher and two more servers even despite offering between $12 and $16 an hour. Some people stay one day, two days and then quit, Barachin said. Barachins issue in finding employees follows a statewide trend of businesses struggling to find workers. Yet New Mexicos unemployment rate was the highest of any state in January, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The unemployment rate for New Mexico stood at 5.9%, according to the data, with the District of Columbia coming in last at a rate of 6.3%. Nationally, the unemployment rate stands at 4%. Theres tons of jobs out there, said Ruby Quintana, branch manager for Express Employment Professionals in Albuquerque. I dont know of (any company) that is paying minimum wage anymore. (New Mexicos statewide minimum wage increased to $11.50 in January.) Barachin acknowledged that job seekers are wanting more money and for good reasons. Its not enough, Barachin said of the pay he is offering at his bakery. Why? Rent has gone up; gas has gone up everything has gone up. We understand. The unemployment rate was slightly higher than the previously recorded month in December 2021, when about 5.8% of the states workforce remained jobless. And a year-over-year comparison to January 2021 shows that New Mexicos unemployment rate dropped from 7.4%. In Bernalillo County, the states most populous county, the unemployment rate stood at 4.9%. But despite the high unemployment rate, New Mexico has realized job growth in some industries. Notably, nonagricultural employment in the state grew by 46,700 jobs, or about 6%, from January 2021 to January 2022. And leisure and hospitality has seen the largest year-over-year increase of more than 25,000 jobs, or 37.1%, according to the Department of Workforce Solutions Labor Market Review report. Of the leisure and hospitality sector, Albuquerque saw an increase of nearly 11,000 jobs a 36% increase from the previous year. In total, the city saw a jobs increase of 22,000 from January 2021, according to the report. Rob Black, president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce, said he understands people wanting more money and better benefits. But a sense of inertia may have set in for some prospective job seekers who remained home during the pandemic, or those who may have health concerns, he added. Employees are in a stronger position than they have been in a long time, Black said. But job seekers looking for higher paying jobs are not always qualified for those positions. Black said businesses can pay for or offer training programs to prospective employees. If we can get our workforce and education system better aligned, Black said, we are in a good spot. A woman faces felony assault and cruelty to animals charges after she used a machete to break up a Hartford dogfight, according to a police report. The wounded dog, a pit bull, suffered deep cuts on several parts of its body and had to have its tail amputated after the attack, the report said. A man who was trying to separate the dogs reportedly had a broken nose and needed stitches. Advertisement Quadasia McNeil, 33, of Bellevue Street, was charged with second-degree assault, cruelty to animals, carrying a dangerous weapon and breach of peace. She is due in Superior Court in Hartford May 4, court records show. According to the report, the attack happened about 1:10 p.m. on March 17. A man told police he was riding his bike north on Bellevue Street, trying to get away from a small white dog that was following him. The mans girlfriend, who lives on Bellevue, was outside with her gray pit bull. The white dog suddenly began fighting with his girlfriends dog, he told police. Advertisement As the man was trying to separate the dogs, a woman later identified as McNeil arrived and began striking his girlfriends dog with the machete, the report said. The white dog belonged to her wife. The pit bulls injuries were so severe, the veterinarian bill cost $4,000, police said in the report. Both the man and a witness said McNeil hit the man in the face with the machete, but police later determined his injuries were more consistent with him having been struck with the body of the machete, as opposed to the blade, or hit with McNeils fist while she was holding the machete, the report said. McNeil admitted she struck the pit bull with the machete and that she punched the man, according to the report. But she also told police the man was swinging a small knife toward her. Police didnt find any knives at the scene or on the man, police said in the report. Christine Dempsey may be reached at cdempsey@courant.com. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE A lawsuit filed by the New Mexico Republican Party and other plaintiffs over a newly drawn state congressional map has largely languished since being filed two months ago, in large part because five different judges have either recused themselves or been bumped off the case. With the June primary election fast approaching, a GOP attorney has asked the chief judge of the Roswell-based judicial district to assign the case to a judge who will commit to hearing it. In a letter sent this week, the Republican Partys attorney warned the pattern of judicial turnover could be unduly prejudicial if it continues. Thus far, a sufficient number of judges have recused themselves that we have become concerned that no judge from the district will be able to hear the case, attorney Carter Harrison told Chief Judge James Hudson in the letter. He also asked the judge to poll the remaining judges in the district and, if no willing judges can be found, alert the parties in the case so they can inform the state Supreme Court. In New Mexico, judges do not have to cite a reason for recusing themselves from a case theyve been assigned. If all district judges in a judicial district have recused themselves or been excused, its then up to the chief justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court to designate a judge from another district or a retired judge to hear the case. That has happened occasionally in recent state history, including in 2016 when an Albuquerque state judge was assigned to handle the high-profile public corruption case of former state Sen. Phil Griego after all nine judges in a Santa Fe-based judicial district were removed either voluntarily or by court motion. As for this years redistricting lawsuit, filed in January, two judges have been bumped off the case one by a plaintiff and one by defendants and three other judges have recused themselves. Most recently, Judge Thomas Lilley of Roswell recused himself last week, prompting the case to be reassigned this week to Judge Dustin Hunter. The lawsuit describes the map redrawing the boundaries of New Mexicos three congressional districts for the next decade as an unlawful political gerrymander, claiming it intentionally chops up Republican voting strongholds specifically in southeast New Mexico to increase Democrats odds of winning all three districts. The new congressional map was passed by lawmakers on largely party-line votes during a December special session at the Roundhouse, with majority Democrats voting in favor. It was then signed into law by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Since the lawsuit was filed, county commissioners in Lea County have sought court approval to intervene in the case on the plaintiffs side. And the governor and top Democratic lawmakers who are among the defendants in the case have filed motions to have the case dismissed, arguing in part that courts have generally held off on deciding partisan gerrymandering claims. But those motions have not been acted upon due to the steady judicial turnover in the case. The redrawn congressional maps could make it easier for Democrats to win the southern New Mexico-based 2nd Congressional District seat that has been held by a Republican for all but four years since 1980. Thats because, among other changes, the new map moves parts of Hobbs and Roswell into the northern New Mexico-based 3rd Congressional District, which in turn could become more competitive for Republicans. All three New Mexico congressional seats are up for election this year, with absentee and early in-person voting for the primary election set to begin May 10. Republican Yvette Herrell and Democrat Teresa Leger Fernandez, both incumbents, are seeking reelection to the seats they were elected to in 2020, while U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, a Democrat, is seeking to retain the 1st Congressional District seat she won in a June 2021 special election. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal In an attempt to encourage more people of color, and Black women in particular, to consider careers in the Albuquerque Police Department, the local chapter of the NAACP is hosting a recruitment forum. It will be held 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 26, at the University of New Mexicos Continuing Education Building, 1634 University NE. Speakers will include representatives of APD, FBI, the Mayors Office and prominent members of the community. A lot of people offer criticism, complaints and point fingers at law enforcement, so the NAACP wants to take a positive approach and provide constructive solutions to APDs low number of officers, and to make sure that their workforce is diverse, said Albuquerque NAACP President Harold Bailey. Of 927 sworn APD officers, 27 are Black, or 2.9%, and none of them are women, said Nichole Rogers of the Office of Black Community Engagement, which is part of the citys Office of Equity and Inclusion. There are smaller numbers of officers who identify as American Indian or Native Alaskan, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multi-cultural, meaning two or more races. Among these groups there are 11 women, Rogers said. Hispanics account for 414 of the departments sworn officers, and 77 of them are women; while there are 431 white officers, with 49 women among them, she said. Its important for the Black community and other communities of color to support law enforcement, to get involved in recruitment and to help change the attitudes that people have about law enforcement, Bailey said. He noted that as incentives, APD is offering a hiring bonus of $10,000 for officers and a starting wage that will be $32.69 an hour starting in July; and for police service aides, age 18 and older, a hiring bonus of $1,500, and a starting wage of $15.43 an hour. The Albuquerque Police Department is always looking at more ways to better diversify the rank and file of our police force, said department spokeswoman Rebecca Atkins. Having officers from many different backgrounds allows us to provide a voice to sectors of our city and diverse groups that may not have had a voice with law enforcement previously. Shaun Willoughby, president of the Albuquerque Police Officers Association, said Tuesday, We need more officers of every race, creed and color, male and female. The department, he said, is currently extremely understaffed. And while Mayor Tim Keller has said his goal is to have 1,200 sworn officers on APD, Willoughby said a better estimate is 1,400 to 1,500. The ever-increasing amount of paperwork that officers are required to do is an administrative burden that needs to be compensated with additional staffing, Willoughby said. The forum is being co-sponsored by the office of African American Student Services at UNM, and the National Council of Negro Women. BRUSSELS With stunning speed, Russias war in Ukraine is driving Western Europe into the outstretched arms of the United States again, especially apparent when President Joe Biden offered a major expansion of natural gas shipments to his European Union counterpart Friday. Talking to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Biden said the core issue was helping Europe reduce its dependency on Russian gas as quickly as possible. And Europe, which relies on Moscow for 40% of the natural gas used to heat homes, generate electricity and drive industry, needs the help. An economic miscalculation with massive geopolitical consequences, many European Union nations let themselves become ever more reliant on Russian fossil fuels over the years, vainly hoping trade would overcome Cold War enmity on a continent too often riven by conflict. That longstanding practice meant the 27-nation bloc could not simply stop Russian energy imports as part of Western sanctions to punish Moscow for the invasion a month ago. And changing energy policy is about as cumbersome as turning around a liquefied natural gas carrier on a rough sea. In reality, it will take years. This is where Biden stepped in Friday. Under the plan, the United States and a few like-minded partners will increase exports of liquefied natural gas, or LNG, to Europe by 15 billion cubic meters this year. Those exports would triple in the years afterward, a necessary move if the EU can back up its claim to be rid of Russian imports in five years. We are right on track now to diversify away from Russian gas and towards our friends and partners reliable and trustworthy suppliers, von der Leyen said. It will take huge investments, and getting more liquefied natural gas to Europe could be difficult. U.S. export facilities are already operating at capacity, and most new terminals are still only in the planning stages. Most U.S. shipments already go to Europe. Even if more gas can be shipped to Europe, the continent may struggle to receive it. Import terminals are in coastal areas, and Europes pipeline system doesnt have all the connections needed to send the natural gas throughout the continent. But Europe is looking anywhere it can for solutions. Some countries Germany, Italy and Bulgaria among them are more heavily dependent on Russian gas than others, complicating efforts to agree on either a faster exit or a complete boycott now. Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said an immediate embargo through energy sanctions would cost thousands of jobs and leave schools and homes unheated. Meanwhile, Europe must still replenish gas reserves that were heavily depleted during the past winter. Yet, LNG cant simply be conjured out of thin air. It requires export terminals that turn the gas into super-chilled liquid, then a reception terminal on the other end to turn it back into gas form to go into Europes pipeline system. The terminals cost billions and take years to build. With gas prices high from an energy crunch and the wars jolt to volatile energy markets, terminals and tankers around the globe are fully booked already, leaving customers competing for available shipments. Although the U.S.-EU initiative will likely require new facilities for importing liquefied natural gas, the White House said it is also geared toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the long run through energy efficiency and alternative sources of energy. But climate campaigners criticized the agreement and called instead for the U.S. and EU to focus on renewable energy and reducing fossil fuel demand. That is a more affordable and sustainable solution that does not lock Europe into infrastructure or deals it does not need, said Raphael Hanoteaux, senior policy adviser at the Brussels-based environmental group E3G. The U.S. has been dramatically increasing its LNG exports in recent years, and most already go to Europe, according to the Center for Liquefied Natural Gas, an industry lobbying group. Although much of the supply is already contracted out to buyers, there are still opportunities to shift its destination. The U.S. is in a unique position because it has flexible LNG that can be rerouted to Europe or to Asia, depending on whos willing to pay that price, said Emily McClain, gas markets analyst at Rystad. Under the deal, a senior U.S. administration official said the government will continue existing efforts to supply LNG, while over time, Europe will be committing to stable demand of some 50 billion cubic meters. Germany, Europes industrial juggernaut, has already started making major efforts to bring that gas in from coastal terminals , especially after it suspended approval of the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline from Russia last month. The governments plan to shut down Germanys last nuclear plants this year and phase out coal-fired power by 2030 relies heavily on natural gas as a bridge until sufficient renewable energy can be produced for Europes biggest economy. Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck said Germany now expects to be able to become almost entirely independent of Russian gas by mid-2024. To do this, the government has secured the use of three floating terminals capable of turning LNG brought in by ship back in gas form and is working hard to build permanent LNG terminals for long-term imports. By the time the terminals could help us, we could already have achieved the transition to renewable energy, youth activist Clara Duvigneau said at a climate rally in Berlin. ____ Associated Press reporters Chris Megerian and Sam Petrequin in Brussels, Cathy Bussewitz in New York, and Frank Jordans in Berlin contributed. NEW YORK The resignation of a senior Russian government official and his reported move abroad wasnt the first voluntary departure of a person from a state job since the start of Russias war with Ukraine, but it certainly was one of the most striking. Anatoly Chubais, who was President Vladimir Putins envoy to international organizations on sustainable development, is well known in Russia. He held high profile posts for nearly three decades, beginning under Boris Yeltsin, the first post-Soviet leader. A number of public figures have condemned the invasion of Ukraine and left their posts at state-run institutions and companies, which could signal divisions in Russias official ranks over the war. So far there have been no indications that the resignations have reached into Putins inner circle. The handful of departures came as Putin blasted those opposing his course as scum and traitors, which Russian society would spit out like a gnat. Some of the high-profile figures who have turned their backs on the Kremlin because of the war: ANATOLY CHUBAIS On Wednesday, the Kremlin confirmed media reports about the resignation of Chubais, 66, who was the architect of Yeltsins privatization campaign. The reports, citing anonymous sources, said he stepped down because of the war. He hasnt publicly commented on his resignation. Under Yeltsin, Chubais reportedly recommended the administration hire Putin, a move that was widely seen as an important stepping stone in Putins career. Putin became president of Russia in 2000, when Yeltsin stepped down. Chubais also was deputy prime minister from 1994 to 1996 and first deputy prime minister from 1997-98. The Russian business newspaper Kommersant reported Wednesday that Chubais was seen in Istanbul this week and ran a photo of a man resembling him at a Turkish ATM. Since the start of the invasion, Istanbul has taken in many Russians looking to relocate. ARKADY DVORKOVICH Arkady Dvorkovich once served as Russias deputy prime minister and is currently chairman of the International Chess Federation, or FIDE. He criticized the war with Ukraine in comments made to Mother Jones magazine on March 14 and came under fire from the Kremlins ruling party. Wars are the worst things one might face in life. Any war. Anywhere. Wars do not just kill priceless lives. Wars kill hopes and aspirations, freeze or destroy relationships and connections. Including this war, he said. Dvorkovich added that FIDE was making sure there are no official chess activities in Russia or Belarus, and that players are not allowed to represent Russia or Belarus in official or rated events until the war is over and Ukrainian players are back in chess. FIDE banned a top Russian player for six months for his vocal support of Putin and the invasion. Two days after Dvorkovichs comments, a top official in the United Russia party demanded that he be fired as chair of the state-backed Skolkovo Foundation. Last week, the foundation reported that Dvorkovich decided to step down. LILIA GILDEYEVA Lilia Gildeyeva was a longtime anchor at the state-funded NTV channel, which for two decades has carefully toed the Kremlin line. She quit the job and left Russia shortly after the invasion. She told the independent news site The Insider this week that she decided to stop all this on the first day of the Feb. 24 invasion. It was an immediate nervous breakdown, she said. For several days I couldnt pull myself together. The decision was probably obvious right away. There wont be any more work. Gildeyeva said news coverage on state TV channels was tightly controlled by the authorities, with channels getting orders from officials. She admitted to going along with it since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and began supporting a separatist insurgency in Ukraine. When you gradually give in to yourself, you dont notice the depth of the fall. And at some point, you find yourself face to face with the picture that leads to Feb. 24, she said. ZHANNA AGALAKOVA Zhanna Agalakova was a journalist for another state-run TV channel, Channel One, spending more than 20 years there and working as an anchor and then a correspondent in Paris, New York and other Western countries. News reports about Agalakova quitting her job began emerging three weeks after the invasion. This week, she gave a news conference in Paris confirming the reports and explaining her decision. We have come to a point when on TV, on the news, were seeing the story of only one person or the group of people around him. All we see are those in power. In our news, we dont have the country. In our news, we dont have Russia, Agalakova said. Referring to the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the support of the separatists in Ukraine, she said that she could not hide from the propaganda anymore, even as a foreign correspondent. Agalakova said she had to only talk about the bad things happening in the U.S. My reports didnt contain lies, but thats exactly how propaganda works: You take reliable facts, mix them up, and a big lie comes together. Facts are true, but their mix is propaganda, she said. WARSAW, Poland President Joe Bidens visit to Poland on Friday gave him a chance to underscore the U.S. commitment to protect a key NATO member on Ukraines doorstep and to thank Poles for their generous welcome to refugees fleeing Russias invasion. But Poland is also a complicated ally whose populist leaders are accused by some European partners of riding roughshod over democratic norms, and liberal Poles will be seeking a sign that the U.S. remembers its role in promoting democracy. Bidens two-day visit follows a trio of emergency summits in Brussels and brought him to the country that has accepted the lions share of the more than 3.5 million people who have fled Ukraine. More than 2.2 million refugees have entered Poland since the start of the month-old war, and many propose to stay there. Polish assistance to Ukrainians has won praise near and far. Not only have shelters and schools opened their doors to refugees, with 90,000 children registering to attend classes, but many regular Poles have welcomed Ukrainians into their homes. In some cases, theyre taking in friends and in others, complete strangers. President Andrzej Duda, who is allied with a right-wing political party accused of eroding democratic norms, and who clearly preferred former U.S. President Donald Trump to Biden, was set to welcome his American counterpart upon Air Force Ones arrival in Rzeszow, a city some 70 kilometers (45 miles) from the border with Ukraine. But Duda arrived late due to a technical problem with his own plane, which had to make an emergency landing in Warsaw. The delay forced Biden to change his schedule and to meet before a briefing on the humanitarian crisis facing Ukrainians with American soldiers who are serving alongside Polish troops on NATOs eastern flank. He lavished praise on the members of the U.S. Armys 82nd Airborne Division and told them they were in the midst of a fight between democracy and autocracy. The soldiers Biden met are among thousands of additional U.S. troops deployed due to Russias war in Ukraine and come in addition to thousands deployed on a rotating basis since Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2014. Many Poles find their presence reassuring: Russias March 13 strikes on the Yavoriv military base in western Ukraine were so close that they were felt or seen in border communities. At the same time, many Poles will be hoping for a sign from Biden that Washington will continue to urge the Polish governments adherence to democratic values, hoping that wont be forgotten amid the need for wartime NATO unity. During his election campaign, Biden mentioned Poland along with Belarus and Hungary in warning about the rise of totalitarian regimes in the world. The comment caused offense to leaders in Poland, which has become a refuge for dissidents from authoritarian Belarus. The European Union has accused Poland of eroding judicial independence since the Law and Justice party started governing in 2015. The EU sees political interference in the judiciary as an attack on the 27-member blocs fundamental democratic values, and particularly objects to a Supreme Court body with powers to suspend judges whose rulings displease government authorities. Recently, the EU withheld millions of euros from a pandemic recovery fund from Warsaw, seeking to use the money as leverage for change. Polands government has also incurred international criticism for eroding media independence, for anti-LGBT rhetoric by Duda and others, and over the use of Pegasus spyware against government critics. The Justice Defense Committee, an umbrella group in Poland that includes independent judges, prosecutors and civil groups, alleged in a March 13 letter to EU institutions that since the war in Ukraine began, Polish authorities have taken a number of measures to further destroy the rule of law. The government denies its behavior has been undemocratic, noting that it keeps winning elections and arguing that it is trying to reform a corrupt, inefficient court system. Duda late last year moved to ease one key U.S. concern, vetoing legislation that threatened to silence an independent broadcaster, TVN. The legislation would have forced Discovery Inc., a American company that owns TVN, to give up its majority stake in the broadcaster the largest ever U.S. investment in Poland. Biden, however, will likely not have forgotten that Duda and other Polish officials were ardent supporters and ideological brethren of Trump, particularly in their opposition to accepting Middle Eastern refugees and migrants. Duda was among a handful of leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, who waited weeks before congratulating Biden after he won the 2020 election, taking a wait-and-see approach as Trump refused to accept his defeat. In 2018, while asking the U.S. to establish a permanent military base in Poland, Duda proposed calling it Fort Trump. The proposal sparked some mockery in Europe and was quickly dropped. Poles continue to want a permanent base and a greater U.S. military presence as safeguards against Russian aggression. They hope Bidens visit to Poland will bring stronger military commitments. Before Biden returns to Washington on Saturday, he is expected to address the Polish people. The White House said he would deliver remarks on the united efforts of the free world to support the people of Ukraine, hold Russia accountable for its brutal war, and defend a future that is rooted in democratic principles. ____ Follow APs coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine MINNEAPOLIS Teachers in Minneapolis reached a tentative agreement early Friday to end a more than two-week strike over pay and other issues that idled some 29,000 students and around 4,500 educators and staff in one of Minnesotas largest school districts. The union for teachers and support staff planned to announce details later in the day, but said it achieved what it sought when its members walked off the job March 8 after they were unable to agree on a contract with district leaders. Ratification votes were expected over the weekend. Superintendent Ed Graff said he was looking forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday. However, union leaders said talks on a return-to-work agreement were still underway Friday afternoon. These historic agreements contain important wins for our students and the safe and stable schools they deserve, the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers and Education Support Professionals said in a statement, adding that major gains were made on pay for Education Support Professionals, protections for educators of color, class size caps and mental health supports for students. At a news conference and rally outside district headquarters, union leaders said they would get details out to their members shortly. They said the gains included higher starting wages for the lowest-paid workers, and exemptions for teachers of color from seniority-based layoffs that they said could serve as a national model. The collective action of our members has shown that strikes work, said Shaun Laden, head of the unions education support professionals unit. We know that we needed fundamental change in the Minneapolis Public Schools, and that was a big part of what this is about. Greta Callahan, who leads the unions teachers unit, said their gains on the critical issue of mental health supports for students included a doubling of nurses and counselors in elementary schools, and a social worker in every building, but acknowledged they got less than what they had sought. Laden also acknowledged that some of the gains could be temporary because they depend on one-time federal coronavirus relief money. Graff declined to give details about the contract at an earlier news conference, but said he believes its fair to teachers and staff. School Board Chair Kim Ellison thanked students for their patience. I know for many of our students, and many of you, the past two weeks have been difficult and long, she said. Youve missed your teachers, youve missed your school, youve missed your friends. Im so excited for you that youre able to return to school on Monday. I know your teachers are going to be incredibly thrilled to see you. But a teachers strike entered its third day Friday in Sacramento, California, where unions representing 2,800 teachers and 1,800 school employees hit the picket lines Wednesday over pay and staffing shortages The Sacramento City Unified School District has canceled classes at its 76 schools, affecting 43,000 students. Across the country, unions are seizing the opportunity posed by tight labor markets to recover some of the power they feel they lost in recent decades. And experts expect to see more labor strife as the country emerges from the pandemic. President Joe Bidens administration is considering changes that could make it easier for federal workers and contractors to unionize. The Minneapolis walkout, the citys first by teachers since 1970, sent families who had endured the most chaotic days of the coronavirus pandemic fretting anew about lost academic progress and scrambling to arrange child care. Churches, Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCAs and park buildings opened their doors to provide students with safe places to hang out and get meals. High schoolers staged a series of solidarity actions to support the teachers, including an all-night sit-in at district headquarters. Erin Zielinski, mother to a first-grader at Armatage Elementary School in south Minneapolis, greeted news of the settlement with a one-word text: Hallelujah! She and her husband said as the strike began that they supported the teachers, though they worried whether the district could meet their demands. Im relieved to know that the union received an offer to be able to continue to provide schools that are good and safe, she said. A major reason why we chose to move to Minneapolis in the first place. Minneapolis Public Schools administrators and school board members insisted throughout the talks that they didnt have enough money to meet teachers demands, especially for large permanent salary increases. Graff told reporters Friday that the two new contracts with the teachers and support staff are going to require us to take a look at our budgets and make some adjustments going forward over the coming weeks and months. We walked out united to change the trajectory of MPS and ensure that educators have a greater say in how we do our work, the union said. This too has been achieved and will have impacts that improve our district for years to come. Teachers in neighboring St. Paul reached a tentative agreement the night before the Minneapolis teachers walked out, getting a deal that had some similarities to what their Minneapolis counterparts were seeking. Union leaders cited that as evidence that Minneapolis administrators had room to compromise, too. Ben Polk, a special education aide, said he was relieved at the settlement but wanted to see terms before he commented further. Polk said earlier in the strike that understaffing meant aides like him were having to attend to too many higher-need children at once, making it more difficult for both teachers and students. Graff said schools will probably need to add extra school days in June to meet the minimum state requirements due to the lost time, but that the details had yet to decided. ___ Associated Press writer Doug Glass contributed to this report. RZESZOW, Poland Just 60 miles from Ukraine, President Joe Biden saluted Poland on Friday for welcoming more than 2 million refugees who have fled Russias invasion. Then he met with humanitarian experts on the ground about what will be needed to mitigate the growing suffering. Biden said he had hoped to get even closer to the border but was prevented because of security concerns. Still, he said he wanted to visit Poland to underscore that the assistance it is providing is of enormous consequence as Europe experiences the biggest refugee crisis since World War II. Its not stopping, Biden said of the devastation in Ukraine. Its like something out of a science fiction movie. Biden also visited with some of the thousands of U.S. troops who have been sent near Polands border to assist with the humanitarian emergency and to bolster the U.S. military presence on the eastern flank of NATO. More than 3.5 million Ukrainians have fled the country since the Feb. 24 invasion, including about 2.2 million to Poland, according to the United Nations. Within a few days, the number of refugees displaced from Ukraine since last month will exceed the number of Syrians routed from their homes over years of conflict after a 2011 uprising turned into a full-scale war, said Samantha Power, the U.S. Agency for International Development administrator. The American military commitment in Poland was apparent as soon as Air Force One touched down, rolling past Patriot missile batteries. More hardware, including heavy trucks and other equipment painted with dark green and brown camouflage, was present at the airport. A nearby convention center serves as a base for the U.S. Armys 82nd Airborne Division. Polish President Andrzej Duda joined Biden for a briefing with humanitarian experts. Duda, through an interpreter, thanked Biden for his support. He said the Poles see the Ukrainians they are receiving as their guests. This is the name we want to apply to them, Duda said. We do not want to call them refugees. They are our guests, our brothers, our neighbors from Ukraine, who today are in a very difficult situation. Bidens first stop was with 82nd Airborne troops, at a barber shop and dining facility where he invited himself to sit down and share some pizza. The Americans are serving alongside Polish troops. With the troops, he shared an anecdote about visiting his late son, Beau Biden, while he was deployed in Baghdad and going by his mothers maiden name so as not to draw attention to himself. The president jokingly razzed one service member about his standard-issue short haircut and seriously praised the troops, too. You are the finest fighting force in the world and thats not hyperbole,. Biden said. He later addressed a group of soldiers in more formal remarks, telling them the nation owes you big. He also borrowed the words of the late Secretary of State Madeleine Albright to underscore their place in a fragile moment for the U.S. and its European allies. The secretary of state used to have an expression. She said, We are the essential nation,' Biden told the troops. I dont want to sound philosophical here, but you are in midst of a fight between democracy and an an oligarch. Biden will be in Warsaw on Saturday for further talks with Duda and others. The Polish leader had planned to welcome him at the airport on Friday, but his plane was delayed by a technical problem. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden was looking to hear directly from the American troops and humanitarian experts about the situation on the ground and what further steps need to be taken to make sure that were investing U.S. dollars in the right place. Biden, who spent Thursday lobbying U.S. allies to stay united against Russia, speculated that what he sees in Poland will reinforce my commitment to have the United States make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine. Speaking in Brussels after meetings with other world leaders, Biden said he had visited many war zones and refugee camps during his political career and its devastating to see young children without parents or men and women with blank looks on their faces wondering, My God, where am I? Whats going to happen to me? He said Poland, Romania and Germany shouldnt be left on their own to deal with the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. This is an international responsibility, Biden said shortly after he announced $1 billion in additional assistance to help Ukrainian refugees. He also announced that the United States would take in up to 100,000 of those refugees. The White House has said most Ukrainian refugees eventually want to return home. Biden said the United States is obligated to be engaged and do all we can to ease the suffering and pain of innocent women and children and men who make it across the border. He said, I plan on attempting to see those folks I hope I get to see a lot of people. Some refugees interviewed Friday at the train station in Przemysl, Poland, said they hoped to eventually return to Ukraine. They also werent very hopeful about Bidens visit. For sure I do not have any expectations about Biden, said a tearful Ira Satula, 32, from Kremenchug. Satula was grateful for all the support and Polands warm reception. But home is home, and I hope well be there soon, Satula said. Olga Antonovna, 68, from Chernigov, said its really 50-50 that Biden will help enough. I think that we needed help a long time ago, long before, she said. Sullivan said Biden will give a speech Saturday on the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world. ___ Superville reported from Washington. Associated Press video journalist Srdjan Nedeljkovic in Przemysl, Poland, Vanessa Gera in Warsaw Poland, and Aamer Madhani and Sagar Meghani contributed to this report. NAGAON, India Plans to build a sprawling solar park on land cultivated for generations by indigenous farmers in Indias Himalayan foothills erupted in violent clashes with police last year after their crops were bulldozed for the development. Most men from the farming village of a few hundred in Assam state were out looking for work on Dec. 29. One of the few people who remained was Champa Timungpi, who says she was beaten by police and kicked in the stomach when she tried to protest. Pregnant at the time, the 25-year-old was rushed to a hospital for her injuries. I came back home at night, and I miscarried, said Tumungpi, who lodged a complaint with police. The lush green village in Nagaon district still largely unconnected to the grid and home to families who earn less than $2 a day is now framed by blue solar panels, barbed wire and armed guards. The solar developer Azure Power, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, said in an email that the company legally bought 91 acres (38 hectares) in the village from recorded landowners and its incorrect and erroneous to say the land was forcibly taken. The companys position is strongly disputed by Timungpi and others in the Mikir Bamuni village who say their rights as tenants and established farmers were ignored. Local officials and police didnt respond to requests for comment. However it plays out in a district court, the dispute not only speaks to Indias often-tangled land ownership rules rooted in its colonial era. It also illustrates the complexity and immensity of the challenges facing the country of nearly 1.4 billion people in meeting its renewable power goals for the next decade. Over the next 20 years, Indias demand for electricity will grow more than anywhere else in the world. Unlike most countries, India still has to develop and lift millions like Timungpi from poverty, and it will need to build a power system the size of the European Unions. How India meets its energy and economic needs will have an outsized impact on the worlds climate goals. The country is a major contributor of greenhouse gases from the burning of coal and other fossil fuels. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at last years United Nation climate talks that India would increase its capacity of non-fossil fuels electricity to 500 gigawatts by 2030 from the 104 gigawatts at the start of this year. To meet its goals, India must add four times the amount of power the average nuclear plant produces every month until 2030. These short-term energy targets wont do much to limit global warming to 1.5 Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit) the level beyond which scientists warn of catastrophic climate impacts, scientists at last years United Nations climate conference had warned. But for India, itll still be a gargantuan task, requiring investments between $20 billion and $26.8 billion, while only $10 billion is available, a parliamentary committee said last month. Some obstacles to renewables such as the need to build electricity storage for when the sun isnt shining or wind isnt blowing are global challenges. Others are more specific to India such as the question of who owns land in poor communities that bear least responsibility for the climate crisis and the need to realign power systems that have relied on coal for centuries. While theres no clear roadmap yet for Indias renewable energy push, experts cite a federal report last year that said an optimal mix would be getting more than half the countrys power from the sun and wind by 2030. But big solar and wind facilities are sparking conflicts with local communities. This is partly because land ownership is fuzzy at many project sites. For example, some communities have used land for centuries to farm or graze cattle without legal rights over it. As governments and companies focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels, such conflicts were collaterals that had to be managed, Kanchi Kohli, an environmental researcher at the Indian think tank Centre for Policy Research. Mandatory environmental impact assessments were waived for solar and wind projects to make them more viable. But environmental issues still have arisen. For instance, Indias Supreme Court in April 2021 ordered that transmission lines for solar energy be put underground after environmentalists reported the lines were killing critically endangered great Indian bustards. Nine months later, the federal government said burying the lines to safeguard the birds would be too costly and would impede green energy development. The court is hearing the matter again. India could reduce its dependence on large solar parks by building solar panels on roofs in cities. The countrys initial rooftop goals were small, but in 2015 it set a target of 40 gigawatts of rooftop solar, enough to power 28 million homes. Customers were allowed to send electricity back to the grid and the sector grew. In December 2020, the federal government changed rules restricting large industries and businesses from sending electricity back to the grid. These commercial groups are among the highest paying customers for Indias perennially cash-strapped power distribution companies, which lost over $5 billion in 2020. With industries sending electricity back to the grid in the evening when demand and power tariffs are highest, distribution companies were losing their best customers said Vibhuti Garg, an energy economist at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. They were losing money, Garg said. The installation cost makes rooftop solar too expensive for most homeowners. That was the case for Siddhant Keshav, 30, a New Delhi entrepreneur, who wanted to put solar panels on his home. It just didnt make sense, he said. Homes comprised less than 17% of Indias rooftop solar in June 2021, according to a report by Bridge to India, a renewable energy consulting firm. And India has only managed to achieve 4% of its 2022 rooftop solar target. Wind could become another important element in Indias clean energy portfolio. But the most attractive, juicy, windy sites have small turbines using old technology, said Gagan Sidhu, the director of energy finance at think tank Council on Energy, Environment and Water. By retiring old wind turbines built before 2002, India could unlock a capacity of 1.5 gigawatts, according to a 2017 study by Indo-Germany Energy Forum, the consulting firm Idam Infra and Indias renewable energy ministry. But experts said its unclear who would do the retrofitting and pay the bill. With a coastline of over 4,670 miles (about 7,500 kilometers), India could potentially build enough offshore wind farms to provide roughly a third of the countrys 2021 electricity capacity by 2050, according to an assessment led by the Global Wind Energy Council. But these are very expensive to build and the first such project, a wind farm proposed for the Arabian Sea in 2018, has yet to get underway. ___ Ghosal reported from New Delhi. AP journalist Chonchui Ngashangva in New Delhi contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. ___ This story has been updated to correct the Fahrenheit conversion of the 1.5 Celsius increase in global warming beyond which scientists warn of catastrophic climate impacts. BERLIN Climate activists staged a 10th series of worldwide protests Friday to demand that leaders take stronger action against global warming, with some linking their environmental message to calls for an end to the war in Ukraine. The Fridays for Future movement, inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, called demonstrations from Indonesia to Europe and the United States. In Jakarta, activists dressed in red robes and held placards demanding system change not climate change. Others held a banner saying G-20, stop funding our extinction, a reference to the fact that the Group of 20 biggest developed and emerging economies accounts for about 80% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Indonesia hosts the groups next summit this fall. In Rome, protesters carried a giant inflatable globe through the streets and a banner reading Make school, not war. Some 300 protests were planned in Germany, which has taken in about 250,000 Ukrainian refugees in the past month. Thousands of mostly young people, many carrying Ukraines yellow and blue national flag, marched through Berlins government district to the Brandenburg Gate long a symbol of the Cold War division between East and West. Those speaking at the Berlin rally included two young Russian activists, who denounced their governments actions in Ukraine. There are a lot of Russian people who are against (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, and they do not support what Putin is doing, Polina Oleinikova told The Associate Press. Oleinikova, 19, said that people who speak out against the government in Russia now risk to be imprisoned on a daily basis. It is very scary and we are afraid, but still we are (doing) our activism because we feel that it is very important, she said. It is the right thing to do and we wont stop. Fellow climate activist Arshak Makichyan said the war in Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Russia by the West were also having a drastic impact on the Russian economy Everything we had is collapsing, he said, adding that he hoped Putin would be forced to resign and brought to trial. Ilyess El Kortbi, a 25-year-old who helped set up Fridays for Future Ukraine, praised his fellow activists from Russia for speaking out. They are doing the best they can, he told the AP. Even if their regime is authoritarian and really repressive, they still continue standing with us against Putin. El Kortbi, who managed to flee just before the Russian advance reached his home city of Kharkiv, appealed to Germany and other European countries to stop buying fossil fuels from Russia. The war in Ukraine could stop anytime, he said. The EU and especially Germany just need to stop financing this. That message was echoed by many Germans at the march, frustrated that their country is paying tens of millions of euros (dollars) a day to buy fossil fuels that contribute to Moscows war chest even as the burning of oil, gas and coal harms the planet. We are here today to show that peace and climate justice belong together, said Clara Duvigneau, a student from Berlin. She said Germany should invest in renewable energy rather than seek alternative sources of oil and gas from places such as the Gulf or the United States. We want the energy transition to happen as quickly as possible, said Duvigneau. Several hundred young people gathered in Paris, marching from the domed Pantheon on the Left Bank to the Bastille plaza. They carried signs reading Wake Up with a drawing of a burning Earth, calling on French presidential candidates to do more to fight climate change, or accusing French oil company TotalEnergies of cozying up to Putin for its refusal to pull out of Russia. In Washington, D.C., demonstrators gathered in Lafayette Square, across from the White House, before marching toward the U.S. Capitol. A few hundred young people showed up, many carrying signs and placards, including one that read, Fossil fuels fund war. Green energy now. Sophia Geiger, 19, an activist with Fridays for Future, said she wants President Joe Biden to declare a national climate emergency a repeated demand by environmental groups since Biden took office. Geiger, who is taking a year off from her education to focus on climate action, said, Even though he acknowledges this is a crisis, he does not act like it. ___ Associated Press writer Suman Naishadham contributed from Washington, D.C. ___ Follow APs coverage of climate issues at https://apnews.com/hub/climate and of the Russia-Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine JIDDAH, Saudi Arabia Yemens Houthi rebels attacked an oil depot on Friday in the Saudi city of Jiddah ahead of a Formula One race in the kingdom. It was the rebels highest-profile assault yet, though Saudi authorities pledged the upcoming grand prix would go on as scheduled. The attack targeted the same fuel depot that the Houthis had attacked in recent days, the North Jiddah Bulk Plant that sits just southeast of the citys international airport and is a crucial hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. No injuries were reported in the attack. The publicly traded Saudi Arabian Oil Co., known as Saudi Aramco, did not respond to a request for comment. Saudi authorities acknowledged a hostile operation by the Houthis targeting the depot with a missile. In Yemen, Saudi Arabia leads a coalition battling the Iran-backed Houthis, who seized Yemens capital of Sanaa in September 2014. The kingdom, which entered the war in 2015, has been internationally criticized for its airstrikes that have killed scores of civilians something the Houthis point to as they launch drones, missiles and mortars into the kingdom. Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, said the fire damaged two tanks and was put out without injuries. This hostile escalation targets oil facilities and aims to undermine energy security and the backbone of global economy, al-Malki said, according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency. These hostile attacks had no impact or repercussions in any way, shape or form on public life in Jiddah. The Saudi-led coalition warned overnight it would launch new attacks on Yemen, including on the hard-hit port city of Hodeida. Jake Sullivan, White House national security adviser, condemned the attacks and called them clearly enabled by Iran despite an ongoing U.N. arms embargo. While Tehran denies arming the Houthis, U.N. experts and Western nations have linked weaponry in the rebels hands back to Iran. In Tehran, authorities bathed its Azadi, or Freedom, Square in a light projection showing the faces of Houthi leaders. At a time when the parties should be focused on de-escalation and bringing needed life-saving relief to the Yemeni people ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, the Houthis continue their destructive behavior and reckless terrorist attacks striking civilian infrastructure, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken separately said in a statement. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the Houthi attacks on Twitter. These strikes put civilian lives at risk and must stop, he wrote. An Associated Press photojournalist covering practice laps at the F1 track in Jiddah saw the smoke rising in the distance to the east, just after 5:40 p.m. As the flames rose, the tops of the tanks of the bulk plant were clearly visible some 11.5 kilometers (7 miles) away. Drivers raced on into the evening even as the fire burned. The fire smoldered into Saturday morning. The second-ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jiddah is taking place on Sunday, though concerns had been raised by some over the recent attacks targeting the kingdom. Hours later, the F1 said plans for Saturdays third practice and qualifying and Sundays race were still set to go ahead. The Saudi Motorsport Co., which promotes the race, acknowledged the attack but said the race weekend schedule will continue as planned. We remain in direct contact with Saudi security authorities, as well as F1 and the FIA to ensure all necessary security and safety measures, the company said, referring to motorsports governing body. The safety and security of all our guests continues to be our main priority. The al-Masirah satellite news channel run by Yemens Houthi rebels later claimed they had attacked an Aramco facility in Jiddah, along with other targets in Riyadh and elsewhere. Meanwhile, Saudi state TV also acknowledged attacks in one town targeting water tanks that damaged vehicles and homes. Another attack targeted an electrical substation in an area of southwestern Saudi Arabia near the Yemeni border, state TV said. The North Jiddah Bulk Plant stores diesel, gasoline and jet fuel for use in Jiddah, the kingdoms second-largest city. It accounts for over a quarter of all of Saudi Arabias supplies and also supplies fuel crucial to running a regional desalination plant. The Houthis have twice targeted the North Jiddah plant with cruise missiles. One attack came in November 2020. The last came on Sunday as part of a wider barrage by the Houthis. At the time of the 2020 attack, the targeted tank, which has a capacity of 500,000 barrels, held diesel fuel, according to a recent report by a U.N. panel of experts examining Yemens war. Repairing it after the last attack cost Aramco some $1.5 million. The U.N. experts described the facility as a civilian target, which the Houthis should have avoided after the 2020 attack. While the facility also supplies the Saudi military with petroleum products, it is mostly supplying civilian customers, the panel said. If the plant had been out of service of a significant period, the impact on the kingdoms economy as well as on the welfare of the residents of the Western region would likely have been significant. Cruise missiles and drones remain difficult to defend against, though the U.S. recently sent a significant number of Patriot anti-missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia to resupply the kingdom amid the Houthi attacks. In September, the AP reported that the U.S. had removed its own Patriot and THAAD defense systems from Prince Sultan Air Base outside of Riyadh. The attacks have renewed questions about the kingdoms ability to defend itself from Houthi fire as a yearslong war in the Arab worlds poorest country rages on with no end in sight. It also comes as Saudi Arabia issued an unusually stark warning that it is unable to guarantee its oil production wont be affected by further attacks which could push global energy prices even higher amid Russias war on Ukraine. Benchmark Brent crude prices rose above $120 a barrel in trading Friday. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Associated Press writer Malak Harb in Dubai contributed to this report. A 28-year-old died in a violent, two-car crash in Hartford Thursday night, police said. Larry Lugo, 28, of Cabot Street in Hartford was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision on Sigourney Street and Farmington Avenue, they said. Advertisement Officers who were in the area came upon the scene of the crash shortly before 10:30 p.m. They found a white Acura TL that had crashed into a utility pole and a gray BMW X5 in the intersection, police said. Video of the scene shows that the Acura was cut in half. DEADLY CRASH: Here off of Farmington Ave where the roads are still blocked due to what we now know is the result of a 2 vehicle crash that killed 1 person and literally split one of those vehicles in half @NBCConnecticut pic.twitter.com/v2wyTzayOa Michael Fuller (@MichaelFullertv) March 25, 2022 The male driver and male passenger of the BMW survived and were taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries that were not life-threatening, Lt. Aaron Boisvert said. Advertisement Police continue to investigate the crash. Anyone with information about it is asked to call the police departments tip line at 860-722-8477 (TIPS). Christine Dempsey may be reached at cdempsey@courant.com. GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. A Colorado woman died when she fell into whitewater rapids on the Colorado River while on a boating trip in Grand Canyon National Park, park officials said Friday. The death of Mary Kelley, 68 of Steamboat Springs occurred Thursday near Hance Rapid where there is powerful river turbulence at the intersection with Red Canyon due to debris from flash floods, officials said in a statement. Other members of a private boating trip pulled Kelley out of the water but their administration of CPR and subsequent resuscitation efforts by park rangers flown to the scene by helicopter were unsuccessful, the statement said. The incident is under investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner and no additional information was available, the statement said. Copyright 2022 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE An influential legislator in the House says she plans to propose rebates of $350 per tax filer or $700 for married couples filing jointly in next months special session as policymakers evaluate how to help New Mexicans hit by high gas prices. In an interview, state Rep. Christine Chandler, a Los Alamos Democrat and chairwoman of the House Taxation and Revenue Committee, said the proposal would be intended for all tax filers, without an income limit on who qualifies. She envisions dividing the rebate money into two rounds with an initial set of checks this spring and another in the fall. In other words, a person might get $250 in May and then another $100 in September. Theres always a balancing act when youre looking at the budget, Chandler said Friday. What can we afford? I think these are significant enough so that people will really appreciate the extra money theyre getting back. The proposal would cost roughly $530 million but still allow the state to maintain reserves of close to 30% of annual spending, she said. Chandlers approach, of course, may represent just one option lawmakers take up. Her proposal could be amended or set aside entirely. But the House committee she leads is often a starting point for tax legislation. Sen. George Munoz, a Gallup Democrat and chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, said earlier this week that he is preparing legislation that would propose $300 checks for individuals and twice that for couples a plan with an estimated cost of $455 million. In an interview, Sen. Steven Neville, R-Aztec, said the state has enough money to afford substantial rebate checks this year. But lawmakers, he said, shouldnt lose sight of the need for broader changes to the tax code that would provide ongoing relief. Its a real disincentive for business, Neville said of New Mexicos tax system. How to reshape New Mexicos gross receipts tax applied to the sale of goods and services is an ongoing debate at the Capitol. The tax reaches 9% in some communities. The Legislature this year approved a proposal by Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to reduce the state governments portion of the rate by 0.25 percentage points. But supporters of overhauling the tax code say more substantial changes are needed. The immediate focus, however, is on rebate checks. As the nations No. 2 oil producer, New Mexico is enjoying a revenue boom at the same time drivers are seeing higher prices at the pump. The cost of regular-grade gasoline in the state has shot up from an average of $2.869 a gallon a year ago to $4.146 now, according to AAA, a 45% increase. Lujan Grisham is calling lawmakers to the Capitol for a special session April 5 to take up economic relief and revisions to a supplemental spending bill. The rebate checks up for debate next month would be in addition to tax relief authorized earlier this year. New Mexico already plans to send out $250 rebate checks in July to individuals who make less than $75,000 per year, or $500 for couples making under $150,000. Discussion of another round of rebates surfaced as gas prices continued to climb over the last month, driven partly by Russias invasion of Ukraine. Chandler said rebates are especially important for rural residents who cannot avoid driving long distances. Were trying to find a way to soften the impact, she said. Democrats hold majorities in both chambers of the state Legislature. Lujan Grisham, up for reelection this year, is also a Democrat. Others states also are evaluating how to offset escalating gas prices. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has suggested $400 or $800 debit cards for vehicle owners, for example, and Maine Gov. Janet Mills has proposed $850 relief checks for individuals. Instagram Celebrity According to her lawyer, 'The Real Housewives of New Jersey' is set to be released from the hospital within 24 hours after she's hospitalized for a 'non-cosmetic' emergency surgery. Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Teresa Giudice is on the mend in a hospital. According to her lawyer, "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" star is "recuperating" after being rushed to the hospital for an "emergency procedure." On Thursday, March 23, James Leonard, a lawyer for the 49-year-old Bravo star, told Page Six, "Teresa was admitted to the hospital last night and had a non-cosmetic emergency procedure this morning." The attorney added, "She is recuperating and is looking forward to a speedy recovery." "She thanks everyone for their prayers and well wishes," added James. He further explained that Teresa is set to be released from the hospital "within the next 24 hours." The nature of the reality star's medical emergency has not yet been released. Amid Teresa's health scare, her eldest daughter Gia Giudice took to her Instagram Story to show some support. Gia shared a selfie of the reality star wearing a blue medical face mask while lying in a hospital bed. Over the snapshot, Gia wrote, "Such a trooper, I love you." The 21-year-old daughter of the Bravolebrity then asked her followers for their prayers as saying, "Pray for a speedy recovery. I love you @teresagiudice." Gia Giudice showed some support to her mom after being hosptalized for an 'emergency procedure.' Later, Teresa's ex-husband, Joe Giudice, shared the same photo on his Instagram account. The entrepreneur also asked fans for their support. "Please pray for Teresa as she's been admitted to the hospital," he captioned his post along with a broken heart and folded hands emoji. Teresa's hospitalization came less than a month after her fiance, Luis Ruelas, filed for bankruptcy. The Sun reported that Luis' company, Produce Depot, filed for $1,660,488.10 in bankruptcy on March 2. Previously, Luis was sued by C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., a vendor of the produce company, for failing to pay over $100K. The paperwork claimed the business sold "fresh fruit and vegetables" to Luis' company on October 20, 2020 and November 13, 2020 in the amount of $113,404.40. "Produce Depot has failed and refused to pay for the commodities it ordered, received, and accepted from Plaintiff, despite due demand," read the legal papers. The lawsuit alleged that Luis and his business partner "are or were owners, officers, directors, members and/or at least 10 percent shareholders of Produce Depot during the relevant time period, making them 'responsibly connected.' " Instagram Celebrity The 25-year-old rapper reveals via his Instagram Stories that he checked himself in on a 5150 as he blames the 'false narratives' that people are spreading on the Internet for his health issue. Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Lil Xan has shared an update to his fans, but it's not a good one. The young rapper revealed that he is currently hospitalized on a 5150, the California law code for the temporary, involuntary psychiatric commitment of individuals who present a danger to themselves or others due to signs of mental illness. Taking to his Instagram Stories, the 25-year-old blamed online bullying for taking a toll on his mental health. "Crazy ever since I spoke out against the industry so many false narrative videos about me start surfacing on the internet like wildfire," he wrote in one of the Stories, "if you think I'm broke I ask you to dig deeper and do your own research then belive (sic) a stupid YouTube video. Im living very very comfortably and ask the people speaking lies about me to please stop as its affecting my mental health." He also shared a photo of his tattooed arm as he laid in a hospital bed. He added, "Didnt want to even let people know how bad it was affecting my mental health but I feel I should, been in the hospital on a 51/50, please stop speaking about me if you don't know me Im a human being just like you." Lil Xan went viral in 2018 after claiming he overdosed on Flamin' Hot Cheetos. The "Betrayed" spitter has opened up about his battle with drug addiction. After a brief stint in rehab, he confessed that he relapsed on opioids in June 2019 before getting clean again last year. In a "60 Minutes" interview in August 2020, the emcee, whose real name is Nicholas Diego Leanos, talked about the moment he realized he needed help. "I was taking enough benzos to take down an elephant," he admitted. "I was probably taking12 two milligrams to 14 two milligrams a day." He went on sharing, "I was really bad. It was really bad I looked in the mirror and I'm like - it was just that moment you know, like, if I keep doing this, I'm gonna die soon. So I just quit, cold turkey. And I actually ended up having a few seizures. And I landed in the hospital." Instagram Celebrity The Marisol 'Flaca' Gonzales depicter on 'Orange Is the New Black' confirms the baby's arrivals by sharing a black-and-white maternity shot and a picture of her newborns' feet. Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Jackie Cruz is officially a mom. Announcing that she has welcomed twins with her husband Fernando Garcia, the Marisol "Flaca" Gonzales depicter on "Orange Is the New Black" gushed about "feeling content" in life. The 35-year-old broke the exciting news on Instagram by sharing a black-and-white maternity photo and a picture of her newborns' feet. Alongside the Wednesday, March 23 post, she raved, "Being a mother has changed my world. My babies are everything to me. I've been taking my time to enjoy every moment." "I'm feeling content, exhausted, overwhelmed, grateful, tired, joyful, blessed, and fortunate all at the same time. My Babies are healthy and beautiful," the actress added. "I want to thank my gorgeous friend @elenakosharny for capturing this image right before I met my babies. We were lost en el bosque de Tlalpan, Mexico surrounded by nature and Love." It remains unclear when Jackie gave birth to her babies. However, her husband Fernando posted an image of him with a stroller in late February. Alongside the snap, the new dad penned, "A man never truly understands the meaning of life until he has a family of his own. God is great." Jackie went public with her pregnancy in December 2021. "It's been a wonderful pregnancy, honestly," she said in an interview with PEOPLE. "I've been working on it for a few years. I've had some issues with fertility." Unlike her spouse, the former model was in a rush to conceive and didn't believe she could do it naturally. "Going to doctors, they want you to take all this medicine. My husband, he's really into just being natural and believing that you can do it," she explained. "I was against it." "I was like, 'No, I want this now.' But he was like, 'No, come on. Give your body a chance. This is what the woman is made for,' " she went on recalling. "But some people are different. Some people have to take fertility [medication], but we wanted to try natural first. And of course, if that didn't work, there were other avenues." Jackie and Fernando got married in August 2020 in Oaxaca, Mexico. When confirming their marriage, the actress shared a picture of the couple's hands with a picturesque beach in the background and she simply wrote in the caption, "8/28/20." WENN/FayesVision Celebrity Stopping by 'The Late Late Show with James Corden', the 'Lost City' stars reveal they were often called to the principal's office at preschool because their daughters had altercations with each other. Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum share an unforgettable memory that goes beyond their working relationship. The two actors might be having a blast filming "The Lost City", but their daughters didn't get along as well as their parents do. During an appearance on "The Late Late Show with James Corden" on Wednesday night, March 23, the celebrity parents revealed that their daughters fought a lot in preschool, which led to their first meeting. "We have two very, very strong-willed little girls that, you know, at that young age were very much butting heads," Channing explained why his daughter Everly and Sandra's daughter Laila often clashed. The Oscar-winning actress said that she would always answer the phone hoping it was Channing's daughter who started the fight. The "Magic Mike" star, meanwhile, was left in disbelief with the fact that his daughter picked Sandra's daughter as her nemesis. "Of all the people - of all the people! - to fight with their daughter!" he exclaimed. Sandra then recalled after one particular altercation, she thought about calling Channing or his ex-wife Jenna Dewan about how to solve the issue between their daughters. But the school's principle proposed a challenge. "The challenge was, 'Who could be the nicest to the other one?' " she revealed. "So they were bringing each other Dixie cups of water." Sandra and Channing first talked about their daughters' altercations in an interview with The New York Times published on March 17. "We met through drama, in the principal's office at preschool," the "Speed" star shared. "We were called in together because Everly and Laila were trying to alpha the other one out, and we prayed it was the other's child that caused the damage. But actually, I think we met for the first time at my birthday party. You were a plus-one." The 41-year-old hunk said he has since "blocked it all out," as Sandra chimed in, "There's some PTSD attached to it." She also said that one of the reasons they worked together was to allow their daughters hung out together and get along with each other. "That's the reason we did this film, so they could have one long, COVID-safe play date," the mother of two said. "We even brought motorbikes down there. All we cared about is that Everly and Laila were just having the time of their lives." Instagram Music In a new interview, the 'Flip the Switch' rapper says that the hip-hop community needs to make their own award show to 'appreciate the real s**t that's going on in the streets.' Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Quavo has joined J. Prince's plan to boycott the Grammy Awards. The "Flip the Switch" rapper has vowed to perform at a rival concert as he supported the protest against the annual ceremony. On Wednesday, March 23, the 30-year-old hip-hop star spoke to TMZ that Grammys "don't mean a thing" anymore. When asked about J. Prince's idea to put on an anti-Grammys concert with hip-hop's biggest stars on the same night as the award-giving event, he said, "Let's do it." "We need to make our own award [show] that appreciate the real s**t that's going on in the streets that appreciate the culture, that appreciate the best new artists instead of a freshman class, we need like best new artists in the street whenever they come out," Quavo opined. "All these little stimulations on our artistry is lame because we're the creators," he continued. Quavo later called the Grammys "a whole old, old language." The "I'm the One" emcee further explained that what the Grammys need are "new younger founders, new younger guys who tapped into the culture. You got to get in the field to know what's real." Also on Wednesday, Dame Dash told the outlet that hip-hop artists need to "make our own Grammys." He added, "I'm not trying to fit into somebody else's system," before sharing, "So we just create our own so we ain't gotta worry about nobody else's rules." "It's not for them to judge who's hot. It's for us," Dame continued. The "Don't Get Scared" spitter pointed out, "They really shouldn't be giving us the awards. We should be giving them the awards. They gotta respect our culture." J. Prince's proposal to have a competing show on the night of the Grammys was in response to Kanye West being pulled as a performer because of his recent online behavior, which the award show deemed to be "concerning." Taking to social media, the music executive invited other hip-hop stars, including Drake, The Weeknd and Nicki Minaj, to boycott the show. "This is a 'slave master punish a n***ah mentality and act' to remind us that no matter how much money we have, we are still n***ahs in their eyes," wrote J. Prince. "So they cancelled Kanye and discriminated against Drake, The Weeknd, Nicki Minaj, and many others over the years." J. Prince further detailed that the performance will be aired "on a special network and streaming platform." He stressed that he wants to "prove that ratings will change where the Grammys are concerned when the #1 selling genre in the music - HIP HOP - comes together because there's power in numbers." Instagram Celebrity In a clip shared on the video-sharing app, the 'Tiger King' star is seen laughing while dancing to an audio that claims she 'whacked' her former spouse, Don Lewis. Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Carole Baskin has her own way to set the record straight that she had nothing to do with her ex-husband's disappearance. Taking to social media, the "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness" star hilariously reacts to a viral TikTok song that accuses her of killing Don Lewis. The 60-year-old reality star was back in the spotlight in a TikTok video posted on Wednesday, March 23. In the said clip, she dances alongside two other ladies to Brooklyn Charles' audio, "Savage: Tiger King Edition". The lyrics to the song claim that Carole murdered her missing husband, who has not been seen since 1997. In the short clip, she's seen laughing and jokingly trying to cut the music as Brooklyn raps the lyrics, "Carole Baskin/ Killed her husband/ Whacked him." As the song continues to play, she mouths, "No, I didn't!" This wasn't the first time Carole weighed in on the allegations that she killed Don. During a November 2021 Reddit AMA, Carole shared that she believed Don died after being involved in a plane crash. "Don loved to fly and was looking to buy ultralights and experimental planes," she said at the time. "I believe Don crashed a small experimental plane or ultralight into the Gulf for a number of reasons. He wasn't licensed to fly yet did all the time." Carole added that Don would take off from closed airports to "evade detection" and would stay under 200 feet so he could "stay off the radar." She shared, "He would typically fly out over the Gulf because the air is smoother there, whereas over land there are up and down drafts that will crash you at the height. Since phone records indicated he was planning to go to Texas, and his van was found at a small private airstrip and we have never found Don or wreckage, I think this was the most likely scenario." That same month, Carole responded to reports claiming that her former spouse "is alive and well in Costa Rica." She said at the time, "I don't know how it is that Homeland Security says he's alive and well in Costa Rica but I'm glad to hear it." WENN/FayesVision Celebrity Steve Stanulis, who used to work for the rap mogul as his bodyguard, doesn't seem to be surprised by West's recent social media antics which he calls 'social media drama.' Mar 25, 2022 AceShowbiz - Kanye West's drama involving his ex Kim Kardashian and her new boyfriend Pete Davidson indeed catches a lot of people's interest. Among those who are weighing in on the matter was Steve Stanulis, who used to work for Kanye as his bodyguard. Stanulis didn't seem to be surprised by West's recent social media antics. Calling the antics nothing more than "social media drama," the former New York police officer said in an interview with Fox News Digital, "Pete is high-profiled where, God forbid, if something did happen, who do you think they're going to point fingers to?" "As much street clout Kanye has, or whatever you want to call it, hes not stupid," he went on to say. "And Davidson is certainly not Pete the Plumber who might have more to worry about [in terms of security]. I think it's all social media drama, absolutely." He was also discussing a documentary titled "15 Days with Kanye" that he's working on. "There's no person that's going to watch this film, whether they're a fan of his or not a fan of his, that's going to say, 'I don't like him anymore' or 'I can't believe he's done this,' " Stanulis said of his documentary. "Everything we discuss in the documentary is stuff people kind of already know. And it's done in a very entertaining way. It was 15 days with Kanye - that's what it was." He additionally set the record straight about his experience working with the "Donda" artist for only two weeks in 2016 before he got fired. "It's something I always get dragged back into," he explained. "When Kim's robbery [in Paris] happened, I suddenly became the go-to guy in terms of sharing my thoughts about the situation and how it could have been prevented. And then one night I was at a club and I walked out around the same time Tristan Thompson came out." "There were paparazzi outside and the next day, it was all over that we were hanging out. It's been going on for a while," he continued. "The more I try to bury it, the more it comes back. So I want to finally address the elephant in the room." Back in 2016, West threatened his former bodyguard with a $30 million lawsuit as he claimed that Stanulis signed a confidentiality agreement. "This sad, parasitic maniac has violated every basic human tenet of decency with his story of lies. As such, the Wests will explore all legal means at their disposal to silence this nonsense," a rep for West said at the time. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close The steeple of the historic Liberty Christian Center International Church in Hartford's North End has seen an acceleration of the decay of its steeple and portico in recent years. (Mark Mirko/The Hartford Courant) Hartford A historic church in Hartfords North End whose congregation didnt have the money to repair the worsening decay of its steeple and portico is now in line for a $1 million state grant for the project. Im elated, elated because all we had was the ability to connect with God, and to pray, and to ask God to send us the resources, send us the help and so he did that, Corey James, the pastor of Liberty Christian Center International at Albany Avenue and Vine Street, said. Advertisement James said the grant will boost a restoration that will be a significant and high-profile example of investment in the citys North End. This structure will be something that everyone in the neighborhood can look to as an example of neighborhood beautification but also an example of what we want the North End of Hartford to look like, James said. So, the church is ecstatic. Advertisement Church leaders Pastor Corey James, at left, and Rodney Powell of Liberty Christian Center International Church at Albany Avenue and Vine Street last month. Rodney Powell estimate repairs on the church's exterior to be $1.5 million. (Mark Mirko/The Hartford Courant) James said a capital fundraising campaign will still be necessary, with one estimate of the cost of repairs at $1.5 million. But James said he hopes the restoration work will begin this fall, after a study. The work could take 18-24 months, he said. The troubles of the decaying steeple and its rotting pediment were well known to the interdenominational congregation of 150 families, affiliated with the United Church of Christ. But the worsening condition of its building, the former Horace Bushnell Congregational Church, came into the spotlight a month ago when the 1914, Georgian Revival-style church was listed on the Hartford Preservation Alliances annual Top 10 list of endangered buildings in Hartford. [ The 10 most endangered historic properties in Hartford, include a church, hospital brownstones, a park and more ] The legislatures Speaker of the House of Representatives, Matt Ritter, a Hartford Democrat, read about the churchs plight in a Courant story about the alliances list. Its important in a city like ours where we have lost historic buildings, Ritter said. It was heartbreaking to read that. As membership has declined at a lot of churches, it makes it harder to do building projects. Ritter, who led the push to get the project on next weeks bond commission agenda, said he wasnt sure there would be support for such a project. But there was a record of state investment in historic churches. Liberty Christian Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So it wasnt the first time wed done something like this, Ritter said. Advertisement The grant, however, would be among the largest in recent memory for a historic church building. Ritter also said the church is a community space serving as a polling place. The church also is active in outreach to the community, ranging from its food pantry to recent hosting of coronavirus vaccination clinics. Rodney Powell of Liberty Christian Center Church at Albany Avenue and Vine Street points to rot on the pediment of the former Horace Bushnell Congregational Church. (Mark Mirko/The Hartford Courant) Gov. Ned Lamont, who chairs the bond commission and sets its agenda, praised the church as a pillar of the community serving the youngest children, setting them up for success, while ensuring those who are hungry have food through their pantry. The bond commission is about strengthening our neighborhoods, and these funds being directed to the Liberty Christian Center do just that, Lamont said. Approval by the bond commission is all but assured. Once an item appears on the commission agenda, there is agreement on the project. Mary A. Falvey, the alliances executive director, praised the states investment in the historic structure, whose steeple and portico were actually part of an earlier church that once existed on Main Street. Advertisement News @3 Daily Catch up on the days top headlines sent directly to your inbox weekdays at 3 p.m > This is exactly what we want this endangered building list to do is to bring forth resources and people to help us out, Falvey said Thursday. Were thrilled. Church officials have said the basic structure of the church is still sound, but deterioration of the decorative architectural elements that distinguish the church has accelerated in the past three years or so. In that time, a column adorning the base of the steeple blew off in a wind storm; rot has spread deeper into the facades pediment and cornice; and netting once intended to keep away pigeons is now catching bits and pieces of the portico ceiling that have fallen away. The decay on the exterior of the building, however, contrasts starkly with the church buildings well-preserved interior worship space. James said the alliances listing also brought interest from former church members who are willing to participate in a capital fundraising campaign. They do want to see this historical structure renovated and repaired, James said. Advertisement Kenneth R. Gosselin can be reached at kgosselin@courant.com. Chinese streaming platforms have reportedly pulled multiple Keanu Reeves films off their sites after his participation in the annual Tibet House Benefit Concert earlier this month. The 57-year-old actor participated in the virtual concert alongside Laurie Anderson, Patti Smith, Cyndi Lauper, and Iggy Pop on 3 March. In January, the Hollywood actor incurred the wrath of Chinese social media users when they learned he would be participating in a virtual benefit concert for Tibet on March 3. The films affected were some of Reeves' biggest hits like "Speed," "The Matrix" trilogy, and "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure," per the LA Times. The Los Angeles Times reported that Chinas major streamers like iQiyi, Tencent Video, Bilibili, and Xigua Video have removed most films starring Reeves following the March 3 benefit concert for the New York-based nonprofit, which is affiliated with the Dalai Lama. Sorry, no results related to Keanu Reeves were found" cropped up on the platform iQiyi with this added text, Due to relevant laws, regulations and policies, some results are not shown",According to The Los Angeles Times The report also added that animated movies like Toy Story 4, which features Reeves as the voice of stuntman Duke Caboom, remain online; its credits are unusual. The credits appear in English except for the voice cast, which switches over to Chinese and lists only the local dubbing cast, avoiding any mention of the actor who has flared the tempers of the country. Anurag Thakur, minister of Information & Broadcasting, has announced that setting up a media commission currently is unnecessary, thereby rejecting Standing Committee on Communications & Technologys recommendation mentioned in its twenty-seventh Report. Thakur has stated that the government takes note of information, statistics from numerous sources before creating strategies, formulating policies and that it holds regular meetings, discussions with the stakeholders in this regard. The IT Committee, which is headed by Shashi Tharoor, Congress MP, has made the recommendation of setting up a media commission in order to examine all aspects of the twenty-seventh report named Ethical Standards in Media Coverage, in December of 2021. The report has made recommendations of restructuring the Press Council Of India (PCI) and to establish a media council covering digital, electronic and print media. It stated that the media commission should be an extensive body which involves all the stakeholders, experts and should be instructed to submit its report within the deadline, suggesting that its report should be present within six months of starting its tenure. The committee also suggested to remove the ambiguous nature surrounding a term mentioned in Rule 6(1)(e) of the Cable Network rules, 2014, called as Anti national attitude. The committee asked MIB to manage the ill-defined areas surrounding FDI regulations in media. MIB was also asked to look into the matter of paid news to execute the recommendation of the Law Commission in order to name paid news as an electoral offence. The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the sacrifice and willingness of health care workers at the frontlines. As a token of gratitude to thank our medical caretakers and countless Covid Warriors, News18 Tamil Nadu organised Maruthuva Viruthugal 2022 on 24th March 2022. The event served as an exclusive platform to acknowledge the contribution of hospitals in building Tamil Nadu the leading destination for medical facilities and healthcare. To acknowledge the efforts made by these brave hearts, News18 Tamil Nadu hosted some of the senior most personalities from the state department of health. The chief guests of the event were Ma. Subramanian, Minister for Health and Family Welfare and J. Radhakrishnan, Health Secretary. Acknowledging the benefaction throughout Tamil Nadu, the channel honoured Meenakshi Mission Hospital & Research Centre in Madurai as the Best Hospital in South Tamil Nadu, while Meenakshi Hospital at Thanjavur claimed the Best Hospital in Delta Region, and Sri Ramakrishna Hospital at Coimbatore received the accolade for Best Hospital in Kongu Region. Classifying these awardees according to the specialities in the Chennai region, the top winners were Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Specialties Centre as the Best Diabetology Chain of Hospitals, Sooriya Hospitals as the Best hospital for Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Gleneagles Global Health City as the Best hospital in Chennai for Liver Sciences and Gastroenterology, and Gleneagles Global Health City as the Best hospital for Neurosciences. Honouring the providers of free-of-cost services, News18 Tamil Nadu chose Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical College and Hospital in Perambalur as the Best free rural health service. The individual Covid warriors awarded this year at Maruthuva Viruthugal 2022 were Ponnusamy, a Multi-Purpose hospital worker from Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (Chennai), Bommi - staff nurse from Stanley Government Hospital, Chennai and Yegavathi, a member of the Sanitation Staff at Omandurar Government Medical College Hospital, Chennai. Special recognition was given to Mariyaie, a burial ground worker and the Late. Dr. Shanmugapriya, a pregnant doctor who died on-duty. Such endeavours from the channel helped in making a constant effort to push for patient-friendly medical services. To catch the complete coverage of Maruthuva Viruthugal 2022, viewers can tune into News18 Tamil Nadu on 27th March 2022 (Sunday) starting 7pm. Coffeehouse chain Starbucks has announced in a video illustrating that the customers, who are visitors of Starbucks Canada and the US, will be allowed to use their own personal reusable cup, every time they visit a Starbucks store, including for online order and drive-thru. This new introduction is supporting the long-term vision of Starbucks to help reduce waste by 50% within the year 2030. With this move, Starbucks will stop the use of single-use cups and is currently testing the use of reusable cups in six of its markets in the world. The brand said in a statement: Our purpose is to make it easy and convenient for the customers to reuse their Starbucks cup, no matter whichever Starbucks store they visit. To introduce this new function, Starbucks has introduced a number of programmes for reusables that are under test. Some of them are as follows 100 percent Reusable Functioning Models Starbucks has conducted a test on this programme in four of its stores in South Korea, Jeju, with 12 stores in Seoul. Under this feature, there is complete operation of the use of personal reusable cups with the eradication of the use of single-use cups. The test in Jeju has redirected in the initial three months, around 200,000 throwaway cups from the landfills. Borrow A Cup Under this programme, the customers are allowed to order their drink in Starbucks reusable cups which are then cleaned with precision to be reused by other customers. In the past year, this programme has undergone a test in Seattle and is presently undergoing tests in London, Japan, Singapore. Personal Cups & For-Here-Ware This programme motivates the customers to get their own cups. At its observational Greener Store in Shanghai, Starbucks is conducting a complete test for the for-here-ware programme. Strata, Indias leading tech-enabled commercial real estate (CRE) investment platform, has signed up as the partners to five-time champion Mumbai Indians for the 15th edition of the countrys leading T20 league scheduled between 26th March and 29th May 2022. As the countrys leading proptech firm, Stratas collaboration with one of the most iconic teams of the most loved sport festival in the country, came in as a natural choice to build the right visibility and traction for the brand as it forays into its next growth phase. The immense popularity of the most successful and followed team in the T20 league, will aid in offering a major boost to Stratas objective of targeting a diverse portfolio of customers. Additionally, to further strengthen relationship and to establish long-term bonds with its investors, Strata has announced the launch of Strata Loyalty Program. The unique program has been structured to reward and thank its loyal investors who can access a combination of rewards and tiers during their investment journey. The Strata Loyalty Program entails four tiers basis the investment amount and can be availed by all its investors. Bronze tier for investments of up to INR 1 Crores Net AUM, Silver tier for investments equal to or above INR 1 Crores & up to INR 3 Crores Net AUM, Gold tier for investment equal to or above INR 3 Crores & up to INR 5 Crores Net AUM and Platinum tier for investment equal to or above INR 5 Crores Net AUM. The program would help investors access a wide variety of benefits including reduced management fees, exclusive access to selected properties, personalized tax services and many more depending on the tiers. On the occasion, Ankit Shah, Head of Marketing, Strata, said We are extremely thrilled to associate with Mumbai Indians, the most successful and popular team in one of the worlds leading T20 leagues.. Championing five titles so far, they have undoubtedly been the most consistent and resilient team. Their pursuit for consistent excellence bears a significant resemblance with the kind of returns our investors enjoy on Stratas platform that offers CRE (Commercial Real Estate) as an asset class stable, consistent and low-risk and which is what brings us together. Strata too is the category leader offering CRE investing and through its customer centric approach, efficient processes and strategic investments has created a distinct brand loyalty among its investors. The collaboration will enable us to combine the synergies of both brands while driving greater brand awareness among a diverse set of audiences. Mumbai Indians Spokesperson said, We are pleased to associate with Strata for the upcoming season. We welcome them on-board Mumbai Indians brand family and look forward to a successful campaign with them. Strata, the pioneer to offer fractional ownership investing in commercial real estate in India, serves over 1500 investors and 20000 users across the globe. The company recently crossed the significant threshold of 500 crores in Assets under Management (AUM) with assets across Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Rajasthan. Through its tech-enabled platform, it empowers retail investors to invest in commercial properties of their choice whilst offering excellent and consistent yields. Strata envisions to be the largest alternative investment platform in the country for retail investors by enabling them to invest in CRE assetsby democratizing assets and offering it on an easy-to-use online platform. Key benefits under Strata Loyalty Program: Bronze: 00% management fee on all Investments; Instant Call Feature with the assigned Investment Manager; Investor dashboard and all basic benefits as per the terms of Strata Platform and Investment documents. Silver: 90% management fee on all Investments; All other Benefits of Bronze to continue; 48 hours early access to new asset Gold: 80% management fee on all Investments; All other Benefits of Silver to continue; Performance fee of 15% shall apply instead of 20%; Exclusive access to select assets; Access to Expert Corner - Compliance/ Legal Information about various investments and topic consultations with our experts who can provide this advice upon request. Platinum: Vikrant Massey, who is currently shooting for his next with Sara Ali Khan, 'Gaslight' in Rajkot, strongly believes in giving something different yet real to the audience with his work and his list of previous hits like Haseen Dilruba, Love Hostel, A Death In the Gunj, Mirzapur etc. to name a few, have all been proof of his same. Talking about this conscious effort and the challenges it comes with, Vikrant shares It's a constant challenge for any actor to not get typecast and that's been one of the core motives of my life. Even when I was doing television, I didn't want to get typecast as a TV actor or a daily soap actor. The idea was to go out there and offer something fresh or something new." He adds, "Even when I started off with films, I wanted to churn out things which are unique in perspective, unheard, unseen of and most importantly, far more real. I think there is a part in all of us which distinguishes between realism and make believe. When we play a character which is close to us in reality, we end up forming an attachment to it." The popular actor was highly praised by the audience and the critics alike for his performance as Ashu in his latest release, 'Love Hostel', leaving everyone impressed with his first ever outing in an action packed role. Besides 'Gaslight' that he is currently shooting for, Vikrant also has 'Forensic' alongside Radhika Apte. Alton, IL (62002) Today Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 59F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Rain showers early will evolve into a more steady rain overnight. Thunder possible. Low 54F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. MT. CALVARY, Wisconsin Farming the same area of land for more than 140 years, Mark Loehr and his family know how important it is to keep the FILE -- A drive-though COVID-19 testing site in Hagerstown, Md., Feb. 18, 2022. As the Omicron coronavirus surge subsides, researchers are keeping an eye on a highly transmissible subvariant known as BA.2 that doesn't appear to have the capacity to drive a massive new wave of infections, but could potentially slow the current decline of cases and make treatments more difficult. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times) Connecticut has seen a slight rise in its COVID-19 positivity rate and a flattening of its case count over the past week, state numbers show, in what experts say could be the early signs of a new coronavirus spike. In recent weeks, infectious disease experts have grown increasingly worried about BA.2, an omicron subvariant believed to be more contagious than previous COVID-19 strains. In places where BA.2 has spread widely, cases have tended to increase accordingly. Advertisement Nathan Grubaugh, a Yale School of Public Health researcher, reported Thursday that BA.2 already accounts for more than 80% of COVID-19 cases in the southern part of Connecticut, which could explain worrying trends in wastewater surveillance at sites in New Haven and Fairfield. Cases have already risen across much of Europe as a result of BA.2, and experts say the United States might not be far behind. Advertisement Historically we follow behind Europe by about two-to-three weeks, and weve seen case numbers go up quite substantially in Europe, said Dr. Scott Roberts, associate medical director for infection prevention at Yale New Haven Hospital. What I would predict is that we will start to see rises quite shortly now that were seeing BA.2 in higher proportions. [ Is another COVID-19 wave on the way? Connecticut experts watching very carefully for BA.2 omicron subvariant ] While a full-on uptick has not yet materialized in Connecticut, the states COVID-19 positivity rate has begun to increase, while cases and hospitalizations have leveled off. Additionally, the state reported 67 coronavirus-linked deaths this week, up slightly from the week before. Roberts noted that BA.2 has arrived right as COVID-19 precautions have generally disappeared. While he doesnt expect a surge nearly as bad as Connecticut experienced this winter, due to enduring immunity from the omicron wave, he sees an uptick in cases as inevitable. All of this is occurring at a time when all of our public-health restrictions are really loosening, Roberts said. People, rightfully so, want to get back to some sense of normalcy, but I worry that in the face of a new subvariant thats more transmissible than the omicron variant, with unmasking, with having everything get back to normal, that has the risk of being a very dangerous combination that would lead to an increase in cases over the next few weeks. Gov. Ned Lamont acknowledged the new subvariant in a tweet Thursday, urging Connecticut residents to order rapid COVID-19 tests at covidtests.gov. With the BA.2 Covid variant spreading across the nation, Connecticut is ready, Lamont wrote. Families have layers of protection available vaccines + boosters, quality masks, and at-home rapid testing. With the BA.2 Covid variant spreading across the nation, Connecticut is ready. Families have layers of protection available vaccines + boosters, quality masks, and at-home rapid testing. If you havent done so already, get your free rapid tests at https://t.co/qyHGxr00nY pic.twitter.com/gQMrqZVQYV Governor Ned Lamont (@GovNedLamont) March 24, 2022 Cases and positivity rate Connecticut has reported 2,235 cases out of 79,433 tests over the past week, for a positivity rate of 2.81% up from 2.53% the seven days prior, though down dramatically from the height of the states omicron outbreak. Connecticuts average of 319 daily cases over the past week is about even with the previous week and down from more than 10,000 at one point last month. Unvaccinated residents have been about three times as likely to test positive in recent weeks as vaccinated residents, according to state numbers. Advertisement As of Thursday, only eight of Connecticuts 169 municipalities remain in the states red alert category, meaning they have averaged at least 15 daily cases per 100,000 residents over the past week. Currently, Westport is the Connecticut municipality with the highest rate of new COVID-19 cases, followed by North Haven, Middletown and New Haven. Under the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions new guidance, all eight Connecticut counties are recording low levels of COVID-19 transmission, meaning that masking is not considered necessary there. Hospitalizations As of Thursday, Connecticut had 100 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, up slightly from late last week. Many of those patients, officials say, are incidental cases, meaning they were admitted for non-coronavirus reasons before testing positive upon arrival. According to the state, 44% of people hospitalized with COVID-19 are unvaccinated a figure likely skewed by incidental cases. Hospital officials say the rate is significantly higher when considering only patients with severe symptoms. Advertisement Deaths Breaking News As it happens Get the latest updates on Coronavirus and other breaking news events happening across Connecticut > Connecticut reported 67 deaths over the past week on Thursday, bringing its total during the pandemic to 10,744. That total represented a slight uptick from the 62 deaths the state announced the week prior and the fewest in a seven-day span since before Christmas. COVID-19 deaths, which typically tend to lag other metrics by several weeks, have dipped in recent months but remain more common than they were most of last year. The United States has now recorded 975,271 COVID-19 deaths, according to the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. Vaccinations As of Thursday, 94.5% of all Connecticut residents and 95% of those 5 and older had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, while 78.3% of all residents and 82.5% of those 5 and older were fully vaccinated, according to the CDC. Additionally, 52.8% of fully vaccinated residents 12 or older have received a booster dose. The CDC warns that booster shots are sometimes misclassified as first doses, likely inflating the reported number of first-dose coverage and understating the true number of people who have received boosters. Advertisement Alex Putterman can be reached at aputterman@courant.com. Many North Dakota schools are buying North Dakota beef from their local processing plant for student lunches, thanks to an ongoing campaign by Independent Beef Association of North Dakota (I-BAND) members. Its exciting and rewarding to see kids having real North Dakota beef for their lunch at school. The North Dakota Beef to School program benefits North Dakota students, ranchers, and local businesses, including local meat processing plants, said Kerry Dockter, president of I-BAND. August Heupel, an I-BAND board member and rancher near Medina, along with other I-BAND board members, brought 150 pounds of North Dakota ground beef to the Kidder County School District in Steele on March 8 beef that the school had purchased from the Bowdon Meat Processing Co-op. Head cook Sue Caron accepted the beef from I-BAND and said she was thrilled to be able to prepare meatloaf using North Dakota beef for students from kindergarten through high school. We really like cooking with North Dakota beef. The first thing we noticed about the beef was the color it looked amazing; it was lean and it smelled like real beef. Cooking with it, it had a wonderful aroma, she said. Caron added that kids who live on farms and ranches, along with the teachers, picked up right away on the fact they were eating real North Dakota beef. Those farm kids noticed how much better the meatloaf tasted, and they knew it was North Dakota beef, she said. Dockter pointed out that while North Dakota beef might cost a little more than commodity beef, the yield has been demonstrated to be higher, so that offsets the price. The Bowdon Meat Processing Co-op, which has been selling local beef to schools, has members on its board who are local ranchers. Corey Hart (rancher from Chaseley) is one of our board members and he is also a member of I-BAND. He encouraged us to get behind the school beef project and process local ranchers beef for schools, said Erin Wagner, manager of Bowdon Meat Processing Co-op. We all wanted to do it because we always want to support our local businesses and we also want to see our local kids eating good quality North Dakota beef. Wagner said the co-op is in the process of contracting with several schools to process local beef for the next school year. All of our beef is sourced from local producers in the region around Bowdon, she added. I-BAND began the North Dakota Beef to School pilot program last year by donating $3,000 to buy local ground beef from a North Dakota beef processing plant to give to 12 schools in the state. If those 12 schools liked the beef, their cooks could decide to buy local beef instead of commodity beef from their local processing plant, and they could pass the word to other schools about how beneficial it was. We were hoping it would spread by word of mouth and other schools might want to buy local North Dakota beef for their student lunch program, Dockert said. Deb Egeland, Department of Public Instruction, said I-BAND members approached her last year, asking if it were possible to have a program to donate beef to public schools in the state. I told him there was no need for a program or a donation. Schools have a budget to buy their own food with, including ground beef, and the only requirement was the beef must come from a state-inspected or USDA federally-inspected plant, Egeland said. I-BAND decided to donate the ground beef initially, so schools could taste the beef and see if they enjoyed it enough that they would purchase local beef from that point on. The organization joined with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and the Department of Public Instructions Child Nutrition and Food Distribution to implement the North Dakota Beef to School project. In the initial pilot project, I-BAND asked John Roswech, an I-BAND member, rancher, and owner of South Forty Beef, a beef processing plant in Mott, to partner with them to process ground beef for the schools. They contacted me the end of last year and asked me if I wanted to partner with them to get North Dakota beef into schools and why wouldnt I? Roswech said. Roswech pointed out that South Dakota schools had been buying local beef from local processing plants for a couple of years now and have had good success with it. I-BAND purchased the beef from me at below cost and we delivered ground beef to 12 schools in the initial pilot project, mostly on the I-94 corridor, he said. We found out that there was zero awareness that local North Dakota beef could be bought and cooked in the school lunches. The school cooks were happy to make lunches with North Dakota beef. They want their young students to enjoy their lunches. Heupel added, We wanted the schools to taste locally-raised and locally-processed beef and see what they thought. The cooks loved it and so did the school kids. At the same time, Egeland surveyed schools and only two in the state said they would not purchase local beef due to safety issues. All other schools wanted local beef. It has been an unbelievable program for producers and local processing plants in the state of North Dakota, Dockter said. Many of the schools who were in the initial pilot project called South Forty or their local processing plant, such as Bowdon Meat Processing Co-op, to order more local ground beef for their school lunch program and the word spread. Some of the schools, such as Fargo and Bismarck, have central kitchens that make food for all the schools in the district and distribute it out to them fully-cooked. Fargo and Bismarck did an initial test with South Fortys North Dakota beef versus USDA commodity beef, and both schools had basically the same feedback. The feedback I got was the North Dakota beef tasted like real beef, smelled like beef, and the yields were higher, Roswech said. What that means is, if you buy 1,000 pounds of North Dakota beef and 1,000 pounds of USDA commodity beef, the North Dakota beef from South Forty Beef would be 15-20 percent higher in yield than commodity beef. In March 2022, Egeland told I-BAND that 40 schools out of 200 were purchasing beef from their local processing plants in North Dakota. We hope there will be more buying North Dakota beef, especially for the entire 2022-23 school year, Heupel said. Roswech made many school kids happy with their lunches at school in his community of Mott/Elgin. Mott and Elgin School Districts purchase beef from South Forty Beef for school lunches. I see kids in town all the time and they high-five me and say the beef is excellent and thank me, he said. I think the North Dakota Beef to School program is a phenomenal program. Some large schools order beef frozen delivered monthly from South Forty Beef and smaller schools often order the beef fresh and delivered weekly. Every school does it differently, he said. We picked up another school yesterday, Dickinson, because they wanted their school districts to have North Dakota beef. Another part of the program Roswech likes is how it teaches kids in the bigger schools like Fargo where their beef and food comes from. A lot of these kids in Fargo and Bismarck dont know where their food comes from. It gives us the opportunity to teach them local beef is not grown in a lab it doesnt come from China. Your beef is coming from this ranch in this county in North Dakota, he said Egeland said the Beef to School program is a win-win for everyone involved. Using locally-sourced beef is a win for the students, a win for local farmers, and a win for our communities, she said. Rosweld continues to get more orders for North Dakota beef from schools across the state. By buying North Dakota beef, keeping the money in the state, you are actually supporting your neighbor, Rosweld concluded. Farm & Ranch Guide Weekly Update Get the latest agriculture news delivered to your inbox from Farm & Ranch Guide. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. David Burton is a county engagement and community development specialist for University of Missouri Extension, based in Springfield. In 2021, Burton had the idea to celebrate National Good Neighbor Day with a 1,000 Acts of Neighboring challenge for Greene County, Missouri. The county far surpassed that goal, and there were 5,731 acts of neighboring submitted statewide. Burton says it was encouraging to be part of the project and see so many people working to be good neighbors. He has plans to do it again in 2022. MFT: What was the 1,000 Acts of Neighboring challenge? BURTON: I define neighboring as the art and skill of building relationships with the people who live in the closest proximity to you. The neighboring challenge was my attempt in 2021 to celebrate National Good Neighbor Day in Greene County. This was the third year Ive worked to promote the holiday. In 2021, the goal was to get 1,000 acts of neighboring reported via our website, and the best examples would be recognized. At the end of Good Neighbor Week in Missouri, we had 5,731 acts of neighboring submitted from across the state by nearly 100 groups and individuals. In Greene County, residents documented 2,433 acts of neighboring. Some individuals and groups went all-in on this neighboring idea and helped us exceed our goal. The 2022 Good Neighbor Week will look different and have a goal of 10,000 Acts of Neighboring. Im pushing for more recognition of Missouri Good Neighbor Week. I also want to put more effort into helping groups or businesses do customer and community events that can reach more people statewide. MFT: What are some examples of things people did to be a good neighbor? BURTON: I am out to change the narrative about neighboring in the American culture and across Missouri. A good neighbor is not someone who is quiet and leaves their neighbors alone. Instead, a good neighbor is someone who is actively engaged in their neighborhood and community and in building positive relationships with others. As part of our neighboring challenge, we gave out awards to some of the best examples statewide and in the communities of Greene County. Here are a few of my favorites. D&L Florist (Houston, Mo.) distributed 2,850 individual roses to neighbors in and around Houston in celebration of National Good Neighbor Day Milton and Judith Moore (Agency, Missouri) prepared 13 quarts of homemade Hot Cocoa Mix. They distributed the quarts to their nearest neighbors with instructions and a note celebrating National Good Neighbor Day. Elaine Montgomery (Springfield, Missouri) organized a Socialize & Safe Disposal event in north Springfield with donuts, coffee, and lemonade for the 95 who attended. Neighbors could bring documents like old bank statements and outdated confidential paperwork for professional and secure shredding. Diana Simpson in Ash Grove provided materials to four of her neighbors to assemble an emergency first aid kit for the home. The neighbors of Buck Van Hooser in Ash Grove David Hawkins, Joe and Mary Hawkins, Mike and Dena Coale, and Travis Underwood performed yard and fieldwork for a neighbor while he was recovering from cancer. Linda Dunn and her husband, of Republic, purchased 10 bags of flavored popcorn, made cards to attach, and delivered them to the 10 closest neighboring homes, including three new to the neighborhood. This is the third year they have participated in National Good Neighbor Day. MFT: How can acts of neighboring help build strong rural communities? BURTON: This neighboring project aims to encourage the development of engaged neighbor relationships, foster healthy neighborhoods, develop grassroots leaders, and fund neighborhood connectors in under-served communities. There is an abundance of research on this subject. Knowing your immediate neighbors can decrease crime where you live by 60%. Knowing your neighbors can improve your physical and mental health in several ways. One example is that chronic loneliness has the same physical impact as smoking one pack of cigarettes a day. Taking steps to get to know your neighbors can lead to discovering new skills and abilities in you and your neighbors. That often leads to more community volunteerism and leadership. Americans are a consumer culture, so people ask: What is in it for me even with something like this? For some, it is the idea of improved health. Many studies demonstrate the importance of social interaction and its positive impacts on health. For some, their motivation is that they are tired of being lonely and isolated. We have a growing epidemic of loneliness in this nation, and the answers may be right next door! Other people embrace this idea because they understand that they can positively impact their neighborhood, which can then impact their community. Starting ultra-local is much more effective. Subdivisions where neighboring is done well see lower crime rates, improved resale values and help for neighbors that need it. MFT: What has been the most rewarding part of this experience for you? BURTON: The most exciting part has been seeing the interest in neighboring grow in southwest Missouri. Every opportunity to speak on the subject is a chance to get someone excited about adopting engaged neighboring practices. These small steps forward will all make a difference. Scientist Steve Maier expressed a rule of physics in this way: Significant change will occur with minimal force if applied over an extended period of time. I have found that neighboring is a slow Crockpot type of process. ... But seeing more people talking about and trying to be an engaged neighbor is the best part. Last week standing in line at the grocery store, I heard a customer compliment the checker. I didnt hear the response of the checker, but the customer ended with, This is Republic. We are all working on being good neighbors here. That was encouraging! MFT: Where can people learn more? BURTON: To learn more about our Engaged Neighbor program or the impact of neighboring, go to extension.missouri.edu or contact burtond@missouri.edu or 417-881-8909. Becoming an Engaged Neighbor and Missouri Good Neighbor Week pages can also be found on Facebook. National Good Neighbor Day is Sept. 28 this year. CropWatch Weekly Update Get the Iowa and Illinois CropWatchers report delivered to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. As farmers head to the fields to plant their crops this spring, they face the same troubling weather conditions that were present in 2021. If only Mother Nature will turn stress into success again this year. Its very similar to last year, said Jody Lawrence of Strategic Trading Advisors, a grain marketing and weather consulting firm. Farmers in the western Corn Belt could use some precipitation, while those to the east could use some drier soils. Its overly dry in the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. The guys Ive talked to in eastern Nebraska, its even drier there coming out of last winter, so theyve got some real concerns. The eastern Corn Belt is in good shape, though like last year, its overly wet. He defines the dividing line between the western and eastern belt around Des Moines. Unfortunately, forecasts dont hold much hope that conditions will improve for soils before planting. A March 17 report by the Climate Prediction Center indicated above-normal chances of increased precipitation in eastern regions of the Midwest, many of which have been inundated with spring rainfall. The same report offered only an even chance of higher or lower than normal precipitation in regions that have been unusually dry. We see a bulls-eye over an area thats already wet to stay wet, said Melissa Widhalm, a meteorologist with the Midwest Regional Climate Center. Were going to have to wait and see if the soils can dry out a little. Equally concerning is the dryness of soils in western Iowa, especially southwestern counties. Soil moisture and rainfall are both on the dry side and have been staying that way all winter, Widhalm said. Now as were getting into the growing season, there is a concern because well be starting off our growing season dry, and thats not how you want to start it in the Midwest. A La Nina is in effect, which has implications for growing conditions in the Midwest. Typically, that means a cooler, wetter spring for the eastern Corn Belt and a drier spring for the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. Missouri, eastern Iowa and Illinois are in pretty good shape. Since were in a classic La Nina, I would expect the eastern Corn Belt to remain wet through the spring. Whether its cool and wet, I have not seen a forecast where I would trust any of that. Widhalm agrees conditions in late winter are similar to those present in 2021. But they vary in intensity. Theres a big difference compared to last year just how wet we are, she said. If you compare this year to last year, particularly for Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, we are much wetter. That doesnt necessarily mean it will be bad things, but its one thing thats different. The same can be said for the flip side. The guys Ive talked to in eastern Nebraska say its even drier there coming out of last winter, so theyve got some real concerns, Lawrence said. Right now, the eastern Corn Belt is in good shape. Its the same as last year overly wet. ... Its certainly not ideal. The Climate Center does predict a better-than-average chance that temperatures will be above normal for most of the Midwest. That could help dry out saturated soils in the eastern part of the region, though that area is in a greater chance of receiving more precipitation. Theres not much frozen soil anymore, Widhalm said. Stream flows are running high, and theres an above-normal risk of flooding across the Ohio Valley area. Farmers can only hope that the ideal conditions that set in in 2021 will be repeated this year. It dried off when it needed to and it rained timely, especially in the western Corn Belt, Lawrence said. We almost have to repeat last year just to keep up with demand, so that will be interesting. CropWatch Weekly Update Get the Iowa and Illinois CropWatchers report delivered to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. NEW ORLEANS, La. At a learning center session at the Commodity Classic, farmers and conservationists talked about using precision agriculture to make conservation decisions on the farm. Farmers can use data to find out which acres are underperforming or even losing money, and possibly convert them to wildlife acres to add value to the land in other ways. Andy Hineman, who farms in Kansas, said the data informs decisions. I think its really important to get good data and have a library of data to make these decisions, he said. Nick McMichen, who farms in northeastern Alabama and northwestern Georgia, said his farm is in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, so it is important to take a diverse approach to land use and find each piece of grounds strengths. This year marks 175 years his farm has been in his family. We wouldnt be here if we didnt care about the environment, he said. We want to take care of the land. You dont farm for 175 years without being sustainable. Having land dedicated to conservation practices and wildlife habitat can have a variety of benefits, McMichen said. McMichen said he has seen big increases in quail on his farm, something he enjoys. Theres nothing finer than seeing a bird dog work, he said. Also, he said taking a few of the least-productive acres out of production can help boost actual production histories and crop insurance numbers for the overall farm. Again, he said it is important to know which acres should be used for what and their actual profitability. Precision ag is the driver of this, McMichen said. Our APHs are actually getting higher as we go. This process can also take the acres most vulnerable to erosion out of production. Weve got to be sustainable, and weve got to take care of the land, he said. Im thinking about the next generation, and Im trying to instill that in my children. Of course, using data to find the right use for every acre of land is closely tied to profit margins, McMichen said. We started looking at precision ag as a way to improve our bottom line, he said. Its also helped us improve our productivity. He said his dad can still drive a tractor for long days with the automatic steering, and his son can chip in as well. Rachel Bush, conservation program manager for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, said not every move to create wildlife habitat makes money, but she said having precision ag data can illustrate that conservation and profitability can happen at the same time. Its helped them break down that misconception that farming for conservation decreases the bottom line, she said. In some instances and some situations, field conservation can make you more profitable. Mark McConnell, a professor at Mississippi State University, said precision ag technology has continued to progress and become more sophisticated. Yield maps remain popular, but he said now profit maps are considered more useful, since some areas of a field might show a good yield, but require substantial inputs to get there. The technology is rapidly evolving, he said. Wed like farmers to focus on farming for profit. Sometimes its just a yield map, and it might come at a higher cost. When it comes to rented ground, McMichen said it can help to have a good relationship with landlords so both sides consider best uses for acres and any conservation measures to implement. Hineman said this might involve splitting costs for conservation practices. I think it comes down to the trust you build, he said. Ultimately weve both got to make money. AgUpdate Daily Headlines Get the latest agriculture news delivered to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. While the world has its eyes focused on Ukraine and Russia, two other nations Americas ag producers should keep a close eye on are China and Canada, said Ryan Bernstein of McGuireWoods Consulting. A North Dakota farm kid, whose parents still farm near Bottineau, Bernstein serves as senior vice president of federal public affairs for the Washington, D.C., public affairs firm and remains active in agricultural issues on Capitol Hill. Russia doesn't have many places to turn to sell its wheat and other products because of the sanctions that have been placed on the country from the EU and other markets throughout the world, he said. While not a Russian ally, China has the potential to be one of the few nations who might be willing to purchase some of Russias commodities at a steep discount, Bernstein said. If China does buy from Russia, the question then becomes how much they will still need to purchase from the United States. We'll be watching to see how that impacts the commitments that they made to buy American commodity products, Bernstein said. After all, they promised they would. On Feb. 14, 2020, Phase 1 of a trade agreement between the U.S and China went into effect. Under the deal, China agreed to increase purchases of certain American products and services by $200 billion between that date and Dec. 31, 2021. As of Jan. 1, 2022, China had purchased only 57% of the total U.S. goods and services exports that it had committed to buy under the agreement. They've been short buying some of the commodities that they said they were going to buy, Bernstein said. Even if China does buy from Russia this year, Bernstein said there is much to be determined for the future. Will there be a tighter partnership between Russia and China in overall trade moving forward or is the a one-year deal where China buys a lot from Russia at a steep discount and then returns to business as normal? he said. That's something that is too early to tell at this point, but its one of the things that could affect overall trade policy moving forward. Chinas decision to halt fertilizer exports will further exacerbate American farmers woes as fertilizer and other input prices steadily climb. China is also a major exporter of fertilizer, and they're part of the problem we've had because they put some blockades on exports of fertilizer, keeping it at home, South Dakota Farm Bureau president Scott VanderWal said. Thats where Canada comes in, Bernstein said. While China and Russia are both major players in the fertilizer export game, Canada also has an ample supply. Supply chain issues were already a problem before the war in Ukraine started, but with China and Russian fertilizer likely off the table, Canadas supply becomes even more important. However, Canadas railroad labor disputes are causing concerns about that. If there are now hang-ups in Canada, its going to have a real big effect in the Dakotas, Bernstein said. He added that U.S. elected officials, particularly in the Dakota and Montana regions, have pressed the importance of keeping those lines open to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. We need to make sure that the fertilizer supply chain remains as strong as possible, especially during the spring season, he said. As if input costs and questions arent enough to worry about, markets will continue to be very volatile, both VanderWal and Bernstein said. Reports indicate that this year is going to be very difficult for Ukraine to get back on its feet regarding agricultural production. This year is probably going to be an almost total failure, Bernstein said. As Ukraine is the breadbasket of the world, exporting nearly 30% of the worlds wheat, demand for that crop along with many others will dramatically increase. The markets have responded accordingly with record-setting commodity pricing. VanderWal cautioned producers not to get too overly optimistic but to take advantage of the opportunities while they are present, because they may not last long. When there were rumors that Russia and Ukraine were talking about some kind of a peace agreement, corn dropped about 30 cents a bushel. The next day, when it was evident that the talks went nowhere, the market went back up, he said. We're going to see some pretty wild gyrations as this thing progresses, he said. While the situation in Ukraine is heart-wrenching, Bernstein gave thanks for living in the United States. Grocery store shelves in the nation will most likely remain full because we're the most efficient, frankly, the best producing commodity country in the world. Even with full shelves and boosted commodity prices, the dark cloud of reality hovers over the world as photos of bombed-out maternity wards, decimated homes and more than 3 million displaced men, women and children continue to fill our screens day after day. You certainly have to be in prayer for the people of Ukraine, VanderWal said. Those people are getting a lot of pain and suffering and disaster, and its nothing they deserve. Melisa Goss, Associate Editor for the Tri-State Neighbor, is a South Dakota farm girl whose love of travel has allowed her to see ags vital impact around the world, from Americas heartland to the rice paddies of Southeast Asia and many places in between. She makes her home in Sioux Falls with her husband, daughter and miniature schnauzer. You can reach her at mgoss@lee.net. The Tri-State Neighbor Weekly Update Get the latest agriculture news delivered to your inbox from the Tri-State Neighbor. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Terry Woster Columnist Terry is a well-known regional columnist who lives in Chamberlain, S.D. Follow Terry Woster 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 When I was growing up and telling the world Id never become a farmer, my dad used to caution me, You can take the boy off the farm, but you cant take the farm out of the boy. I dont know who first said that, maybe the first person who ever tilled a field or milked a cow, but my dad quoted it way too often for my liking. Id guess a whole bunch of farm dads did the same when one of their offspring started talking about leaving the farm, seeing the world, making it in New York City or lighting out for the territories, anything to get away from wheat chaff and cultivator dust. It's the sort of thing that would get passed down, generation by generation. I once pictured Grandpa Woster (and picture is all I could do, because he died before I was born) saying that to his oldest boy, George, my dads big brother. Uncle George didnt care for the farm. He built his own crystal set radio receiver as a kid, and he left for engineering school in Iowa and a life in Kansas City. His younger brother, Dad and Uncle Frank, never thought of leaving, as far as I know. For a time, probably right around when I turned 14 or 15, I became vocal about my distaste for almost everything about a farm. My feelings on that topic changed long before I was able to admit it to myself or anyone else. I would guess my dad died still believing what his brat of a middle son had to say about the way he provided for himself and his family. Thats sad, because Im proud of what he was, how he worked and lived and where I came from. I was 14 or 15, though, when I started running my mouth, you know? At that age, a kid is just starting to wonder how his parents ever made it as far as they did, knowing as little as they did. I sure did. They got a lot smarter as I got older, as many people say about their folks. Funny how that works. But in my snot-nosed years, the silly saying about taking the boy off the farm had me rolling my eyes way, way back in my head, every time. Why am I writing about this? No particular reason, except that I had to run from Chamberlain to Fort Pierre the other day on errands. I havent done a road trip by myself for a while. The morning was cool. The day was headed toward a most unseasonable 65 degrees in mid-March. The sky was cloudless and the surface of the river when I crossed it was without a ripple. The lion and lamb saying about March may be true, but this day was paradise. I found myself studying the landscape as I drove west from the river. I hadnt realized how dry things had become in the past several months. Sure, my little patch of lawn required some sprinkling late last summer, and, no, I didnt have to move much snow between November and March. But the countryside passing by was dry, man, really dry. Here and there, smudges of snow still lay in the weeds along the fence line on the north side of the road. A couple of tiny streams glistened in the sun as they cut through rolling pastures. Some stock ponds held a bit of water, but it was easy to see how much the level had receded in the past year or so. A couple of lakebeds, low spots that had been filled with water for two or three straight years, were completely dry. The grass, the weeds and the stubble in a few harvested grain fields was uniformly tan and brittle. I got the urge to pull off the road into a field approach, park the pickup and walk into the dry grass. I could see myself kicking the soil, getting on one knee, running my fingers through the dirt, looking for a bit of green, a sign that spring was almost within reach under last seasons dying vegetation. All at once, I could see my dad doing the very same thing. Gosh, how many times did I walk with him into last years fields to kick at the soil, touch the earth, look for first signs of coming spring? Yes, I left the farm. Somehow, neither the farm nor my dad really ever left me. Terry is a well-known regional columnist who lives in Chamberlain, S.D. The Tri-State Neighbor Weekly Update Get the latest agriculture news delivered to your inbox from the Tri-State Neighbor. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. How many kinds of birds do you see in your back yard or around the neighborhood? Five or six February 24, 2021 Irans President Hassan Rouhani has defended his administrations deal with the International Atomic Energy Agency after conservatives in parliament called for the judiciary to open a legal case against the president. Rouhani said that the deal with the IAEA was artful in that it fully implemented parliaments bill restricting IAEA access without opening Iran to accusations of not cooperating with the nuclear watchdog. He accused anyone distorting Irans accomplishment in this deal of aiding Irans enemies. On Feb. 23 Iran technically suspended its voluntary implementation of the Additional Protocol, which gave the IAEA greater access to Irans nuclear program. However, two days prior, Iranian diplomats and IAEA chief Rafael Grossi reached a deal in which Iran would retain certain data for up to three months. If sanctions on Iran are removed, Iran will hand the data over to the IAEA. If the sanctions are not removed, Iran will delete it. The United States reapplied sanctions on Iran in 2018 when it exited the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. While the Biden administration campaigned on reentering the deal, it has asked Iran to return to full compliance with the JCPOA before removing sanctions. Tehran has incrementally increased enrichment and taken other measures once the United States exited the deal, but claims that it as permitted to take the steps as part of the text of the JCPOA. Conservatives in parliament passed a bill in December 2020 that called on Iran to suspend implementation of the Additional Protocol. After the deal with the IAEA was announced, those behind the bill, especially Mojtaba Zolnour, the head of the powerful National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, called for the judiciary to open a case against the president and others involved in the deal with the IAEA. On Feb. 22, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned members of the Assembly of Experts about divisions. While he publicly backed the legislation, referring to it as a good bill, he said of the parliaments disagreements with the administration, "These differences are solvable and the two sides must cooperation to resolve them. The differences must not widen, which would show division" Today, Feb. 24, parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed to heed Khameneis warning. He said that the Khameneis call for unity and understanding is our responsibility. Even Hossein Shariatmadari, the editor of Kayhan newspaper who opposed the JCPOA and many of Rouhanis policies, criticized the parliament for the harsh criticism of the administration. In an editorial, he implicitly defended the deal with the IAEA and wrote that objection to it did not require this volume of protest. Local featured popular urgent Feeding the Valley opens warehouse facility in Dougherty County Staff Photo: Carlton Fletcher State Rep. Gerald Greene, left, and state Sen. Freddie Powell Sims were among the dignitaries present Thursday at a ribbon-cutting for the new Feeding the Valley warehouse on Ledo Road. Staff Photo; Carlton Fletcher Feeding the Valley President & CEO Frank Sheppard cuts the ribbon Thursday, officially opening the new Feeding the Valley warehouse on Ledo Road in Albany. Staff Photo: Carlton Fletcher Food is what Feeding the Valley is all about, and the new facility on Ledo Road in Albany will have capacity to store 3 million pounds of food product with cold units that will store an additional 1 million pounds of fresh foods and meat. Staff Photo: Carlton Fletcher A new Feeding the Valley facility on Ledo Road in Albany will allow the food bank to carry out its many food-related programs. ALBANY When state Sen. Freddie Powell Sims previously observed first-hand the needs that constituents told her were not being met by a southwest Georgia food bank, she spoke out, sparking a series of events that led to the eventual closing of one such facility and the stepping forward in a time of need of another. And so it was fitting Thursday that Sims was on hand for the opening of a new haven for the hungry, a Feeding the Valley Food Bank warehouse facility on Ledo Road that promises to help meet the needs of a growing number of area residents, needs that were impacted greatly by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sims and dozens of other southwest Georgia business and political leaders watched as Feeding the Valley President and CEO Frank Sheppard cut the ribbon that officially opened the 35,018-square-foot facility specifically designed to give the food bank the capacity to store more than 3 million pounds of food product that will be used to provide sustenance to the food insecure in Dougherty, Lee, Calhoun and Terrell counties. This is awesome for Dougherty and surrounding counties, Sims, D-Dawson, said at the 11:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting. You now have a food bank that cares about this community, this region, a food bank that will not only give packaged food but will give fresh food and meat to people in need. I am so thankful that a man like Frank Sheppard is in charge of this project; hes a man who inspires us all to do more. Hes worked tirelessly to make this happen, and Im happy to have him as part of the southwest Georgia community. He already feels like family. The opening of the Feeding the Valley facility was not the only good news shared by those gathered for the ribbon-cutting. Officials with Food Lion announced at the event that the grocer is making a $20,000 donation to the food bank. This exponentially increases our capacity to feed the hungry people in this region, Sheppard said of the new warehouse. This is going to give us an opportunity to provide lots more food healthy food to the people here. Plus, when the cold units that are under construction come on line, that will allow us to store a million pounds of fresh foods and meats on the grounds. Sheppard says there is no timeline for the cold units to come on line, but he said he expects them to be operable in two or three months. The new Feeding the Valley facility is located on 3.53 acres of land, providing ample opportunity for future growth. The warehouse has 28-foot ceilings that will allow for the use of a four-level racking system that will maximize use of available space. With no food bank in the immediate area, Feeding the Valley still distributed more than 3.5 million pounds of food to the four-county region in 2021, including 2,139,005 pounds in Dougherty County, 825,528 in Lee, 283,152 in Calhoun and 296,256 in Terrell. Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission President/CEO Jana Dyke said some of the funding for the $4 million warehouse facility came from Community Development Block Grants designated for COVID relief. The (Albany-Dougherty) Payroll Development Authority played a big part in this, too, Dyke said. But this couldnt have been done without the work of Freddie Powel Sims. Dear Evan Hansen is finally here, Tuesday through April 3 at The Bushnell. The show was an off-Broadway hit in 2016, moved to Broadway later that year, won six Tony Awards (including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score) in 2017 and sent out its first national tour in 2018. It was originally due in Hartford in 2020, but COVID-19 changed that. The show charts the difficult high school existence of the title character, a socially awkward teen whose life becomes intertwined with that of a troubled classmate named Connor. He also gets to know Connors sister Zoe. The teens parents are also an important part of the show. Advertisement Dear Evan Hansen would have felt very different if it had come to The Bushnell when originally planned in May of 2020. The pandemic scuttled half of The Bushnells 2019-20 schedule, and other than the return of Hamilton (now happening in July of this year), Dear Evan Hansen is the last of the rescheduled shows from that season to happen. In the two years since it was initially meant to hit Hartford on its first national tour, the Dear Evan Hansen movie was released, which somewhat reset expectations for those who hadnt known much about the show. The movie, now available to rent or buy on numerous streaming services, received a measly 29% rating from critics on the Rotten Tomatoes review site and was criticized for casting Ben Platt, who originated the role onstage, as high school student Evan Hansen even though by the time of filming Platt was in his late 20s. Advertisement While disappointing, this was not as disastrous of a stage-to-screen adaptation as, say, Cats. The shows audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is a strong 88%, and the film is likely to gain a fresh following when it reaches more streaming services later this year. In any case and again Cats is a good example stage musicals often persevere despite disappointing versions in other media. Weekender Weekly Our picks for things to do and places to go this weekend > Dear Evan Hansen was created as a stage show and is that rare Broadway musical that is not based on a novel or movie. In fact, the usual trajectory was reversed when a popular young adult novel was adapted (by Val Emmich) from the musical in 2018. Stephen Christopher Anthony and Jessica E. Sherman in the national tour of "Dear Evan Hansen," at The Bushnell Tuesday through April 3. (Matthew Murphy) As for the tour, it has a different cast than it would have in 2020. Especially missed in Connecticut will be Christiane Noll, who wowed local audiences in Next to Normal at TheaterWorks Hartford in 2017 and with a concert special titled Coming Alive Again, co-produced last year by TheaterWorks and Goodspeed Musicals. Noll was with the tour two years ago but is now playing the role of Cynthia, the mother of the Connor character, in the Broadway production. The current touring cast that will be at The Bushnell includes Stephen Christopher Anthony as Evan Hansen, Claire Rankin as Cynthia, Stephanie La Rochelle as Zoe, Jessica E. Sherman as Evans mother Heidi, Nikhil Saboo as Connor, John Hemphill as Connors father Larry, Alessandro Cosantini as the sarcastic teen Jared (known for his insensitivity to Evan and others) and Ciara Alyse Harris as Alana. Anthony has starred in the tour since before its COVID-19 hiatus, after understudying the Evan Hansen role on Broadway. La Rochelle, Rankin and Cosantini were all in the Canadian company of the show. The director of the Broadway and touring productions is Michael Greif, whose other Broadway credits include Rent and Next to Normal. Dear Evan Hansen was created by Steven Levenson (book) and the team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (music and lyrics). Pasek and Paul were previously known for their musical adaptations of James and the Giant Peach and A Christmas Story, both of which have been seen in Connecticut many times, and as songwriters for the films The Greatest Showman and La La Land. Paul was raised in Connecticut (attending the Music Theatre of Connecticut School of Performing Arts, Coleytown Middle School, and Staples High School in Fairfield County) and still lives in Westport. Dear Evan Hansen runs Tuesday through April 3 at The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave., Hartford. Performances are Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. $45-$200. bushnell.org. Christopher Arnott can be reached at carnott@courant.com. Images Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images. Wethersfield resident Sean Fuss walks his dog past a barn on a portion of the 32-acre farm that Wethersfield voters bought for more than $2 million in 2018. (Mark Mirko/The Hartford Courant) The 32-acre farm that was approved for purchase by Wethersfield voters for more than $2 million in a 2018 referendum should become a nonprofit working farm, recreation fields and walking trails, a study panel told the town council this week. But if thats going to be at public expense, at least one town official wants Wethersfield to consider selling the Kycia Farm property for development instead. Advertisement Were paying $200,000 each year for 20 years, Deputy Mayor Tom Mazzarella told the town council this week. If you put 20 houses on there for $350,000 a house, youre talking about several hundred thousand (yearly) in tax revenue. The volunteer panel thats been studying how Wethersfield should use the property recommends creating a working farm on part of the acreage. The town could create a community-based nonprofit to manage it and supervise day-to-day farm operations along with any recreational fields and trails on the remaining land, according to the committee. Advertisement It cited similar operations that work in other communities, including the Massaro Community Farm in Woodbridge and the Holcomb Farm in Granby. Massaro bills itself as a certified organic, nonprofit farm on a 57-acre tract; Woodbridge has owned the land since 2007. Holcomb is a non-profit working farm; Granby has owned the land for 32 years, and the volunteer Friends of Holcomb Farm group runs it. In Wethersfield, the Kycia Farm Committee has held numerous public meetings to determine what to do with the farmland at the corner of Highland Street and Collier Road, adjacent to the Highcrest elementary school. It told the council that a public survey found widespread support for restoring some of the land to farming; the panel recommend the town council spend $3,000 to hire a surveyor to determine just how many acres would be suitable for agriculture. Gena Golas, a committee member, told the council this week that it should incorporate a nonprofit to manage the farm. Membership could be open to any residents, and its executive director would also manage the farm, she said. The top recommendations from the survey were to operate an organic farm, offer year-round educational programs and community events, renovate the historic barn there, and provide trails and open space, she said. Mazzarella said there was no indication that would help taxpayers cover the cost of buying the land. I would suggest if were going to turn over the property to a nonprofit, they lease it for somewhere in the neighborhood of $200,000 a year, Wethersfields cost for debt service on the 2018 acquisition. There have been proposals to put something on that property so it brings revenue to the community. Mazzarella complained the committee didnt study revenue-producing uses. Advertisement I dont believe you surveyed the town adequately to see what the true intent of the residents was, he said. You havent done any financial analysis of the problem. Quite frankly, I dont agree with anything that was said. Committee Chairman Cindy Greenblatt said thousands of residents support farming on the land and that families now have to go to Glastonbury or farther to see a working farm. They bring a sense to the community of who we are and what we value, she said, and results of the community survey proved that, she said. People want to see an opportunity for their children and their families and to utilize this property thats what we saw. Five Things You Need To Know Daily We're providing the latest coronavirus coverage in Connecticut each weekday morning. > I think you saw what you wanted to see, Mazzarella shot back. Greenblatt countered that the survey was conducted by the University of Hartfords Barney School of Business. The results were never in our possession. We did not influence them or have access to them, she said. Advertisement Council member Daniel OConnor suggested that issue has already been settled. Whether you agreed with the referendum or not, the town spoke and said This is what we want to do, OConnor said. The council postponed any action until next month, when Interim Town Manager Bonnie Therrien will speak about whether the town could legally sell the land after the 2018 referendum. She will report on the town bond attorneys research into the provisions of the referendum and bond sale. Don Stacom can be reached at dstacom@courant.com. For crying out loud, its 2022 and, in the federal government women are still being promoted based on their looks rather than their qualifications for the job. And by POTUS no less! Well, Biden is just a derivative iteration of Harvey Weinstein. Around twenty years ago, he twice participated in filibustering (Black, female) Judge Janice Rogers Browns nomination to the U.S. Court of Appeals. She finally was approved in 2005. Then, Biden advised President Bush that if he dared to nominate Brown to the Supreme Court, he would filibuster her again and prevail. At the same time, Democrats also filibustered a Hispanic male judge, two other female judges, and a male judge of Lebanese descent, among others. How very diverse, inclusive, and equitatious of them. However, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson does have several attributes in common with the President. For one, shes got a lousy memory. Indeed, it was Senator Cruzs careful and repetitious questioning, that helped her to recall quite a few things about herself that she had previously forgotten. Such a lack of self-awareness from one who anticipates setting precedent is disturbing. She did independently recall staring at the image on the cover [of Derrick Bells book Faces At The Bottom Of The Well] when I was growing up. She must have been a very late bloomer. That book was first published when she was a senior at Harvard. Judge Jackson is no scholar. Shes a graduate of Harvard and Harvard Law, yet couldnt recall the core arguments in the pivotal Dred Scott case. How does she expect to converse intelligently with thoroughly prepared lawyers regarding precedent and relevance in cases that will appear before her in the Supreme Court? She was unable to respond intelligently regarding the near-total recidivism rates of pedophiles and sexual offenders. Shes overseen so many of these cases, yet is unfamiliar with the literature? Has she no curiosity regarding common subjects in her courtroom? Is she not driven to be the best possible judge she can be? In common with the Vice President, she seems to have no familiarity, or, at least, no opinion on or understanding she was willing to state, with the visceral legal topics of our times. What is a woman? When does life begin? Her flip answers cause this author to wonder how shallow is her thinking? Her understanding of constitutional principles is weak. And her language usage is sloppy and casual. Free speech is allowed? Allowed??? Free speech is. Period. It is Congress and, by extension the government, that is not allowed to interfere with the exercise of the unalienable right of citizens to freely speak and thus exercise the foundation of their liberty. Judge Jackson has been overturned enough times now to confirm that both her judgment and constitutional expertise are lacking. She is out of step with the common federal judiciary understanding of the law and its bases, precedents, and exceptions. Again, shes not paying attention. And shes certainly no RBG. Image: Ketanji Brown Jackson. Twitter screen grab. So, what is she doing being nominated to the highest court in the land? She wasnt President Obamas selectee when he had the chance to make history. But perhaps he didnt want to seem race-obsessed. Oh, sorry, who am I kidding? Judge Jackson is a Trojan horse, set to spill out all the weaponry of the progressives into our court of final appeal should she be approved. She will be dogmatic and anti-rational. She will view everything through the lenses of power structure and victimhood. Her work on behalf of the very worst terrorists in the entire human population and her expressed sympathies with the most horrible destroyers of human dignity (pedophiles) already predict this. She will not regard the law as founded in an objective, defined reality but will push for a fluidity of definition, subject to prevailing arguments. With her, the Constitution, law, customs, tradition, and precedent will lose all meaning. See her past deliberate setting aside of sentencing guidelines to know how she will continue. Judge Jackson will not be a seeker of the truth. Her obfuscations, voids, and outright falsehoods given before Congress attest to this. And whats with the head-scratching? Its a tell alright. I wouldnt mind playing poker opposite her. Besides the perennially contentious gun and abortion wars, weve got others rumbling toward SCOTUS. To name but a few: Gender inequity claims based on anothers deviance from chromosomal reality a la the Williams swimmer. Detransitioning lawsuits against medical establishments and practitioners for affirming, rather than impartially addressing, mental health and other medical claims made by adolescents. The role the state may play in the lives of children, via school, social work, and childcare, vs parental rights. Governmental action that results in loss of livelihood, business opportunity, and prosperity coming from COVID lockdowns, economic mandates like shutting down pipeline construction, and the failure to stop the burning of cities by looters and rioters. Defining peaceably to assemble to prosecute proper criminals and determine the governments liability for having hunted down and incarcerated unjustifiably truly peaceful protestors. Covert actions by the alphabet agencies domestically against citizens. Collectivism via emergency declarations versus individual rights and states rights as enumerated in the Constitution. Some of these may not arise under Biden but you can bet your sweet bippy they will under the next president. Judge Brown Jackson, if approved, will be poised to poison the arguments and written decisions of one of the most powerful small groups on earth. Senators, do not be deluded, cowed, humiliated, or threatened into approving her nomination now, just because she was previously approved for a federal judgeship. Shes had a chance to prove herself in such a position. Given that chance, though, she failed and, perhaps under another administration, would be subject to censure or impeachment. Good sense, courage, and strength demand a Nay vote on her appointment. Brown Jackson is intellectually lazy and careless. Shes a thoroughly committed leftist Progressive. Shes the last type of judge we need on the Supreme Court. Anony Mee is the nom de blog of a retired public servant. She gives a hat tip to her dear friend Anne for the reference. Correction: Possibly because of the association with singer Jackson Browne, it's very easy to get Judge Jackson's name backward. All erroneous references to her name are now correct. The United States Congress recently offered a standing ovation to President Zelensky of Ukraine. Without a doubt, his country is virtually treated as the 51st state of the United States. Yet the United States government deals with Ukrainian borders exponentially better than America's southern border. In fairness to Zelensky, he proposed something American conservatives have been advocating for a long time: replacing the corrupt U.N. with a better international organization. YouTube screen grab. President Putin had been waiting for stars to align properly for the invasion: Trump is gone, the United States under Obama's third term cordially cooperates with a profitable (to Russia) Iran deal, the West is obsessed with forced wokenization of its armed forces and eviction of women from women's sports, Ukraine still dreams of joining the balls-less NATO coalition, and Putin's court nobility feeds him rosy self-propaganda images. Let us recall Charles Spurgeon's wise words: "Consider how precious a soul must be when both God and the devil are after it." A modern rephrasing of this might be, "Why has Ukraine become so valuable that the leadership of Russia and ruling circles of United States are after it?" Sadly, this post-Soviet state's well intended de-Sovietization, de-Leninization, and de-Stalinization took a wrong turn. Unfortunately, Democrats decided to exploit the situation rather than assist Ukraine in rectifying it. As a result, during Obama's presidency, Ukrainians got an offer they could not refuse, and a well oiled conveyer belt to transfer money from the West to Ukraine and back had begun. Everybody benefited from the scheme; it was so well known and accepted that even children of many swamp-dwellers in Washington were introduced to it. Nevertheless, nobody on the receiving and sending ends of the monetary conveyor dared to ask the simple question of who was the brain behind the scenes who had orchestrated it. One possible answer which could also explain why Ukraine suddenly became so valuable is that the Russian KGB planned, implemented, and maintained the "Ukrainian" financial conveyor. (The term "KGB" is used here because of its broad acceptance, regardless of the abbreviation currently adopted in Russia for secret intelligence services.) The KGB was always described as "a state within a state." Naturally, therefore, in most post-Soviet republics, including Ukraine, the vast majority of high-ranking KGB officers were members of the same exclusive club. (A similar exclusive club had existed for the high-ranking Russian and Ukrainian military. It explains why Russia could annex Crimea without firing a shot in 2014.) The Kremlin intended that Russia would position itself as the supervisor of financial flows to Washington politicians and, thus, influence American politics while hiding behind the Ukrainian facade. It may seem as if the plot was brilliant Russia was able to keep everyone happy by bribing American politicians using American taxpayer funds. Of course, there was involvement from corrupt Washington slime and Ukrainian gangs, but the complete story was obscured. Putin was holding all the cards and then Trump happened. President Trump has made several attempts to stop the "Ukrainian" conveyor. Unfortunately, he had no allies in that endeavor; by that point, many anti-Trump politicians regarded the "Ukrainian" conveyor as an indispensable and valuable source of accessible capital. In his fight, Trump attempted to involve Zelensky but was unsuccessful; the effort ended in quid pro quo blame and bogus impeachment. In office for just two months, Zelensky, who was considered an outsider by the Ukrainian powers that be, was never briefed about the conveyer by the previous Ukrainian administration. Most likely, Zelensky had not fully comprehended the exact nature of Trump's request during the infamous phone call on July 25, 2019. Indeed, part of the American taxpayers' wealth was applied by Putin long before the 2016 elections. A significant amount of the funds from the "Ukrainian" financial conveyor system were utilized to spread the vicious "Trump is a Russian asset" hoax. Moreover, the laundered funds had been directed to expel Trump from the White House in 2020. It is acknowledged that the KGB is proficient at executing such "active measures" against a dedicated foe. In short, the Kremlin had, in fact, influenced several presidential elections in the United States, but, as the Mueller Report confirmed, Trump had nothing to do with that. Currently, there is a steady flow of financial, economic, military, and humanitarian aid into Ukraine; let us hope no one would dare to take the usual cut during wartime. People, mostly unaware of the "Ukrainian" conveyor and its Kremlin management, are attracted to the bravery of Ukrainians and the undeniable Churchillian strength of Zelensky. Nevertheless, the actual reason for the current war could be that both Putin and the Washington establishment wish to bury the conveyer as deeply as possible. The Democrats do not want any complications because of inevitable exposure, especially in a midterm election year; they desperately need Zelensky in their camp. On the other hand, Putin wishes to regain control of the conveyer. In order to do so, he must appoint a marionette as president of Ukraine. The media lionize President Zelensky; he is portrayed as the ideal hero (at least in ancient Greek terms). Similarly, President Putin is demonized and made a superb villain, an unquestionable anti-hero (in absolute terms). In combination with the horrifying images of bombings of civilians in Ukraine, the international darling and the international pariah are excellent instruments for Democrats to keep the American electorate distanced from the dirty under-the-carpet struggle. When reviewing the first Russo-Ukrainian War, which is clearly not the first, it is vital to keep that hidden tussling in mind. Voltaire wrote in 1731 in his book History of Charles XII, King of Sweden that "Ukrania has always aspired to freedom." Unfortunately, the road to freedom is not a straight line; the story of Ukraine confirms that dirty realpolitik deals plague it. Gary Gindler, Ph.D. is a conservative columnist at Gary Gindler Chronicles and the founder of a new science: politiphysics. Follow him on Twitter. Joe Biden went to Europe to make speeches during Europe's most serious crisis since World War II, but he was mostly focused on his own re-election. That meant some pre-emptive shots at President Trump, who "lost" the election to him, based on various manipulations and cheatings, while Biden's polling approval has gone downhill ever since. But Joe was upbeat. According to CNBC: President Joe Biden said Thursday that he would consider himself "very fortunate" if former President Donald Trump runs against him for a second time in the 2024 election for the White House. Biden's swaggering remark comes as the Democrat faces low public approval ratings and as Trump has signaled he likely will seek the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. "In the next election I'd be very fortunate if I had that same man running against me," Biden said at a news conference from NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, where he and other leaders of the alliance's countries discussed responses to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Naturally, he repeated some lies about Trump, the one about Trump supposedly praising Nazis in Virginia after an incident, which never happened. He likely did his credibility in Europe some damage, given that he equated that incident to Vladimir Putin's claims that Ukraine was full of Nazis. The moral equivalence there of holding his own country up as a Nazi hotbed to the Europeans, who know what real Nazis are, was pretty repellent in itself. But he also signaled that Putin's lies about Nazis in Ukraine were basically fine, given that he spouted his own lies about Nazis, so "everyone does it." That pretty well scrapped the U.S. moral authority against Putin's Nazi lies. Biden enjoys a good lie himself. He also inadvertently called attention to his incompetence by citing his own long foreign policy experience for the Europeans: BIDEN: "I've been dealing with foreign policy for longer than anybody that's involved in this process right now." pic.twitter.com/BpNuuKN9Bu Townhall.com (@townhallcom) March 24, 2022 Memo to Joe: That experience comes with a record. Former CIA director Bob Gates summed it up nicely: Biden has "been wrong on nearly every major foreign policy and national security issue over the past four decades." His advice to Europeans on how to deal with Putin pretty well proved it it had to have had eyes rolling in Brussels: Biden just spoke in Brussels after the NATO meeting. Biden's again proves he's an idiot! His response to Putin's war is more green energy! What crap! pic.twitter.com/jHPdVkrnoe Daniel F. Baranowski (@DFBHarvard) March 25, 2022 Memo to Joe: Europe's been "going green" for years, with credible reports suggesting that Putin's been paying green activists to ensure just that it's what got them in hock to Putin. Got a campaign ad, GOP? But this didn't stop Biden from being upbeat, not just about beating President Trump, but on Democrats holding their majorities in Congress in 2022: Theyve completely lost their minds. November is going to seriously break them. https://t.co/ADpLIMuCYu Tammy Bruce (@HeyTammyBruce) March 24, 2022 That stands in stark contrast to polls out there which show Joe Biden at record lows, and worst still for him, amid significant gains for Republicans among black, Latino, and young voters. What's more, Republicans beat Democrats on the generic ballot, suggesting that the Mother of All Shellackings is coming up for Joe's entire party shortly. It was weird stuff, given the campaign offerings Joe had on hand for the voters in his speeches: out: Winter of Sickness and Death in: Springtime of Hunger and Famine https://t.co/zkGWz1jvsg Michael Knowles (Not A Biologist) (@michaeljknowles) March 24, 2022 The guy is running for re-election by promising famine and food shortages? People made a lot of fun of Jimmy Carter for his "malaise" speech as he sought re-election and lost to Ronald Reagan. This famine promise from Joe, though, takes the cake and the whole grocery bag. It was so bad that it meant another cleanup on Aisle 46 for White House spokesweasel Jen Psaki: White House press secretary Jen Psaki said at a press conference earlier this week that the U.S. is itself not expecting a food shortage for Americans. "While we're not expecting a food shortage here at home, we do anticipate that higher energy, fertilizer, wheat, and corn prices could impact the price of growing and purchasing critical ... food supplies for countries around the world," Psaki told reporters. Good luck with that one, Corn Pop. He had other stuff on offer, too, not just from words, but from his actions. The border surge, which has seen the record invasion of 2 million illegal migrants all claiming "asylum," for one, is about to get worse, way worse. Biden Administration Finalizes Plan to Rubber-Stamp Asylum Grants; Hiding the border disaster by turning illegal aliens into asylum seekers with the stroke of a pen https://t.co/6WURaGxT5J via @CIS_org Mark Krikorian (@MarkSKrikorian) March 24, 2022 Anybody not think that won't send a message to would-be illegal migrants that the cost of breaking into the U.S. illegally and taking a job from an American is about to go way, way, down? Not good. The Biden Administration may lift restrictions that aided expulsions of illegal immigrants. Do that, and the border crisis gets even worse.https://t.co/VyqZxfWbco Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) March 24, 2022 Gas prices, crime surges, wokester ideology, and bad judges are among his other offerings for the voters. Even from the far-left perspective, Biden is falling flat. Here's Biden's fellow Democrat, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who had a warning about those coming elections with Joe the millstone around the party's neck: 'Collapse of support': AOC says Biden is in real danger among Dem voters https://t.co/zt3FTbY9nq pic.twitter.com/VduLlPABD3 New York Post (@nypost) March 24, 2022 Now Joe Biden's saying he'd feel "fortunate" to see a challenge from President Trump, the man who brought us energy independence and $2 gas. What planet does he live on? And how can we keep him there, happy and contented for himself, while promising apocalyptic misery for the voters? Image: Twitter screen shot. In August of 2018, Steven Andrew Jacobs, then a doctoral candidate at the University of Chicago Department of Comparative Human Development, wrote a 22-page working paper, "Biologists' Consensus on 'When Life Begins.'" Jacobs's paper was based on research for a dissertation entitled "Balancing Abortion Rights and Fetal Rights: A Mixed Methods Mediation of the U.S. Abortion Debate." The data Dr. Jacobs gathered for his 2019 thesis found that of the 5,577 biologists he interviewed, surveyed, and reviewed, 96% believed that "human life begins at fertilization." The conclusion of that project matched those expressed one year prior, by the American College of Pediatricians. After the fact, in an article published a year later entitled "I Asked Thousands of Biologists When Life Begins. The Answer Wasn't Popular," Jacobs wrote about the negative response his findings provoked in those justifying ending life in the womb: It was the reporting of this view that human zygotes, embryos, and fetuses are biological humans that created such a strong backlash. It was not unexpected, as the finding provides fodder for conservative opponents of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 case in which the U.S. Supreme Court had suggested there was no consensus on 'the difficult question of when life begins and that 'the judiciary, at this point in the development of man's knowledge, [was] not in a position to speculate as to the answer.' Although 5,577 biologists' scientific opinion was that life began at conception, biologist Sahotra Sarkar, professor of philosophy and integrative biology at the University of Texas at Austin College of Liberal Arts, called the collective opinion "problematic." In an article entitled "When human life begins is a question of politics not biology," Sarkar wrote: The overall point is that biology does not determine when human life begins. It is a question that can only be answered by appealing to our values, examining what we take to be human. Perhaps biologists of the future will learn more. Until then, when human life begins during fetal development is a question for philosophers and theologians. And policies based on an answer to that question will remain up to politicians and judges. In an age where "follow the science" has become the mantra of those who do just the opposite, the "science" surrounding biological sex and gender has also become a topic whose accepted definition is now based solely on subjective feeling; personal philosophy; and, of late, "politicians and judges" who support all manner of absurdity. With radicals in charge, rejecting biology to support both abortion and gender politics becomes problematic. This especially holds for those currently participating in the coordinated effort to pervert reality and confuse everything from life to biological sex. This raises the question: if the left believes that "politicians and judges" determine when life begins, why not also call upon that expertise to determine things like sex and gender? Recently, an opportunity to do just that arose at Ketanji Brown Jackson's confirmation hearing, when Tennessee senator Marsha Blackburn asked the Supreme Court nominee, "Can you provide a definition for the word 'woman'?" Rather than answering the question by "following the science," Brown Jackson would not acknowledge the logical definition of the female sex and instead responded, "No, I can't ... I'm not a biologist." A quandary concerning the definition of woman arises for America when you consider that the judge is about to be granted a position to interpret a Constitution that includes an amendment that states, "Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex." Exactly how will Ketanji defend "equality of rights under the law" regardless of sex if she can't define the difference between a male and a female? Furthermore, if biological certitudes like life at conception and chromosomal sex characteristics can no longer be defined, can "biological bases, phenotypic or physical characteristics, and cultural bases" still determine race? And if not, is it fair to describe Judge Ketanji Jackson Brown as the first black female nominee for the highest court in the land? Based on her record, and likely in support of "expansive abortion rights," when asked by Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana, "When does life begin, in your opinion?," while interviewing for a job to issue opinions, Jackson had no opinion at all. Instead, before laughing, the all-knowing judge responded, "Senator, I don't know." Doesn't the left believe that "politicians and judges" are assigned the job of determining the answer to that exact question? If so, why, then, when asked to define the word "woman," would a judge who must reject biology to support ending life in the womb publicly reference biology as a clever attempt to deny biology? Be it ending life in the womb or biological sex, Ketanji Jackson Brown is the embodiment of the disingenuous dichotomy that the left finds itself in when the clever response to questions they say only a biologist can answer involves an answer none of them agrees with. Jeannie hosts a blog at www.jeannieology.us. Photo credit: YouTube screen grab. As an American of African descent and a great-grandson of slaves, I am certainly not opposed to the appointment of a black woman to sit on the Supreme Court of the United States. However, I am categorically against confirming Ketanji Brown Jackson to that post. One day, a woman of her background will sit on the highest court, but Jackson should not be the person to break that glass ceiling. Here is why. She is an adherent of the far left. Some Republican senators are willing to overlook this. They are treating her confirmation as a fait accompli. They would rather not go on record against the "first black woman" nominated to the Court. This is the kind of political expediency that has brought our country to the precipice. Supreme Court decisions not only change the legal landscape. They can alter the culture in destructive ways. Roe v. Wade was a cultural earthquake that led to the elimination of over 60 million nascent human beings. Almost fifty years later, a majority of Americans believe that it was not only bad law, but evil. Social upheaval ensues when Supreme Court Justices think they have the authority to make sweeping cultural changes by diktat. Jackson as a devotee and admirer of Derrick Bell undoubtedly sees herself as a social reformer. Bell is the "Godfather" of Critical Race Theory. CRT says the law is based upon white supremacy. Society is unjust and racist at its core, so goes the theory, and therefore, the law is as well. It is not deserving of respect and deference, and ultimately, it must be overthrown. Putting someone of this perspective on the Court is injecting poison into the heart of the American legal system. She could be on the Supreme Court for thirty years, doing immense damage to our country. There is also the issue raised by Senator Josh Hawley. He has found in Jackson's record a bizarre judicial sympathy for the users of child pornography, reducing their sentences below the recommended guidelines. In one transcript shared by Senator Hawley, Jackson opines: I'm wondering whether you could say that there is a, that there could be a less-serious child pornography offender who is engaging in the type of conduct in the group experience level[.] She also says she "mistakenly assumed that child pornography offenders are pedophiles." Yet according to distinguished professor Matt Delisi, in a University of Iowa study in 2020: So many times, a child porn possession case will have no official criminal history[.] ... What we find, though, is that the majority of them have prior contact victims. [N]ot only do they have actual prior crimes, but they have actual prior contact sexual offenses. So much for Jackson's "less serious child pornography offender." None other than renowned former federal prosecutor Andrew McCarthy has come to Jackson's defense in an article in National Review. He argues that Judge Jackson is simply doing what many judges do distinguishing between the evil producer and often naive end-user. I find this argument unpersuasive and disturbing. McCarthy writes: "Sex offenders" include people who have never put a hand on a child for sexual purposes but are consumers of pornographic images, which they possess, transmit, or trade sometimes for money but often not. That sounds alarmingly similar to articles I have read in Salon and other leftist publications that suggest we should destigmatize "non-contact" pedophiles as just another sexual orientation. After all, they argue, there is nothing wrong with being sexually attracted to children if you don't act on it. Most of us would beg to differ. Finally, there is this. Judge Jackson refuses to offer an opinion on packing the Court or to even define what a woman is, claiming, "I am not a biologist." Failing to answer these questions proves that she bows to her far-left Arabella funders and Democrat masters and therefore lacks the essential quality of judicial independence. At some point, the competence and character of a candidate for the bench must be the only considerations for confirmation. If that were the case here, Judge Jackson would not be confirmed. It is up to the American people to demand a colorblind society instead the racial tribalism of the left that threatens to destroy the integrity of every institution of cultural and legal influence, including the United States Supreme Court. E.W. Jackson is a retired attorney and graduate of Harvard Law School. He is a former Virginia candidate for U.S. Senate and Republican nominee for lieutenant governor. He is founder and president of STAND Staying True to America's National Destiny, pastor of the Called Church and host of The Awakening on American Family Radio. Image via Max Pixel. The firebrand congressional Squad leader known on the streets as AOC recently said, "Gee, the child-tax credit just ran out on December 31, and now people are stealing baby formula." She said this in response to the NYPD announcing the arrest of twelve known shoplifters with a combined 23 outstanding warrants for stealing formula, diapers, and other items they easily resold on the streets. It's a false flag the expired child tax credit has nothing to do with shoplifting in New York City. There was no cash advance child tax credit in 2020, and shoplifting offenses declined 9% from the prior year. However, in 2021, when parents were paid by the Biden administration for their progeny, shoplifting in New York increased by 6%. If AOC were intellectually honest and used her student loanfunded elite eastern college degree in economics, she would see there is no correlation or causation between the CTC and shoplifting. Here's what is at the heart of the woke push for a permanent cash child tax credit really, a government-provided cash allowance to procreate. It's about creating electoral dependency and buying votes. If leftists really wanted to help children from low-income families, they would be pushing more for government-funded daycare to help working parents and expansion of pre-kindergarten programs for the children of working parents. It's true that the Biden Build Back Better plan provides $100 billion over the next three years for expanded childcare, but when you actually spread that out and apply it to the eligible 23.6 million children below age five, it's only about $100 per month hardly enough to pay for child care. Note the word "working" in the previous paragraph? The Build Back Better plan applies on an income-based approach, essentially providing benefits to non-working parents and little or none to families earning above the median for their area. And while one could argue that in the CTC's last COVID incarnation, working parents received it as well, that's just really a return of taxes they have already paid minus the government overhead to collect taxes and disperse the credits, of course! Because of this, politicians on both sides of the aisle, like senators like Mitt Romney (R-Utah) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), have either proposed or endorsed a return of the cash child tax credit but with a work requirement. These two are hardly shining representatives of their declared political parties, but they are nonetheless dues-paying members. Not surprisingly, while Democrats and Republicans alike support some form of the child tax credit, they line up along party lines over including a work requirement Mr. Manchin excepted. Let's look at the numbers. Imagine a nuclear family of five with children aged 2, 5, and 11, where neither parent is employed. Under the expired 2021 cash CTC, they would have received $10,000 from the government. But if both parents worked full-time, even at minimum-wage jobs, the total of their earnings plus the CTC would be over $40,000 hardly a fortune, but that's 30% more than what the government defines as the poverty level for a family of five. For a short period of time, their added unemployment benefits would have equaled their working incomes, but that's a six-month solution at best. Another whopper we've been told is that without the cash CTC, more children will live in poverty. That simply isn't true. In 2018 well before the COVID economy and the cash child tax credit the Census Bureau reported that 16.2 percent of children were living in poverty. Since the expiration of the cash CTC in December, this year to date basically one month of 2022 data the child poverty rate is estimated to be 17%. True, that's an increase, but it's a marginal one, and only for one month of data. In a recent working paper, a group of economists at the University of Chicago stated the following: "deep child poverty would not fall at all with the CTC expansion." Additionally, in that same report, they estimated that the return of the cash CTC would disincentivize work and result in 1.5 million people quitting their jobs. To be fair, this finding is contradicted in a report issued by the National Academy of Sciences, which estimated a negligible effect on employment. However, the Academy did respond to the Chicago report by saying in part, "We don't think we were wrong in our assessment, although we are open to the possibility that the employment effects may be a bit bigger than we estimated." Really? There's no simple answer here. Nobody, not even cold-blooded economists, want children living in poverty. But paying low-income families to have more children doesn't seem even remotely rational. In the meantime, expect the woke crowd to continue waving false flags around the advance cash child tax credit. Remember, it was AOC who said during her campaign, "We need to kick luxury real estate lobbyists to the curb and defend working people's way of life." Now living in a luxury apartment herself, she says, "Luxury should not be a luxury." Kevin Cochrane is an economist who teaches economics and business at Colorado Mesa University. He previously taught at the University of California and was a senior national banking executive. Image via Pixabay. In late January of 2018, thenformer vice president Joe Biden laughingly related a story about his 2016 visit to Ukraine. At the time, a Ukrainian prosecutor by the name of Victor Shokin was investigating corruption that touched on Biden's son Hunter's dealings with Burisma, a Cyprus-registered company operating in Kyiv that deals with energy exploration and production. They were paying Hunter in excess of $83,000 a month for his services as a board member. Hunter's exact duties are not known, but it is claimed that he "advised" the company, though he admittedly knew nothing about energy. However, he was the son of the American vice president. Shokin had been instructed by then-Ukrainian president Petro Porshenko to abandon any further inquiries into Hunter's activities, since it could harm Ukraine's relations with the United States. Shokin instead pressed on. As Biden tells the story, he was in Ukraine in 2016 and would be leaving in six hours. He was authorized to grant a billion dollars in U.S. government loan guarantees to Ukraine, but he said he would not provide the guarantees unless Shokin was fired before he left. Biden gleefully went on. "Well, son of a b----. He got fired." On July 25, 2019, President Donald Trump called Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky to congratulate him on his party's success in the latest elections. During the course of a friendly conversation, Trump and Zelensky reflected upon the fact that both men were attempting to drain their respective swamps. In that vein, Trump asked a favor: could Zelensky look into the firing of prosecutor Shokin, which Biden had publicly boasted of, and the subsequent lack of investigation into Hunter's Burisma dealing? Zelensky readily agreed, recognizing the importance of a good personal relationship with the U.S. president. As a result of this phone call, Trump was impeached by a Nancy Pelosiled House of Representatives. In early 2022, according to a CNN interview, Zelensky asked the Biden administration "to personally say directly that we are going to accept you into the NATO alliance in a year or two or five, just say it directly and clearly, or just say no." Zelensky said, "And the response was very clear: 'You're not going to be a NATO member, but publicly, the doors will remain open.'" In fact, according to Reuters, December 9, 2021, "US President Joe Biden assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that Kyiv's bid to join NATO was in its own hands." If he wanted it, he was in. All parties well understood that a Ukrainian membership in NATO was a deep, blood-red line for Putin. He simply would not tolerate it and would do anything he felt necessary to prevent it. During late 2021 and early 2022, Biden's people spoke multiple times with the Chinese government, supposedly urging them to talk Putin out of an invasion of Ukraine. During those same talks, the U.S. maintained its falsely stated position that Ukraine was welcome to join NATO. The U.S. held no misconceptions that the Chinese would not pass these discussions along to the Kremlin. How can this be seen as anything less than a direct provocation for Putin to invade? Biden even made a ridiculous public statement that a "minor incursion" by Russia into Ukraine would be okay. To date, thousands of people have been killed, and more than two million people have fled Ukraine. According to U.N. figures, 549 civilian deaths and 957 injuries in Ukraine had been reported as of March 10. Twenty-six of those deaths were children. So Donald Trump asked a favor of Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate whether a Ukrainian prosecutor had been fired, at Joe Biden's demand, in order to get a billion dollars of loan guarantees from the government in which Biden was the vice president. That request to look for corruption led to impeachment for Trump. Joe Biden and his administration knowingly allowed, likely even encouraged Vladimir Putin to believe that they were all in on a Ukrainian NATO berth, thus ensuring Putin's invasion of Ukraine and thousands of deaths and likely billions in property damage. In Shakespeare's Hamlet, Marcellus uttered, "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark." Well, Marcellus didn't have the faintest. Image: Ben Stanfield. During day three of the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson, a disturbing exchange occurred between Judge Jackson and Senator Marsha Blackburn. Sen. Blackburn asked the nominee to define the word "woman." Judge Jackson refused, then stated that she's "not a biologist" as a justification. Jackson's ridiculous response is a brazen gaslighting attempt, concocted to dupe the Senate committee and all of America. We're not buying it. She's not fooling anyone. Here's the relevant exchange from the confirmation hearings: "Can you provide a definition for the word woman?" Blackburn asked. "Can I provide a definition? No. I can't," Jackson responded. "You can't?" Blackburn replied. "Not in this context. I'm not a biologist, " Jackson said. We are supposed to believe that Judge Jackson, a highly educated woman and a mother herself, doesn't have a clue about what it means to be a woman. Of course she knows. She's a woman. She is a wife. She's been married for 25 years. She's also a mother. She gave birth to and raised two children. She was also picked for the Supreme Court position specifically because she is a woman. She knows exactly what a woman is. The "I'm not a biologist" explanation is preposterous. It's an insult to our intelligence. By that line of reasoning, only veterinarians can describe the characteristics of a cat or dog, only mathematicians can provide the solution to 2+2, and only meteorologists can tells us whether it's raining outside. So why didn't Judge Jackson answer the question? Why did she pretend she didn't know? Why did she use such a ridiculous excuse to avoid answering a direct and simple inquiry? I suspect that Jackson did this because answering the question truthfully would undermine her entrenched leftist ideological belief system; upset her supporters; and contradict the transgender dogmas that currently dominate American culture, the left, and the Democrat party. Jackson is beholden to the left and the Democrats. She cannot challenge the insanity of the transgender propagandists and expose their anti-woman agenda. She does not want to alienate them. She does not want to deviate from the party line. Providing an accurate description of a woman would destroy the fiction that a man could ever transform himself into a woman. Defining womanhood truthfully would reaffirm the biological reality and scientific truth encoded within DNA and the XX chromosomes of every single cell of a woman's body. Properly describing a woman would contradict the transgender delusion that men with breast implants wearing dresses and high-heeled shoes are actually "women." In refusing to answer what defines a woman, Judge Jackson shows herself to be an Orwellian leftist. Like most radicals, she believes that reality is whatever she decides it must be, truth, biology, and common sense be damned. We know this because during these same hearings, Jackson defended her decisions to drastically reduce the jail time of convicted pedophiles. She justified her outrageous actions by claiming that the speed of internet access made it too simple and convenient for these monsters to view and share pictures of horrifically abused children. Yet she herself is a mother! We already have several current U.S. Supreme Court justices who have abandoned truth and common sense. Their decision to define "marriage" as whatever the state says it is and give "gay marriage" the same legal standing as real marriage set the stage for greater destruction of individual freedom and the increasing assaults on marriage. I wrote back in 2011 that if marriage can mean anything, it will ultimately mean nothing. If "woman" can be defined as anything that Judge Jackson or any other judge wants it to be regardless of biology, truth, and science then womanhood will ultimately mean nothing. The addition of another Supreme Court justice who's willing to defy reality and undermine our legal system to suit her left-wing ideology would be catastrophic. America would move farther way from sanity, morality, justice, and truth, and more rapidly devolve into an Orwellian nightmare. Chris Banescu regularly blogs at www.chrisbanescu.com and www.orthodoxnet.com/blog. Image: H2rty via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped). Picture this: two raging kings have been at war for five years now. Lives have been lost, battles have been fought, and in the current moment, their armies are locking horns in active aggression. Suddenly, the sky that was till now filled with the clanking of armor and spurting of blood, turns into a blanket of darkness as a solar eclipse pervades the horizon. As day turns into night within minutes, soldiers on both sides drop their axes and spears, watching stunned as the play of nature overshadows the wrath of man. Both kings decide to call a truce. Photo: opapaty / 8 images Tales of history are no less than those of a make-believe fairy land; this one in particular has stunned astronomers and historians alike for centuries now. According to an account written by Greek historian Herodotus, the battle took place in Asia Minor. Aylattes, the king of Lydia, was fighting Cyaxares, king of the Medians or present day Iranians, somewhere along the River Halys in what we today know as Turkey. But the war was halted abruptly by a near total solar eclipse, the first ever that was predicted in advance. This went down in history as the Battle of the Eclipse. Thales of Miletus The eclipse occurred on May 28, 585 B.C. Herodotus suggests that Greecian astronomer and mathematician, Thales of Miletus, had predicted it way before it happened. This was why the eclipse also came to be identified as the Eclipse of Thales by many. His city Miletus itself sat on the edge of the path of totality, and though was not directly shadowded by it, witnessed the event closely. Whats strange is that the doyen could only pinpoint the exact year of the event but not the date or time. Predicting a solar eclipse is tough, with the moon falling the earths shadow of the sun for only seven and a half minutes. Yet any calculations that can gauge the coming of an eclipse can predict it down to the exact time. Over centuries, modern scientists have calculated backwards to determine the exact date of the eclipse that corresponded accurately with the description provided by Herodotus and this one matches the closest. The path of totality However, there have been many who have refuted the historians account of the solar event. In Thales Eclipse Alden A. Mosshammer discusses the various arguments and hypotheses that have been put forward by analysers of the event. For instance, Otto Neugebaue suggests in his works that neither Thales nor his Babylonian contemporaries had the means or medium to predict such an event back then. A theory suggests that even if his claims are indulged, and Thales in fact had access to previous astronomical data of Miletus to refer to, his predictions would have landed him on 18 May 584 B.C. A solar eclipse did in fact occur on this date, but it was too small to be significant. What was significant was the near total eclipse which Thales witnessed a year before when the battle was in action. His predictions were saved because due to calendar irregularities, Thales had predicted the time frame of a year instead of a particular date, and the eclipse ended up falling within that year. Another loophole is the accuracy of Herodotuss account when compared with the data of previous cycles. Many say that the Babylonians kept extensive records. But the lack of empirical evidence has suggested that there was no means to keep such data so early on in time, which means that the account of Thaless prediction is probably a tale of hearsay passed on through oral traditions. Thales was a man of high reputation, having developed Egyptian theorems of geometry to calculate the distance of ships and measure the height of pyramids before Euclid went on to codify them. It is plausible that his accomplishments were aggrandised by staunch followers over time. Herodotuss chronology is questionable as well. Many have come out to suggest that it was Astyages and not Cyaxares who was king at the time of the battle. Pliny, the first person to ever give account of the battle, named only the Lydian king Alyattes in his work, and the name of the Median king has remained under scrutiny ever since. While accounts of grandeur have associated Thaless name with the great battle time and again, theres one tiny detail many miss out on. As Herodotus described the coming of the eclipse, he said day suddenly became night. But it had been following a set path of totality, and did not pass the exact location of the battle until right before sundown. The eclipse began near river Halys at 5:30pm and peaked around 6:25pm. At a time when the darkness of night was already expected, could the soldiers have been so taken by the shadow of the eclipse that it inspired them to give up their arms? Despite questions and constructions, the truth of the historical event has remained unfazed against the scrutiny of time. It was at the Battle of the Eclipse that Medians and Lydians finally met with peace. A treaty was negotiated with the arbitration of the kings of Cilicia and Babylon and the river Halys became the border between the lands of the two contending forces. Whether it was the Eclipse of Thales that caused it, or an unnamed force of mercy between warring individuals, one will never know. References # Wired # Thales Eclipse # On the Eclipse of Thales, Cycles and Probabilities Connecticut paraeducators are urging lawmakers to adopt a handful of recommendations that would improve professional-development opportunities and bring dignity and respect to a profession they say is often overlooked. The bill now in front of the legislatures education committee, House Bill 5321, would adopt three of the eight recommendations made by the Connecticut School Paraeducator Advisory Council, which the legislature asked last year to explore working conditions for paraeducators within the state. Advertisement Cindy Giammatti, a paraeducator within East Haven Public Schools, said the bill is a great step in the right direction for much-needed improvements for work life, the whole climate and culture for paraeducators. Whats most important that this bill addresses is the treatment, dignity and respect that paraeducators deserve that in many cases is not evident, Giammatti told lawmakers during a public hearing Monday. Advertisement Paraeducators typically work as teacher assistants in the lower grades, most often with either a single student or small group. There were about 14,450 paraprofessionals or non-certified instructional staff in Connecticut in 2014, two-thirds of which worked in special education, according to a legislative review. Paraeducators may help run classroom-wide activities, but also provide individualized assistance or translation services to students with differing needs. But compensation, they argue, is rarely commensurate with the wide range of duties they serve. Were the substitutes, were the security guards, were the cleaners, were everything, and yet we dont get the same treatment reflected in our salaries and benefits, said Hyclis Williams, president of AFSCME Local 3429, a labor union representing paraprofessionals in the New Haven Public Schools. In 2021, state lawmakers asked the Connecticut School Paraeducator Advisory Council to conduct a survey and draft recommendations to address building frustration with working conditions, wages and career-advancement opportunities. Shellye Davis, council co-chair and executive vice president of Connecticut AFL-CIO, told lawmakers that the survey of 3,401 responses confirmed a widespread sentiment that paraeducators are often an afterthought, and despite the important work they do, their efforts in the classroom are rarely prioritized or maximized. With staffing shortages across the board in education, from full-time teachers to substitutes, Davis said paraeducators are often left plugging the gaps to make sure students receive adequate resources and attention. Nearly 70% of survey respondents said they have been assigned to cover a teachers absence as a substitute teacher, with 32.6% saying theyve covered for a teachers absence for an entire day. Advertisement And while the strong majority of paraeducators are considered full-time employees, more than 60% said the retirement benefits they earn would not allow them to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. About 65% of paraeducators have been in the profession for at least five years, and 18% have been a paraeducator for more than 20 years, according to the survey. Giammatti has been a paraeducator for nearly 30 years and now works with special education middle school students. Not only do [the students] depend on me for academic support, they rely on me for emotional support, said Giammatti. I develop long-lasting connections and relationships with all of them. Despite the vital role paraeducators play in the school ecosystem, Giammatti said, she often feels as though shes viewed as a glorified babysitter. Five Things You Need To Know Daily We're providing the latest coronavirus coverage in Connecticut each weekday morning. > The bill now in front of lawmakers would create a professional-development plan and a working group to study a paraeducator certification program. Advertisement The bill would also allow paraeducators to access individualized education programs, which describe targeted goals for special-education students, and attend planning and placement team meetings, which is when parents and education staff meet after a student is referred to special education. We are professionals who, I believe, should be included in this process, Giammatti said. With the training, we would be even better. Davis said these common sense changes are a step in the right direction, but hopes the remaining five recommendations stay on the table. Those recommendations include a statewide living wage provision for paraeducators, and the inclusion of paraeducators in the states pension plan. Right now, were at a point where if something doesnt happen soon, this whole education thing is not doing what it should be doing to get the kids the things they need, and thats one of the biggest concerns, Davis said. Seamus McAvoy may be reached at smcavoy@courant.com (Image source from: telugu.samayam.com) Centre's roadblock for Polavaram Project:- The construction of the Polavaram project has been happening at a snail's pace ever since the government of YSRCP took charge. The construction took a new halt after the Centre asked the state to conduct a new economic and social survey for the project. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Union Minister of Jal Shakti gave a written reply for a question made by the MPs of Andhra Pradesh in the house of Lok Sabha. The Union Minister of Jal Shakti said that a DPR will be prepared on the distributary network. The Centre once against announced that it is responsible for the construction of the project to get the budget of Rs 15,668 crores. The Centre also confirmed that the state government spent Rs 14,336 crores till February 2022. The government of Andhra Pradesh also reimbursed Rs 12,311 crores and the authority of the Polavaram project sent a bill of Rs 437 crores as per the Ministry. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also said that the Centre asked the state government to set the final deadline of the project about its completion. The completion of Polavaram project will now be delayed further with the new restrictions imposed by the Centre. Samsung has had all sorts of problems recently, including a massive data breach. It seems the company just cant catch a break. Korean media is reporting a possible theft of confidential information by a Samsung employee. According to the Korea JoongAng Daily, a Samsung employee may have taken photographs of confidential information related to the companys chip fabrication processes. The said employee is reportedly leaving the Korean behemoth soon and was working from home on the day of the alleged theft. Since the security system doesnt allow employees to take screenshots of any confidential information on computer screens, the person used a smartphone to take photographs of it. The information stolen could include chip fabrication secrets of advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes, including 3nm and 4nm chips. Advertisement The employee may have taken hundreds of photographs, multiple Korean media outlets have suggested. So the scope of information stolen could be much wider. More importantly, this suggests the person intended to hand over the information to rival firms. However, theres no evidence of any third party accessing that information as yet. Samsung has launched an investigation into the matter. The person is under investigation for violating information protection rules, a company spokesperson told the publication confirming the alleged theft. But it is not yet known the type of information compromised and whether the person handed it to a third party. A Samsung employee may have stolen the companys chip secrets This alleged theft of confidential information is the latest in a string of internal troubles Samsung has had recently. Last month, the company launched an investigation into suspected fraud at its chip division. Some top-level executives may have fabricated the yield rate data of its advanced semiconductor processes to misplace funds. While its unclear what the Korean brand found, it may have already suffered a huge loss of business due to the reported poor yields. Qualcomm now reportedly wants TSMC to manufacture its 3nm chips instead of Samsung. Advertisement A massive benchmark manipulation controversy followed that. Samsung was found to be throttling the performance of several apps on its phones using its Game Optimization Service (GOS). The company has since lifted those limitations with a software update but not before widespread criticism and a potential investigation by the Korean watchdog. Now, the reports of an employee stealing confidential information dont bode well for Samsung. We will keep a close eye on this matter and let you know as and when we have more information. Three more regions in Indonesia go dog meat free 26 March 2022 Animals Asia is thrilled that a further three areas in Central Java, Indonesia, have banned the sale and consumption of dog meat. The Semarang, Blora and Brebes Regencies join Karanganyar, Sukoharjo, Salatiga and Semarang in pledging to end the cruel and dangerous industry which inhumanely kills thousands of dogs in terrible conditions every year. The Dog Meat Free Indonesia (DMFI) coalition, of which Animals Asia is a member, has seen groundbreaking progress in Central Java in recent years from a tireless campaign to highlight the risks of trading and consuming dog meat. A celebration of progress and a call to action Earlier this month, DMFI held an awards ceremony to celebrate the progress that has been made in Central Java in taking progressive and strong measures to tackle the dog meat trade and call on others to follow their example. Dave Neale, Animals Asia Animal Welfare Director said, "DMFIs approach of working in collaboration with local and national authorities has paved the way for a dog meat-free Indonesia. We are hopeful that the recent successes in Central Java will mean that before long, well see a dog meat ban across the whole country and we remain committed to this work until the industry ends forever." The DMFI is currently seeking meetings with the Central government to end the dog meat industry across the whole of Indonesia. Changing attitudes towards dog meat: Globally we are seeing an intolerance to animal cruelty, particularly the dog and cat dog meat trades. Across Asia, opposition to the dog and cat meat trades is increasing, with an ever-growing number of countries and territories (Taiwan, Hong Kong SAR, the Philippines, Thailand and two major cities in mainland China) banning the slaughter, sale and consumption of dogs. In September 2021, South Koreas President Moon Jae-in suggested it could be time to consider a dog meat ban, and announced that his cabinet will meet to discuss the issue. Read more: Indonesian police save 53 dogs headed for slaughter 67 dogs saved from dog meat industry in Indonesia PLEASE NOTE: ALL ONLINE PURCHASES ARE AUTOMATIC RENEWALS UNLESS YOU EMAIL JPAYNE@ANNISTONSTAR.COM OR CONTACT CUSTOMER SERVICE @ 256-235-9253.... Purchase an online subscription to our website for $7.99 a month with automatic renewal. Each online subscription gives you full access to all of our newspaper websites and mobile applications. To cancel you may contact Customer Service @ 256-235-9253 or email JPAYNE@ANNISTONSTAR.COM *NEW SUBSCRIBERS ONLY join with a NEW ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION is just $59.99 for the first year. Existing customers do not qualify for the specials! AMEX is not accepted through this site. After the first year, well automatically renew your subscription to continue your access at the regular price of $69.99 per year. Please note *Your Subscription will Automatically Renew unless you contact Customer Service To Cancel* A Hartford man was sentenced to 30 years in prison Friday for years of brutal, sexual attacks on a child who viewed him as a parental figure, according to federal officials. Robert Acosta Torres, 61, pleaded guilty previously to raping a Hartford boy three to four times a week over a six-year period and filming the attacks. The assaults began when the child was 6 years old. Advertisement After Acosta Torres was arrested and charged with producing child pornography, the parents of two additional Hartford-area children approached federal authorities and reported that he had allegedly assaulted their children as well. Authorities have limited the release of information about the attacks and the relationships between Acosta Torres and the victims to protect the identities of the children. The child who was assaulted for six years is identified in court as minor victim 1, or MV1, to protect their identity. Advertisement Federal prosecutors said Acosta Torres committed the attacks in Hartford, New York and in Puerto Rico. After his arrest, authorities found that he had 31 video recordings of his abuse of MV-1 and hundreds of other images of child abuse. The years of assaults of MV1 stopped only after the child and his mother moved away from Hartford. After they moved, the childs mother said he was deeply depressed and it took a year before he confided in her: .... I noticed many changes in [MV1], his grades dropped, he was withdrawn, he seemed sad, the childs mother told federal authorities. It was as if something tormented him, I remember bringing him in the car talking, demanding an answer to something that I had on my chest. Because deep down I knew something had happened with that man. I told him, [MV1], I know that man did something to you. I just looked at his teary eyes and he told me, sometimes I hate myself. I tried not to cry, not to break down, I felt like my world was falling apart when I saw my sons eyes full of tears, with a lot of pain. Every word stabbed my heart. The worst pain Ive ever felt in my life, I dont wish it on anyone. I just thought why my son? Acosta Torres faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years on the child pornography production charge and a maximum of 30 years. Federal prosecutors asked for the maximum. Acosta Torres has been detained since his arrest on Dec. 18, 2019. (ANSA) - ROME, MAR 25 - One of two 16-year-old girls who disappeared in the Salento area of Puglia on Tuesday has been found in Germany, police said Friday. The girl, of Polish origin, was found in a railway station at Freising, on her way to see her brothers in Poland. She will soon return home to her foster parents in Italy. The other girl has not yet been traced. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, MAR 25 - Russian Ambassador to Italy Sergey Razov said Friday Moscow was concerned about the use of Italian arms by Ukrainians resisting the Russian invasion of their country. "The thing that concerns us is that the Italian armaments will be used to kill Russian citizens," he said at Rome's central criminal court where he was filing complaints for instigation to commit crimes and apology of crimes over articles published by the daily La Stampa. "And I'd like to point out that the decision (to arm Ukraine) was taken when the first stage of negotiations had begun: the rifles are not only distributed among soldiers but also among citizens and we don't know when and how they will be used". Recalling that Russia sent aid to Italy during the toughest part of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Razov said "a helping hand was extended to the Italian people, and if someone bites that hand it is not honorable". Razov said "I've been working in Italy for eight years and I've worked with (premiers) Renzi, Conte, Letta and now Draghi. "We have done our utmost to build bridges, strengthen ties in the economy, culture and other fields. Regrettably, everything has now been overturned". Italy has supported Western sanctions against Russia and Premier Mario Draghi said this week it would up arms shipments to Kyiv. Razov urged Italian journalists "to follow both messages and not only those of the Kyiv side. Every day I read the Italian press and every day I see photos whose provenance is very doubtful". On the duration of the Ukraine-Russia war, Razov said "the sooner it ends the better. "Negotiations are ongoing with Ukraine and we hope for positive outcomes". (ANSA). MADRID - The Spanish government last night reached an agreement with representatives of the truckers' sector to diminish the impact of the rising cost of fuel, with measures worth over one billion euros. Decisions included a subsidy for truckers of 20 cents for each liter of diesel, which will "allow each truck" to save 700 euros a month, said Transport Minister Raquel Sanchez, who led negotiations until late at night, together with the deputy premier and economy minister, Nadia Calvino, and treasury minister, Maria Jesus Montero. "We have reached a great agreement", tweeted early in the morning Premier Pedro Sanchez. "It is a good accord", said the National truckers' committee, which represented companies and truck drivers at the negotiating table. The government thus hopes it has found a solution to allow the end of days of protests by truckers, which blocked the provision of raw material for several productive sectors and the distribution in supermarkets. However, the platform that organized protests did not attend negotiations because it isn't part of the National truckers' committee and had already announced another demonstration Friday in Madrid. BELGRADE - Tension is rising between Belgrade and Pristina a few days before elections scheduled on April 3 in Serbia as Kosovo's Serbians will have to travel to four areas of southern Serbia to vote. The decision was taken on Thursday night by the electoral commission in Belgrade, given the inflexible position taken by Pristina's leadership, according to whom it is inadmissible to organize in Kosovo, a sovereign and independent country, elections of a foreign State like Serbia. The latter, however, does not recognize Kosovo's independence, considering it part of its territory. Protests, which have been peaceful so far, are ongoing in the northern (Serbian) sector of Kosovska Mitrovica and in other Serbian enclaves of Kosovo, with the Serbian population pointing its finger in particular against Kosovo's Premier Albin Kurti, believed to be the main figure responsible for the strong deterioration of relations with Belgrade. Demonstrators showed banners with slogans including: "Kurti, you have destroyed the agreement of Brussels (in 2013), you have destroyed everything", "Stop Kurti's terror", "We want our human rights", "Kosovo's Serbians only believe in President Vucic". Kosovan police are monitoring the protests and so far their intervention has not been necessary. A source of tension was the suspension on Thursday, but not the removal, it was stressed, of a Serbian judge of the tribunal of Kosovska Mitrovica, who received a disciplinary sanction for taking part in a recent meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade with a political delegation of Serbians of Kosovo. The Council of Kosovan judges confirmed on Friday the suspension, saying that the measure did not have any political connotation but was exclusively of a disciplinary nature, since the judge did not work to travel to Belgrade without authorization. Kurti for his part sent a letter to the EU representative in Pristina, denouncing the behavior of Belgrade, which continues not to recognize legal and sovereign institutions of independent Kosovo, still maintaining its "illegal structures" in Kosovo. ISTANBUL - Turkey and Russia are working on an agreement to accept earnings in the tourism sector in their respective local currencies, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was quoted as saying by the Sabah newspaper, speaking to journalists after a trip to Brussels where he attended a summit of NATO leaders. Citing commercial cooperation in agriculture, energy and tourism, Ankara decided not to sanction Russia for the invasion of Ukraine, although Moscow's military operation was condemned and defined as "unacceptable" by Erdogan. In 2021, with over 4.7 million people, Russian citizens represented 19% of foreign tourists who visited Turkey. The Prince of Wales followed in the Queens footsteps as he visited one of Irelands best-known sites on the final day of his tour of the island. Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall took a trip to the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary on Friday. It followed a day seeing the sights of County Waterford, during which Charles paid tribute to Ireland as a majestic land and restated the couples hope that they might get to visit every county in their lifetimes. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in the nave of the Cathedral at St Patricks Rock, Cashel in 2011 (Bryan OBrien/Maxwells/PA) Their visit to the Rock of Cashel comes just over a decade after the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh went to the site. The Queen and Philip took in the popular tourist attraction, which is also known as St Patricks Rock and was once the seat and symbol of the overkings of Munster, during the historic state visit in 2011. Charles and Camilla posed in front of the stone cathedral ruins before being given a short history of the site, enjoying a performance by Cashel Community School choir and signing the guest book. The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall wave as they leave Cahir Castle (Brian Lawless/PA) The couple were welcomed by the sound of Welsh-Irish trumpets, similar to those used historically to celebrate the inauguration of kings in ceremonies dating back to the Bronze Age. A short, specially-composed fanfare was played on the handmade instruments, reproduced using parts found in Anglesey in Wales and Roscrea in Tipperary. Camilla wore a green pinafore dress and green crepe coat, in similar style to the Queens bright green outfit of 2011. The Prince of Wales meets people during a visit to Cahir Farmers Market (Brian Lawless/PA) Earlier, the couple visited Cahir Farmers Market, meeting food producers and community groups from across the county. Fridays visit brings to a close Charles and Camillas two-day trip to the Irish Republic, which followed a two-day stint in Northern Ireland as part of a number of royal tours marking the Queens Platinum Jubilee year. Choir director John Murray said it was poignant to have Charles visit the same site as the Queen. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall (left) are shown the steps of a traditional Irish dance at the Bru Boru Cultural Centre in Cashel (Brian Lawless/PA) Mr Murray said: Its rare that you get to sing for two royals, so it is great to get to do that, and the visit is a great thing for Cashel. Its quite poignant that his mother was here. They sang traditional Irish blessing May The Road Rise To Meet You, which had also been performed for the Queen. As he walked towards Bru Boru cultural centre, Charles met and shook hands with cheering schoolchildren who lined the route. A man has denied murdering a pensioner in a horrendous attack at her home. Vasile Culea, 33, was arrested after retired machinist Freda Walker, 86, was killed in a violent incident at her home in Langwith Junction, Shirebrook, near Bolsover in Derbyshire, which also left her husband Ken with critical injuries. Culea appeared at Derby Crown Court on Friday and followed proceedings through a Romanian interpreter, pleading not guilty to murder and attempted murder. The charges allege Culea, of Grove Road, Church Warsop, Nottinghamshire, murdered Mrs Walker on January 14 and attempted to murder 88-year-old town councillor Mr Walker on the same date. Flowers outside a house on Station Road, Langwith Junction, Shirebrook (Josh Payne/PA) A concerned neighbour found the couple at the property in Station Road at 9am on January 15. An inquest opening at Chesterfield Coroners Court previously heard Mrs Walker died as a result of head injuries and airway obstruction. Derbyshire Police previously said one of their leading lines of inquiry was that the incident was a suspected burglary. Remanding the defendant into custody, Judge Nirmal Shant QC told Culea: Mr Culea your trial will take place on October 4. Before that, you will be at this court on July 8 for all matters before your trial to be finalised. In the meantime, you are remanded in custody. China ready to help Afghanistan achieve true independence, self-development Xinhua) 08:15, March 25, 2022 KABUL, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Thursday that China is ready to help Afghanistan achieve true independence and self-development. During a meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Afghan Taliban's caretaker government, Wang said China respects Afghanistan's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, respects the independent choice made by the Afghan people, and respects Afghanistan's religious beliefs and national customs. China never interferes in Afghanistan's internal affairs, never pursues self-interest in Afghanistan, and never seek a sphere of influence, noted Wang, adding that China will help Afghanistan realize true independence and self-development. The Chinese side has noted that the Afghan caretaker government has positively addressed the concerns of the international community which has resulted in visible outcomes, Wang said. China opposes forces outside the region to wantonly mount political pressure or impose economic sanctions on Afghanistan, and hopes the Afghan caretaker government will establish an inclusive political structure, implement prudent policies, and make active efforts to serve the interests of the Afghan people and meet the expectation of the international community, Wang said. Since last year, China has in the first time sent multiple shipments of emergency humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and scheduled 36 chartered flights of pine nuts imported from the country to help ease the hardship and improve the livelihood of the Afghan people, charting a new chapter in the China-Afghan friendship, Wang said. Wang said security is the basis and precondition for development, hoping that the Afghan side will take effective measures to provide necessary conditions for the normal exchanges between Afghanistan and other countries. The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a terrorist organization listed by the United Nations Security Council and designated by the Chinese government in accordance with law, Wang said. He hopes the Afghan side will earnestly honor its commitment and take effective measures to resolutely crack down on all terrorist forces including the ETIM. For his part, Muttaqi said that the Afghan side is highly vigilant against the resurgence of terrorism, and will take resolute and strong measures to eliminate the terrorist forces in Afghanistan. The Afghan caretaker government fully understands China's concerns and will never allow any force to use the Afghan territory to harm the Chinese friends, Muttaqi said. Muttaqi thanked China for providing the Afghan people with valuable and the most needed humanitarian assistance that has helped them go through a harsh winter. The Afghan side is confident of improving the country's security and stabilizing the situation, so as to ensure the safety of foreign personnel and missions in Afghanistan, he said. Muttaqi added that Afghanistan would like to make itself a bridge of regional connectivity and a land of prosperity for the people, instead of a hotbed of chaos and turmoil. Afghanistan is ready to work with China to take an active part in the Belt and Road Initiative, and enhance cooperation in trade and investment, said Muttaqi, adding that Afghanistan is willing to deepen friendly exchanges with its neighbors, and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) On Oct. 12, I submitted a resolution that was adopted unanimously by my colleagues on the Hartford City Council. This resolution addressed a parcel of land, approximately 201 acres, known as Brainard Airport/Airfield. It is my belief that this land is underutilized and offers little direct benefit to the city of Hartford. As an elected leader, we have a tremendous opportunity to prioritize equitable development that will enhance the economic mobility of our residents. Brainard Airport occupies land that is 100% tax revenue exempt and 99% personal property exempt. Advertisement The inability for our city to collect the appropriate taxes from such a large piece of land places Hartford at a disadvantage. This loss of revenue impacts homeowners, renters and businesses that must pay more to help make up the difference. In fact, Hartford currently has the second highest mill rate in the state, creating an unnecessary barrier to sustainable small businesses, startups and home ownership. Advertisement Additionally, the fuel used by the planes flying out of the airport presents an environmental and health risk that further disenfranchises a population that already suffers from poor health. The fundamental reality is that Hartford does not receive adequate returns from the airfield to justify its operation. Our land value estimate from 2016 totaled nearly $29.5 million, which if taxed, would produce an annual tax bill of $1.5 million. Opinion Weekly Perspective on the week's biggest stories from the Courant's Opinion page > Today, our total estimated value for the airport is almost $43 million, which would produce an annual tax bill of $2.2 million. This projected revenue could be invested into meaningful programs to help break the cycle of generational and systemic poverty that persists in Hartford. I think it is important to understand a few key points and facts: Per town and city clerk records, from July 1, 2020, to May 18, 2021, the city of Hartford collected a meager $8,720 in aircraft registration fees. According to our city assessor, in terms of business personal property, the city of Hartford has collected a nominal $13,500 per year for the last two fiscal years. Bill No. 1095 introduced in January 1993 made aircraft exempt from local taxes and has stifled all applicable fees. Our state PILOT payment in 2019 included approximately $360,000 for the airport and was increased by only $9,000 in the following fiscal year. The fact of the matter is that Hartford currently subsidizes support services for the entire region through the hospitals, government buildings, nonprofits and universities that call our city home. These essential institutions provide tremendous value to our neighboring cities and towns and help support individuals experiencing homelessness, people struggling with addiction, students, families, the elderly and many more. However, none of these entities can be taxed. To add to this list only exacerbates our financial shortcomings. Im a Hartford native proudly serving on city council since 2016. As a lifelong resident, it is my duty to help forge a future that is prosperous for my community. Advertisement I believe the redevelopment of Brainard Airport will enhance the quality of life for Hartford residents and the entire region. For all these reasons and more, I am proud to sponsor this effort. James Sanchez is on the Hartford City Council. A man who murdered his ex-girlfriends two-year-old son has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 25 years after the couples horrific abuse was captured on secret recordings. Defenceless Kyrell Matthews was left with 41 rib fractures and numerous internal injuries after weeks of cruelty at the hands of Kemar Brown and Phylesia Shirley, the Old Bailey heard. Brown, 28, was convicted of murder while Shirley was cleared but found guilty of the alternative charge of manslaughter after a six-week trial. They appeared alongside each other in the dock on Friday and remained expressionless as Brown was sentenced to at least 25 years in prison while Shirley was jailed for 13 years. Kyrell collapsed at home in south London in October 2019 (Met Police/PA) The toddler, who was non-verbal, could be heard crying and screaming on distressing audio files found on Shirleys phone by police and played to jurors during the trial. Multiple recordings taken over the final weeks of his life captured the sound of Kyrell being hit repeatedly, with Brown saying Shut up and You have to ruin the fun. Judge Mark Lucraft QC told the killer on Friday: Those six words show your disregard for him and his life. Another recording caught Shirley striking her son and causing him to break down in distress. Prosecutor Edward Brown QC told jurors the mother put her relationship with Brown above her own child. The couple, who were unemployed at the time of Kyrells death, were both cannabis users and are understood to have been visited by social services at least once. (Shirley) was prepared to reject what should have been motherly care in protecting Kyrell in favour of abuse by her his own mother and in favour of the abuse carried out by a man she knew was abusing her child, Mr Brown told jurors. In a 111 call made after Kyrell collapsed at home in October 2019, Shirley sobbed as she was told by a clinical adviser to use both hands and push down fast and go for it. Phylesia Shirley, 24, was found guilty of her sons manslaughter (Met Police/PA) Both defendants, from separate addresses in Thornton Heath, south London, declined to give evidence during trial, but the court heard Browns defence would be that the injuries inflicted were the result of incorrect advice from the operator on how to resuscitate Kyrell. Kyrells father Kyle Matthews paid tribute to his happy, playful and loved little boy taken from us in the cruellest of ways. In a written statement read on Friday, he said the killing had left him racked with guilt for not being able to save his son, despite the court hearing the couple conceal(ed) the abuse from family members. We take comfort in the fact that Kyrell was very much loved by me and my family and I and we will carry him in our hearts forever, the statement said. We have been left with a huge hole in our lives. Kyrells paternal grandfather Karl Matthews said the audio tapes left the family feeling the little boy had been tortured. He added: We really wish you all could have seen Kyrell as the little boy we loved who had such bright eyes and the most infectious smile. Jurors were not told that police had been called to an earlier domestic incident but no offences were identified and Kyrell was said to have appeared safe and well. Kemar Brown, 28, has been jailed for a minimum of 25 years for murder (Met Police/PA) It followed an attack in May 2019 when Kyrell suffered a significant injury to the side of his face and spent five days in Croydon University Hospital. The hospital carried out an investigation and found Shirleys explanation that Kyrell had fallen off a sofa and hit his head on a highchair was plausible, police said. Eleven out of the 12 jurors returned to court on Friday to see the couple being sentenced, while members of Kyrells paternal family sat together in the well of the court. Browns lawyer Mark McDonald said the audio clips were horrendous and argued the only mitigation was that he had not intended to kill the boy by inflicting the injuries. Louise Sweet QC, defending Shirley, said the mother had admitted to allowing her sons death prior to the trial, showing she accepted at core the heart of her criminality, which was failing to protect Kyrell. The barrister added that Brown appeared to have played the dominant role in the relationship and was older and more sophisticated than Shirley. Kyrell Matthews was just two years old when he was killed (Met Police/PA) Passing sentence, Judge Lucraft said: Many others looking from the outside into this case, and particularly those who desperately seek to have a family, will struggle to understand how those primarily responsible for this little boys nurture and day-to-day care can have acted so cruelly to take his life. He was just a month over his second birthday when he was killed. The photographs and video clips show him to be a bright and bubbly little boy. The judge described the recordings in their entirety as harrowing and deeply upsetting, and said there had been an element of degradation and or sadistic behaviour towards the toddler. You should have been caring for this two-year-old boy, not abusing him, he told Brown. He also told Brown, who has multiple previous convictions, his conduct towards Kyrell had been cruel and brutal and hr described the catalogue of injuries inflicted against the toddler as truly shocking. He added it is clear that Shirley had taken part in the violence, telling her: Any normal parents response is to love and protect their child. You did neither, and it really mattered. The Metropolitan Police said finding audio recordings of the abuse thought to have been secretly taken by Shirley to check whether Brown was cheating on her made the case unique and especially distressing. Detective Chief Inspector Kate Kieran, of the Mets Specialist Crime, said: This was a horrific case and the injuries inflicted on Kyrell were truly appalling. It is impossible to understand how someone can brutalise a child in this way. This was not some sudden loss of temper these injuries show that the abuse of Kyrell went on and on. It was during one final brutal assault that Kyrells sad, short life was brought to an end. Samantha Yelland, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said: This was a violent, determined and repeated pattern of assaults against a defenceless young child. Kyrell Matthews would have been in significant discomfort in the days before his death, and tragically he would have died in pain. As a mother, Phylesia Shirley should have protected him, but instead along with her partner, she subjected him to countless assaults in their own home. A Ukrainian man who escaped Mariupol has described life in the city as real hell after he witnessed blood and body parts covering its streets and Russian bombs destroying his neighbourhood. Victor Mayevsky, 62, is now safe in Poland with his 63-year-old wife, Valentina, after enduring weeks of constant shelling, freezing temperatures and severe food and water shortages in the besieged city in south-eastern Ukraine. The couple woke at 5am to the sound of explosions on February 24, the day of the Russian invasion, and the shelling of their home district of Levoberezhny continued for weeks before they fled. On the morning of the second day, the couple hid in a windowless corridor of their home after watching missiles strike houses and blocks of flats just 300 metres away. Mr Mayevsky said before leaving Mariupol the couple were eating just breadcrumbs and water (Victor Mayevsky) On February 28 a missile landed three metres from their home but failed to explode later being removed and neutralised by Ukrainian emergency services. All these days the shelling did not stop, sometimes there were breaks from 23.00 to 04.00 (and) during this period of time we tried to sleep, but sleep did not come easily, he said. The night was moonless, there was no street lighting, but the sky was red due to the burning boathouse it was real hell. Mr Mayevsky said the strikes had hit an electrical substation on February 27 and by the end of that day he and his wife had no light, water supply or heating. With temperatures at minus 5C, the couple slept wearing several shirts, sweaters and a jacket and used their gas supply to cook food and warm themselves by reheating metal buckets of water. With his internet access limited to pockets of phone signal in the surrounding area, he was left in an information vacuum, using an old battery-powered AM radio for news on the war. With little else, Mr Mayevsky used this AM radio to stay informed about the war (Victor Mayevsky) On one of the days, Mr Mayevsky managed to find signal with his mobile and get through to his daughter, who lives in Odesa, telling her: We are alive. On the morning of March 5, his daughter informed him a ceasefire had been declared and a corridor would be made to allow civilians to evacuate from Mariupol. I immediately went to the garage for the car, noticing that the battery was almost empty how glad I was when she started up! he said. He and his wife loaded two bags with clothes, food, money and their passports and drove through shrapnel and past burnt-out vehicles into the city centre where an evacuation column was being formed. But, despite the supposed ceasefire, Russian shelling continued and the evacuation was quickly halted. Unwilling to return to their very dangerous home district, the couple stayed instead in an apartment with Mr Mayevskys 86-year-old aunt in the city centre where a bomb struck just days later. On one of the days around noon an explosion of enormous force sounded near us: all the windows opened, from the street we heard the piercing cries of people, he said. Mariupol has been hit by severe shelling (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP) Through the window I saw there was blood all around on the street, there were parts of the bodies of people, along with fragments of the wall of the house it is hard to say how many people were killed and injured. A minute later, a neighbour came who was on the street at that moment and saw what happened (she) was in shock, it was hard for her to breathe and speak, we tried to calm her down, gave her warm water. Later, the municipal service arrived at the site of the explosion and took away the bodies of the dead in the city, the dead were buried right in the yards. On the day the couple arrived in the city centre its gas supply was destroyed by Russian shelling, leaving Mr Mayevsky and others staying there to cook food on fires built in the courtyard of the block of flats but supplies quickly depleted. We were lucky that snow fell, we collected it in buckets and stoked it on the fire to get some water, he added. Those who ran out of water went to the spring it was 20 minutes from our house and could cost their lives. It was scary to go there, and near the spring itself there were dead people who had not yet been removed. The couple had to stay in a freezing basement with 19 other people while in Mariupol city centre (Victor Mayevsky) He and his wife spent their remaining days in Mariupol sleeping in a basement with 19 other people in freezing temperatures. Every day it became more and more difficult: the food was running out, and humanitarian aid could not reach our city due to the constant shelling of the green corridor, he said. It seems that the Russian occupiers wanted to increase the death rate among civilians in Mariupol it is terrible to realise that all these terrible things are happening in the 21st century, in Europe, in a country with 42 million citizens, in a city with a population of 500,000 people. On one of the days the couple sourced some packets of breadcrumbs, and from then would fill them with water for a meal he said was something similar to semolina which they ate twice a day. But there was no feeling of hunger, there was no panic either, the thought that life could end at any second did not leave, he said. The couple were eating two meals a day of these breadcrumbs mixed with water (Victor Mayevsky) On March 15 Mr Mayevsky went to the Donetsk Regional Drama Theatre in the city centre which would be bombed by Russia 24 hours later to ask for information on how to leave the city. They were then able to join a convoy out of the city, reaching a friend in Berdyansk who sold them fuel, before driving on to Zaporizhzhia in central Ukraine and later fleeing to Poland. Russian bombardments have struck many civilian areas in Mariupol, where 100,000 people are still trapped, and Mr Mayevsky added: My aunt is 86 years old she often asked the question: Why all these bombings, who needs them? For what? During the Second World War during the occupation of Mariupol, there was no such horror! Even Hitler did not allow such atrocities as the Russian army (does) now!' A woman has been diagnosed in the UK with Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever following travel to Central Asia, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said. CrimeanCongo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease usually transmitted by ticks and livestock animals in countries where the disease is endemic. The woman was diagnosed at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and is receiving specialist care at the Royal Free Hospital in London. Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA, said the virus does not spread easily between people and the overall risk to the public is very low. It is the third known case of the fever in the UK, with prior cases reported in 2012 and 2014, both of which did not spread. According to the World Health Organisation, around 30% of patients die, usually in the second week of infection. In patients who recover, improvement generally begins on the ninth or 10th day after the onset of illness. Symptoms of the virus come on suddenly and include fever, muscle ache, dizziness, neck pain and stiffness, backache, headache, sore eyes and sensitivity to light. People can also suffer nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and sore throat early on, followed by sharp mood swings and confusion. Other signs include rash in the mouth and throat, fast heart rate and enlarged lymph nodes. Dr Hopkins said the agency was working to contact people who have been in close contact with the woman to assess them and provide advice. She added: UKHSA and the NHS have well-established and robust infection control procedures for dealing with cases of imported infectious disease and these will be strictly followed. Dr Sir Michael Jacobs, consultant in infectious diseases at the Royal Free London, said: The Royal Free Hospital is a specialist centre for treating patients with viral infections such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Our high-level isolation unit is run by an expert team of doctors, nurses, therapists and laboratory staff and is designed to ensure we can safely treat patients with these kind of infections. A type of tick known as Hyalomma tick is the main carrier of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. These are not established in the UK and the virus has never been detected in the UK in a tick. Anyone visiting areas where the ticks are found should take protection, the UKHSA said. This includes avoiding areas where ticks are abundant at times when they are active, using tick repellents and checking clothing and skin carefully for ticks. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the affected ticks are in North Africa and Asia and are also present in southern and eastern Europe, having been recorded in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Spain and Ukraine. (Reuters) -Bed Bath & Beyond said on Friday it appointed three new directors to its board as part of its settlement with GameStop's Ryan Cohen, weeks after the billionaire investor pushed for changes at the home goods retailer. Shares of New Jersey-based Bed Bath & Beyond rose 5%, after the company added two of the directors would join a committee focused on exploring options for buybuy Baby, selling which Cohen believes would improve the company's focus. The shares have surged ~37% since Cohen disclosed his nearly 10% stake in the company, taken through his investment firm RC Ventures LLC, and urged it to explore alternatives including separating buybuy Baby chain or a sale of the entire company. The activist investor has criticized the retailer for an "overly ambitious" strategy, overpaying top executives and failing to reverse market share losses. In recent months, the company has buckled under pressure from supply chain issues and competition and seen its sales plunge in two of the three quarters reported last year. It is the second time the company has come under pressure from activist investors. In 2019, it reached a settlement with three activists and appointed four new directors, after the group criticized it for failing to reshape itself to meet consumers' growing preferences to shop online. Cohen noted earlier that Bed Bath & Beyond Chief Executive Officer Mark Tritton, who was hired soon after the 2019 settlement, was paid far more than what top bosses earned at far bigger retailers including Macy's, Kohl's, and Dollar Tree. Bed Bath & Beyond's board will temporarily expand to 14 members before reverting to 11 following the annual meeting, the company said in a statement on Friday. Cohen's investment vehicle RC Ventures did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. (Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli) Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT) fears China and Tesla CEO Elon Musk might be getting too close. Musk who's also CEO of aerospace company SpaceX isn't necessarily to blame. Stewart believes China might try to steal incredibly innovative technologies from SpaceX via foreign suppliers and other means, possibly without the CEO's knowledge. We know that they [China] can many times mask their intentions, the parties that are involved, and they're very, very effective at coming in through back doors, so to speak, Stewart, the third ranking Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, told Yahoo Finance Live this week. Elon Musk poses with Tesla China-made Model 3 vehicle owners during a ceremony in Shanghai in 2020. (Xinhua/Ding Ting via Getty Images) Stewart says he spoke directly with Musk about his concerns. The lawmaker is also seeking confidential briefings from the National Reconnaissance Office, the wing of the Defense department tasked with launching intelligence satellites and ensuring American security in space. It would be reasonable for us to want to be assured and want to be secure and know what Elon Musk's companies and what their relationships with China might be, Stewart says. We just want to make sure that there's not technology transfer taking place. The concerns, first reported in the Wall Street Journal, stem in part from Musks embrace of China largely on behalf of his electric vehicle company Tesla (TSLA). He has focused on the Chinese market for Tesla vehicles and has even appeared on Chinese state television as he works to get a stronger foothold there. Musk also took a $1.4 billion loan from Chinese banks for a Shanghai Tesla factory, which he says has been repaid. The economic prosperity that China has achieved is truly amazing, especially in infrastructure! I encourage people to visit and see for themselves. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 1, 2021 The relationship between Musk and China has been far from bump-free, though. Chinese officials recently complained to the UN that its space station had to take evasive actions in space to avoid satellites launched by SpaceXs Starlink project. Musk has also faced persistent recalls of Teslas in China nearly 300,000 vehicles over concerns about the cruise control system. We have no reason to believe that there's anything malicious China also has interest in Teslas technology such as its batteries, but it's SpaceX that worries Stewart and other lawmakers the most. There have been covert efforts which were eventually rebuffed by Chinese operatives to gain access to SpaceX as a third party investor, according to Stewart. We have no reason to believe that there's anything malicious taking place here, he says. We don't think that SpaceX wants or, in any way, would deliberately share their technology and in fact, they've been a good U.S. citizen here. Tesla Inc Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk attends via video link a session at the China Development Forum held in Beijing, China March 20, 2021. REUTERS/Roxanne Liu Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL.) has also weighed in, recently introducing a bill to ban NASA and the Department of Commerce from working with companies that have suppliers with ties to the Chinese Communist Party. The United States should not sit idly while the CCP infiltrates American companies, steals our intellectual property, and exploits our domestically produced technology, Rubio has said in a statement. SpaceX didnt respond to a Yahoo Finance request for comment on actions it's taking to protect its technology. For his part, Stewart says he doesnt believe new legislation will necessarily resolve his concerns. We have to be persistent in our oversight and in our expectation that China is going to do everything they can and they're not going to try once and just give up," he said. "They're going to try again and again and again. Ben Werschkul is a writer and producer for Yahoo Finance in Washington, DC. Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. Whether or not The Power of the Dog wins the big prize at the Academy Awards on Sunday, David Strong, chief executive of the New Zealand Film Commission for the past eight months, is guaranteed to be an in-demand visitor to Los Angeles over the next week. With the Jane Campion-directed film handily showcasing New Zealands talent, locations and craft strengths, the country has now reopened its borders to international visitors. Also sweetening the deal are more studio spaces. Ahead of Strongs flight to Los Angeles, where he has a week of meetings set up with Hollywood decision makers, he spoke to Variety about what New Zealand has to offer going forward. What has been the impact of The Power of the Dog and its Oscar nominations? Its already been a big success story for us. The New Zealand government put $8 million into The Power of the Dog and, along with the Netflix money and the co-production with Australia, made it a big success story in many ways. In a year of COVID, because it was filmed in 2020, it invested directly into our economy and supported service industries. We had over 600 crew and extras working on it, from Auckland down to Otago, recreating Montana in New Zealand. If we talk about Jane Campion, in particular, its a remarkable achievement by a world-leading filmmaker whos been in industry for nearly 40 years. She first got Oscars for The Piano in 1994. Shes now the only twice Oscar-nominated director who is a female. We were very proud of her. And were proud of her being a Kiwi. But shes not the only one in the spotlight, is she? The film will once again highlight the talent in New Zealand, such as heads of department perspective Grant Major (production designer) and Amber Richards (set decorator), who I worked for on Mulan, and who are now nominated for production design. The Oscars highlight our versatile locations, in Otago for example. That is very useful for us as we also come out of COVID and re-engage with the world. Is the country in a position to capitalize on the Power of the Dog momentum? The borders have been open since March 13. Any eligible traveler can come in now with a vaccination and a negative test. Weve got a number of really big films that are interested in coming down here. The first question to us is around studio space and what studios we have available. Were fortunate that the government has put some money in traditional studio space and theres been some pretty big private investment to bring new soundstages and studio spaces online. [These include] Lane Street Studios in Wellington, a 20-minute drive from the CBD, which has two brand new soundstages and huge backlot spaces. The Auckland Film Studios [which housed Mulan, Lord of the Rings and TVs The Shannara Chronicles] is redesigned and has new soundstages going in there. And across Auckland, there are some emerging locations that people are using and bringing online. When the Amazon Lord of the Rings production left, that created some space. [Wellingtons] Stone Street I think is already booked out with a U.S. TV series that well announce shortly. Theyll be in for about four to six months. Have New Zealands production incentives kept pace with the global competition? The 20% [rebate scheme] is certainly competitive. If we look at the number of significant international productions that wish to come down here, it is at the top of the range. A couple of things about the New Zealand incentives: First is that we manage and pay out very fast. We probably have the fastest turnaround. Additionally, its not capped. Its on all your qualifying expenditure, not just labor. So, the total package thats wrapped around that percentage is a pretty attractive. Its often the package that counts. Some countries have much higher percentage [rebates], but they might only be for labor. And some of them are known to be quite difficult to actually get that money returned. So, Im confident that our 20%, plus the potential 5% additional uplift [for industry-transforming works], gets us in the ballpark. And on top of that, youve got the New Zealand factor, which is the crew and the Kiwi-can-do attitude to film production. Plus, were only a 10-hour flight from L.A., so its not that far away. Are you concerned that because New Zealand lost Lord of the Rings, the edge has been dulled? I think Amazon made its decision to relocate to the U.K. a while before that announcement. These are big business decisions. The number of productions from L.A. that have shown interest in coming to New Zealand in the last few months is significant, so I dont think it has had any impact on us at all. How is New Zealand upping its game as a hub for film and TV tech? Firstly, the government has just announced an industry transformation plan for digital. It recognizes that we are already fairly world-leading in terms of tech. The Weta Digital sale for $1.625 billion is a clear indication that this is big business, and its a mature business. And, clearly with the number of Academy Awards and the work they get, they are world leading innovators. Kiwis thrive in small to medium size enterprises, which means innovation, and rapidly adapting a business model or developing technology. It is part of the Kiwi culture. If I look at specifically at organizations like [digital facilities firms] The Rebel Fleet, or Moxion in Auckland, Jason Reed, who was the producer on Mulan said that Rebel Fleets capabilities to support Mulan were without doubt among the worlds best. A company like [white label streaming platform] Shift 72, has taken a great idea and just grown from strength to strength. Its the same with Auckland-based Parrot Analytics, now one of the leading screen data analytics companies in the world. How might the digital campus in Christchurch help? The new campus at the University of Canterbury is a timely and very welcome addition to New Zealand. Theyre investing NZ$100 million, including purpose-built sound stages. One of the really good things about it is that its a cross-faculty program, bringing together multiple faculties to offer everything from masters degrees to digital credit design. They are also integrating shared workspace with local businesses, so that graduate students can actually work closely with potential businesses. Its a really good sort of public-private partnership. Im quite excited. Whats happening in local production? We had a COVID year, so domestic production was down, like it has been in many countries. This year, weve got around 14 to 18 feature films, which might not sound large from an international scale, but here thats about as big as it gets. The quality of films coming out of New Zealand is high. We have 10 or 12 New Zealand Film Commission-funded films that have made it to one or multiple A-list, international film festivals in the last six months, which is pretty high for our country. A lot of that goes down to the synergy that exists between working on high production value international films and the domestic scene. Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts! BRUSSELS (AP) The United States and European Union on Friday announced a new partnership to reduce the continent's reliance on Russian energy, the start of a years-long initiative to further isolate Moscow after its invasion of Ukraine. As part of the plan, the U.S. and other nations will increase liquified natural gas exports to Europe by 15 billion cubic meters this year, the White House said. Even larger shipments would be delivered in the future. At the same time, they will try to keep their climate goals on track by powering gas infrastructure with clean energy and reducing methane leaks that can worsen global warming. Although the initiative will likely require new facilities for importing liquified natural gas, the partnership is also geared toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the long run through energy efficiency and alternative sources of energy, according to the White House. U.S. President Joe Biden was set to discuss the issue with Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Unions executive arm, before leaving for Poland, the final leg of his four-day trip. Earlier this week, Von der Leyen said "we are aiming at having a commitment for additional supplies for the next two winters. And Jake Sullivan, Bidens national security adviser, recently told reporters that the administration wants to quickly surge gas to Europe. Russian energy is a key source of income and political leverage for Moscow. Almost 40% of the European Union's natural gas comes from Russia to heat homes, generate electricity and power industry. After leaving Brussels, Biden travels to Rzeszow in Poland, where U.S. troops are based roughly an hour's drive from the Ukrainian border. He will be briefed on the humanitarian response to the refugees streaming out of Ukraine and those still suffering inside the country. He also will meet with U.S. service members from the 82nd Airborne Division, who serve alongside Polish troops. President Biden, center, speaks with from left, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and European Council President Charles Michel during a round table meeting at an E.U. summit in Brussels, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (AP Photo/Olivier Matthys) Biden is then expected to fly to Warsaw for talks Saturday with Polish President Andrzej Duda. Biden also plans to give a speech in Poland before departs for Washington. While in Brussels, Biden participated in a trio of summits hosted by NATO, the Group of Seven industrialized nations and the European Union, all on Thursday. The extraordinary series of meetings reflects heightened concerns about the war in Ukraine, which has entered its second month. Although Ukraine has resisted the Russian invasion much more successfully than initially expected, the conflict has become a grueling and bloody affair, with thousands of casualties on each side and millions of refugees fleeing the country. Western leaders are also concerned that Russian President Vladimir Putin could use chemical or even nuclear weapons to regain momentum in the war. Getting more liquefied natural gas to Europe could be difficult, even though the U.S. has been dramatically increasing its exports in recent years. Many export facilities are already operating at capacity, and most new terminals are still only in the planning stages. Most U.S. shipments already go to Europe, according to the Center for Liquefied Natural Gas, an industry lobbying group. Although much of the supply is already contracted out to buyers, there are still opportunities to shift its destination. The U.S. is in a unique position because it has flexible LNG that can be rerouted to Europe or to Asia, depending on whos willing to pay that price, said Emily McClain, gas markets analyst at Rystad. Even if the U.S. can ship more gas to Europe, the continent may struggle to receive it. Import terminals are located in coastal areas, where there are fewer pipeline connections for distributing it. Even if all Europes facilities were operating at capacity, the amount of gas would likely be only about two-thirds of what Russia delivers through pipelines. Chief States Attorney Richard Colangelo departs from his job as the states top prosecutor on Thursday, 26 months after he claimed the prize. Colangelo retired before he could potentially be fired over his central role in a hiring scandal that will not go away. Less than six months into the job, Colangelo hired Anastasia Diamantis, daughter of Gov. Ned Lamonts deputy budget chief, Konstantinos Diamantis. Colangelo gave Ms. Diamantis a $99,000 a year job as a vaguely defined executive assistant. Colangelos hiring Ms. Diamantis was preceded and followed by his persistent efforts to win raises from the budget office for himself and 15 other states attorneys. Advertisement The revelation of Ms. Diamantiss job, first reported in this column last October, prompted Lamont to hire former U.S. Attorney Stanley Twardy to investigate her hiring. Twardys Feb. 1 report revealed the details of how Colangelo gave Ms. Diamantis a job. On the day the report was released, the public learned of a federal investigation of the states school construction financing program and the State Pier project in New London, both headed by Mr. Diamantis. [ Kevin Rennie: The virus of political scandal has mutated in Connecticut ] Twardy provided some details on a second job Ms. Diamantis quietly obtainedworking for Construction Advocacy Professionals, or CAP. Twardy reported that Ms. Diamantis told investigators that the owner of CAP called her out of the blue and offered her the job. CAP, owned by Antonietta Roy, worked on school construction projects at the time and appears to have been a favorite of Mr. Diamantis. Advertisement In seven paragraphs of his 39-page report, Twardy exposed the issues related to the public interest that the relationship between Colangelo and Mr. Diamantis had become by the summer of 2021. There was trouble at CAP. A former employee was allegedly making threats against Roy and others in a series of voicemail messages, the report says. The former employee, according to Twardys investigation, accused Ms. Roy of hiring Anastasia Diamantis as a ghost employee at CAP. The threats were reported to the police and maybe or maybe not to Colangelo. Opinion Weekly Perspective on the week's biggest stories from the Courant's Opinion page > The incident with the threats may have been how Colangelo learned of Ms. Diamantiss job with CAP. Or maybe not. Ms. Diamantis is not sure. Colangelo thinks someone from the state police may have told him more than a year after he hired her, Twardys report revealed. However, state police Col. Stavros Mellekas told investigators that no state police officials involved in the investigation of the former CAP employee threats spoke to Mr. Colangelo about the threats. Colangelo said he could not remember who from the state police told him about the threats but thought the police could have been concerned the former CAP employee might show up at the Chief States Attorneys Office in Rocky Hill, the reports says. Not according to state police. Mellekas told investigators there would have been no reason to tell Colangelo about the incident, the reports says. Colangelo, Twardy points out, did not recall asking for the name of the former CAP employee who allegedly made the threats or taking any action to advise anyone in the Chief States Attorneys Office. Colangelo stated that he did not discuss the threats with Anastasia. What a web. A former CAP employee is allegedly claiming he knows about an inappropriate deal and veteran prosecutor Colangelo, still seeking support for raises for himself and others, is not curious, let alone alarmed? According to Twardy, only after twice telling investigators that he learned about the threats from the state police did Colangelo acknowledge that Mr. Diamantis might also have told him. It appears he did. In a text message from Diamantis to the state police on July 27, 2021, Diamantis wrote that the individual allegedly sent out email to world upset my daughter. ... I found other [police departments] had to deal with him. I dont want my daughter upset. I told Rich [Colangelo] too. In a recent media blitz, Diamantis declined to say how his daughter was hired by CAP. Also, no one has yet fully explained how a Bristol construction company that had never built a school was given a no-bid contract for the emergency construction of a Tolland school. Many essential facts remain inaccessible to the public. One does not: Colangelo was too close to a powerful state official who has attracted the attention of a federal criminal investigation. He should have been gone months ago. Advertisement Kevin Rennie of South Windsor is a lawyer and a former Republican state senator and representative. Pressure has mounted in recent weeks on U.S. pensions to dump Russian assets, but policymakers scrambling to unwind investments face a bigger moment of truth what about their holdings in other autocratic regimes? Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine has prompted many of the largest public pension plans to quickly divest from Russian securities or trim their exposure to harder-to-exit allocations. The first-of-its-kind move to exit so abruptly put into question the positions of retiree assets in other emerging markets China specifically where there's heightened geopolitical risk. For the most part, Russian assets comprise a tiny sliver of U.S. pension investment portfolios. On the other hand, the exposure to China, even indirectly through international indexes, is much greater. And as retirement plans quickly say no more to Russian investments, onlookers have renewed focus on Chinese investments. A survey conducted by Invesco last year of 200 institutional investors across the globe found that 86% of respondents maintained or grew their China exposure over the one-year period through June and July, and 64% expected further increases in the year ahead. Only 12% reported a reduction in their exposure to China. Institutional investors put money in China for a number of reasons, including expectations of the growth and expansion potential of Chinas economy and listed-company profits and improvement in the quality of financial intermediaries within the country, according to Invesco. Moreover, the pandemic has increased risk appetite for China among more than half of survey respondents. The appeal of high-growth Asian, and particularly Chinese assets, is clearly there for many pensions as they seek out the returns needed to meet funding needs. But the degree to which institutional investors single out exposure to China has varied significantly. The Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System in Nashville has been free of Russia- and China-linked investments thanks to a screening methodology in place for nearly a decade by the State Treasury Department used to evaluate nations eligible for investment in the emerging market portfolio. The process evaluates each emerging markets country against The Economist magazines Global Democracy index and the Corruption Perceptions Index created by Transparency International. Investments in countries that score poorly in a combination of the indexes are not taken into consideration for the portfolio. According to The Economist's latest democracy gauge, China represents the largest share of substantially more than a third of the worlds population 37.1% living under authoritarian rule. The Tennessee Department of Treasury believes in the rule of law and democracy and that those attributes make for sound investments, a spokesperson for the state agency told Yahoo Finance. Chinese President Xi Jinping has a video call with U.S. President Joe Biden at the latter's request in Beijing, capital of China, March 18, 2022. (Photo by Liu Bin/Xinhua via Getty Images) Before the Minnesota House of Representatives approved a plan Thursday to pull $10 million in state investments from Russia and Belarus, Republican lawmakers sought to add provisions that included prohibiting allocations to China and 15 other countries. But the proposals were ruled out before members of the House finalized the bill for a vote. The move would be far from the first effort by government leaders to try to pull U.S. retirement dollars out of the Asian country. Just last year, a bipartisan group of senators led by Republican Marco Rubio and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen revived attempts to prohibit the half-trillion Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), the countrys biggest retirement plan, from investing in any Chinese securities in a follow-up measure to the Trump administrations 2020 halt on efforts to shift TSP assets to an index fund that included Chinese companies. Its because of that effort the TSP has no holdings in Russia and now recently-introduced legislation seeks to bar the federal plan from making any future changes that would allow federal employees retirement funds to be invested in Russian companies. In December, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also pushed for an audit of Floridas main pension system, the $200 billion State Board of Administration, to review any of its investments tied to the Communist Party of China. In this photo from Feb. 24, 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis delivers remarks at the 2022 CPAC conference at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images) The U.S. as a whole should be disentangling from China, DeSantis said at board meeting in December. But certainly, our investments should be disentangling. 'A wake up call' Pennsylvania state Sen. John DiSanto was one of the critics of a recent move by the state's SERS pension fund (on which he is a board member) to sell off Russian investments, arguing that a fire sale of assets could result in a loss to the plan while giving the opportunity for Russian businessmen and oligarchs to buy up stocks at a cheaper price and churn a big profit if Russias financial situation recovers. DiSanto emphasized he was against the Russian war, but had fiduciary concerns about whether it was worth the symbolic gesture for the pension to absorb the loss. After debating whether to terminate its allocation to Russian securities and take a loss or hold on and wait for a recovery, the plan moved forward to sell. At that point, the value of its stake fell sharply to $7 million in early March from $60 million at the end of last year. DiSanto's concerns were around how abruptly the plan moved to boot Russian assets when pensions should be discussing similar geopolitical risks more broadly. Some critics have separately raised questions over why retirement plans held on to investments in the country even as warnings came leading up to the war. The underlying issue I have is that the legislatures should be making this decision on what we should or should not be investing in like we did with Sudan and South Africa prior, DiSanto told Yahoo Finance. At the time, more than a decade ago, decisions to pull investments in Sudan and South Africa over human rights abuses were made more prudently and in consultation with pension investment advisers. And that brings me to the thought, should we be revisiting holdings on a lot of these issues as with Russia, but with other autocratic states like China? DiSanto also underscored investments in OPEC over its refusal to supply more oil into the system as alternatives to Russian oil, and India, which has not supported the United Nations resolution against Russia. I think this has really given us a wake up call that we should be looking at a lot of these issues that we are investing in and make sure that they are in the best interest of our plan holders, DiSanto said. The question around these types of investments is not only a moral one, but a fiduciary one about geopolitical risk management and how sustainable it is to be invested in countries with similar regimes. This situation has elevated the perception of the risk on how quickly things can go poorly with respect to an investment in a country that is less stable in terms of its geopolitical risk, Steve Foresti, chief investment officer of the institutional investment advisory firm Wilshire Consulting, told Yahoo Finance in an interview. I don't think any institution that has invested in emerging markets did so thinking that the risks weren't elevated versus buying blue-chip, large-cap U.S. equity, but it is still an eye opener when you see the entire country of Russia get marked to zero. The world response with economic sanctions that has effectively cut Russia out of the global financial system is likely to have profound and long-term impacts on how other countries think about their investments, Foresti said. There are a lot of knock-on implications that are much bigger than just the weight that Russia represents in the emerging markets or in the equity market, he added. Does it get a sharper focus on some of the embedded risks in the other countries that are included in these emerging market indexes? A recent Morningstar report notes that missing the risks of investing in Russia was understandable given the small portfolio composition it represents for most diversified investors, but exposure to China is harder to overlook. "China has been this incredibly lucrative emerging market to invest in, but there's been so little discussion of the regime," said Jon Hale, director of sustainability research for the Americas at Morningstar. The question for investors is whether "it is really sustainable long term to be investing in these kinds of countries, he said, calling it "a systemic risk that we are all contributing to and that we should be paying more attention to." Alexandra Semenova is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter @alexandraandnyc Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Flipboard, and LinkedIn Factbox: Who is still buying Russian crude oil (Reuters) - Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States have imposed outright bans on Russian oil purchases following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, but 27 members of the European Union remain divided. Poland and the Baltic states are in favour of the restrictions, but Germany has warned against decisions that could further increase energy prices and cause an economic recession, while Hungary is against. An EU embargo would require unanimous approval from all 27 member states. While the political discussions continue, many buyers in Europe are shunning Russian crude voluntarily to avoid reputational damage or possible legal difficulty. Germany has already reduced its exposure to Russian energy supplies, with Russian oil accounting for 25% of total imports, down from 35% before the invasion, Economy Minister Robert Habeck said on Friday. Germany's economy ministry wants the country's dependence on Russian oil to be halved by the summer, Der Spiegel magazine reported on Friday. India and China, which have refused to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine, however, could ramp up output of refined products in the short and medium-term, importing more Russian barrels, analysts said. The following lists major takers of Russian crude: NEFTOCHIM BURGAS Bulgarian refinery, owned by Russia's Lukoil, and with Russian crude accounting for about 60% of its total intake, continues to refine Russian crude. MIRO Russian crude continues to account for about 14% of the intake at Germany's largest refinery, Miro, which is 24% owned by Rosneft.. PCK SCHWEDT Germany's refinery, 54% owned by Rosneft, receives crude oil via the Druzhba pipeline. LEUNA The land-locked Leuna refinery in eastern Germany, majority-owned by TotalEnergies, is also fed Russian crude by the Druzhba pipeline. HELLENIC PETROLEUM Greece's biggest oil refiner relies on Russian crude for about 15% of its intake. The company earlier this month secured additional supplies from Saudi Arabia. ISAB Italy's largest refinery, owned by Lukoil-controlled Swiss-based Litasco SA, processes Russian and non-Russian crudes. MOL The Hungarian oil group, which operates three refineries in Croatia, Hungary and Slovakia, continues to be supplied by the Druzhba pipeline. Hungary is opposed to sanctions on Russian oil and gas. ZEELAND REFINERY The Dutch refinery, 45% owned by Lukoil, declined to comment on whether it was using Russian crude oil. ROTTERDAM REFINERY Exxon Mobil declined to comment on whether its Dutch refinery in Rotterdam was using Russian crude oil. HINDUSTAN PETROLEUM, India's state refiner bought 2 million barrels of Russian Urals for May loading, according to trading sources last week. INDIAN OIL CORP India's top refiner on March 23 bought 3 million barrels of Urals for May delivery from Vitol, trade sources said. This is the second purchase of Urals by IOC since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. NAYARA ENERGY Indian private refiner, part-owned by Russia's Rosneft, has purchased Russian oil after a gap of a year, buying about 1.8 million barrels of Urals from trader Trafigura. The following lists those that have stopped buying Russian oil: BP The British oil major, which is abandoning its stake in Rosneft, will not enter new deals with Russian entities for loading at Russian ports, unless "essential for ensuring security of supplies". ENEOS Japan's biggest refiner has stopped buying crude oil from Russia, while some cargoes signed under previous agreements will arrive in Japan until around April. ENI The energy group, 30.3% owned by the Italian government, is suspending purchases of Russian oil. No Russian crude will be used at Germany's Bayernoil refinery, in which Eni and Rosneft have stakes. EQUINOR Norway's majority state-owned energy firm has stopped trading Russian oil as it winds down its operations in the country. GALP The Portuguese oil and gas company has suspended all new purchases of petroleum products from Russia or Russian companies. NESTE The Finnish refiner has Russian oil contracts until the end of the year, but is not making any new supply agreements. PKN Orlen Poland's largest refiner hasn't bought Urals crude on the spot market since the start of the war in Ukraine, the company said on Friday, while it has bought a few cargoes from Norway recently. The company, which operates refineries in Lithuania, Poland and the Czech Republic, however, buys crude under previously signed long-term supply contracts with Russia's Rosneft and Tatneft. PREEM Sweden's largest refiner, owned by Saudi billionaire Mohammed Hussein al-Amoudi, has "paused" new orders of Russian crude, which accounted for around 7% of its purchases, replacing them with North Sea barrels. REPSOL The Spanish company has stopped buying Russian crude oil in the spot market. SHELL The world's largest petroleum trader will stop buying Russian crude and phase out its involvement in all Russian hydrocarbons. TOTALENERGIES The French oil major will not sign new contracts, promising to stop buying Russian crude oil and petroleum products by the end of this year. VARO ENERGY The Swiss refiner, which owns 51.4% in Germany's Bayernoil refinery, said it did not plan to enter into new deals to buy Russian crude. (Reporting by Reuters bureaux; Compiled by Nerijus Adomaitis and Shadia Nasralla; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) For Starbucks (SBUX) Seattle Shift Supervisor Sydney Durkin, the unanimous vote to unionize at the company's hometown location was a symbolic one. "It's immense, Starbucks's presence in the city is really huge. It really looms over," Durkin told Yahoo Finance Live (video above). "It's one of the largest employers in the city and to really bring it to Starbucks's doorstep is a huge moment. It's letting them know that this movement is not stopping, and it's certainly not stopping at their doorstep." The Broadway & Denny Starbucks location was the seventh in the country to unionize. The first unionized corporate location occurred in Buffalo, New York, aftera highly publicized battle with corporate officials. As of March 24, there are 155 Starbucks union elections that are in process at the Board at the moment and there are 70 unfair labor practice cases open against Starbucks. Out of 13 eligible voters in a National Labor Relations Board vote held Tuesday, nine Broadway & Denny Starbucks workers voted in favor of the measure, none voted against the measure, and one vote was challenged by the Seattle-based coffee giant's corporate counsel. "I haven't been at work, but we have received a letter from our regional vice president basically saying, 'Oh, thanks for voting, sorry that you voted for that way, that's really sad,'" Durkin said. "They're very like 'Oh, we're sorry for you for voting this way,' but otherwise they've kind of left us alone. They haven't said anything really direct. We expect there to be further response here in the next few days though." Members react during Starbucks union vote in Buffalo, New York, U.S., December 9, 2021. REUTERS/Lindsay DeDario Now that the store is unionized, the workers will need to negotiate with the company for a contract. Durkin said there are a few things that will be brought to the table. "One of the first things we're bargaining for is just for them to agree to stop union busting, to sign the fair view principles," Durkin explained, adding: "We don't expect them to do that." Another pain point is the tipping system. "We are looking for credit card tipping without loss of wages," Durkin said. "Currently, we do not allow credit card tipping, which is how most people pay, which is a large loss of wages for us." Digital tipping is available for customers who are using a credit card that's saved on the Starbucks app, according to a Starbucks spokesperson. Customers have the option to tip when they are placing an order ahead of time and can also tip with cash when they pick up their order from the store or drive-through. "We are working on offering tipping for credit card transactions at the register for both the cafe and drive-throughs," a Starbucks spokesperson told Yahoo Finance. Workers are also requesting "free and improved health care," Durkin said. "Currently, the premiums are extremely pretty much sky-high at this company, even though they do offer health insurance." A pro-union poster is seen on a lamp pole outside Starbucks' Broadway and Denny location in Seattle's Seattle's Capitol Hill neighbourhood. (Photo by Toby Scott/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) Lastly, according to Durkin, workers are "looking at wage increases across the board, especially in areas that are not caught up to places like Seattle that have higher wages." Though wage increases would be welcome in Seattle as well, she added, "as they're still not quite enough to live." Last year, Starbucks said that the coffee giant would raise wages for U.S. hourly workers to nearly $17 per hour up from the current $12 rate by the summer of 2022. Furthermore, as of late January 2022, employees with two or more years of service could receive up to a 5% raise, and partners with five or more years of experience could receive up to a 10% raise. In recent days, investors from Trillium Asset Management have urged the coffee company to adopt a policy of neutrality for workers attempting to unionize. "Investors should absolutely be on our side and should be wanting this," Durkin said. "When you have employees that are happy to be there, you and have employees that are productive, [and] that are protected, that feel safe and secure in their workplace, they turn in a better product." Starbucks has consistently opposed unionization. And with former CEO Howard Schultz announcing that he would be returning to his former role on an interim basis, Durkin has a message for the incoming CEO. "While you've been effective in the past at union busting, this is a completely different campaign and a completely different set of circumstances that I don't really think he's prepared for," Durkin said. "And I think if he's walking into this expecting to be able to use his old union busting tactics on this current movement, he's going to be sorely disappointed," she added. Dani Romero is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter: @daniromerotv Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Flipboard, and LinkedIn A Nebraska congressman was convicted Thursday of lying to federal investigators. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry told the FBI that he never received any money from foreign sources. In reality, he took $30,000 funneled from a Nigerian billionaire, Gilbert Chagoury. Fortenberrys defense team argued that the FBI targeted their client and that he simply forgot a phone call. U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) arrives at the federal courthouse for his trial in Los Angeles on March 16, 2022. U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) arrives at the federal courthouse for his trial in Los Angeles on March 16, 2022. (Jae C. Hong/) A nine-term Republican in Nebraskas 1st District, which includes Lincoln and the Omaha suburbs, Fortenberry will be sentenced June 28. The feds said in 2016 Fortenberry knowingly took the $30,000 from Dr. Elias Ayoub, who had originally received the relatively small donation from Chagoury and passed it along to Forternberry. Chagoury was hoping for Fortenberrys continued support of In Defense of Christians, a nonprofit organization supporting Christians in the Middle East that Fortenberry had donated to in the past. In 2019, Fortenberry told the FBI that hed never received any international donations. But Ayoub was cooperating with the feds and had recorded a 2018 phone call with Fortenberry where he explicitly said the money came from foreign sources. Fortenberrys defense said he didnt remember the phone call when he was talking to the feds. But the jury didnt buy it and deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Fortenberry. The congressman promised to appeal. With News Wire Services Stella Remnant shop owner Ed Vertov: "We literally had to hide certain records because people said that if we are selling these records, we're supporting Putin and the invasion of Ukraine." (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) In early March, as he was opening his record store Stellar Remnant for the day, proprietor, label owner and DJ Ed Karapetyan picked up a bundle of mail that hed neglected over the weekend. Included was a notice from his landlord. The letter informed Karapetyan, who performs as Ed Vertov and opened the shop in the downtown L.A. Fashion District three years ago, that his tenancy had been terminated and he had 30 days to vacate the premises. He was blindsided. Since opening Stellar Remnant, Vertov, 44, has hosted in-store DJ sessions with successful mixers and producers including Russian DJ Nina Kraviz and Ukrainian DJ Etapp Kyle. Vertovs 20-year-old techno label, Pro-Tez, has released tracks by artists from across Eastern Europe and Russia. The merchant, who immigrated from Moscow in the mid-1990s to attend USC, got the notice less than a week after Russia invaded Ukraine. In the interim, Vertov and his romantic and professional partner Katya Tretya, a DJ and Russian citizen, had been bombarded with emails and texts urging them to display alliance with Ukraine by boycotting music produced by Russian artists including from friends and connections the two have known over the years. "People are coming in and telling us we need to stop selling and supporting Russian artists," Vertov says, "without understanding what's happening to the artists." Though his landlord denies it, Vertov and Tretya (born Katya Tretiakova) believe that the abrupt lease termination is linked to their Russian identity in the wake of Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine. I've tried to reach out to [the landlord]. I've texted. I've called, but there is no answer. It seems like they don't want to talk to us, says Vertov, whose Russian passport expired years ago, after he became an American citizen. We have rent money for him, but it seems like he doesn't want our money. Concert pianist and educator Natalia Kartashova suffered a similar experience. The Los Angeles-based artist owns the Russian Academy of Music in West L.A. In the market for a new space, she went to see a building with the landlord two days before the Russian invasion. "Everything seemed OK. We were preparing the offer and then I was asked the question am I Ukrainian or Russian? and I said, 'Well, I have relatives from both sides.'" The landlord then mentioned the name Russian Academy of Music, she says. "He said, 'OK, maybe you cannot put the sign outside.' I said, 'What was the reason for that?' He said, 'Well, you know, Russia is too provocative.'" Echoing Vertov's experience, Kartashova said the owner "did not also tell me directly, but when the war started on February 24th, the building was gone." The pianist was looking for property in an area of L.A. dense with immigrants from across the former Soviet Union, many of whom relocated in the 1980s and 90s. Though precise numbers are hard to come by, according to the city of West Hollywood, during that influx an estimated 300,000 expats from across the Russian diaspora are living in the region. We are absolutely devastated and demoralized, Vertov wrote on Instagram as news of his business displacement spread online. He stressed that Stellar Remnant would fight the notice to vacate but will nonetheless move out at the end of the month because we believe beyond this eviction notice it is not safe for me and Kate [Katya] to own and run a business in this environment. It wasn't just the lease termination, though. The weekend before, he and Tretya had set up a record booth at the annual San Diego electronic music festival CRSSD, normally a supportive environment. But Vertov sensed something off as they interacted with customers. We literally had to hide certain records because people said that if we are selling these records, were supporting Putin and the invasion of Ukraine, Vertov says. The two-day festival began the same day that members of the Ukrainian electronic music scene published an open letter asking that fans, DJs and shops cancel all cooperation with Russian artists, promoters, clubs, organizations who do not actively resist the actions of their government and do not explicitly take action to stop the Russian military invasion of Ukraine. The letter revealed fissures within the community. "We are also observing how our Russian colleagues, including those with the most status and the biggest platforms on an international level, express lack of concern and pretend not to notice the situation." Festival attendees took the open letter to heart, Vertov says. The words they were saying that's when we were like, Oh, my God, what is happening? Why do I have to hide records living in America of just Russian artists that have nothing to do with this? They're kids, like here, trying to make music. He understands the open letter is well-intentioned, he stresses, but nonetheless believes "it's very dangerous because people took it as 'cancel Russia and anything Russian.'" Frustrated at being associated with geopolitical horrors that have nothing to do with music or his love of techno, Vertov knew from the war's start that he needed to make a statement. Music heals and can help you cope with these dark times on Planet Earth, he wrote the day after the Russian invasion began. He went further a few days after the Ukrainian musicians' open letter published. "We do not support the bloodshed in Ukraine and do not support Putin or any totalitarian warmongering policies of any government. I think we all agree that this war and all wars on this beautiful planet must STOP," he wrote on Instagram. Vertov personalized his experience in another post. I saw the tanks on the streets of Moscow and 1.5 million people raised up in 1991 and 1993 and we built barricades and we were defending democracy. Or so we thought. Longtime friends and followers commented with an outpouring of compassion, which heartened them, he says to a point. "We definitely feel love, but also we know that the cruelty comes from people around us the same people that we dance with at parties." "We do not support the bloodshed in Ukraine and do not support Putin or any totalitarian warmongering policies of any government," Vertov wrote on Instagram. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times) Stellar Remnant was born out of Vertovs 25-year involvement with the Los Angeles electronic music scene. He started it with his ex-wife, DJ-producer Lena Deen (Bogdanova), after helping to open the influential L.A. record store Mount Analog and a decade as an electronic music buyer at Amoeba Music in Hollywood. Unassuming from the sidewalk, the store occupies a sparse space with a few record racks, a couch and a pair of fridge-size Klipsch speaker cabinets. The heart of the room is a DJ setup connected to those speakers: a mixer and two turntables, with a tripod, ring light and camera aimed at them. Since the pandemic, the store has served not only as a bricks-and-mortar shop but an online hub for DJ sets and mail order. Searching his phone while a few Remnant customers browse the racks, Vertov pulls up one of the more vitriolic messages hes received since the war started. Ur cry for help is pathetic you Russians need every last bit of opposition in continuing to have a home in America, the email read, in part. Vertov, who grew up in Moscow and lives in downtown L.A., doesn't have any relatives to speak of left in Russia. He is half Armenian and half Russian and much of his immediate family is in the L.A. area. My mom is here; my niece is here; my sister's here; my brother-in-law is here. His dad is a Canadian citizen who lived in Toronto for years, Vertov adds. He lives in Costa Rica now because he's retired. Multiply Vertov's experiences by a generation of worldly Russian expats and entrepreneurs like him who embraced freedom of travel and studying abroad, and the damage and breadth of Putins war becomes clear. Everything that they have worked for since the 90s has been erased, says Amy Blackman, an international management consultant and former U.S. State Department cultural ambassador. Blackman characterizes Putins war as 30 years of progress erased in three weeks because of the brain drain flight and the mass migration of the educated entrepreneurial class. Everybody who could leave has left. "I don't understand how to cope with it," says pianist Kartashova, whose family is from St. Petersburg, Russia. A prodigy, she started giving recitals at 6 in Russia and abroad. She relocated to Moscow, where she attended college and won international piano competitions, before moving to Los Angeles in 2006. Sixteen years later, she's watched as Russian peers have been abruptly dropped from concerts worldwide. "Music is an international language that's supposed to be everybody's heart," she says. It's not just artists, though. Since the invasion, her 14-year-old daughter has been called a "Russian terrorist" at her L.A. area high school. "She's trying to apologize every day, saying, 'Hey, my uncle is in Ukraine. I have relatives in Ukraine.' She shouldn't be begging to not be beaten up." Standing near a row of packed record boxes awaiting shipment, Vertov says that he can't prove that he's being targeted due to the war. His lease has been up for months and he owes the landlord money. "I want to be very transparent. We do owe back rent, but that's not the issue," Vertov says, adding that an already approved business loan will provide more than enough to pay the debt. Both Vertov and Tretya claim that a few days before receiving the letter, during what seemed a casual conversation, the landlord's property manager brought up their nationalities. Says Vertov: "These were his exact words: 'Let me ask you something. Are you guys Ukrainian?' I said, 'No, we're from Russia.' He said, 'I thought so.'" Both Vertov and Tretya, who also witnessed the conversation, believe it prompted the the termination process. Vertov adds, "It's a very serious accusation, I absolutely understand. But this is my feeling. It seems like he stopped this conversation exactly after that day." Vertov's attorney has advised him that proving discrimination in court would be difficult. Reached by phone, the building's retail property manager, who declined to identify himself, denied that a conversation involving Vertov's nationality ever took place or that Vertov's heritage had anything to do with the termination. Vertov's lease was up. The landlord exercised its rights under the original contract, said the manager. He added that the company is even forgiving Vertov's back rent. He referred all other questions to ownership, who did not respond to requests for comment. Throughout the invasion, Vertov has remained in communication with DJs and producers in Ukraine and Russia, but Putins government can access encrypted apps such as Telegram with no warning in Russia. You could be in the subway getting out and a police officer looks at you. 'Let me check your phone. Let me check your messages. If it says anything against the war, you can go to jail. Since the war started, Vertov has spoken to Ukrainian DJ Etapp Kyle, whose real name is Sergii Kushnir. One of the most prominent DJs in Ukraine, his rise was enabled after he moved to Moscow a decade ago and landed a residency at the popular techno club Arma17, followed soon thereafter by a residency at the legendary Berlin club Berghain. Though Ukrainian, Kushnir's family lived in East Germany before the collapse of the Soviet Union; his father was in the military and they returned to their homeland after the wall came down. The dregs of that same Soviet military are now pressing toward their township. Kushnir signed the Ukrainian open letter that helped ignite the backlash against businesses such as Stellar Remnant. Two weeks before Russia destroyed his and millions of other Ukrainian lives, though, Kushnir posted a note in honor of his L.A.-based friends at the shop. Next to a video of him working the turntables inside Stellar Remnant in late 2021, the DJ thanked Vertov for the hospitality. "I had a gig in Mexico the night before so had to rush to the store and picked these records literally just one hour before the session," he wrote. "But the fact that I managed to select enough records for [a] one hour set so quickly makes the store my absolutely favourite in the US thank you for having me." The clip already feels like a remnant. To the side, Vertov can be seen lost in music, bouncing his head along with a techno track, blissfully unaware of the upheaval to come. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. President Joe Biden touched down Friday in Poland, what's become the epicenter for millions fleeing their home country, to meet with U.S. service members and refugees as his presence in Europe sends a powerful message that NATO is united against Russia's violent invasion. At a briefing in Rzeszow on the humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis, Biden, again, called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "war criminal," after the State Department announced this week its formal assessment that Russian forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine. MORE: US formally accuses Russian forces of committing war crimes in Ukraine "The single most important thing that we can do from the outset is to keep the democracies united in our opposition and our effort to curtail the devastation that is occurring at the hands of a man who I quite frankly think is a war criminal," Biden said, flanked by Polands President Andrzej Duda and USAID Administrator Samantha Powers. "I think it will meet the legal definition of that as well." PHOTO: President Joe Biden and Polish President Andrzej Duda participate in a roundtable on the humanitarian response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) Biden's schedule was slightly delayed Friday after the plane flying Polands president turned back en route to Rzeszow to make an emergency landing in Warsaw. MORE: US, NATO 'would respond' if Putin used chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden says Earlier, Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin greeted members of the 82nd Airborne division in Rzeszow to thank them for their service and ended up staying for a slice of pizza. PHOTO: President Joe Biden eats a pizza slice as he meets with members of the 82nd Airborne Division in the city of Rzeszow in southeastern Poland, around 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the border with Ukraine, on March 25, 2022. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images) "Thank you very, very much for all you do. And it's not hyperbole to suggest you're the finest fighting force, not in the world in the world. That's not hyperbole," Biden told the room. But the president also raised eyebrows when he appeared to tell the group that American troops will be going into Ukraine, though he has repeatedly said that he will not send troops there. "You know, with the Ukrainian people, Ukrainian people have a lot of backbone, they have a lot of guts and I'm sure you're observing it," Biden said. "And you're gonna see when you're there, and some of you have been there. You're gonna see, you're gonna see women, young people standing, standing in the middle, in front of a damn tank, just saying I'm not leaving. I'm holding my ground. They're incredible. But they take a lot of inspiration from us." MORE: Ukraines military forces Russian troops east of Kyiv back 55 km from city center Asked to clarify Biden's comment, a White spokesperson told ABC News, the President has been clear we are not sending U.S. troops to Ukraine and there is no change in that position. Biden also told the room that what they are engaged in is "much more than just whether or not you can alleviate the pain and suffering of the people of Ukraine." PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks to members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2A Arena, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) "What's at stake, and not just in what we're doing here in Ukraine to try to help the Ukrainian people and keep the massacre from continuing, but beyond that, what's at stake is...what are your kids and grandkids gonna look like in terms of their, their, their freedom." Raising his familiar line of the current fight between autocracies and democracies, Biden told these troops what they are doing is "really consequential" and goes beyond just helping Ukrainians from this invasion. "The fact of the matter is that you are the finest this is not hyperbole. You're the finest fighting force in the history of the world. Let me say it again, the finest fighting force in the history of the world. Part of the reason is you've had to fight so much for the last 20 years. For real," he said. PHOTO: Caption *President Joe Biden speaks members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2 Arena in Jasionka, near Rzeszow, Poland, March 25, 2022. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) He also brought up his late son, Beau, saying, "Proudest thing he ever did was put that uniform on. Like many of you, he didn't have to go either," Biden said. MORE: Russia-Ukraine live updates: Pope Francis to consecrate Russia, Ukraine National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed earlier Friday that the president will meet with refugees Saturday when he is in Warsaw and deliver a "major address" ahead of his departure. "He will also have the opportunity to meet with Ukrainian refugees, and with American humanitarians who are they're trying to help feed and respond to the material needs of the refugee population in Warsaw," Sullivan told reporters on Air Force One. "And he will give a major address tomorrow that will speak to the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world, and why it is so important that the free world sustain unity and resolve in the face of Russian aggression," Sullivan added. PHOTO: President Joe Biden takes a selfie with U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2 Arena in Jasionka, near Rzeszow, Poland, March 25, 2022. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) In neighboring Ukraine, the war continues. In one of the worst attacks yet, the city council of the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol has said 300 people were killed in a devastating bombing of its drama theater, where hundreds of people were sheltering. The building was marked with the words "Children" written in giant Russian letters on the ground to either side. MORE: Biden heads to high-stakes NATO summit amid showdown with Putin over Ukraine Biden and the leaders of the other 29 NATO member countries came together in Brussels Thursday in a powerful show of solidarity against Russias invasion. PHOTO: This satellite image shows the aftermath of the airstrike on the Mariupol Drama Theater on March 19, 2022, in Mariupol, Ukraine. (AP) Biden announced new sanctions against Russia, targeting a majority of the Duma, the lower level of parliament, over 40 Russian defense companies and yet more Russian oligarchs. He also announced the U.S. will provide $1 billion in humanitarian aid to support people within Ukraine and those impacted by Russias war against Ukraine. That funding will go to food, shelter, clean water, medical supplies and other assistance. Pushed on what the U.S. and NATO would do if Russia used chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden would not get specific or confirm intelligence that Vladimir Putin is moving chemical weapons into Ukraine but said they "would respond" and that "the nature of the response would depend on the nature of the use." Biden calls Putin a 'war criminal' after meeting with troops in Poland originally appeared on abcnews.go.com President Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Friday morning the formation of a joint task force to reduce Europes dependence on Russian fossil fuels. The goal is to craft a set of policies that will allow Europe to import less oil, coal and gas from Russia as soon as next winter. (European imports of oil and natural gas peak in winter when many countries rely on those fuels for home heating.) Were going to have to make sure the families in Europe can get through this winter and the next while were building the infrastructure for a diversified, resilient and clean energy future, Biden said at the U.S. chief of mission residence in Brussels, where the European Union is headquartered. President Biden speaks during a meeting with Polish President Andrzej Duda on Friday in Rzeszow, Poland. (Jeff J. Mitchell/Getty Images) Some of the commissions actions may conflict with the goal set forth by Biden and the EU of combating climate change. Europes greatest vulnerability to Russia is its reliance on Russian gas, which unlike oil and coal typically moves through pipelines rather than via tankers and therefore cant be just immediately bought from other suppliers. To reduce Europes demand for Russian gas, the task force will try to reduce Europes gas usage, which would reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. But the U.S. and EU are also partnering to increase U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Europe, which would increase emissions. Environmentalists worry that building new infrastructure such as LNG export terminals could lock in a reliance on gas for decades to come. The announcement from Biden and von der Leyen drew applause from the oil and gas industry, which is often opposed to Bidens energy policies. We welcome the presidents focus on expanding U.S. LNG exports to our European allies during this crisis, said American Petroleum Institute president and CEO Mike Sommers in a statement. We stand ready to work with the administration to follow this announcement with meaningful policy actions to support global energy security, including further addressing the backlog of LNG permits, reforming the permitting process, and advancing more natural gas pipeline infrastructure. Some environmental activists, on the other hand, condemned the administrations move. President Biden is going to regret siding with Big Oil and Wall Street over communities and the climate. Betting on liquified methane gas is akin to driving on a bridge to nowhere. The window is rapidly closing to end our addiction to climate-changing fossil fuel resources, yet President Biden is propping up the industry that caused this mess, said Kate DeAngelis, international finance program manager at Friends of the Earth, in a statement. Referencing aid to Europe in the wake of World War II, she added, We need a Marshall Plan for renewable energy, not more of the same. Pump jacks draw up oil at the South Belridge Oil Field in Kern County, Calif. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) The White House tried to preempt such criticism by arguing that it would reduce the emissions of natural gas by clamping down on the leakage of methane, a potent short-term greenhouse gas. The United States and the European Commission will undertake efforts to reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of all new LNG infrastructure and associated pipelines, including through using clean energy to power on-site operations, reducing methane leakage, and building clean and renewable hydrogen-ready infrastructure, the White House wrote in a fact sheet released Monday morning. The White House also pledged to help European consumers use less gas through improved energy efficiency and by switching to cleaner energy sources, such as electric heat pumps, which do not burn fossil fuels. Immediate reductions in gas demand can be achieved through energy efficiency solutions such as ramping up demand response devices, including smart thermostats, and deployment of heat pumps, the fact sheet read. To date, most U.S. political debate on the energy policy response to Russias invasion of Ukraine and the spike in oil prices it has caused has revolved around solutions that would take years to implement. Republicans and oil and gas companies urge approval of new oil and gas pipelines and drilling permits, while Democrats and climate activists call for expanding production of renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels and wind turbines. All those efforts would take years to manifest. In the current crisis, there is relatively little that can be done. The United States recently banned imports of Russian fossil fuels, while the EU announced it would reduce those imports but not ban them altogether, since several member states fear the economic consequences of a boycott on Russian energy. A construction site at the Russian petrochemical company Sibur's ZapSibNeftekhim plant near Tobolsk in 2018. (Andrey Borodulin/AFP via Getty Images) The strategy that were announcing today to address the near term is to reduce demand for fossil fuels natural gas in particular and also filling in for natural gas that would have come from Russia in the very near term to avoid people getting cold this winter and next winter before clean energy is deployed at scale, said a senior Biden administration official during a Friday morning background press call. While the U.S. is already fulfilling its maximum capacity to export LNG, the EU has now committed to buying more American LNG in the next few years and building the LNG import terminals necessary to do so. That, the administration argued, should give American producers the assurance they need to invest in expanding their capacity to export liquefied natural gas to Europe. To address climate concerns, another official on the call argued that the same infrastructure could be switched to later move hydrogen, a fuel source that can be dirtier or cleaner than gas, depending on how it is produced. Left-leaning American energy experts, who are usually allies of the president, backed the administrations goals of bolstering European energy independence and reducing fossil fuel consumption in the longer run but cautioned that expanding LNG export-import capacity could take longer than the current conflict will last and will exacerbate climate change. We need to support Europe in not being beholden to President Putin at this point, but locking in fossil fuel infrastructure that is not going to come online during this present crisis is not the response that we were hoping to see, Anne Christianson, the director of international climate policy at the Center for American Progress, told Yahoo News earlier this week. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at a concert in Moscow on March 18 marking the anniversary of the 2014 annexation of Crimea. (Getty Images) Christianson argued that in the short term increased natural gas exports to Europe are needed but that the U.S. should avoid building new fossil fuel infrastructure that will take years to complete. She pointed to a recent report from the International Energy Agency that laid out a 10-point plan to reduce European dependence on Russian gas, including measures such as retrofitting buildings to improve energy efficiency, speeding up deployment of renewable energy and increasing nuclear energy production. The U.S. should support measures like that in the way that we best can, like manufacturing heat pumps so that we can do a rapid deployment of them in Europe, Christianson said. Seas of bright signs emblazoned with Confirm KBJ and My Justice, shes Black have been erected as symbols of hope by Black women around the U.S. Capitol and in front of the Supreme Court this week as Senate confirmation hearings take place for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson. President Bidens historic nomination of Jackson, who would be the first Black woman to serve on the court, has attracted supporters from all over the country. Members of Black sororities waved signs, and greeted each other with hopeful embraces. Beaming law students from historically Black colleges and universities, like Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., held up large KBJ letters. There was celebratory drumming and calls to action from various organizations led by Black women in front of the building where the current federal judge could sit one day. Im excited to be out here early in the morning and late at night and just be joyful in my spirit about what she is going to mean to the court. Her voice has been absent, said Leslie Watson Wilson, who attended the rally on behalf of People for the American Way, a progressive nonprofit organization. Law students from Southern University traveled from Baton Rouge, La., to show their support for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson at a rally in Washington. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images) Black women have been huddled around television screens and in front of devices as organizations like the Black Womens Leadership Collective provided streaming for the hearings on its website to create an online community to watch the hearings and give analysis in real time. The mobilization among Black women around Jackson started prior to Biden picking her as the nominee and it gained more traction when Jackson was named. From panels to an affirmation brunch to rallying outside of the Supreme Court to attending her confirmation hearing, we have hugged, chanted her name, cried, and danced, said Keenan Austin Reed, former chief of staff for Rep. Donald McEachin, D-Va., and a co-founder of the Black Womens Congressional Alliance, told Yahoo News. It was Black women that called for a Black woman to be nominated to the Supreme Court. Black women in the White House worked to vet the nominee and prepared and staffed her through the process. Black women chiefs of staff, legislative directors and counsels in the United States Congress are advising their bosses through the hearings. On Monday, the first day of Jacksons Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings, Jackson spoke about how much she was indebted to those who came before her, women like Judge Constance Baker Motley, the first African American woman appointed to the federal bench. And like Judge Motley, I have dedicated my career to ensuring that the words engraved on the front of the Supreme Court building Equal Justice Under Law are a reality and not just an ideal, Jackson said. Thank you for this historic chance to join the highest Court, to work with brilliant colleagues, to inspire future generations, and to ensure liberty and justice for all. During this weeks hearings, Jackson, who has served on the United States District Court for the District of Columbia and who currently sits on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, credited a Black woman for helping her persevere during a line of questioning from Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif as she reflected on a time where she was grappling to find her place in predominantly white spaces like Harvard University. Reed described the ascension of Jackson, who has also had to juggle her career with being a wife and mother, as deeply personal to Black women and a reminder of our own journey. Southern University Law Center students pose for a photo near the U.S. Capitol while celebrating the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Justice nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson on March 21, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for Demand Justice) When you can see someone who looks like you in a role, with hair like yours, an African name like yours, skin like yours, it expands the idea of who you believe you can be, Reed said. So many of us, like Judge Jackson, dont have the fortune of seeing someone do it before you do. I hope this creates an endless room of young Black women who see her and can dream their biggest dream and believe it to be possible. Despite the excitement over the historic nomination, the climate around Supreme Court hearings in recent years has become especially contentious, especially after Republicans refused to grant nominee Merrick Garland a hearing or vote in 2016 and the polarizing appointment of Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Black congressional staffers have sought to protect Jackson from character attacks by conservative pundits. By seeing us rallying around Judge Jackson, we educate the world on our value. We are intentional about calling out her achievements and unabashedly stating how qualified she is. The world needs to see how loved she is and that she is not alone in this fight, Reed said. The Congressional Black Caucus, which has 28 female members, has created a war room that will serve as wind beneath her wings during the historic proceedings, as the L.A. Times reported. We will be on every national platform, whether invited or not, CBC chairwoman Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, said. We will impose ourselves there because the nation will be watching. We wanted to make sure that we were positioned, we had a voice and that we wanted the hearings to start immediately, and that we were going to be dealing with anything that was not aboveboard in the hearings and in her confirmation. During the proceedings, Republican lawmakers were criticized for, in the words of Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durban, D-Ill., showcasing talking points for the November election. Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Josh Hawley, D-Mo., Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., painted Jackson as soft on crime and an advocate of critical race theory (CRT) for schoolchildren. Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson facing her questioners on Monday. (J. Scott Applewhite/Pool/AFP via Getty Images) On Tuesday, Cruzs line of questioning relied heavily on CRT, an academic approach to the study of systemic racism that some critics have called anti-white. The Texas senator, a potential 2024 presidential candidate, questioned her place on the board of Georgetown Day School, a private school established by Jewish and Black families in D.C. during the age of segregation. At one point, Cruz, against the backdrop of a page from Ibrahim Kendis childrens book Anti-Racist Baby, asked Jackson if she agreed that babies are racist. Cruz says the book has been recommended reading at Georgetown Day. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., peppered his engagement with observations of Jackson, calling her very articulate and intelligent, comments that some have described as patronizing. Jackson was repeatedly interrupted by Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., with Graham even storming out of the hearing after a fierce line of questioning over Jacksons previous work as a public defender representing terror detainees at Guantanamo Bay . Hawley, who has emerged as a White House contender for 2024, cherry-picked a handful of child pornography cases from Jackson's career to hammer away at Jacksons alleged sentencing leniency on sex offender cases. But Jackson often steered the ship back to her responsibility as a judge to maintain a neutral posture and to interpret and apply the law to the facts of the case. She also rebutted many of the GOP attacks on her sentencing recommendations by saying her role required her to defer to Congresss outdated federal sentencing guidelines. What I regret is that in a hearing about my qualifications to be a justice on the Supreme Court, weve spent a lot of time focusing on this small subset of my sentences, Jackson told Hawley after hours of questioning. On Wednesday, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., who is Black, relayed a message from a Black woman who stopped him during his morning jog to explain what it meant to see Jackson as a nominee. In a teary exchange, he described seeing his mother reflected in Jackson. I see my ancestors and yours. Nobodys going to steal the joy of the woman in the street. Nobodys going to steal that joy. You have earned this spot. You are worthy. You are a great American. Beatty, who made remarks at Thursdays hearing, reiterated the importance of representation on this historic landmark for all Americans, but especially children of color. I think it is an extremely powerful and needed message that we send out to all little girls, but specifically those who are of color. And I think what you saw yesterday, builds for our children, grandchildren and those yet [to be born] because even today, we are fighting for things that we were fighting for in 1963, 64, 65 and 68, said Beatty. The Senate Judiciary Committee will meet on March 24 to set a date for vote to advance Jackson's nomination. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on Thursday that he hopes to hold a final confirmation vote before the Senates spring recess, which begins on April 8. The reports have filtered out for days: Mass kidnappings, forced deportations, Ukrainians spirited across the border to Russia. The Ukrainian foreign ministry said Thursday that 6,000 residents of the besieged city of Mariupol had been forcibly deported by Russian forces stripped of their passports and identity documents and taken to Russia as hostages. Like much in this war, the claims have been impossible to independently verify. A statement from the foreign ministry Thursday echoed allegations and details released by Mariupols city council in recent days, stating that several thousand of its residents had been taken to filtration camps in Russia before being redirected to remote cities. Russia, in turn, has cited the evacuations of more than 380,000 people from Ukraine to its territory. Communications are sporadic or down, and no foreign journalists are left in the city. Thats meant relying on the rare videos that have emerged from the city and on the testimony of those whove managed to escape. Yet the language filtration camps and the imagery of mass deportations are particularly resonant, evoking a dark chapter in Russian history. The trauma and memory of mass deportations inflicted by the then-Soviet Union are still fresh. An estimated 3 million people on the USSRs borders were rounded up and forcibly deported to remote parts of Siberia and Central Asia between 1936 and 1952, according to the United Nations refugee agency. Some 60,000 were Poles and Ukrainians. The echoes of history and their power have not been lost on Mariupol's city council. What the occupiers are doing today is familiar to the older generation, who saw the horrific events of World War II, when the Nazis forcibly captured people, it said in a statement March 19. It is hard to imagine that in the 21st century people will be forcibly deported to another country. Some escapees from Mariupol have described Russian soldiers encouraging them to go to Russia for their own safety. Others have spoken of friends being interrogated by Russian forces, then disappearing. Service members of pro-Russian troops are seen atop of an armoured vehicle (Alexander Ermochenko / Reuters) With verifiable information limited and access to Mariupol impossible, the claims could be true. They also could be enhanced by the fog of war or elements of a parallel information war, in which messaging is key to enforcing each side's narrative. Regardless, the reports have caught the attention of Ukraines supporters, humanitarians and even the White House. Department of State spokesman Ned Price said the United States was trying to corroborate the very concerning accounts, which have in fact continued to mount. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that his government was trying to verify the exact number of citizens who had been forcibly deported, alleging that Russia was trying to forcibly conscript many into its army. That followed a March 22 statement from Ukraines defense minister stating that Russia was forcing men in occupied territories of Ukraine to conscript as cannon fodder. On Thursday, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman said prosecutors were investigating the illegal deportation of more than 2,000 children to Russia. She said Ukrainians have been taken to different cities across Russia, citing the case of a family from the left bank of Mariupol who were taken out of a bomb shelter, loaded onto buses and taken to the Russian city of Taganrog. After being interrogated by Russian intelligence, she said, they were put on another train. They last got in touch with us on March 20, she added. A 2016 U.S. Army assessment of Ukrainian military units that had participated in a U.S-led multinational training program identified key weaknesses in Ukraines ability to combat Russian forces and their separatist allies occupying parts of the countrys eastern Donbas region, and who were then waging a grinding war of attrition against Ukrainian troops there. At the time, the Ukrainians battlefield intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities were being stymied by Russian forces superior networked air defense and electronic warfare resources, according to the report. The assessment concluded that the training exposed the immediate needs in the Ukrainian forces for things like repair parts, vehicle modernization, night-vision goggles, noncommissioned officer development and a new playbook for countering Russian warfare. Members of Ukrainian defense forces test new weaponry in Kyiv, March 9. (Genya Savilov/AFP via Getty Images) Without effective reform, the Ukrainians remain vulnerable even in a static defense posture while continuing to yield night operations to the enemy, warned the report. The now shuttered training program covered a wide range of the aspects of warfare, including weapons handling, ammunition accountability, counter-drone surveillance, minefield clearing, mortar and sniper training, battlefield medical treatment and radio jamming. Ukrainian graduates of the U.S.-military-led program praised its modules on sniper operations, coordinates-finding techniques and first aid, among other elements, but worried about the lack of night-vision equipment, weapon-locating radar systems and even quality tents, according to the 2016 U.S. military assessment, obtained by Yahoo News. The assessment was disseminated within the U.S. military and to U.S. intelligence agencies in late 2016. The following year, as Donald Trumps new administration began calibrating its Ukraine policies and aid, the report was widely circulated across the government, according to a senior military intelligence official. The 55-page report was the first major unclassified assessment of Ukraines military capabilities and the U.S.-led multinational training program, according to the official. It helped spur more overt, as well as covert, assistance to Ukraine, according to the military official. The 2016 report contained interviews with members of the first Ukrainian battalion that had received training provided by the U.S. and allied forces and had subsequently returned to the eastern frontlines. That training, military officials say, helped prepare Ukrainian forces for Russias full-scale invasion this year. Ukrainian soldiers take part in military exercises at a former asphalt factory on the outskirts of Kyiv, Feb. 19. (Ethan Swope/Bloomberg via Getty images) By interviewing Ukrainian troops with battlefield experience against Russian forces and their separatist allies, the report also provided the U.S. with valuable intelligence on Moscows military tactics that could be shared broadly, according to the official. You cant have everything hidden in the black budget, said the senior military intelligence official, referring to the governments secret appropriations for covert operations and intelligence programs. You have to have something you can show people. This is that. Although the assessment long precedes the massive influx of Western material support provided to the Ukrainians since Russias invasion last month, it identifies key gaps in Ukrainian military capabilities that Kyivs allies still appear to be trying to fill. According to the 2016 report, pro-Russian forces were flying drones at altitudes higher than where Ukrainian forces could destroy them, exploit[ing] the gap in Ukrainian air defense systems. Since the Russian invasion, however, the Biden administration has sent at least 1,400 Stinger antiaircraft systems, which are capable of downing drones and other aircraft at higher altitudes. The U.S. has also sent counter-drone and counter-artillery radar systems to Ukraine, and Canada has provided night-vision equipment. Poland has provided Ukraine with reconnaissance drones. The U.S. has given Ukraine over $3 billion in military assistance since 2014, with $2 billion in aid committed since the start of the Biden administration. Ukrainian servicemen at a handover ceremony of military heavy weapons and equipment in Kyiv in 2018. (Sergei Supinsky/AFP via Getty Images) The 2016 Lessons Learned assessment, based on interviews conducted by the U.S. Army Europe Inspector Generals Office, was produced by the Armys since-disbanded Asymmetric Warfare Group and sought to take stock of the training program, known as the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine (JMTG-U). The program trained roughly 27,000 Ukrainian soldiers between its inception in 2015 and its suspension in February 2022. The program was based at the Yavoriv training center in far-western Ukraine. Russia launched a missile strike on the facility on March 14, killing at least 35. The publicly acknowledged training program was launched after Russia invaded and annexed Ukraines Crimean Peninsula in 2014; in the same period, Moscow-backed troops also initiated a secessionist war in Ukraines eastern Donbas region. Yahoo News previously reported that, in response, the CIA began a covert training program for Ukrainian paramilitaries and intelligence personnel at an undisclosed facility in the southern United States, as well as on the Ukrainian frontlines. The militarys public, multinational training program, meanwhile, adjusted in size, scope and scenario as the Ukrainian Armed Forces progressed in its combat training center development plan, and as the Ukrainian security forces program continued to grow and expand its institutional- and national-level development and training, Maj. Scott Kuhn, the media division chief for U.S. Army Europe and Africa Public Affairs, told Yahoo News. Civilians learning how to use Kalashnikov rifles at a training session in Kyiv, Jan. 30. (Sergei Supinsky/AFP via Getty Images) The Ukrainians overwhelmingly lauded the programs sniper training. It was fantastic, one Ukrainian platoon leader told his U.S. interlocutors, adding that it was the most important aspect of the program. Ukrainian forces subsequently used the sniper training every day, the Ukrainian deputy commander interviewed by U.S. officials said. Ukrainian officials also praised the training they received in the NATO-standard coordinate-location system, known as the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS), which they said Russian forces and their separatist allies were unschooled in, according to the report. Using MGRS, Ukrainian forces were able to discuss some operational matters over unencrypted radio channels, as even interception of these communications by pro-Russian forces would not give away sensitive information. Ukrainian forces were using MGRS to confuse the Russians on the radio, the battalions deputy commander is quoted as telling the U.S. military officials conducting the assessment. The U.S.-trained Ukrainian forces also clearly identified materiel, like anti-weapon radar systems, which the report said was in short supply and could help them in their battles in Donbas. More and better-quality night-vision equipment was key, according to the Ukrainian interviewees. Soldiers working at night also needed red dot gun sights, said the deputy commander. We can see their movement but cant shoot them because we cant see where we are shooting, said the official. Another Ukrainian military official decried the lack of mundane things like office supplies. Others were generally pessimistic about the overall state of Ukraines arsenal. It would be really nice if you know you are getting equipment and it works and you can shoot and stop shooting when you want, not when equipment wants to do it, said a company commander. Indeed, said one interviewee, some Ukrainian soldiers were using tents dating from the Second World War. The report also detailed the Russians advantage in air defenses and electronic warfare, which made it difficult for Ukrainian forces to send aircraft or drones over separatist-held territory. In the absence of certain types of technical surveillance capabilities, the Ukrainians relied on a network of undercover intelligence officers behind enemy lines in Donbas to provide them with information in the comments sections of social media platforms, according to the report. Russian agencies were also adept at conducting information warfare against Ukrainian forces, per the report. Russian intelligence operatives sent intimidating texts and phone calls to Ukrainian soldiers on the frontlines, as well as to their families. Pro-Russian forces created detailed dossiers, with pictures and biographical information on Ukrainian frontline soldiers, advertising bounties for killing them. These bounties were posted alongside disinformation claiming that Ukrainian soldiers were eating babies and other falsehoods, according to the report. There was also some humor contained in the assessment. Asked by the U.S. team whether there was any difference in the quality of the training by the various NATO countries participating in the program, a Ukrainian soldier responded that while Americans are a little better, Canadians try to be friendlier but were more boring. A military instructor in Kyiv stands next to wooden replicas of Kalashnikov rifles. (Sergei Supinsky/AFP via Getty Images) But even by 2016, the dark turn that the coming war would take had made itself apparent. Every unit tries to capture a Chechen because they carry cash, said a Ukrainian soldier, according to the report. The units like to capture trophies. Every recon unit is trying to capture at least one Chechen for money and trophies. As the conflict in eastern Ukraine continued to simmer, the report chronicled its idiosyncrasies. When the separatists are getting drunk, said the Ukrainian deputy commander, we receive more artillery fire. How are Ukrainian forces taking out so many Russian tanks? Use this embed to learn about some of the weapons systems the U.S. is sending to the Ukrainian army. NEW YORK (AP) As coronavirus infections rise in some parts of the world, experts are watching for a potential new COVID-19 surge in the U.S. and wondering how long it will take to detect. Despite disease monitoring improvements over the last two years, they say, some recent developments don't bode well: As more people take rapid COVID-19 tests at home, fewer people are getting the gold-standard tests that the government relies on for case counts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will soon use fewer labs to look for new variants. Health officials are increasingly focusing on hospital admissions, which rise only after a surge has arrived. A wastewater surveillance program remains a patchwork that cannot yet be counted on for the data needed to understand coming surges. White House officials say the government is running out of funds for vaccines, treatments and testing. Were not in a great situation, said Jennifer Nuzzo, a Brown University pandemic researcher. Scientists acknowledge that the wide availability of vaccines and treatments puts the nation in a better place than when the pandemic began, and that monitoring has come a long way. For example, scientists this week touted a 6-month-old program that tests international travelers flying into four U.S. airports. Genetic testing of a sample on Dec. 14 turned up a coronavirus variant the descendant of omicron known as BA.2 seven days earlier than any other reported detection in the U.S. More good news: U.S. cases, hospitalizations and deaths have been falling for weeks. Video: Moderna says its COVID shots work for kids under 6 But its different elsewhere. The World Health Organization this week reported that the number of new coronavirus cases increased two weeks in a row globally, likely because COVID-19 prevention measures have been halted in numerous countries and because BA.2 spreads more easily. Some public health experts aren't certain what that means for the U.S. BA.2 accounts for a growing share of U.S. cases, the CDC said more than one-third nationally and more than half in the Northeast. Small increases in overall case rates have been noted in New York, and in hospital admissions in New England. Some of the northern U.S. states with the highest rates of BA.2, however, have some of the lowest case rates, noted Katriona Shea of Penn State University. Dr. James Musser, an infectious disease specialist at Houston Methodist, called the national case data on BA.2 murky. He added: What we really need is as much real-time data as possible ... to inform decisions. Heres what COVID-19 trackers are looking at and what worries scientists about them. TEST RESULTS Tallies of test results have been at the core of understanding coronavirus spread from the start, but they have always been flawed. Initially, only sick people got tested, meaning case counts missed people who had no symptoms or were unable to get swabbed. Home test kits became widely available last year, and demand took off when the omicron wave hit. But many people who take home tests don't report results to anyone. Nor do health agencies attempt to gather them. Mara Aspinall is managing director of an Arizona-based consulting company that tracks COVID-19 testing trends. She estimates that in January and February, about 8 million to 9 million rapid home tests were being done each day on average four to six times the number of PCR tests. Nuzzo said: The case numbers are not as much a reflection of reality as they once were. HUNTING FOR VARIANTS In early 2021, the U.S. was far behind other countries in using genetic tests to look for worrisome virus mutations. A year ago, the agency signed deals with 10 large labs to do that genomic sequencing. The CDC will be reducing that program to three labs over the next two months. The weekly volume of sequences performed through the contracts was much higher during the omicron wave in December and January, when more people were getting tested, and already has fallen to about 35,000. By late spring, it will be down to 10,000, although CDC officials say the contracts allow the volume to increase to more than 20,000 if necessary. The agency also says turnaround time and quality standards have been improved in the new contracts, and that it does not expect the change will hurt its ability to find new variants. Outside experts expressed concern. Its really quite a substantial reduction in our baseline surveillance and intelligence system for tracking whats out there," said Bronwyn MacInnis, director of pathogen genomic surveillance at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. SEWAGE SURVEILLANCE An evolving monitoring system is looking for signs of coronavirus in sewage, which could potentially capture brewing infections. Researchers have linked wastewater samples to the number of positive COVID-19 tests a week later, suggesting health officials could get an early glimpse at infection trends. Some health departments also have used sewage to look for variants. New York City, for example, detected signals of the omicron variant in a sample taken on Nov. 21 about 10 days before the first case was reported in the U.S. But experts note the system doesn't cover the entire country. It also doesn't distinguish who is infected. It's a really important and promising strategy, no doubt. But the ultimate value is still probably yet to be understood," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, the health officer for Seattle/King County, Washington. HOSPITAL DATA Last month, the CDC outlined a new set of measures for deciding whether to lift mask-wearing rules, focusing less on positive test results and more on hospitals. Hospital admissions are a lagging indicator, given that a week or more can pass between infection and hospitalization. But a number of researchers believe the change is appropriate. They say hospital data is more reliable and more easily interpreted than case counts. The lag also is not as long as one might think. Some studies have suggested many people wait to get tested. And when they finally do, the results arent always immediate. Spencer Fox, a University of Texas data scientist who is part of a group that uses hospital and cellphone data to forecast COVID-19 for Austin, said hospital admissions were the better signal for a surge than test results. There are concerns, however, about future hospital data. If the federal government lifts its public health emergency declaration, officials will lose the ability to compel hospitals to report COVID-19 data, a group of former CDC directors recently wrote. They urged Congress to pass a law that will provide enduring authorities so we will not risk flying blind as health threats emerge. ___ AP reporters Lauran Neergaard in Washington and Laura Ungar in Louisville, Kentucky, contributed. ___ The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. JIDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) Yemen's Houthi rebels attacked an oil depot on Friday in the Saudi city of Jiddah ahead of a Formula One race in the kingdom their highest-profile assault yet that threatened to disrupt the upcoming grand prix. The attack targeted the same fuel depot that the Houthis had attacked in recent days, the North Jiddah Bulk Plant that sits just southeast of the citys international airport and is a crucial hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. The Saudi Arabian Oil Co., known as Saudi Aramco, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Saudi authorities acknowledged a hostile operation by the Houthis targeting the depot, without describing the weapon used in the attack. The attacks came as Saudi Arabia still leads a coalition battling the Iran-backed Houthis, who seized Yemens capital of Sanaa in September 2014. The kingdom, which entered the war in Yemen in 2015, has been internationally criticized for its airstrikes killing that have killed scores of civilians something the Houthis point to as they launch drones, missiles and mortars into the kingdom. Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, said the fire damaged two tanks and was put out without injuries. "This hostile escalation targets oil facilities and aims to undermine energy security and the backbone of global economy," al-Malki said, according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency. These hostile attacks had no impact or repercussions in any way, shape or form on public life in Jiddah. An Associated Press photojournalist covering practice laps at the F1 track in Jiddah saw the smoke rising in the distance to the east, just after 5:40 p.m. As the flames rose, the tops of the tanks of the bulk plant were clearly visible some 11.5 kilometers (7 miles) away. Drivers raced on into the evening even as the fire burned. The second-ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jiddah is taking place on Sunday, though concerns had been raised by some over the recent attacks targeting the kingdom. The F1 said in a statement that: The position at the moment is that we are waiting for further information from the authorities on what has happened. The F1 did not elaborate. The al-Masirah satellite news channel run by Yemens Houthi rebels later claimed they had attacked an Aramco facility in Jiddah, along with other targets in Riyadh and elsewhere. Meanwhile, Saudi state TV also acknowledged attacks in the town of Dhahran targeting water tanks that damaged vehicles and homes. Another attack targeted an electrical substation in an area of southwestern Saudi Arabia near the Yemeni border, state TV said. The North Jiddah Bulk Plant stores diesel, gasoline and jet fuel for use in Jiddah, the kingdoms second-largest city. It accounts for over a quarter of all of Saudi Arabias supplies and also supplies fuel crucial to running a regional desalination plant. The Houthis have twice targeted the North Jiddah plant with cruise missiles. One attack came in November 2020. The last came on Sunday as part of a wider barrage by the Houthis. At the time of the 2020 attack, the targeted tank, which has a capacity of 500,000 barrels, held diesel fuel, according to a recent report by a U.N. panel of experts examining Yemens war. Repairing it after the last attack cost Aramco some $1.5 million. The U.N. experts described the facility as a civilian target, which the Houthis should have avoided after the 2020 attack. While the facility also supplies the Saudi military with petroleum products, it is mostly supplying civilian customers, the panel said. If the plant had been out of service of a significant period, the impact on the kingdoms economy as well as on the welfare of the residents of the Western region would likely have been significant. Cruise missiles and drones remain difficult to defend against, though the U.S. recently sent a significant number of Patriot anti-missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia to resupply the kingdom amid the Houthi attacks. In September, the AP reported that the U.S. had removed its own Patriot and THAAD defense systems from Prince Sultan Air Base outside of Riyadh. The attacks have renewed questions about the kingdoms ability to defend itself from Houthi fire as a yearslong war in the Arab worlds poorest country rages on with no end in sight. It also comes as Saudi Arabia issued an unusually stark warning that it is unable to guarantee its oil production wont be affected by further attacks which could push global energy prices even higher amid Russias war on Ukraine. Benchmark Brent crude prices briefly rose above $120 a barrel in trading Friday. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. L.A. City Councilman Joe Buscaino is spearheading the effort to make Kyiv, Ukraine, a sister city. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times) With Russia's war with Ukraine now in its second month, the Los Angeles City Council voted Friday to begin the process of making Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, a sister city to L.A. Supporters of that effort said it would deliver a "symbolic gesture of solidarity" from Angelenos who are horrified by the Russian bombardment. Councilman Joe Buscaino, who spearheaded the proposal, said he is aware that a sister-city designation is "the last thing" on the minds of Kyiv's mayor and his embattled city. Nevertheless, he argued that such a designation would make it easier for Los Angeles to donate equipment, such as surplus fire trucks or other vehicles, to assist Kyiv in its time of severe need. "As local leaders, we want to say something, do something, and to act towards a collective disapproval of this assault on humankind," said Buscaino, who is running for mayor. The proposal, which was also signed by council members Paul Koretz, Mitch O'Farrell and Nithya Raman, will allow the city to begin work forming a committee to review a Kyiv nomination. If the designation is finalized, Kyiv would become L.A.s 26th sister city, joining such urban centers as Athens; Berlin; Bordeaux, France; Taipei, Taiwan; and Vancouver, said Buscaino spokesman Branimir Kvartuc. Friday's vote was the latest effort by the city's elected officials to weigh in on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has set off a massive exodus of refugees into Poland and other parts of Europe. Several L.A. politicians recently gathered at the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Hollywood to decry the invasion, following a council vote condemning Russia's actions. Mayor Eric Garcetti said two weeks ago that he's looking into sending Los Angeles Police Department body armor and tactical equipment to Ukraine. Meanwhile, some at City Hall have criticized the stance taken by Democratic Socialists of America, which responded to the war in Ukraine by denouncing the invasion and calling for the U.S. to withdraw from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Sister-city designations become official after the signing of a formal agreement between each of the cities top elected officials, according to the city's website. Such relationships are aimed at fostering cultural exchanges, economic development and a sense of global cooperation. Buscaino noted that Kyiv, like L.A., is a major cultural center, with museums, theaters, concert venues and other offerings. He said Friday that he hopes the sister-city relationship would allow Los Angeles to help Kyiv one day as it begins to rebuild. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. By Joseph Ax (Reuters) -Minneapolis teachers reached a tentative deal on Friday to end a strike over pay, class sizes and other issues that has kept some 30,000 students out of classes for more than two weeks. The agreement, which must still be ratified by the teachers union's full membership, paves the way for students to return to school on Monday, school officials said. The city's 4,500 teachers and support staff walked out on March 8 after failing to reach a new contract with the district, the first teachers' strike in Minneapolis in more than five decades. Full details of the terms were not immediately released. In a statement, the union said the new deal includes "major gains" for education support professionals' pay, protections for teachers of color, caps on class size and more mental health support for students. The district said it may add minutes to the school day or extend the end of the school year to make up for lost instructional time. "I know for many of our students, the past two weeks have been difficult and long," Kim Ellison, the school board chair, said at a news conference on Friday. "You've missed your teachers, you've missed your school, you've missed your friends." A teachers' strike in Sacramento, California, was set to enter a third day on Friday, after talks failed to yield a contract last week. (Reporting by Joseph AxEditing by Chizu Nomiyama and Jonathan Oatis) A woman takes a free PCR test for the coronavirus at Echo Park. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) The percentage of Omicron subvariant BA.2 cases is rising in Los Angeles County, a trend seen elsewhere nationwide as officials sound the alarm about Congress' failure to provide critical funding for vaccinations, tests and anti-COVID drugs. Officials in L.A. County and nationally have warned about the risk to public health if new pandemic federal funding fails to be approved. There is no money left to reimburse doctors for COVID care for uninsured Americans, and funds will soon run out to provide vaccinations, Xavier Becerra, the U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services, said this week. According to data released Thursday, 14.7% of coronavirus samples analyzed for L.A. County between Feb. 27 and March 5 were the highly contagious BA.2 subvariant. That's more than double the previous week's figure of 6.4%. L.A. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer continued to urge residents to adhere to the strong recommendation issued by her department and state health officials to continue masking in indoor public settings. "Along with the increasing circulation of the more-infectious BA.2 subvariant, everyone, especially those who are at elevated risk or live with someone at elevated risk, should wear a high-quality mask and get vaccinated and boosted," Ferrer said in a statement Thursday. More recent national estimates have suggested BA.2 will quickly become dominant soon. BA.2 comprised an estimated 35% of analyzed samples between March 13 and March 19; the previous week, it made up 22%, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the southwestern U.S. which includes California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii BA.2 made up an estimated 41% of coronavirus samples. The previous week, it was 28%. And for the first time, BA.2 is the now estimated to be the dominant subvariant in the Northeast, making up more than half the analyzed coronavirus cases in New York, New Jersey and New England. BA.2 is believed to be 30% to 60% more contagious than the earlier Omicron subvariant. BA.2, however, doesn't appear to result in more severe illness, and it's likely that people recently infected with the earlier Omicron subvariant will have a decent degree of at least short-term immunity to BA.2. It's not clear whether the rise of BA.2 will result in a major surge that will strain hospitals yet again, or whether BA.2 will merely slow the continued decline in new coronavirus cases. But officials say it's prudent to be prepared for the worst, wear masks in indoor public spaces and get up to date on vaccinations and booster shots. One potential warning sign is from Britain, which has seen its coronavirus case rate more than triple since late February and is reporting nearly 1,200 cases a week for every 100,000 residents, according to Johns Hopkins University. Coronavirus-positive hospitalizations are also up by 17% in Britain over the last week, and deaths are on an upward trend as well, according to Britain's coronavirus data tracking website. But not all European nations are seeing a BA.2-fueled surge; Spain's case rate is much lower than Britains and appears to be flat, at around 250 cases a week for every 100,000 residents. California is averaging about 74 cases a week for every 100,000 residents, and the U.S. is averaging 62 cases a week for every 100,000 residents. In the U.S., the Northeast is likely to provide some hints as to how BA.2 might influence pandemic trends in California. "Over the past week, we have seen a small increase in reported COVID-19 cases in New York state and New York City, and some increases in people in the hospital with COVID-19 in New England, specifically, where the BA.2 variant has been reaching levels above 50%," CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said Wednesday. "This small increase in cases in the Northeast is something that we are closely watching as we look for any indication of an increase in severe disease from COVID-19 and track whether it represents any strain on our hospitals. We have not yet seen this so far," Walensky said. Cases are relatively flat nationwide and in California. In L.A. County, coronavirus cases are still declining or flat, when accounting for a backlog of cases recently reported that actually occurred earlier in the pandemic. Officials in L.A. County and at the White House have voiced deep worry about Congress' failure to provide additional federal funding to respond to the pandemic. Last week, Ferrer said that because of the stalemate in Washington, many of L.A. Countys community groups were no longer expected to be reimbursed for the vaccination or testing of uninsured people as of this week, a situation that wrecks our network immediately. We need to be prepared for a potential challenge in the future and in the near future. We dont want to be caught off guard," Ferrer said. Last week, Dr. Sara Cody, the public health director for Santa Clara County, Northern California's most populous county, said: COVID funding has essentially collapsed. That is breathtaking and shocking in the middle of a global pandemic. Becerra said at a news briefing Wednesday that there's no money left in the fund Congress created to reimburse doctors for COVID care to Americans, particularly the uninsured. The fund will also need to stop accepting new claims for vaccination services around April 5 less than two weeks away. "Examples of entities this will impact include, but are not limited to, ambulances, testing providers, pharmacies, clinics and hospitals," officials from the L.A. County Department of Public Health said in response to an inquiry from The Times. "The county's options to address this lack of funding are limited as it is a federal program." Maintaining the capacity to administer hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses and coronavirus tests per day, as well as ready access to therapeutics, is also a major component of the COVID-19 preparedness blueprint California unveiled last month. "As we move into the third year dealing with COVID, we know a lot more. We know how to use the tools in the toolkit. We're hoping not to use them all all the time, but we know how to use them in more precise ways, what metrics matter," Dr. Mark Ghaly, California's health and human services secretary, said during an appearance this week on the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health's "Public Health On Call" podcast. But it remains to be seen how, or whether, the lack of new federal funding might affect the state's goals. The California Department of Public Health "is aware of changes to COVID-19-related federal reimbursement and is assessing the impact on state programs and constituencies," officials said in a statement Friday. "Our priority throughout the pandemic has been to provide all Californians, irrespective of insurance status or ability to pay, access to testing and vaccines," the statement continued. "We continue to be focused on this priority and will ensure that we provide these important services based on the needs of individuals and communities, and not based on the bureaucratic structures of government or the specific funding sources." Already, the U.S. government has had to cancel a purchase of some potentially life-saving anti-COVID drugs that had been planned for this week. The federal supply of a type of anti-COVID drug known as monoclonal antibodies will likely run out in May if funding is not replenished, Becerra said. The monoclonal antibodies that can be used against the Omicron variant are sotrovimab and bebtelovimab. In addition, the federal government now must scale back plans to buy more doses of Evusheld, a drug intended to prevent COVID-19 among people who havent been exposed to the coronavirus, and either have a weakened immune system because of a medical condition or cannot get vaccinated for medical reasons. "This increases the risk of having an insufficient supply of this treatment by the fall," Becerra said. The U.S. government has enough vaccines to give immunocompromised people a fourth dose this spring, and, if eventually authorized, fourth doses to seniors and other vulnerable people. But if a fourth dose also known as a second booster shot is made available for the general public, the current funding situation will result in the U.S. not having an adequate supply for all Americans, said Jeff Zients, the White House COVID-19 task force coordinator. "Not having enough vaccines is completely unacceptable, as vaccines have proven to be our single most important tool in protecting Americans. We should be securing additional supply right now," Zients said at a news briefing Wednesday. "Many other countries are already doing so. In fact, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Hong Kong have already secured future booster doses." Without additional funds, the U.S. also risks losing its domestic testing manufacturing capacity. "And because it takes months to ramp back up to rebuild capacity, failure to invest now will leave us with insufficient testing capacity and supply if we see another surge in cases and demand for testing increases once again. That should not be allowed to happen," Zients said. "These consequences will only get more significant over time, with less treatments, vaccines, and tests for the American people," he added. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. WASHINGTON Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West of trying to cancel our country in a brief but pointed diatribe that revisited some of his favorite grievances. The remarks were made during a video summit with Russian cultural leaders and came as fighting continued in Ukraine. Theyre now engaging in cancel culture, Putin lamented on Friday. Russian writers and books are canceled. He also said that the works of the countrys most famous composers were being marginalized, in what appeared to be a reference to the recent decision by the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra in Wales to not include the music of Tchaikovsky in a performance. Putin compared these efforts to the book burning and repression undertaken by the Nazi Party in Germany ahead of World War II. An elderly woman stands in front of a destroyed house after bombardments in Krasylivka, east of Kyiv, on Sunday. (Aris Messinis/AFP via Getty Images) It is impossible to imagine such a thing in our country, Putin said. In fact, Russian culture has fallen in line with the Kremlin, with dissent having become increasingly rare in recent years. Cultural diversity is the pride of our society, he added. In fact, decisions like the one by the Cardiff Philharmonic have been widely criticized, with most elected officials and cultural leaders taking pains to differentiate between Russias current rulers and the richness often transgressive and revolutionary of its culture. Disavow some Russian artists. Dont cancel Russian art, a recent Economist commentary argued, distinguishing between cultural figures who have consistently benefited from Kremlin patronage and those, like Tchaikovsky, whose contributions to world culture predate Putin by decades or even centuries. Such distinctions are not especially useful to Putin, who is desperate to marshal support for a faltering war that has always lacked coherent justification. Last week, he lambasted Russians who were seeking refuge in the West and its values, using rhetoric that some found disturbingly reminiscent of that deployed by the murderous Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. Putin has celebrated Stalin, in particular for his defeat of Hitler's forces. Russian society is deeply imbued with proud memories of World War II. Accordingly, among Putins complaints on Friday was that Hollywood depictions of that conflict didnt say anything about the Red Army, which suffered much greater losses than did allied Western powers in vanquishing the Nazis. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at a concert in Moscow on March 18 marking the anniversary of the 2014 annexation of Crimea. (Getty Images) They just canceled the contribution of the Red Army, Putin said, as its successor forces appear to be ground down in Ukraine, where some of the most ferocious battles of World War II were fought. Later conflicts, in Afghanistan and Chechnya, were much less auspicious for the Soviet and Russian military; those wars consequently receive much less emphasis in Russia today. Putin has sought to rally Russians in support of his war in Ukraine with a confusing amalgam of history, geopolitics and cultural grievance all of which were in evidence on Friday. In Japan, they dont even mention who dropped the bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, he said. Or they say that it was done by some abstract allies. The fact that it was the United States that did such an awful slaughter at the end of the war this fact is not even mentioned, he complained. So they just canceled, cynically, this truth. Since invading its much smaller neighbor last month, Russia has faced increasing economic and, in some cases, cultural isolation. Artistic figures like the conductor Valery Gergiev, a Putin supporter, have lost work in the United States, while the Russian directors Kirill Sokolov and Lado Kvatinya had their latest films dropped by the Glasgow Film Festival. For the most part, however, there is little evidence of Russophobia on the scale that Putin appears to be envisioning. A Ukrainian man walks among debris inside a shopping mall after a Russian attack northwest of Kyiv on Monday. (Aris Messinis/AFP via Getty Images) The appeal about the excesses of so-called cancel culture dovetails neatly and seemingly with intention with the charges made by conservatives in the West. For a Russian audience, cultural grievances are rooted in long-standing fears that despite Russias artistic and cultural contribution, it is not seen as a true peer to Western counterparts like the United States and Germany. Earlier this month, Russias intelligence chief Sergei Naryshkin said in an interview that the West isn't simply trying to close off Russia behind a new iron curtain. This is about an attempt to ruin our government to cancel it, as they now say in tolerant liberal-fascist circles. Some in the West have embraced Putin as a defender of whiteness and Christianity, as well as of traditional gender norms. Putin seemed to appeal to those defenders when, on Friday, he took to defending the "Harry Potter" creator J.K. Rowling, who has come under criticism for her views on transgender rights. She didn't satisfy the demands of gender rights," Putin argued, his commentary having veered from the Eastern front to Hogwarts in mere moments. Rowling was not pleased to have his support. Critiques of Western cancel culture, she wrote on Twitter, are possibly not best made by those currently slaughtering civilians for the crime of resistance. _____ What happened this week in Ukraine? Check out this explainer from Yahoo Immersive to find out. Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with government members via a video link at the state residence outside Moscow (Refiles to remove extraneous word "while" in paragraph 8) (Reuters) -President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of trying to cancel Russian culture, including the works of great composers such as Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Dmitry Shostakovich and Sergei Rachmaninov. At a televised meeting with leading cultural figures, Putin compared the cancellation of a number of Russian cultural events in recent weeks with the actions of Nazi Germany in the 1930s. "Today they are trying to cancel a whole thousand-year culture, our people," Putin said, citing the cancellation of events involving Russian artists in some Western countries. "I am talking about the gradual discrimination against everything linked to Russia a tendency unfolding in a number of Western countries," he said. A number of events involving Russian cultural figures who have voiced support for the war have been cancelled, including some involving Valery Gergiev, general director of the St. Petersburg Mariinsky Theatre, who spoke to Putin during Friday's meeting. Gergiev has been dismissed as chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic and lost the chance to conduct at Milan's La Scala after he failed to condemn Russia's invasion. A much smaller number of events have been cancelled due to their association with dead Russian cultural figures, with the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra dropping a Tchaikovsky piece from its programme and media reports saying similar moves were taken by orchestras in Japan and Croatia. Spains Teatro Real, one of Europes major opera houses, cancelled performances later this year by Russias Bolshoi Ballet. Auction houses Christie's, Sotheby's and Bonhams have cancelled sales of Russian art in London. The Cardiff Philharmonic said it was subject to "hate speech and vicious comments" after cancelling a performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture earlier this month. "Basic humanity takes precedence over art and history," the Orchestra said in a Facebook post. "When the humanitarian crisis is over the discussion about 'woke' and 'cancel culture' can have its place." During Friday's meeting, Putin compared the treatment of Russian cultural figures with that of Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling after she sparked controversy with opinions on transgender issue. (Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Conor Humphries; Editing by Mark Trevelyan and Raissa Kasolowsky) Georgia was Donald Trumps narrowest loss in 2020, and it is his biggest target in 2022. More so than in any other state, Trump has dived into politics in Georgia by encouraging and selecting a slate of six loyal candidates to run for offices at the top of the ballot in this year's midterm elections, some of whom are challenging members of his own party and all of whom are dedicated to the baseless proposition that the last election was stolen from him in the state. If they triumph in the primaries and are elected in November, all but one of the candidates would be in positions to use their offices in 2024 to help Trump mount election challenges, assuming he runs again for president and ends up in another nail-biter. All six candidates are expected to take the stage Saturday with Trump at a rally near Athens, a de facto unveiling of the Georgia GOP Trump ticket two months before the May 24 primary. It's a crucial show of force for Trump and a test of his popularity among Republicans in Georgia, where questions linger about the power of his endorsement and the turmoil he unleashed in the party. Nationally, the battles will be proving grounds for Trumps relevance, the power of his endorsement and the salience of his meritless voter fraud crusade. Trump's top target in Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp, is handily leading his Republican rival, David Perdue. Trump recruited Perdue, a former U.S. senator, to run because Kemp didnt help his efforts to overturn the presidential election results in the state. Neither did Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger Trump endorsed his opponent, U.S. Rep. Jody Hice. Neither did Attorney General Chris Carr, and Trump on Tuesday backed his opponent, the little-known lawyer John Gordon. Jay Williams, a Georgia-based GOP strategist, said the sheer number of candidates Trump is backing could make his efforts more difficult. I think its going to be problematic for him, because hes going to be working against people that have a lot of support, Williams said in an interview, saying he believes Trumps best chance to unseat an incumbent comes in the race for secretary of state between Hice and Raffensperger. The problem [Trump] has in Georgia is that, outside of his frustration with the election, all these Republican officeholders, especially the governor, have done a really good job according to what a conservative would think would be a good job, Williams said, pointing to Kemps handling of the coronavirus pandemic and his economic agenda. Trump's top target in Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp, is handily leading his Republican rival, David Perdue. (Getty Images) Even some of Trumps longtime loyalists wonder whether he has gone too far. Is President Trump who I definitely support doing this because this is whats best for the state and the country?" asked Ed Muldrow, a former chair of the Gwinnett County GOP. "Or is this an I have an ax to grind and this is a personal vendetta. Thats my issue." Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, a Republican who chose not to run for re-election, also incurred Trumps wrath, and he described Trumps involvement as 100 percent revenge-driven. Hes not picking good-quality candidates, said Duncan, whose conservative group, GOP 2.0, launched TV ads criticizing Trump and others focused on 2020 ahead of his rally. And thats his mistake. Hes picking folks that agree on one thing and one thing only, and Americas moving on from that subject. Those who understand Trumps thinking say he is too obsessed with Georgia to do otherwise. He lost the state in 2020 by less than a quarter of a percentage point, becoming the first Republican to lose the state since former President George H.W. Bush in 1992 the last one-term president before Trump. Everyones told him to move past 2020, and he won't. What can you do? said a top pro-Trump Republican who frequently speaks to the former president and didnt want to be identified on the record. "Georgia holds a special place in his heart. He wants revenge against Raffensperger and Kemp and even Carr, the Trump confidant said, noting that Trump is also keenly interested in Arizona, which he lost by a slightly bigger margin than Georgia, 0.3 percentage points. If Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey were running for office again, you can bet Trump would have a candidate against him. Without evidence, Trump has blamed voter fraud for his loss in the state. Some GOP strategists have suggested that his relentless talk of a rigged election is responsible for two Republican senators losing their runoff races on Jan. 5, 2021. The next day, Trumps supporters in Washington rioted at the U.S. Capitol to stop Congress from counting the electoral votes in the 2020 election. Yet despite multiple recounts, lawsuits and federal and state investigations showing there was no widespread significant voter fraud in 2020, Trump has continued to press the lie that the election was stolen, and a majority of Republicans continue to doubt the legitimacy of President Bidens win. Former Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., said he is concerned Trump might react with similar fraud claims should candidates he has endorsed statewide fall short in the primary. "If he stands up and says, Don't come out and vote in November for the governor and lieutenant governor, or whatever it might be, I don't know what the reaction of people will be," Chambliss said. "But I'm fearful of that." Trump brought up election fraud this week when he yanked his endorsement in the Alabama Senate race from GOP Rep. Mo Brooks, who later claimed Trump asked to be reinstated to the presidency late last year. Trump also raised the issue when he endorsed Gordon in the Georgia attorney generals race. Carr did absolutely nothing to stop the 2020 Presidential Election Fraud, Trump said in a written statement, calling him a disaster every step of the way." Carrs campaign said he followed the law and had no choice but to defend the state against various election lawsuits that ultimately failed to show election fraud. Suspicions about the election, however, remain. Election integrity is very important, said Thuy Hotle, a Gwinnett County activist and former party officer. She said she trusted Trump to vet candidates and that his influential base will vote for whomever he picks. I dont know that if we voted for the same people that we would get a different result in 2022 or 2024, she said. But former state Rep. Scot Turner, who was the only Republican to vote against an elections bill in 2019 because he had doubts about the voting machine technology the state was authorizing, said Trumps involvement has been too much. "He's continuing to keep us divided, Turner said. The Democrats are rallying around their candidates. Theyre united. They get to raise money and march into November in lockstep without fighting each other, while were over here in a circular firing squad. Trump is hoping to oust Georgia's Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who refused to illegally overturn the election result in the state. (Reuters) Georgia Republicans started to break from Trump more forcefully in September after a rally where he suggested that Stacey Abrams, the 2018 Democratic nominee for governor, who is running again for the state's top office, would be a better governor than Kemp. Others suggested that, regardless of who wins the Republican primary, Trump will face blame should Abrams win. Trump has divided the party to the extent that, no matter who wins the primaries, if Stacey Abrams wins, he will get the blame and his chances of winning a presidential primary here in 2024 are zero if he runs again, Eric Johnson, a former state Senate GOP leader and adviser to former Sen. Kelly Loefflers 2020 campaign, said in an email. Republican consultant John Porter, who worked for Duncan and represents lieutenant governor candidate Butch Miller, said Trump is still popular in the party, but his favorability ratings are slowly and marginally coming down, while his unfavorability numbers are rising. While his endorsement is still highly sought after, some of his preferred candidates in Georgia and nationwide havent squashed rival campaigns, or they have had difficulty raising money. "The other interesting component is that he has endorsed so many candidates in this race that, when you get past Perdue and Kemp, it could be hard for voters to keep track of who he supported and who he hasnt down-ballot," Porter said. Trump endorsed Millers opponent, state Sen. Burt Jones, who was among the first legislators after the 2020 elections to demand that Kemp call a special session of the Legislature to overturn the election. The one Trump candidate who needs little help with his name recognition is former college and pro football star Herschel Walker, whom Trump recruited to run for Senate. Trump also endorsed Patrick Witt for insurance commissioner, a position that has no say over election-related matters. It is held by John King, whom Kemp appointed to the seat after his predecessor was indicted on federal fraud charges. Its the governors race, in particular, that will play the biggest role in whether Trump has a successful primary. A source close to Perdue said Trumps endorsement will be determinative in the governors race but acknowledged that if the election happened today, Kemp would win. This person noted that Kemp has yet to face negative advertising, which is starting to change as Perdue and his allies begin TV campaigns. Perdue faced tens of millions of dollars in ads tearing him down as part of his 2020 Senate race, making it more difficult for anyone to create a new, negative impression, this person argued. As far as the races farther down the ballot, this person said that while Trumps endorsement is the most powerful in GOP politics, its not the only message they need to get out. But for Trump, this Perdue ally said, whether the primary is a win for him will come down to Perdues performance. It doesnt matter what happens down-ballot, this person said. If were not successful in the governors race, then people are going to say that Trump had a major defeat. In the crowded cab of a delivery van on a road to a war zone, Jonas Ohman is fighting exhaustion. NEWSY'S JASON BELLINI: You seem tired. JONAS OHMAN: I am really tired, yeah. I'm exhausted, basically. Ohman is Lithuanian. He's from a country many believe is next on Russia's invasion list if Putin can't be stopped in Ukraine. So his mission is to do whatever it takes to get the Ukrainians the gear they need to hold the line. The vans are stuffed with high-end consumer gear that the Ukrainians are using to supplement the military grade equipment coming in from the west. The Kremlin has said it will target any attempts to re-supply the Ukrainians, so Ohman has learned to not ask or answer too many questions. BELLINI: Where are those from? OHMAN: No comment. Ohman allowed Newsy to ride along with him and Raivi Kisielis, who is a Lithuanian-born American volunteer, on an equipment run. The trip started in Vilnius, Lithuania, stopped to pick Newsy's Jason Bellini up near Warsaw and continued across the Ukrainian border for a drop off near Lviv. Ukraine's army, with 170,000 active-duty troops, is growing by the day, as tens of thousands of reservists and volunteers from both home and abroad suit up and deploy. But there just isn't enough protective gear to go around. Ohman says Ukraine's military has, in theory, a process in place for procuring and issuing standard equipment. OHMAN: In practice, we are here because it doesn't work. ... There are lots of new units or people returning from retirement, so to speak, and they need basic gear. ... The next level is regular forces who have a certain amount of support but need maybe drones or thermal vision or something a little more sophisticated. BELLINI: And you're getting that stuff? OHMAN: Yeah, oh yeah. We have it all. Yes. Yes. BELLINI: Drones? OHMAN: Drones. BELLINI: But these are non-lethal drones? OHMAN: Non-lethal drones. That's correct. BELLINI: For surveillance purposes. OHMAN: For surveillance, fire correction, et cetera, et cetera. That's correct. We provide anti-drone systems. BELLINI: Anti-drone systems? OHMAN: Yeah. We have one now with us. It's for blocking and taking over enemy drones. BELLINI: And this is kind of stuff that you can buy just kind of off the shelf? OHMAN: Well, it depends. We are talking about huge amounts of these things and you have to get them into the European Union. It's a very different level and we are still learning to play on this level. BELLINI: Are those consumer or military grade? OHMAN: Mainly consumer grade, high-end. RAIVI KISIELIS: In U.S., consumer military grades are very like... BELLINI: Pretty high level stuff? KISIELIS: Yes. It's a blurry line there. Ohman spends most of the ride on his phone, responding to messages and calls from his network of contacts buying gear, coordinating logistics, and fielding requests from Ukraine military units on the front line. The call during the drive, he says, came from a squad embroiled in fierce fighting in northern Ukraine. OHMAN: They ask if I can help. Actually was able to get them some body armor and helmets, stuff like that, at least. Calls come in from individuals he got to know over the past eight years. His organization, called "Blue and Yellow," began supporting Ukraine's army in 2014, when fighting began with Russian separatists in the Donbas region. OHMAN: We saw the Ukrainian army back then [was] very, very, very poorly equipped. Lots of problems. And realized that, for our own interest, we got to support these guys. ... I didn't know at that point, of course, when that big war would come. But I knew that it will come sooner or later. And when it came a month ago, money began pouring in. OHMAN: We suddenly had a couple of million Euros. And volunteers began to just show up. KISIELIS: [The] first week, I was watching on TV, sitting in my recliner, pouting and foaming and drinking, and then I realized, 'Well, that's not going to change a thing.' So, it took me three days [to] sober up and then just bought a one way ticket. Feeling much better not watching the news, but doing something to change it. That desire to do something is shared by Blue and Yellow's donors. Ohman's in the process of ramping up purchases of vehicles for Ukraine's army. OHMAN: Basically, cars that are sturdy and can withstand a war. The ad hoc process of supplying Ukraine's military takes an army of volunteers, including couriers who make dangerous dashes, bringing Ohman's supplies to the front. Volunteers fighting and non-fighting are Ukraine's secret weapon in its battle against what was a far-better-equipped Russian army. AMSTERDAM A Dutch publisher has said that it will cease publication of a bestselling book, The Betrayal of Anne Frank, and remove it from bookstores, in response to a report by historians that objects to its finding. The book had claimed to identify the informant who alerted Nazi police to the Frank familys hiding place, but the reports authors said the conclusions were based on faulty assumptions and careless use of sources. Advertisement The publisher, Ambo Anthos, which released the Dutch translation of the book by Rosemary Sullivan, a Canadian author, on Jan. 17, said Tuesday that it would halt publication in response to the refutation by five prominent Dutch historians. Based on the conclusions of this report, we have decided that, effective immediately, the book will no longer be available, Ambo Anthos, which had apologized for the book last month, wrote in a statement on its website. We will call upon bookstores to return their stock. Advertisement The Betrayal of Anne Frank received worldwide attention after its release, bolstered by an appearance on the CBS News program 60 Minutes of the self-described cold case team led by a retired FBI investigator whose work formed the basis for the book. The team accused Arnold van den Bergh, a Dutch Jewish notary, of pointing the Nazi police to the location of the secret annex on Prinsengracht 263, in Amsterdam, where the Frank family and four other Jews had been hiding for two years. They were arrested on Aug. 4, 1944, and deported to concentration camps, where Anne, her mother and sister died; only their father, Otto Frank, survived the war. Historians and other experts on World War II and the Holocaust very quickly expressed doubts about the finding, questioning a central premise of its argument: that the notary had lists of Jewish hiding places that were compiled by the Amsterdam Jewish Council, an organization the occupying Nazis had set up in 1941. Pieter van Twisk, the lead researcher for the cold-case project, said in an interview with The New York Times at the time that the evidence for the lists was circumstantial, but circumstantial evidence is still evidence. On Tuesday night, Bart Wallet, a professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Amsterdam, summarized the findings of the refutation, written by Raymund Schutz, an expert on Dutch notaries during the German occupation; two experts on the Amsterdam Jewish Council, Laurien Vastenhout and Bart van der Boom; and two other researchers, Petra van den Boomgaard and Aaldrik Hermans. We felt we had to step in because we owed it to our discipline, Wallet said. For such a claim to be made, he added, the historical context had to be solid as a rock. But he said, this was not the case, not at all. Its clear that the argumentation doesnt hold up, he concluded. Due to misinterpretation and tunnel vision, the investigation wrongly identifies Arnold van den Bergh as Anne Franks betrayer. At the event where the report was released, Mirjam de Gorter, granddaughter of van den Bergh, had made an emotional public appeal to HarperCollins, which released the book in the United States with plans to publish it in more than 20 languages, asking that the publisher issue a retraction and cease publication. Advertisement De Gorter said that the investigators from the team approached her in 2018 without telling her that her grandfather was a main suspect, even though, as Sullivan wrote in the book, they were already seriously considering him as the betrayer. With the help of family members, de Gorter said she discovered that during the summer of 1944, when the Franks were betrayed, van den Bergh and his wife were in hiding in the town of Laren, at Leemkuil 11. They were seen there by a friend, Gerard Huijseen, who noted visiting them in his wartime diary. The van den Bergh children had already been placed in hiding in October 1943, she said. There was no need for my grandfather to save his family in the summer of 1944, she said. They were already in hiding. De Gorter said she had shared this information with the team, but they ignored her, she said. Instead, the book claimed that the family was living in Amsterdam, and that van den Bergh had won his freedom by giving up addresses to the Nazis. My grandfather, Arnold van den Bergh, has been portrayed worldwide as an international scapegoat, she said. Meanwhile, Anne Franks worldwide prominence is exploited in a particularly dishonest way. Daywatch Weekdays Start your morning with today's local news > In February, the European Jewish Congress also called on HarperCollins to rescind the book, and to distance itself from the books controversial historical claims. Advertisement Ambo Anthos had previously paused printing and distribution of the book and apologized after historians raised the first questions about its findings. A more critical stance could have been taken here, wrote Tanja Hendriks, publisher and director of the company. Hendriks did not respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. The publishers website now states, We would once again like to offer our sincere apologies to everyone who has been offended by the contents of this book. Van Twisk, Sullivan and the documentary filmmaker Thijs Bayens, who was a member of the team that was assembled to identify Anne Franks betrayer, also did not respond to requests for comment. The cold-case teams lead investigator, former FBI detective Vince Pankoke, has previously issued a defense of the work, however. Until now, we have not been presented with any piece of evidence or any new information that had enough strength to challenge our conclusion, he noted before the refutation was released. The van den Bergh scenario is, in our opinion, still the most viable theory about the betrayal of the Prinsengracht 263. HarperCollins, in a statement, said the company continues to stand by the publication of the book. While we recognize there has been some criticism to the findings, the statement said, the investigation was done with respect and the utmost care for an extremely sensitive topic. Not at all. It just seems like a lot of back-and-forth talk. Yes. I'm growing very worried over what might happen. If it keeps up, I might be a little more concerned. I think there are much larger things to concern us as a country. It's hard to tell; I can't take the leader of either country seriously. Vote View Results DUNWOODY, Ga. A Dunwoody Police Department officer was fired March 23 after leaking news of a former sergeants January arrest for DUI to the media. Ofc. Brian Bolden was placed on administrative leave for public criticism of the department Feb. 2 after he told media reporters that former Dunwoody Sgt. Robert Parsons was arrested for DUI Jan. 26. Parsons resigned the day after the arrest. Dunwoody Police Chief Billy Grogan asked the Sandy Springs Police Department to handle the investigation into Boldens conduct. The process culminated in a formal hearing between Bolden and Grogan on March 22. Bolden said during the hearing that he had not done anything wrong. He was fired the next day. Boldens termination letter alleges that he misused his position to obtain Parsons booking photo from the DeKalb County Jail without going through proper channels. But Bolden disputed that claim when questioned by the Sandy Springs Police Department. The Dunwoody Police administration used that denial to cite Bolden for violating the Dunwoody departments policy on truthfulness. The termination letter states Bolden did not violate the departments policies on public criticism or confidentiality of department business. It also states Bolden did not violate city policy on breach of security or a Georgia law regarding making false statements to a government agency. Another former Dunwoody officer, Austin Handle, posted audio from Boldens hearing on his TikTok page. Handle was fired from the department two years ago and now serves as vice chair of the Lamplighter Project, a national organization that encourages law enforcement officers to speak out against police corruption or injustice. During the hearing with Grogan, Bolden asks in the recording how he misused his position. Another voice, which Handle identifies as Grogan, tells Bolden this is not a question and answer session. Bolden issued a statement through Handle. "If you listen to the audio, as it makes its rounds online, you will hear a scared police chief belittle me for doing nothing more than asking for clarification on how I broke the departmental policies, Bolden said in a statement. With the current policy, there remains no chance for anyone to contest the findings of such an investigation, which clearly shows a 'witch hunt' orchestrated by Dunwoody's Top Cop." Dunwoody spokeswoman Jennifer Boettcher declined to comment on the firing, citing it as a personnel matter. Bolden was one of several officers who spoke out against high-level police officials during a 2020 investigation that involved close to 50 allegations of sexual harassment and unprofessional conduct. Bolden spoke specifically against former Lt. Fidel Espinoza, who Bolden accused of sexual harassment. Espinoza resigned before the 2020 probe concluded. Espinoza and the city have since faced lawsuits from two former officers accusing Espinoza of harassing them and accusing the city of ignoring the behavior. The city of Dunwoody has paid more than $400,000 for legal services to address personnel matters within the police department since 2020. Boldens attorney, Howard Evans, attributed the departments issues to a failure in leadership. He said he and Bolden, who is Black, plan to file a charge of discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The Milton Police Department is partnering with a Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym to use their facility, techniques and training for the defensive tactics portion of two grants it received from the Georgia Criminal Justice Council. Women on dating apps are often bombarded with them. So are women with their cellphone numbers posted in public places such as real estate agents. Theres a growing problem in Virginia and around the nation of men texting or messaging electronic pictures of their genitals to others without permission. Advertisement Almost everyone I know in the real estate industry has received at least one of these cyber flashings, Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, D-Virginia Beach, a real estate broker, told lawmakers as she discussed the problem in February. The pictures typically come from unrecognized numbers, she said. But Virginia lawmakers have taken action to quell the onslaught, following an effort spearheaded by a bipartisan group of female lawmakers who said theyve seen enough. Advertisement A bill carried unanimously in the General Assembly this year would penalize those who send an intimate image to a person without the recipients consent. Its punishable with civil fines of up to $500 and possibly damages beyond that payable to the person who was sent the unwanted pictures. The legislation is a step short of last years push, led by Convirs-Fowler, for legislation to make sending such images a misdemeanor crime. But lawmakers still cite this years bill as an important protection. Sponsored by Sen. Jennifer L. McClellan, D-Richmond, the bill defines an intimate image as a digital photograph, video or other visual reproduction of an adult who is in a state of undress so as to expose the human male or female genitals. In the end, McClellans bill carried 100-0 in the House and 40-0 in the Senate in early March. It now awaits Gov. Glenn Youngkins signature and would go into law July 1. The legislation makes clear theres no problem with adults swapping such pictures or videos willingly whether it be a longtime married couple or two strangers who just met. The problem is if the recipient doesnt want to get the images. Women are getting such images in an unsolicited fashion with an alarming frequency, and lawmakers contended existing laws were woefully inadequate to crack down on the problem. We have laws on the books that protect people from flashing, but flashing basically has gone digital, McClellan told lawmakers at a hearing in late February. If it happened in person, it would be indecent exposure, and that would be a crime. But under existing Virginia law, she said, sending a picture doesnt qualify as indecent exposure. The problem is widespread, said Payton Iheme, the head of public policy for the Americas for the Bumble dating app. A 2019 survey of Bumble users, found a third of the sites users had gotten one of these unsolicited lewd pics, she said. Of those, 96% said it wasnt something they requested or wanted. Though most dating apps dont allow direct picture sharing between users, the problem often arises when online conversations between new matches shift to texting or other outside messaging apps. Such pictures can also be randomly air dropped over open Wi-Fi networks to all nearby mobile phones. Advertisement This is not a dating app issue, Iheme told lawmakers at one legislative hearing. This is an internet issue. Iheme testified in favor of the Virginia legislation, citing the passage of similar legislation in Texas. Similar proposals have also been introduced in Wisconsin, California and New York. In Virginia, the legislation doesnt add a new crime to the books. People who send such images to other adults cant be charged with a crime unless prosecutors can prove that they violated another criminal statute such as those barring computer harassment or the sending of obscene materials. Instead, the bill creates a new civil penalty that can be brought against those who send the intimate images to someone who has either not consented or has expressly forbidden the receipt of such material. Its a new form of civil trespass, McClellan said, under the theory that if someone sends something unsolicited to your phone, theyve sent it to your property. The measure says adults who send unsolicited images to other adults shall be liable to the recipient for either actual damages or $500 whichever is greater in addition to reasonable attorney fees and costs. Damages are unlimited, lawmakers say, and can include the emotional distress from seeing the pictures. A similar bill that would have made the dissemination of unsolicited, obscene image of self to another a misdemeanor was defeated by the Virginia Senate last year, with senators citing concerns ranging from violations of free speech to adding new crimes to the books. Advertisement Williamsburg-James City County Commonwealths Attorney Nate Green, the president of the Virginia Association of Commonwealths Attorneys, said initial versions of the bill brought could have made it more difficult to go after child pornography. Our concerns were that this could arguably be too big of an umbrella that would also trap child pornography under it as well, he said. The concern was, are we now punishing the sending of child pornography differently? But Green said the prosecutors association worked closely with the bills sponsors to tweak the language in this years bill to ensure that the new penalty applies only to picture sharing among adults. Existing criminal statutes bar the sharing of sexually explicit pictures and videos with children under 18. Sending such images to juveniles or asking the minors to send them to the adult are serious felony crimes under both state and federal law. Some lawmakers contended at legislative hearings that existing Virginia law was enough, and that theres no need to create new redundant state law. Existing state statute bars harassment of others with computers or other electronic devices and some lawmakers said its been successfully used to go after those sending the unwanted images. Another law outlaws the sending of obscene materials to others. Advertisement Daywatch Weekdays Start your morning with today's local news > But Green said obscenity is difficult to define in law without accidentally outlawing such things as Michelangelos nude David sculpture. And to convict someone of harassment by computer, prosecutors must prove the sender intended to coerce, intimidate or harass the recipient, which he said can be difficult to show in court. Did they intend to harass, or did they think that someone would enjoy receiving something like that? Green said. What if he says, Im a shy guy, and this was my way to get her to notice me. Or maybe he was sending it almost as a joke, sending it to amuse himself as opposed to harass. The bill says the recipient of an unwanted intimate image can take the case to court anywhere in the Commonwealth, so long as its where the images were sent, received or possessed. If a picture is sent by someone in Norfolk to someone in Virginia Beach, and is still on the recipients mobile phone when he or she travels to Newport News, Hampton and York County, a legal action can be filed in any of those five jurisdictions. The lawmakers exempted some entities from such litigation. Internet and mobile phone providers themselves arent liable if pictures and videos are sent on their networks because they are providing connections initiated by the direction of another. Moreover, the rules dont apply to health care providers that transmit intimate images for a legitimate medical purpose. After the bill passed, several lawmakers voiced satisfaction it carried with the decisive bipartisan vote. There are issues that are not political, one of the bills chief co-patrons, Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax, said in a news release. And being confident that we can communicate freely without being forced to view unwanted images is something we can all agree on. Advertisement Peter Dujardin, 757-247-4749, pdujardin@dailypress.com YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. The Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Armenian Parliament Eduard Aghajanyan announced that the territories which went under Azerbaijani control as a result of the March 24-25 events were in the area of responsibility of the Russian peacekeeping forces. He said that they expect clear answers from Russian colleagues on how these events happened. Speaking at a press conference, Aghajanyan emphasized that Azerbaijan is consistently carrying out a policy of depriving the Armenians of Artsakh from the right to live in their own homeland and that the latest events are yet another manifestation of ethnic cleansing against the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh which is happening since the conflict began. In the recent period, in the post-war period, this process took a unique and practical shape, about which the Armenian government has numerously alarmed and informed the international community. An assessment to this process was numerously given by the Armenian foreign ministry, the prime minister, and Members of Parliament, particularly the members of the foreign relations committee, Aghajanyan said. Aghajanyan accused Azerbaijan in again violating the November 9 trilateral agreement. In this given case it is the violation of the clause under which the sides are obliged to stop hostilities, remain in their positions, and Russian peacekeepers were to be deployed on that borderline, who were deployed, he added. Aghajanyan said the area where the events happened is in the area of responsibility of the Russian peacekeepers. Here our main question and work is with our Russian colleagues. We must understand under what circumstances this advance happened, because as a result of the advance the Azerbaijani military appeared in the rear of the Russian peacekeepers, meaning they bypassed them. I repeat, this, according to the respective clause of the November 9 trilateral statement, is the area of responsibility of the Russian peacekeepers, therefore we expect to receive clear answers from our Russian colleagues on how this happened. We expect that this issue will be solved in the shortest period of time and that the Azerbaijani armed forces will return to their initial positions from where the advance took place, Aghajanyan said. YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan received today Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, the ministry said in a news release. During the meeting FM Mirzoyan touched upon the March 24 Azerbaijani infiltration into the village of Parukh, which is in the responsibility zone of the Russian peacekeeping contingent in Nagorno Karabakh, the Azerbaijani actions on deliberately obstructing the normal operation of vital infrastructures and other steps directed to ethnic cleansing. The necessity of the return of Azerbaijani units back to their initial positions was emphasized. Ararat Mirzoyan presented also the position of the Armenian side on the negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan around a peace agreement, highlighting the mediating role of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship in this context. YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory letter to Charles Michel on his re-election as President of the European Council, the PMs Office said. The letter reads: Your Excellency, Please, accept my warm congratulations on your re-election as President of the European Council. The two and a half years of your tenure coincided with a period of unprecedented challenges facing the humanity. During this period the European Union and Armenia have fought against the pandemic with joint efforts, have jointly worked for eliminating the consequences of the war and establishing lasting peace. Despite all these challenges, we also managed to push forward the agenda of our multilayered cooperation, which was marked by the entry into force of the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, as well as the roadmap for its implementation, the signing of a number of agreements between Armenia and the European Union, the approval of guideline programs within the frames of the Eastern Partnership. On this occasion I warmly remember our meetings, comprehensive discussions and exchange of ideas. I am confident that we will keep the dynamics of our contacts and mutual cooperation also in coming years for the benefit of the deepening of partnership between Armenia and the European Union and the joint overcoming of the problems facing us all. By using this chance, I want to reaffirm Armenias commitment to the common fundamental values, as well as to wish you new achievements. Please, Your Excellency, accept the assurances of my highest respect. STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijani armed forces are deploying Bayraktar TB-2 drones in renewed attacks against Artsakh, the Defense Army of Artsakh said in a statement. Starting midday March 25, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces continued gross violations of the ceasefire and in addition to small arms are also using combat drones, including Bayraktar TB-2s, the Defense Army said. Two servicemen of the Artsakh Defense Army were killed in the Azerbaijani attack. The number of wounded is being clarified. As of 14:00 the operative-tactical situation in the eastern borderline of Artsakh remains critically tense, the Artsakh military added. YEREVAN, 25 MARCH, ARMENPRESS. On March 25, President of the Artsakh Republic Arayik Harutyunyan convened an expanded sitting of the Security Council. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Artsakh Presidents Office, Arayik Harutyunyan noted that the recent events in the Republic are forcing a new agenda, as the Azerbaijani side is destabilizing the situation through obvious provocations. "It could be assumed from the Russian-Ukrainian conflict that the Azerbaijani side would use the opportunity to resort to various provocations in Artsakh. By the gas supply disruption and the incursion into the village of Parukh in the Askeran region, as well as by instigating certain military operations, the Azerbaijani authorities showed that they do not respect the trilateral declaration made in November 2020 and the political commitments made at various levels ever since. Nevertheless, I would like to urge our people to remain calm, because despite the difficulties and obstacles, we continue to work closely with the Russian peacekeeping force in Artsakh to stabilize the situation," he said. Defense Minister of Artsakh Kamo Vardanyan made a report on the situation on the line of contact. A number of issues related to overcoming the existing challenges were discussed. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. According to these reports, the Russian-tabled draft resolution made no reference to its invasion of Ukraine New Delhi: India early on Thursday morning (IST) abstained from voting on a draft resolution tabled by its time-tested friend Russia on the humanitarian crisis arising from the Ukraine conflict at the UN Security Council (UNSC). According to news agency reports from New York, India joined the United States, UK, France and the non-permanent members in abstaining during voting on the resolution, with the United States questioning the audacity of Russia in tabling such a draft resolution when it had launched the military offensive against Ukraine in the first place. China was the only country that backed Russia and voted in favour of the draft resolution. The draft resolution fell, as it could not muster the minimum nine votes needed in the 15-member UNSC that comprises five permanent and 10 non-permanent members including India, with 13 nations abstaining, according to reports. This comes at a time when foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla is currently visiting New York. Ukrainian ambassador to India Igor Polikha told a TV channel on Thursday that he appreciated the stand taken by India. Although the Indian UN mission in New York did not make any public explanation of why India abstained during voting, the Indian abstention is being seen as indication of New Delhis concern and dismay at the prolonged conflict triggered by the Russian military offensive in Ukraine, particularly since New Delhi has for the past four weeks been appealing for an immediate cessation of hostilities but to no avail. India has also, in a balancing act, previously abstained from draft resolutions critical of Russia and has also so far refused to condemn Moscow publicly because of its time-tested ties spanning decades. According to news agency reports, Russia had called for a vote in the UNSC on its draft resolution that had demanded that civilians, including humanitarian personnel and persons in vulnerable situations, including women and children are fully protected, calls for negotiated ceasefire for enabling safe, rapid, voluntary and unhindered evacuation of civilians, and underscores the need for the parties concerned to agree on humanitarian pauses to this end. According to these reports, the Russian-tabled draft resolution, which had made no reference to its invasion of Ukraine, called upon all parties concerned to allow safe and unhindered passage to destinations outside of Ukraine, including to foreign nationals without discrimination, and facilitate safe and unhindered access of humanitarian assistance to those in need in and around Ukraine, taking into account the particular needs of women, girls, men and boys, older persons and persons with disabilities. In his words: "I am just a professional writer, which means I don't do blogs and try and get money for whatever I write." Putins criminal war has caused the largest refugee crisis Europe has known since the Second World War See what you think, they said to Bachchoo But the thoughts wouldnt turn into images. He waited for them to becomes visual, but The curtain was lifted and the stage was empty. See how you feel, they enjoined Bachchoo And yes, love became a vision But not in the mind. From Akela Khaathai! by Bachchoo Bureaucracy, as Karl Marx once said, is the enemy of freedom. George Orwell added that bureaucracy is the weapon of the feeble minded. And, of course, Wittgenstein, with mathematical rigour, had said that bureaucracy is the lyric of the bureaucrat And then who can forget Emoji Feromonereplacementwallas memorable metaphor: Bureaucracy is like a cucumber!? Actually, gentle reader, none of them said anything of the sort. I made up these feeble aphorisms suggested to me by a paradox in the affairs of todays Britain. The news and recent trivial personal misadventures and annoyances have made me dwell on the subject. But first, the paradox on the Brit political landscape. BoJo was elected Prime Minister on the promise to Get Brexit Done. On forming a government, he has appointed people to be ministers of this and that Brexit portfolio. While his propaganda, even through the right-wing papers which support Brexit, insist that breaking with the European Unions bureaucracy has bestowed great gifts on the UK, the opposite is manifestly evident. The shortages of labour in several industries the fruit and vegetable harvesting work force, truck drivers, nurses, doctors, etc. One could go on and on. But the real irony of this getting away from bureaucracy is that it has imposed a lethal burning fiery amount on Britains imports and exports, while the EUs form-filling was, to coin a metaphor, like being safely in the frying pan. (This is ridiculous! Get a grip! Ed) Apart from the fact that every import from Europe has now to undergo several bureaucratic procedures, causing massive tail backs and even headaches at the exporting and importing terminuses, there is the insoluble Northern Ireland Protocol. Whats that? Its a clause which BoJo hastily signed in order to Get Brexit Done. In effect, it means treating Northern Ireland, which is, to date, very much a part of the UK, as though it were a part of the European Union. As the Unionist politicians of Northern Ireland say in protest, it draws a border in the North Sea and in token makes Northern Ireland a part of the Irish Republic. Theres no resolution and in normal times it would have contributed to a severe questioning of BoJos policies and even his position as PM. But Vladimir Putin to the rescue! His invasion of Ukraine has deflected all pivotal criticism from BoJo who now poses as the Churchill -- not of warfare but of economic sanctions. BoJo vows publicly to destroy Putin. Putin inadvertently saves BoJos skin. Kya tamasha, kya daastaan! The war in Ukraine, the bombing of civilian targets, has led to millions of Ukrainians fleeing the country. Putins criminal war has caused the largest refugee crisis Europe has known since the Second World War. The countries neighbouring Ukraine all except Belarus have responded with open doors and mostly commendable generosity. Poland has welcomed over a million refugees and its government pays subsidies to Polish citizens who take them into their homes. Slovakia has accepted 160,000 to date and tiny Moldova 83,000, which is about three per cent of its own population a gigantic increase in a week! So why did I use the phrase mostly commendable? Because I have read reports that Indian and African citizens studying or working in Ukraine and fleeing from its bombed cities have not been treated the same as the white Ukrainians. They have been refused permission to cross the borders out of the path of devastation and death. I admit that this may not be a complete report, but the attested incidents in the news embolden me to relay it. The EU has also thrown open its doors to the Ukrainians fleeing the war, allowing them access across all borders without hindrance and an assurance that they can remain and work for three years. Ukrainians trying to get to Britain hit a wall of bureaucracy. UKs home secretary (Ugly Clueless?) determined at first that only those with relatives already living in Britain would be allowed in. There was a massive protest. The government, wanting to preserve its winning political stance to keep Johnny foreigner out, the substance of the Brexit vote, may have miscalculated. Even so, Home Secretary Clueless persists. The number of Ukrainian refugees wanting access to Britain piles up at Calais. They not only have to pass several bureaucratic criteria by filling in forms, they have to wait to get an appointment at a visa station in Paris. By March 7, 9,000 Ukrainians had applied for asylum and 760 had been admitted. Good going, Clueless! And my brush with bureaucracy? Trivial. Every time I leave India I stand in slow queues to present my passport to immigration officers. In other countries I only encounter such scrutiny on entering the country, not on leaving it. What on earth are these queues and this examination for? Is it meant to stop criminals leaving the country? Wouldnt it be like good riddance instead of spending taxpayers money on jailing them? Or is it to provide additional employment to immigration officers? Or is it to deter citizens from leaving under-populated India? Jonny Griffis, chief operating officer of True North Collective trims cannabis plants in Jackson, Mich., Wednesday, March 2, 2022. Over the past few years, Griffis has invested millions of dollars in his legal marijuana farm in northern Michigan, which produces extracts to be used in things like gummy bears and vape oils. But now that farm like many other licensed grows in states that have legalized marijuana faces an existential threat: high-inducing cannabis compounds derived not from the heavily regulated and taxed legal marijuana industry, but from a chemical process involving little-regulated, cheaply grown hemp. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) (Paul Sancya/AP) Over the past few years, Jonny Griffis has invested millions of dollars in his legal marijuana farm in northern Michigan, which produces extracts to be used in things like gummy bears and vape oils. But now that farm like many other licensed growers in states that have legalized marijuana faces an existential threat: high-inducing cannabis compounds derived not from the heavily regulated and taxed legal marijuana industry, but from a chemical process involving less strictly regulated, cheaply grown hemp. Advertisement Its going to make our farm obsolete, Griffis, the chief operating officer of True North Collective, testified before Michigans Marijuana Regulatory Agency recently. The $3 million or so that Ive invested ... is going to be wiped out. At the center of the issue is THC, marijuanas main intoxicating component. While marijuana and hemp are the same plant cannabis the distinction between the two is a legal one, and comes down to the amount of THC in the plant, specifically the amount of a type of THC called delta-9. Advertisement Hemp is defined in federal law by its low delta-9 THC content and is traditionally used for food, clothing and industrial applications. Rope not dope was long a motto for those who advocated the legalization of hemp. But since Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill, authorizing the growing of hemp nationwide in accordance with state or tribal licensing programs, theres been an unforeseen consequence: People exploiting what they see as a loophole in the law have taken that hemp, extracted a non-intoxicating compound called CBD, and chemically changed it generally by the addition of solvents and heat into various types of impairing THC. Unlike the completely artificial, often dangerous drugs known as K2 or Spice and called synthetic marijuana, the chemically created THC at issue here consists of molecules found naturally in cannabis, though sometimes in vanishingly small amounts. Its far cheaper to produce THC chemically from hemp than to extract it from marijuana. Because it is derived from hemp, that THC often in a form called delta-8 can wind up in candies, vape oils and other products sold in gas stations, convenience stores and online, even in states where marijuana is illegal. The Food and Drug Administration warned last year that the substances pose a public health risk due to multiple factors, including the way they are marketed and because of potential contamination when manufactured. At least 17 states have banned such products, but they remain available in many, including the pioneering legal marijuana state of Washington, where gas station and vape-shop sales of THC created from hemp offer competition to the heavily taxed, regulated and tested marijuana market. Virginia lawmakers this month approved a bill to strictly limit the amount of THC allowed in hemp-derived products; Gov. Glenn Youngkin has not yet signed it. In Kentucky and Georgia, recent lawsuits have sought to establish that delta-8 products are legal; a Kentucky judge sided with hemp advocates there on Feb. 28, allowing the products to continue to be sold as lawmakers consider a ban. The U.S. Hemp Roundtable, a hemp industry association, has decried the use of hemp-extracted CBD to create intoxicating products, saying it undermines the integrity of the hemp industry and intent of the 2018 Farm Bill. Supporters call chemically derived THC economical and environmentally friendly. Hemp can be grown in vast fields outdoors, without expensive lighting systems, and can have a lower carbon footprint than marijuana. Advertisement Further, processors can make a more consistent product using chemistry to make THC from CBD, they say, and regulators shouldnt stand in the way of market innovations or pick winners and losers in the industry. They liken it to the synthetically created vanilla or caffeine added to food and drinks. Most growers dont like to hear this, because they feel like its taking away from their market, but its a great product, said Abe Fleishman, of Northstar Hemp in Oregon. It provides an opportunity for companies to scale production, for one, and to make a new product that is, in my opinion, cleaner than your regular THC products. For critics, the safety isnt proven; the process of making it can leave behind trace amounts of unidentifiable compounds. The method also allows for the manufacture of lesser-known cannabis compounds whose health effects arent well understood. Chemically produced THC is unlikely to displace the top-shelf dried cannabis flower preferred by many connoisseurs, but it is so cheap to make that it drastically undercuts marijuana growers who focus on the extract market, and who have spent a lot of time and money adapting to stringent rules for their industry. Griffis said hes seen the price of delta-9 distillate drop from $50,000 a liter to $6,000 and falling as THC made from hemp floods the market. Its an issue that almost every state cannabis regulator is thinking about, said Gillian Schauer, executive director of the Cannabis Regulators Association. Its presenting a lot of challenges to protecting public health and consumer safety, and also to protecting existing state cannabis markets. Advertisement And, Schauer said, THC chemically made from hemp is only the tip of the iceberg: It can also be made from bioengineered yeast, so regulators will soon find themselves wrestling with that as well. In Michigan, the Marijuana Regulatory Agency is considering rules that would allow processors to convert CBD into THC with written prior approval from the agency, which would require demonstrations of the conversion method and product testing. They would also have to label their product as synthetic a suggestion that has angered processors who note that the molecules are found in nature. Oregons Liquor and Cannabis Commission gave marijuana licensees a six-month grace period to sell off intoxicating THC-from-hemp products they had already acquired before a ban takes effect in July. Daywatch Weekdays Start your morning with today's local news > In California, hemp-derived THC products are not allowed in legal marijuana shops, but regulators are examining the steps necessary to allow them. Colorado and Washington, which in 2012 became the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, last year made clear that synthetically derived cannabinoids, including THC, are not allowed in their legal industries. After an uproar from licensed growers who said they were being undercut, Washingtons Liquor and Cannabis board seized more than 1,600 pounds (726 kilograms) of chemically created THC products made by a single licensed marijuana company, Unicorn Brands. The board went on to ban them from the regulated market. Advertisement For David Postman, the boards chairman, THC made from hemp represents an industrialization of the cannabis industry that he isnt sure voters wanted when they passed Washingtons legal marijuana law, which was billed as a harm-reduction measure. The LCB and the majority of the cannabis industry do not think the legal market should include mind-impairing, lab-created THC, Postman said. Allowing synthetically derived THC in the states legal cannabis market could devastate the industry. Vicki Christophersen, a lobbyist for the industry group Washington CannaBusiness Association, argues that the boards approach is stifling innovation in ways that will make it tough for Washington to compete nationally, should the federal ban on marijuana ever be lifted. The collaborations that occur between the hemp industry and the adult-use cannabis industry are not only inevitable, but theyre important, she said. We need to look at what is going to advance Washingtons industry alongside all the other competitor states that are advancing at a much higher speed than we are. The Chinese foreign minister arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held wide-ranging talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. Ahead of the talks, Jaishankar tweeted, "Greeted Chinese FM Wang Yi at Hyderabad House. Our discussions commence shortly." It was the first public comment by India on Wang's visit. The Chinese foreign minister arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening in the highest-level visit between the two countries after the ties came under severe strain following the military standoff in eastern Ladakh that began nearly two years ago. Its not classically conventional and is veering towards combinations: hybrid, conventional and grey zone, all rolled in one The eyeballs are all concentrated on the missiles, rockets and shells landing on Ukraines cities. Tanks continue to remain lined up away from those cities and Russian infantrymen are so far desisting from approaching the major built-up areas to assault and capture them. This war, launched by President Vladimir Putin a month ago, on February 24, is proving to be quite different. Its not classically conventional and is veering towards combinations: hybrid, conventional and grey zone, all rolled in one. There are a couple of domains which appear to be characterising the war, now that its seen to be going beyond the conventional mode. The Russians, beset with demographic problems which prevent them from accepting too many fatal casualties, are looking at the employment of foreign fighters or simply paid fighters to overcome this problem. A figure of 18,000 Syrian fighters was recently mentioned; probably a quid pro quo for Russias assistance from 2015 till the defeat of ISIS. In addition, there are Chechen fighters who are not regulars in the Russian Army. These elements bring shades of disorder in what would have been conventional operations with military order of battle. The fighting norms are also different in the context of the ratios of troops employed, while ruthlessness is also of a higher order. Humanitarian considerations are much lower in priority as the rules of war-fighting seldom apply. The longer this war prolongs, the more the reliance on such elements will increase. On Ukraines side, there are reports that US contractual elements have been training the army and a constant supply of anti-tank weapons and shoulder-fired Stinger anti-aircraft missiles have been making their way to the arena for fairly long; with the success gained by small teams using them effectively at the periphery of urban areas, and many more missiles are said to be in the pipeline. These personnel may not fit the classic definition of mercenaries but they are deeply involved in training, organising, maintenance of equipment and even logistics; and interior lines available to the Ukrainians are being fully exploited. Electronic intelligence gathered by these elements with sophisticated equipment has probably helped in homing fire on to command locations of Russian formation commanders; six of whom have reportedly been killed. Companies like Mosaic and Blackwater are known for their capability in organising resistance, evacuating people from battle zones, with other tasks ranging from armed missions such as convoy protection to feeding and housing troops at military bases. Much of the success being achieved in Ukraines fierce resistance and ability to counter the Russian troops ground movement has been ascribed to the organisation and leadership brought to the ground by these elements. So, if the war prolongs with Vladimir Putin unable to gracefully accept the inability of the Russian Army to make headway, it could well turn out to be a war between irregulars. A taste of this existed in Bosnia over 25 years ago. A proxy war with a relatively unique model is likely to emerge, with the potential of this going fairly out of control, with unpredictable consequences. With relatively low levels of control over the irregular elements, especially if some Middle East extremist groups sneak into the conflict zone, it will be difficult to prevent the flow of these into Europe. Post-conflict turbulence is almost certainly guaranteed. We are also witnessing a high-profile information war blitz by Nato to help Ukraine. Eyeballs across the world are being captured by narratives put on the print and electronic media, that is then further spread via the social media. With special emphasis on humanitarian issues involving displacement of populations, destruction of homes, maternity hospitals under attack and a constant motivational barrage by Ukraines leaders to resist and not give in, the information domain is being successfully pursued by Nato and Ukraine. Unfortunately, little efforts have been shown or any urging projected to put an end to hostilities; the peace cause at present is relatively far behind in priority, with resistance and strikes being the priority. With 142 nations at the UN backing Ukraine and condemning Russias invasion, the information domain clearly lies in favour of Nato. Their intent of targeting Russias military and civil population through the social media may not have yet penetrated, but sooner than later technologies will probably facilitate the piercing of the iron curtain that has been created once again by Russia to promote opaqueness. Russia has imposed a ban on Facebook and Instagram. It does not have equivalent instruments which can carry its messages internationally. More Russians are now using virtual private networks, or VPNs, to get around governmental restrictions on the social media. The demand for VPNs in Russia was much higher on March 14 than before the fighting began. Over 15,000 Russian protesters have been arrested in the past three weeks as new laws have criminalised public statements about Ukraine that do not align with the Kremlin's official view of what it calls the "special military operation. How far and fast can Nato and the Ukrainian information war reach the Russian public, especially with the main tools absent, will also contribute to the pressure which will be generated internally on the Russian leadership. Theoretically Russia, as one of the worlds most militarised powers, should face no problems regarding reserves of munitions. However, the organisation for the delivery of this and other logistics appears to be reasonably inefficient. The wars prolongation will see the employment of Special Forces by both sides to reduce each others war-fighting stamina. Ukraine has lost a fair quantum of reserves but the supply chain is open as weapons and equipment are pumped in through the bordering Nato countries. Russia has so far concentrated only on the blockade from the Black Sea, while the western routes are all open. Focusing on these to prevent the ingress of wherewithal will adversely affect efforts around cities, although Russia could comfortably employ its Air Force and leave the neutralising of the cities to gun, missile and rocket units. It may not wish to up the ante any more than what already exists. Finally, political and military objectives at such a stage get obfuscated and need to be reworked from the original. Russia may seek a face-saver through the eventual capture of one or two cities, retain full control over entire Donbass and execute the Black Sea blockade more rigorously. Regime change may no longer remain an objective. None of this may, however, achieve conflict termination; a proxy war for some time seems to be almost guaranteed. by Steve Suwannarat Plan includes creating production capacity for six million cubic metres per year of commercial timber. The objective is to develop the local economy while limiting illegal deforestation. The countrys natural forest lost 4 per cent in a decade. The pandemic has provided an opportunity for environmental revitalisation. Kuala Lumpur (AsiaNews) The governments plan to reforest 400,000 hectares in Sabah, one of two Malaysian states (the other is Sarawak) on the island of Borneo, has begun. The Action Plan on Forest Plantation Development 2022-2036 by the Sabah Forestry Department includes reaching a production capacity of six million cubic metres per year of commercial timber. Last Monday, World Forestry Day, local authorities laid out their goals: developing the local economy through sustainable environmental management and limiting illegal deforestation and its negative repercussions. The government is aware that deforestation has intensified in the past few years, degrading the environment, as evinced by data collected by Global Forest Watch, which monitors global forests in near real-time. In 2010, Malaysia had 20.3 million hectares of natural forest, covering about 87 per cent of its land area. Ten years later, the percentage was down to 83 per cent, a net loss. Amid political divisions with parties vying for voters support, many official plans to manage the situation have been adopted and several are still being implemented. One, the National Greening Campaign, aims at planting 100 million trees in one year, and Sabah is a model for the excellent results achieved so far. Despite the challenges, two years of pandemic have also witnessed various reforestation projects start up again in Malaysian Borneo. One is the Regrow Borneo in Sabah along the lower Kinabatangan River, Malaysias second longest river. Started in 2020, the community-based project stands out not only for tree planting, but also for the search of the most suitable species to reconstitute the forest and riverine environment with ethical, transparent, and research-led methods. In an area largely converted to farming, the presence of endemic plants and animal species is still significant. The goal is to reconcile human activities and the original environment. Today's headlines: China's foreign minister meets his Indian counterpart; a Vietnamese man attempts crossing to India in rubber dingy to join wife; in Ukraine an Uzbek restaurateur offers free meals to fighters; Asean envoy says the situation in Myanmar will not be resolved soon; in Lebanon Christian politician Samir Geagea is accused of violence. CHINA - SOLOMON ISLANDS Australia fears that China may conclude a security agreement with the Solomon Islands: according to drafts leaked to news agencies, Beijing would like to establish a military base on the archipelago, about 2,000 km from Canberra. The Solomon Islands government has since confirmed the news. INDIA - CHINA Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is to hold a surprise meeting with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar today, before flying to Nepal. Relations between India and China had cooled after clashes along the border in June 2020. Delhi and Beijing have maintained similar positions towards Russia after the Ukrainian invasion. THAILAND A Vietnamese man who tried to row a rubber dinghy to India was rescued yesterday by the Thai navy near the Similan Islands. Ho Hoang Hung, 37, was trying to cross the Bay of Bengal to join his wife who works in India. He says they had not seen each other for two years because of the pandemic. When he arrived in Bangkok he found out he needed a visa for India, so he decided to try to row more than 2,000 kilometres. MYANMAR Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said yesterday that Myanmar's civil war would take a long time to resolve because "the parties involved were not ready to cooperate and still insist on fighting and eliminating each other". In a three-day visit as Asean envoy Sokhon met Burmese generals but was not allowed to meet the country's former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. SOUTH KOREA Yesterday Park Geun-hye, South Korea's former president and daughter of former dictator Park Chung-hee, left the hospital where she was admitted and returned home after nearly five years in prison. Park, 70, had been accused of corruption in 2017 and was forced to leave office. LEBANON A military court charged Christian politician Samir Geagea with causing the violent clashes in Beirut last October. Geagea, a strong critic of Hezbollah, claims the charges are politically motivated. Lebanon's presidential elections are two months away. RUSSIA - UKRAINE The Russian armed forces that partially occupy the city of Mariupol are forcibly deporting thousands of Ukrainian citizens to Russian territory, according to the city council, which estimates that over 15,000 inhabitants have already been taken away by bus. UKRAINE The Uzbek cook Shakhobiddin Jusipov, who has been in Kharkiv for 25 years, where he opened the Asian cuisine restaurant "Nawruz", is becoming a local hero: known to everyone as "Shak", he has been offering free hot meals to Ukrainian doctors and fighters for days. The restaurant building has miraculously remained standing, even though it is under fire from the Russians. The Apostolic Vicar Msgr Hinder will ordain Fr Dickson Eugene, who grew up in Oman, for the Salesian province of Bangalore . Two confirmations in two different parishes in the capital and a meeting of all the priests of the sultanate are also planned for the weekend. The nation has a very large Muslim majority, but there is freedom of worship. The role of Mascate in the liberation of Fr Tom. Mascate (AsiaNews) - It is a day of celebration for the Catholics of the Sultanate of Oman, a community of about 60,000 faithful, equal to 2% of the total of a population with a large Muslim majority, part of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia. Today at 3pm (capital time) the vicar Msgr Paul Hinder will celebrate the first priestly ordination in the history of the local Church: Fr Dickson Eugene, who will receive the sacrament in the parish of Saints Peter and Paul during a service broadcast live on social networks (click here for the video) to allow the participation of the entire community. Fr. Eugene belongs to the Salesian province of Bangalore, India, but grew up in Oman where he has spent most of his life. The days of festivities, celebrations and meetings for the local Church will continue throughout the weekend. Tomorrow, the Apostolic Vicar will celebrate confirmations at two different times: in the morning in the church of Ruwi and in the afternoon in the parish of Ghala, both within the territory of the capital Mascate. Finally, on 27 March, Bishop Hinder will meet with all the priests working in Oman to take stock of the local Catholic situation and the future challenges of the mission in the country. The Catholic Church in the Sultanate is largely made up of immigrant workers, especially from South and South-East Asia. It is part of the Southern Vicariate, which also includes Yemen and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), whose headquarters are in Abu Dhabi. At the moment, the territory is divided into five parishes: the Church of St Anthony of Padua in Sohar; the Church of the Most Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Ruwi; the Church of the Holy Spirit in Ghala; the Church of St Francis Xavier in Salalah; and the Church of Mar Thoma. Christians are a small minority in a strongly Islamic context, but the authorities tolerate freedom of worship and there is general respect for religious freedom. The faithful can gather for worship, run schools, events and celebrations. In the past, the Sultan has donated land and contributed to the building of churches and places of prayer, even giving an organ to the church in Mascate. In the past, the contribution of the local leadership was fundamental in obtaining the release of Fr Tom Uzhunnalil, the Indian Salesian kidnapped in Yemen in March 2016 by a jihadist commando in Aden, who had also killed four nuns and 12 other people, including guests of the centre for the elderly. Oman played a decisive role in his release and in the days following his release, the Holy See applauded and thanked him. In the Vatican Basilica before Our Lady of Fatima, the pontiff performs the act of consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary amid a "cruel and senseless" conflict. This was preceded by a penitential liturgy because we have forgotten the lesson of the tragedies of the last century and only God's forgiveness can change our hearts and the world. Entrusting oneself to the Mother is not a magical act but it is like children who turn to their Mother when they are frightened. Vatican City (AsiaNews) This evening, Pope Francis consecrated in St Peters Basilica all humanity especially Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, amid the brutal war in the heart of Europe. For the occasion, the pontiff wrote a prayer lamenting that We [have] opened our hearts to violence and destructiveness. The plea goes on to say: Star of the Sea, do not let us be shipwrecked in the tempest of war. Ark of the New Covenant, inspire projects and paths of reconciliation. Queen of Heaven, restore Gods peace to the world. Eliminate hatred and the thirst for revenge, and teach us forgiveness. Free us from war, protect our world from the menace of nuclear weapons. The act of entrustment took place in front of the statue of the Virgin of Fatima venerated at her shrine in San Vittorino, just outside Rome, brought for the occasion to the Vatican Basilica. The same act was performed simultaneously by the papal almoner, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, on the popes behalf, at the site of Marys apparitions in Portugal, as well as by the bishops in the dioceses of the world. It is no coincidence that it was preceded by a penitential liturgy that Francis wished for the Marian solemnity of the Annunciation because We have forgotten the lesson learned from the tragedies of the last century, the sacrifice of the millions who fell in two world wars. [. . .] Now with shame we cry out: Forgive us, Lord! Pope Francis himself approached the sacrament of reconciliation in a confessional placed at the altar of St Basil the Great, in the Vatican Basilica, where he later personally confessed some of the faithful. "Too often, we think that confession consists in our going to God with our heads bowed, he said a little earlier in the homily. But it is not primarily we who return to the Lord, but it is he who comes to visit us, to fill us with his grace, to cheer us up with his joy. To confess is to give the Father the joy of raise us again. It is with this gaze that the pope urges us to look also at the tragedy of war. These days, news and images of death continue to enter our homes, while bombs destroy the homes of so many of our helpless Ukrainian brothers and sisters. This brutal war, which has befallen so many and makes everyone suffer, causes fear and dismay in everyone. Inside we feel a sense of helplessness and inadequacy. Like Mary in the Annunciation, we need to be told fear not. But human reassurances are not enough, we need the presence of God, the certainty of divine forgiveness, the only one that erases evil, defuses resentment, [and] restores peace to the heart. Let us return to God, to his forgiveness. By ourselves, we cannot solve the contradictions of history or even those of our hearts. We need Gods wise and gentle strength, for he is the Holy Spirit. We need the Spirit of love that dissolves hatred, quenches resentment, extinguishes greed, [and] awakens us from indifference. For Francis, we often forget to ask God what is most important and what He wishes to give us: the Holy Spirit, the strength to love. Without love, in fact, what will we offer to the world? Someone said that a Christian without love is like a needle that does not sew: it stings, it hurts, but if it does not sew, if it does not weave, if it does not unite, it is useless. I dare say: he is not a Christian. For this reason, it is necessary to draw the power of love from Gods forgiveness, the same Spirit that descended upon Mary. Because, if we want the world to change, our hearts must change first of all. This leads to the choice of "bringing to the Immaculate Heart of Mary all that we are experiencing: to renew the consecration of the Church to her and of all humanity and to consecrate to her, in a special way, the Ukrainian people and the Russian people, who with filial affection venerate her as Mother. This is a spiritual, not a magic act, Pope Francis said. It is the act of fully entrusting children who, in the tribulation of this cruel and senseless war that threatens the world, turn to their Mother, as children do when they are frightened. They do this by thrusting fear and pain in her Heart, by handing themselves over to her. It means placing in that clear, uncontaminated Heart, where God is reflected, the precious goods of fraternity and peace all that we have and are, so that she, the Mother whom the Lord has given us, can protect us and keep us safe. May it be done to me according to your word, Mary told the Angel. After saying yes, the Mother of God undertook a long journey into the hill country to visit her pregnant cousin (cf. Lk 1:39). May she take our journey by hand today, guide it through the steep and tiring byways of fraternity and dialogue, on the path of peace. by Melani Manel Perera The Young Men's Christian Association and other civil society organisations are calling on the government to fulfil its commitments on inclusion. Colombo has not yet incorporated the UN Charter on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities into its legislation. Colombo (AsiaNews) - Disabled people in Sri Lanka are among the most vulnerable and marginalised sectors of the population, with little attention from the government or society. This is why the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), together with seven organisations of people with disabilities and other civil society groups, organised a national summit entitled "Inclusion of Disability". The event was held from 18 to 20 March in Negombo, to undertake joint actions and awareness programmes to combat misconceptions about people with disabilities. From the summit, there was a strong demand to implement laws and bills, passed but not implemented, for people with disabilities. "During the last presidential election, the only demand made by persons with disabilities to the present President Rajapaksha was to adopt the UN Charter for Persons with Disabilities in Sri Lanka as well. But so far they have not received any response from the President," says Geetha Lakmini. This is one of the reasons why since 2017 the Pamunugama Young Christian Association has endeavoured to work closely with the disabled communities in Sri Lanka, for example by providing education to 15 children with disabilities. Lakmini continues,"the number of disabled people, are increasing every year, but they receive no help from the government." In Sri Lanka, the last census on people with disabilities was conducted in 2011 and reported 8.5 per cent of the population as disabled. Today the figure is expected to have risen to 10-12%, with more than 2.4 million people with disabilities. Mohammad Yeish, chairman of the Self Help Group for Persons with Disabilities of the Matara Dickwella division secretariat, also confirms the urgent need for a database. Yeish, who is in a wheelchair due to an accident, added: "Being here was an opportunity to meet and build a good relationship between people with disabilities. "Their disability is not an obstacle to life," concluded Neesha Sharif, president of Kandy-based disability organisation We for Rights. "However, society should change its attitude towards them and listen to their voices in order to implement policy decisions aimed at them." Chen Ming-tong dismissed the claim, allegedly from Russias security services, as cognitive warfare against Taiwan. Xi Jinping wants stability before the 20th Congress of the Communist Party. About 90 per cent of Taiwanese reject Chinese efforts at reunification. Taipei (AsiaNews) Chen Ming-tong, director general of Taiwans National Security Bureau (NSB), told the countrys parliament yesterday that it is highly unlikely" that China would attempt to invade the island in the fall. This followed reports by Vladimir Osechkin, head of the human rights project gulagu.net, that Chinese President Xi Jinping planned to invade the island next autumn, but that the Russian aggression of Ukraine, and the difficulties encountered by Moscow on the battlefield, seemingly persuaded him not to go ahead with the move. To back his claims, Osechkin published a document he says he got from a whistleblower in Russias Federal Security Service (FSB). According to Chen though, the so-called Russian document is part of Chinas "cognitive warfare against Taiwan, but he did not say whether it came from Russia or China. The NSB chief noted that that Xi wants stability on the eve of the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of China in order to ensure his re-election to a third, historic term of office. Chen does not even believe that Beijing wants to adopt a "reunification law with a deadline to seize the island since it would put too much pressure on Chinas leadership, severely raising tensions between the two sides. A 2005 law provides Chinese leaders with the legal basis for military action against Taiwan should the islands government declare independence or be about to do so. China considers Taiwan a "rebel province", and has never ruled out taking it by force. Taiwan has been de facto independent from the mainland since 1949 when Chiang Kai-shek's nationalist forces found refuge on the island after losing the civil war against the communists, and formally retaining the name of Republic of China, which was founded in 1912. In Taiwan, a poll conducted by Chengchi Universitys Election Study Center found that most Taiwanese are against Chinese efforts at reunification. Conducted on behalf of Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), the survey found that almost 90 per cent of respondents reject Beijing's repeated claims that Taiwan is part of China. About 88.6 per cent support Tsai Ing-wen's government in its quest for closer cooperation with other democracies to safeguard peace along the Taiwan Strait. One of the latter, Lithuania, plans to open a representative office on the island by mid-year. This follows the opening of Taiwans diplomatic mission in Vilnius last year using the name Taiwanese, which saw China retaliate by boycotting Lithuanian trade. In January, the European Union filed a complaint against Beijing's coercive policy against the Baltic country to the World Trade Organisation. Finally, more than 80 per cent of the Taiwanese polled believe that relations between Taiwan and China should be decided by Taiwans 23 million people. Madeleine Albright speaks at the Aspen Institutes McCloskey Speaker Series on Fascism: Its History and Signs of a Modern Resurgence in 2018. The Institute spoke about remembering Albright on Thursday. Virginia Beach police block several streets near the Oceanfront early on March 27, 2021 the morning after a spate of violence left two dead and eight injured. One of the fatalities remains unsolved. (Stephen M. Katz/The Virginian-Pilot) Virginia Beach Raw with emotions and eager for solutions, community leaders, business owners and others gathered a year ago at the Oceanfront. It was the day after two people died and eight others were wounded in a spate of shootings that created pandemonium in the resort area. What happened last night does not define who we are, community activist Jaketa Thompson, who helped organize the impromptu event, told the crowd. If we could all come together and start the conversations together as one community we could really make a difference. Advertisement In the year since that chaotic night, some measures have been taken to make the beach safer, including more police surveillance cameras and better lighting at the Oceanfront. But the work to prevent violence from erupting again remains an ongoing challenge for the city. And Virginia Beach is not alone. Cities across the country are experiencing an uptick in shootings and face the same issue getting to the root the problem. Advertisement Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer will join mayors and police chiefs from across Hampton Roads next Friday to address recent shootings across the region. Dyer also is assembling members of a Virginia Beach youth gun violence task force that will focus on early intervention. Weve been taking this very seriously, Dyer said. Its not a local crisis, its a national crisis, but we have to deal with it locally. No one expected the first warm spring Friday night last year March 26 would spiral out of control. Atlantic Avenue was packed with people when three unrelated shootings erupted just blocks from each other. About 11:20 p.m., police responded to the first shooting at Atlantic Avenue and 20th Street. Investigators believe a group of people got into an argument that escalated into a gunfight. Eight people were shot. Soon after, more gunshots rang out a couple blocks away, where DeShayla Harris, 28, an innocent bystander, was shot and killed. Police Officer Solomon Simmons, responding to the gunfire, shot and killed Donovon Lynch, 25, near 20th Street. Simmons claimed Lynch was brandishing a firearm. In an interview hours after the shootings, Police Chief Paul Neudigate described it as a very chaotic night. [ 2 killed one by police and 8 others shot in night of chaos at Virginia Beach Oceanfront ] Authorities charged several people in connection to the initial gunfight on Atlantic Avenue, but no one has been charged in Harris homicide. A special grand jury deemed that Simmons acted in self-defense when he shot Lynch. Advertisement Musician Pharrell Williams, a cousin of Lynch, chastised the citys handling of Lynchs death and pulled his wildly popular Something in the Water Festival out of Virginia Beach. Then, two events that could have a significant impact on policing in Virginia Beach came in November. The Virginia Beach City Council unanimously approved forming a new board that will have investigative powers while independently reviewing complaints against police officers. Some community members, particularly minorities, have been asking the city for years to create a board with the power to investigate allegations of police misconduct. The idea is to build better relationships and trust between the police department and the community, the mayor said this week. And the special grand jurys report, released that month, put forth several recommendations for the police department. Advertisement One was that police body cameras are recording the entire time that officers are on duty. Donovon Lynch, left and Deshayla Harris. (Courtesy images) Shortly after the shooting, the Virginia Beach Police Department had begun using new holsters that would automatically turn on body worn cameras when officers removed their guns. But the department had to halt their use due to a potential defect. The department now requires officers to activate the record function on their body cameras as soon as they are en route to a call, rather than when they arrive. Another recommendation in the report was testing officers for alcohol and drugs immediately following a police shooting. There was an allegation that the officer who shot Lynch had been drinking alcohol while on duty, but it was not substantiated, according to the grand jury report. The department has not yet adopted this recommendation; a police spokesperson said the agency is researching other departments practices on the topic. Its spring again, and Atlantic Avenue is filling up on warm weekends. Twenty-two new police surveillance cameras keep watch. Advertisement New street lights have been added. The city cut down the overgrown foliage around the 19th Street public parking, increasing visibility. Police opened a new substation in the heart of the resort strip. And new gunshot detection technology is being used to identify when and where shots are fired. But it takes more than police action to make a community feel safe again. When Thompson, an Oceanfront resident, left the impromptu gathering the day after the shootings last year, she was still reeling. Breaking News As it happens Get updates on the coronavirus pandemic and other news as it happens with our free breaking news email alerts. > I felt a sense of sadness for our community that we were going through that, she said. But instead of hiding from the problem, she became even more involved by participating in several new events. Interacting in a positive way improved her outlook. Its seems like the community is really coming together, Thompson said. I feel like were in a better place. Advertisement A crowd gathers at a vigil held for Donovon Lynch on Tuesday night, March 30, 2021, at the Oceanfront. (Jonathon Gruenke/The Virginian-Pilot ) Still, more work needs to be done, said Mark Stevens. He owns an Oceanfront business and runs a local outreach organization for homeless youth. Stevens recently met with several groups concerned about gun violence. They want to start educating young people before its too late. Weve got to be able to make them understand that this is not a way to solve our problems, Stevens said. I know we have to do a better job. Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com Stay up to date on COVID-19 Get Breaking News Sign up now to get our FREE breaking news coverage delivered right to your inbox. Rich Flowers/staff A new prosecutor has been requested from the Texas Attorney General's Office in the case of former Athens ISD bus driver John Stevens, who was involved in fatal crash in 2019. Texas A&M Forest Service photo Donations of hay, feed and fencing supplies are needed to support those impacted by the devastating Eastland Complex wildfires that have already burned more than 45,000 acres in Texas. Share This: In February, the Felicity Ace, a cargo ship on its way from Germany to the U.S., caught fire before sinking March 1. It also took around 4,000 VW Group cars with it to the bottom of the ocean. Lamborghini had to restart Aventador production to replace the 15 cars it lost on the ship, and now Porsche has announced it plans to replace the more than 1,000 vehicles it lost too, according to a new Autocar report. Porsche CEO Oliver Blume relayed the news to reporters during the company's annual results call. Blume said it is "up to us" to replace the vehicles, which won't be an easy task as the brand faces significant supply chain issues and semiconductor shortages like the rest of the auto industry. Neither situation will help Porsche, though the company is hopeful. Blume added Porsche is "used to working with challenges over the last two years." Blume didn't provide a timeline for when customers would receive their replacement vehicles, nor did Blume specify the models lost. We know Lamborghini lost 15 Aventador Ultimae models, though the cargo ship was also transporting Urus SUVs and Huracan supercars. Lamborghini lost 85 vehicles in the incident. VW Group dealers began notifying affected customers in February, with estimates suggesting the lost cars were worth more than $401 million. Bentley, Audi and VW also lost vehicles on the ship. Audi has already announced it will... FINN, Europe's fastest-growing car subscription platform, announced March 24 it will expand its offering to Western Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Washington D.C., following its initial launch in the U.S. in December. The company initially launched in Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey at the end of 2021, and will continue its expansion to additional markets throughout 2022. FINN is transforming the new vehicle experience through its innovative subscription model, making it fun, sustainable and convenient to change vehicles every six or 12 months. Further, FINN uniquely provides customers the ability to subscribe to a broad selection of new cars with no hidden fees---the price online includes insurance, maintenance, roadside assistance and various term options. Through FINN's car subscription service, customers will have access to different car brands including but not limited to Tesla, Jeep, Chevrolet and Nissan. "Just months after FINN launched in the United States, we are experiencing significant demand for our services and are excited to bring our offerings to more Americans seeking freedom to choose a vehicle that fits their changing lifestyle," said Max-Josef Meier, CEO and founder of FINN. "We developed FINN as a way to bring the ease of online shopping to the car industry and we are committed to providing the most convenient new car experience for our users; this expansion will help do just that." Using FINN's easy-to-use website or its iOS- and Android-compatible apps, customers can filter, browse and order their preferred make and model---all in a matter of minutes. Users can expect to receive their vehicles within 72 hours and delivery is free of charge for all subscriptions. FINN's U.S. expansion comes on the heels of a successful year in Germany, as the mobility platform reached 10,000 subscriptions. Source: FINN This is the case with this gold-plated Harley that just got seized by the New South Wales Police in Australia, in a drug bust. Its gold-plated and its fully custom, and its estimated at more than AU$2 million, which is roughly US$1.5 million at the current exchange rate. A close call to snatching the crown from the Bucherer Blue Edition.Before we proceed, the Blue Edition was covered in an older coverstory, available at the link . Based on a 2017 Softail Slim S, it was introduced to the public in 2018 in Zurich and was a collaboration between Swiss jeweler and watchmaker Carl Bucherer, custom bike shop Bundnerbike, and Harley-Davidson . To this day, it remains one of the most excessive and pointless exercises in luxury custom work.But this one could have come close too, if that police estimate is accurate. Not much is known about this Harley, except for the fact that its plated in gold, that it was done on commission by Sinistar Customs in Australia, for a client that posed as a successful jeweler. That client is Jean Wimmer of Flawless Jewellery, a man who, according to the police, was actually running a $5 million drug trafficking operation out of his home outside of Sydney.The bike is now in police custody, along with three other expensive vehicles, a Lamborghini and three Ferraris, including the 488 Pista Wimmer would occasionally show off on social media. The gold-plated Harley also made an appearance there in November last year, shortly after he took delivery of it. Reports say he planned on offering it as a rental for weddings a move that is understandable in retrospect: youd want to recoup some of the money you paid for it, and wedding rentals seem like the only way in which you could do it.Right now, Wimmer is looking at serious charges and serious time behind bars, if hes found guilty of them. Police will be holding on to the four vehicles for a while longer and, depending on the outcome of the trial, they might be auctioned off which means one of the worlds most expensive Harleys could go home with a new owner, on the cheap. Pandora Harrington, right, cries as she holds a sign with an image of Jason Walker during a demonstration in front of the Fayetteville Police Department on Jan. 9, 2022. (Andrew Craft/The Fayetteville Observer/AP) FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. A Black pedestrian fatally shot by an off-duty sheriffs deputy earlier this year was hit four times during the altercation in a busy North Carolina street, according to an autopsy released Thursday. The autopsy released by North Carolinas Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said that 37-year-old Jason Walker had wounds to his head, chest, back and thigh in the Jan. 8 shooting in Fayetteville. Advertisement The cause of death is listed as multiple gunshot wounds, the report said. The report noted that no alcohol or illegal drugs were found in his system. Advertisement Two witnesses recorded on police body camera video, including one who identified himself as Walkers father, told officers that Walker, who was on foot, jumped onto the hood of the vehicle driven by the off-duty deputy. Walkers father also told officers that his son ripped off one of the trucks windshield wipers. The videos do not show the shooting or what led up to it. The off-duty deputy, Cumberland County Sheriffs Lt. Jeffrey Hash, who is white, told officers that he was driving down the road in Fayetteville when Walker ran into the street, and he stopped, according to the previously released video. Hash told a 911 operator that Walker broke his windshield. Accompanying the autopsy was an report on the circumstances of death compiled by a medical examiner who came to the scene. The report, also released Thursday, said that Walker charged at Hash after he got out of his truck to ask him why he ripped the wipers off. The shooting prompted protests by demonstrators who questioned authorities account of what happened. Daywatch Weekdays Start your morning with today's local news > An attorney for Walkers family, Ben Crump, has previously said a disagreement between a pedestrian and a sworn officer, whos trained to deescalate situations, shouldnt result in use of deadly force. On Thursday, Crump issued a statement saying that the autopsy confirms that Walker was killed unjustly. A trained law enforcement officer knows that shooting someone that many times and in those parts of the body is shooting to kill. Jason should still be alive today, Crump said. The State Bureau of Investigation has been looking into the shooting, as is routine in cases involving officers. Advertisement Attorney Parrish H. Daughtry, who is representing Hash, noted that the autopsy report cannot say which shots came first or which injuries were most severe. North Carolina law provides complete immunity in situations where a person is acting in self-defense, Daughtry said. I can say that this investigation very much involves those claims, Daughtry said. SUV We are, of course, talking about the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, which is still one of the fastest SUVs in the world, thanks to its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 unit. Its the exact same engine youd find in a Challenger SRT Hellcat or a Charger SRT Hellcat.This particular Hellcat-badged Durango is currently up for grabs through Bring a Trailer with just 34 miles (54 km) on the clock. In other words, its brand new and it will cost you a pretty penny to secure.Lets go over the specs, starting with the Vice White exterior, which also happens to feature Redline Black and Red racing stripes. Thealso boasts the Black Package, which adds Eclipse Black exhaust finishers, gloss black-finished mirror covers, and gray metallic badging.Further exterior highlights include the vented hood, a power sunroof, power liftgate, front and rear spoilers, tinted windows, plus a set of black-finished 20-inch wheels, wrapped in 295/45 Pirelli P Zero tires. In terms of stopping power, youll rely on a set of Brembo calipers with two-piece rotors up front.Inside, you get power-adjustable front seats, which are also heated and ventilated and are trimmed in Demonic Red. Then theres the suede headliner, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, wireless charging pad for your smartphone, dual-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, carbon fiber accents, red seat belts and the carmakers Uconnect 5 sat-nav system with a 10.1-inch display.As for that HEMI V8 , it is factory rated at 710 hp (720 ps) and 645 lb-ft (874 Nm) of torque, with everything going to all four wheels courtesy of an eight-speed automatic gearbox. A group that shattered color barriers and showcased to the American people how ferociously they could fight when its citizens put their preconceived biases aside. Many amongst their ranks have since sadly departed from this Earthly plane. But rest assured, the story of the Tuskegee Airmen will outlive the pilots themselves and any of us landlocked civilians who admire them.In their honor, let's take a deep dive into a squadron of African American pilots who absolutely bodied the German Luftwaffe . But also the Jim Crow laws that so often ill-treated them. That's how amazing at their jobs they were.Remember, the U.S. entered the Second World War less than a century after a bloody Civil War. A conflict that killed over half a million American soldiers. The self-determination of the enslaved African American population was a cornerstone of this war, as we all know.But by the time of the early 1940s, the after-effects of 1865 were still felt all over the union. Blatantly discriminatory Jim Crow laws designed to subjugate the descendants of freed slaves wouldn't stop an extraordinary group of men from contributing an absolutely breathtaking story to World War II. A conflict so often devoid of conventional humanity.Before 1941, no African American man or woman had ever been selected for service in the United States Army Air Corps, the forbearer to the modern U.S. Air Force. An African American man, Eugene Jacques Bullard, did serve with the French Army Air Service for a brief period in the summer of 1917. But as for piloting genuine American warbirds, such a thing was unheard of.As absurd and ham-fisted as we may perceive it today, the prevailing theory of the time was that African American soldiers were somehow inferior to the Caucasians, unable to handle the complexity of contemporary weaponry. Thus, most POC American draftees and soldiers were often relegated to mundane logistical deployments instead of active combat roles.Such an objectively false notion was even believed by Henry "Hap" Arnold, the famous Chief of the Army Air Corps at the time of the Tuskeegee Airmen's genesis. It wasn't until 1939 that President Franklin Roosevelt ordered the American Civilian Pilot Training Program to accept African American trainees into their ranks mandatorily.It's been said that pressure from the media and his own wife Eleanor swayed the four-term president's decision. Soon after, the program was expanded to the military side of things. The first racially integrated flight school opened in December 1940 in Tuskegee, Alabama.By April 1943, the first full squadron of African American fighter pilots, the 99th Fighter Squadron, received their first deployment orders to participate in combat in the European Theater of the Second World War, particularly in the Mediterranian.Over the skies of Italy and Romania, the 99th Fighter Squadron escorted hoards of 15th Air Force B-25 Mitchell bombers. All while piloting their iconic North American P-51 Mustangs and Republic P-47 Thunderbolts.Their valiant early service foreshadowed the mythical status the group was soon to obtain. By the time of D-Day in June 1944, as many as four different all-black fighter squadrons were operational, including the 99th.These squadrons would consolidate into what was known at that time as the 332nd Fighter Group. The first group of fighter pilots to be colloquially called the Tuskegee Airmen. It's an informal designation that's resonated far greater than just the 332nd.The aircraft of the 332nd were distinguishable by their painted red tails, a trait that's seen with their P-47s and P-51s, but also lesser flown aircraft in their ranks like the Curtis P-40 Warhawk and Bell P-39 Aerocobra.Just under a thousand men were trained at Tuskegee between 1941 and 1946. Just over 350 were deployed overseas, of which 84 were killed. 68 were believed to be killed in combat. All while shooting down a total of 112 enemy aircraft. Including Bf-109's Fw-190s, Romanian IAR-80s, and even a couple of Messerschmitt Me-262 jet fighters. Even so, the Tuskegee Airmen returned victoriously to the U.S. to find Jim Crow laws as strong as ever.It would be a further 20 years before the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s ended the practice of Jim Crow forever. Tuskegee Airmen alumn were among those marching with Martin Luthor King Jr on the streets of Washington D.C. during his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.Today, the memories of all who served in the 332nd fighter group have their legacy enshrined forever in museums across the country. But also in the naming of the modern Air Force's newest jet trainer, dubbed the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, in honor of iconic Red Tails of the Second World War.Check out this link to the Tuskegee Airmen's official bio page for the National Museum of the United States Air Force if you want to learn more about the individual men who trained at Tuskegee. The number of stories that the group could tell could fill several novels. FFI believes that green ammonia could be one of the solutions for a drastic cut of carbon emissions across the globe. Its so versatile that it can be used as fuel for ships and locomotives, as well as for generating electricity or for making fertilizers used in agriculture.Unlike the version thats obtained through a synthetic process that combines nitrogen with hydrogen , green ammonia is obtained with the help of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power.The Australian-based company is interested in a wide range of applications, including renewable electricity, and in addition to sustainable hydrogen and ammonia, its also producing green iron. One of its projects is focusing on the best way to decarbonize the Fortescue shipping fleet. As part of that, it recently purchased a 75-meter (246 feet) vessel called MMA Leveque from a company called MMA Offshore Limited.The $7.75 million ((A$10.46m) ship will be converted to dual-fuel, with the intention that it will operate almost entirely on green ammonia. This will be the first vessel to join FFIs range of prototype trucks, locomotives, and various types of mobile equipment, which are currently undergoing testing for green fuel operations. The company proudly introduced it on its social media platforms, asking followers to suggest a name for the new member of the Green Team.For now, FFI hasnt revealed additional information regarding the conversion process or the vessels future operations. But it wont be the first of its kind. Several big names in the shipping industry have launched The Nordic Green Ammonia Powered Ship (NoGAPS), a project that is designing and building an ammonia-powered vessel from scratch, scheduled to enter service by 2025. Willie Wilson, a self-made millionaire who has made repeated runs for local and national office, has been offering free gas to drivers showing up at 21 stations in the Chicago metro area. He gave away $50 worth of gasoline to anyone showing up at select gas stations until Wilsons tab reached $1 million. Even though Wilsons offer was pretty transparent, people were willing to spend hours for their turn at the pump.It's not the first time that Wilson used his money to buy people gasoline since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On March 17, Wilson conducted a smaller-scale giveaway with a cap of $200,000. Ten stations were involved at the time and, according to Yahoo News, the promotion led to gridlock, bad tempers, and resident concerns about the environmental cost of idling engines in their neighborhoods.To avoid issues, Wilson used a different tactic this time, involving volunteers to hand out numbered stickers to waiting drivers. Policemen were also present throughout the city to help direct traffic and keep the streets from clogging up. Although the Police cautioned drivers not to form lines before 7 am, some circled the stations as early as 2:50. Some even ran out of gas while waiting in line to fill up.Ran around, ran around, beating the lines, and we ran out of gas, one of the drivers told ABC7 News . Police officers helped her push the car to the pump and she was even rewarded by Wilson with more gas and some cash.Wilson has run for mayor of Chicago, the U.S. Senate, and even president of the United States. According to Yahoo News , he has opened his wallet before, including to post bail for people at Cook County Jail and to donate money to homeowners to help them pay their property tax bills. The city faces another mayoral election in 2023 and it's likely that people will remember. The chip shortage is making it harder and harder to keep the production going, and General Motors claims the pickup truck plant will shut down for two weeks next month as it works on improving its current semiconductor inventory.The Fort Wayne plant, where GM builds the Chevrolet Silverado and the GMC Sierra, has 4,000 employees and works on three shifts per day.However, due to the tight chip inventory, General Motors says it will suspend the operations on the weeks of April 4 and 11. Its still not clear if the company plans to return to three shifts after the production is resumed.This isnt the first time General Motors has turned to temporary halts of its production to deal with the chip shortage, and theres a good chance it wont be the last either. However, the company is working on multiple fronts to remove the disruptions affecting its manufacturing operations.For example, the existing chip inventory has been mostly used for pickup trucks and SUVs, as the company tries to prioritize the models that bring home the bacon. But given the semiconductor crisis is far from coming to an end, such a strategy isnt always possible.Not a long time ago, General Motors also started selling vehicles without certain non-safety systems, all in an attempt to reduce the number of chips it installs on its models.And, of course, GM isnt the only carmaker turning to such decisions. Earlier this week, Ford too confirmed it would suspend the operations at some European facilities, not only because of the chip shortage but also to the component crisis caused by the war in Ukraine. Not exactly the same kind of build as the Pan , given how this new one is based on a much more modern Softail Slim with a 107ci Milwaukee-Eight in its frame, rather than on a decades-old engine seated inside a retro-looking build, but the Uncle Slim still is described by its maker as a very similar apparition, at least from some angles: "at first glance, you might think that Uncle Pan is coming around the corner here," they say.Now while that's debatable, Thunderbikes entire might has gone into making this one as well, and many of the types of parts used on the previous Uncle have been employed here as well.In all, the shop list about 20 custom bits and pieces as having been used for this one, amounting to a total of a little over 4,000 euros, which is roughly $4,400 at todays exchange rates. These bits range from small hardware, such as the grips, pegs, turn signals, and covers, to more visually impressive and even functional ones.Like most custom Harleys, this one too boasts a modified rear, with a swinging fender and saddle sitting over a wider, whitewall Metzeler tire, a perfect match to the one used up front.Wrapped in burgundy red with cream white sprayed here and there, the Uncle Slim sits closer to the ground thanks to shock lowering kit that drops it by 30 mm. Pairing that with the wider handlebar and forward-mounted footrest system, we get a very visually appealing ride.We are not being told if any changes have been made to the motorcycle's original engine, apart from it being fitted with a shortened Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde exhaust system, but knowing how these things usually go, it probably wasnt.The Uncle Slim is one of the most recent Thunderbike builds, having been shown last weekend. You can get a more comprehensive taste of it in the video attached below. SUV The Californian transportation company unveiled its second prototype back in January. It also announced that it managed to receive FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) Special Airworthiness Certification and US Air Force Airworthiness Approval for it. This second eVTOL will be put to service as part of Jobys Agility Prime contract with the US Air Force.Joby mentions that the aircraft has made 38 flights to date in support of the companys aircraft type certification program, reaching speeds of over 90 mph (144 kph). But after the last months accident involving Jobys first pre-production prototype (N542AJ), which crashed at the companys test base in Jolon, activities have been put on hold. Fortunately for everyone, the aircraft was remotely piloted and there were no victims reported, but the eVTOL was substantially damaged.The air taxi prototype has now resumed flight testing at Jobys pilot production facility in Marina, California, as the companys internal safety review board lifted the pause on flight testing.The experience of flying in Jobys air taxi is described by the manufacturer as getting into anrather than an airplane. Its aircraft has a capacity of five people (the pilot and four passengers), is 100 percent electric, and boasts a range of over 150 miles (240 km) on a single charge. The eVTOL can reach speeds of 200 mph (321 kph).Joby plans to launch commercial operations in 2024. Queen Elizabeth II started her reign in 1952 after her father, King George, passed away. Shortly after, she and late Prince Philip had to go on a tour of the Commonwealth, which included the Caribbeans.There, the newly-crowned British monarch rode in an open-top Land Rover for her visit in Jamaica.Back then, Land Rover supplied the first bespoke State Review car, and they drove in it for six months while they did the royal tour of the Commonwealth, traveling 44,000 mi (71,000 km).The vehicle had an elevated seat in the back so that the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh could be seen while they passed by the crowds.Fast forward almost seven decades later, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on their Caribbean tour, too. The royal couple got a chance to ride in the same vehicle the Queen did 69 years ago.Kate and William are on the sixth day of their journey and they attended their final engagement while riding in an open-top Land Rover.Its been well-documented that the Queens favorite brand is the Land Rover, and her favorite car is the Defender. Her first car as monarch was a Land Rover Series I, which she had received shortly prior to her accession to the throne. She learned to drive in 1945 as a member of the Auxiliary Territorial Service where she trained as a mechanic and military truck driver. But, by law, the British monarch is not required to have a drivers license.In recent years, when shes not traveling in her custom Bentley state limousine, her short drives are in a green Jaguar X-Type Estate As if the lack of chips wasnt already a problem that caused nightmares to car manufacturers across the globe, the war in Ukraine makes the struggle twice more awful, as it led to shortages of other components. Seat s CEO Wayne Griffiths confirmed both continue to be huge problems for the manufacturing operations of the company, though he anticipates the invasion of Ukraine to cause additional disruptions towards the end of the year unless the war comes to an end.Due to the shortages of chips and other parts, Seat has already adjusted or even suspended the production at some of its plants.The Martorell plant in Spain, which builds the Ibiza, the Leon, and the Cupra Formentor is no longer running at full speed due to the lack of components. Griffiths explained the Leon and the Formentor plug-in hybrids are mostly affected by the disruptions.The manufacturing of the Cupra Born in Germany has also been suspended, and so has the production of the Tarraco. In both cases, the war in Ukraine has been cited as the reason for the adjustments.Seat obviously isnt the only company struggling with this painful mix made of the semiconductor crisis and the impact of the war. Earlier this month, Ford too announced a series of changes for its plants in Europe, with the same two causes invoked by the company officials.While many expect the chip inventory to improve towards the end of the year, its hard to anticipate when the military invasion of Ukraine could be over. Seats CEO believes the component crisis caused by the war could become an even much bigger problem than the constrained chip inventory in the second half of the year, and this means the production of cars could continue to run at a slower pace for a longer period of time. The series of sanctions implemented in the aviation industry as a direct consequence of the current war in Ukraine is proving to have ripple effects that are hitting smaller companies or aircraft and vessels that arent directly targeted. CargoLogic, a small air cargo operator in Germany, is no longer allowed to fly in EU airspace.The airlines representatives told Air Cargo News that the German Federal Aviation Office informed them about this decision, adding that only emergency landings or flyovers would be allowed.The reason is that CargoLogic, as well as its UK-based sister CargoLogic Air, are subsidiaries of Cargo Logic Holding, owned by Alexey Isaykin. Isaykin is a Cypriot citizen but was born in Soviet Russia. He is the director of Volga-Dnepr UK and the president of the Volga-Dnepr Group, a major Russian air cargo operator.Despite Isaykins clear status that makes him a target for the EU sanctions, this German subsidiary insists that we are and remain a completely independent and German company. The airline says that its registered as a German company, that it pays taxes in this country, and that its managed by an independent German team.Currently, CargoLogics small fleet of four freighters is forbidden from flying, with the aircraft reportedly located at Budapest, Katowice (in Hungary), Helsinki, Vantaa (in Finland), and Ostrava Mosnov (in the Czech Republic). The companys aircraft are Boeing 747-400Fs, the all-cargo transport variant of the popular Boeing 747-400. They are longer than the passenger version, boasting a bigger payload (140 tons) and a longer range (8,000 nautical miles/9,200 miles/14,800 km).The German cargo airline also stated that its currently engaged in intensive talks with authorities, hoping to resume operations as soon as possible. ADAS EV This man decided to sue the company to get his money back after realizing that his car drove like a drunk novice driver when the software was active. He also claimed that the hardware in his Model 3 was not compatible with the(advanced driver-assistance system). Der Spiegel brought the case up but did not detail why this customers Tesla did not work as expected with the software. Our bet is that he received a Model 3 with HW 2.5 instead of HW 3.0. It is worth reminding you about this so that we are on the same page. Elon Musk pledged on April 22, 2019, that all Teslas made from that day on would have HW 3.0 , a new computer that would have the necessary computing power to achieve autonomous driving. Until that point, the EVs came with HW 2.5, a computer that Tesla had promised on October 19, 2016, would make all its cars become robotaxis.The problem is that multiple customers kept receiving cars with HW 2.5. In China, customers complained about that to consumer protection authorities, and Tesla was ordered to replace all the older computers in newer cars. In Canada, people were studying to sue Tesla to give them the HW 3.0 units Elon Musk said they would have.Teslas excuse to avoid that was that everyone that paid for FSD would get a computer replacement for free when the software was ready. Considering it never is and continues to be presented as beta software Tesla is virtually exempt from keeping its word. Luckily for this German customer, that does not apply in his country.The district court in Darmstadt heard from this Tesla client that his car was incapable of overtaking slower vehicles on highways. It also did not recognize traffic lights and stop signs. Being like a drunk novice driver, this German customer disputed that his car was anywhere near something with full potential for autonomous driving.Tesla tried to defend against these allegations with something that its customers already turned into an inside joke: the company said its ADAS was within spec and that it worked in accordance with regulations for autonomous driving currently applied in Germany. The Darmstadt court did not buy it.The Americanmaker was convicted not only of giving this customer his 6,300 back. The German judges ordered Tesla to repurchase the Model 3, which cost 69,000 ($76,010). The consumers attorney, Christoph Lindner, said this is an important precedent for Tesla to legally vouch for its promises. Tesla appealed the verdict. The Volkswagen Type 2 , mostly known as the Microbus or just Bus, was one of the most successful vehicles Volkswagen ever sold in North America. Much of its popularity comes from being adopted by the hippie community as a form of protest against the opulence of Detroit cars of the time. The first-generation had the signature split windshield that earned it the Splittie nickname among its fans.The most luxurious trim of the Type 2 T1 was the Samba, also known as the Sunroof Deluxe in the U.S. The name comes from the eight roof windows that are exclusive to these models. The feature was so popular that Americans started to identify them by the number of windows, so the top version was also named the 23-windows Microbus. Later on, the two curved windows in the rear corners were dropped, so it became the 21-windows Bus.One of the best-looking Volkswagen 23-windows Microbus will cross the auction block next month at the Palm Beach event in Florida. Unlike the Sunroof Deluxe models, this one was built in 1973 in Brazil as a 15-windows bus and later modified while staying true to the original concept. Just like the Sunroof Deluxe models, this Bus features the bi-parting doors on the side instead of the usual sliding door. Finished in Aquamarine Green and Lotus White two-tone paint, it comes with a luggage rack, ladder, and a sliding sunroof.The 1.6-liter flat-four engine with 47 horsepower is mated to a four-speed manual transmission. This Bus is equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes and features the standard Type 2 suspension. Everything inside and out looks motorshow-ready and youll surely fall in love with it just by looking at the pictures in the gallery.The custom-built cabin looks just as good as the mellow body, being completely redone in two-tone white and mint colors. The L-shaped rear seat covered in eco-leather is unique and comes along with a retractable table and a box with a built-in cooler. Were sure this Bus will attract a lot of attention at the Barrett-Jackson auction on April 7-9 in Palm Beach, Florida. The interest should be even higher considering it's selling with no reserve. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. In a statement issued late on Thursday the Armenian Foreign Ministry said that such actions by Baku seriously endanger regional stability and peace. It said that in late afternoon Azerbaijani armed forces violated the line of contact with Nagorno-Karabakh in the area of responsibility of the Russian peacekeeping mission and moved into the village of Parukh in the regions eastern Askeran district. These aggressive actions of Azerbaijan once again demonstrate that official Baku continues to grossly violate the Trilateral Statement of November 9, 2020, according to which the hostilities were ceased, the sides stopped in their positions and peacekeeping forces of the Russian Federation were deployed along the line of contact in Nagorno-Karabakh, the Armenian ministry said. These actions were preceded by Azerbaijans complete disruption of the only gas pipeline supplying Artsakh [Nagorno-Karabakh red.], the targeting of civilian infrastructure with large-caliber weapons, terrorizing threats towards the Armenians of Artsakh, and other steps aimed at ethnic cleansing. Moreover, along with the drastic escalation of the security situation in Europe, such actions by Baku seriously endanger regional stability and peace, it added. The ministry said that Yerevan expects that the Russian peacekeeping force in whose area of responsibility the provocation takes place will undertake measures to ensure that the Azerbaijani troops immediately return to their initial positions and adhere to the commitments undertaken under the November 9 Trilateral Statement. We call on the international community to make a clear assessment of Azerbaijans provocative actions aimed at undermining the peace process and to support efforts for establishing peace in the South Caucasus and achieving a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said. Authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh said late on Thursday that the situation in the villages of Parukh and Khramort of the regions Askeran district was under the control of the Russian peacekeeping force. As a result of negotiations and additional measures to ensure security, the advancement of the Azerbaijani armed forces has been stopped at the moment, but the adversary has not yet withdrawn to its initial positions, Nagorno-Karabakhs Information Headquarters, an agency affiliated with the regions de facto government, said. Azerbaijans Defense Ministry has denied any advancement of its troops in the territory of Azerbaijan where the Russian peacekeeping contingent is temporarily deployed. In a statement issued yesterday it said that specifications of positions and locations are taking place on the ground and that no clashes or incidents have occurred. Armenian media artificially exaggerate the situation. The goal is to create an atmosphere that can cause hysteria and mislead the public. There is no reason to worry, the ministry said, as quoted by the Azerbaijani news website Haqqin.az. Armenias Defense Ministry reported late on Thursday that the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh was discussed in a telephone conversation between Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikian and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoigu. Sergey Shoigu gave assurances that the situation was in the center of the Russian sides attention and that necessary steps were being taken to resolve it peacefully, the Armenian ministry said in a statement. Issues pertaining to regional security were also discussed in a telephone conversation between Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried, which was also reported on March 24. Both sides highlighted the importance of steps aimed at de-escalation [in Nagorno-Karabakh], the Armenian ministry said in a statement. Nagorno-Karabakh, an autonomous region in Soviet Azerbaijan, has been claiming its independence from Baku since the collapse of the Soviet Union and a separatist war waged in the early 1990s that also led to ethnic Armenians making territorial gains inside Azerbaijan proper. The standoff with Baku led to another war in 2020 in which about 7,000 soldiers and more than 200 civilians were killed. As a result of that war Azerbaijani forces gained control of parts of Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as seven adjacent districts that had been under Armenian control since 1994. Some 2,000 Russian troops were deployed in the region to monitor the ceasefire following a Moscow-brokered truce. Nagorno-Karabakhs Defense Army said that Azerbaijan used firearms of different calibers as well as attack drones in engaging ethnic Armenian forces early on March 25. As a result of the skirmish five Armenians soldiers were wounded, the Defense Army said, claiming that at least five Azerbaijani soldiers were killed in the fight. Azerbaijans Defense Ministry denied reports from the Armenian side both about the fighting and casualties on the Azerbaijani side, describing such reports as media provocation. It said, as quoted by Azerbaijani media, that specifications of positions and locations are taking place on the ground without any use of force. The Defense Army said that the situation was relatively stable as of Friday morning. We expect the Russian peacekeepers to take measures to make the Azerbaijani forces to withdraw to their initial positions, the Nagorno-Karabakh military said in a statement. Earlier reports from Stepanakert said that Azerbaijani forces had violated the line of contact from the Agdam district east of Nagorno-Karabakh and advanced into the village of Parukh in the regions Askeran district. Azerbaijans Defense Ministry on Thursday denied any advancement of its troops in the territory of Azerbaijan where the Russian peacekeeping contingent is temporarily deployed. Instead, it spoke about specifications of positions and locations on the ground, stressing that no clashes or incidents had occurred. The latest escalation of tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh was condemned by Armenias Foreign Ministry, which issued a statement late on March 24 accusing Azerbaijan of violating the terms of the ceasefire brokered by Russia following a deadly war in the region in the fall of 2020. The ministry said that the situation was also discussed in a telephone conversation between Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried. Both sides highlighted the importance of steps aimed at de-escalation [in Nagorno-Karabakh], the Armenian ministry said. Meanwhile, Armenias Defense Ministry reported late on Thursday that the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh was discussed in a telephone conversation between Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikian and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoigu. Sergey Shoigu gave assurances that the situation was in the center of the Russian sides attention and that necessary steps were being taken to resolve it peacefully, the Armenian ministry said. According to Russias Tass news agency, Shoigu also discussed tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh with Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov. Nagorno-Karabakh, an autonomous region in Soviet Azerbaijan, has been claiming its independence from Baku since the collapse of the Soviet Union and a separatist war waged in the early 1990s that also led to ethnic Armenians making territorial gains inside Azerbaijan proper. The standoff with Baku led to another war in September-November 2020 in which nearly 7,000 soldiers and more than 200 civilians were killed. As a result of that war Azerbaijani forces gained control of parts of Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as seven adjacent districts that had been under Armenian control since 1994. Some 2,000 Russian troops were deployed in the region to monitor the ceasefire following the Moscow-brokered truce. Nagorno-Karabakhs Defense Army said Azerbaijani army units continued to violate the ceasefire in the east of the region, using firearms and attack drones, including Bayraktar TB-2s. Two contract soldiers of the Defense Army were killed because of the actions of the enemy. The number of those wounded is being verified, it said, initially. Later on Friday, the death toll rose to 3. Nagorno-Karabakhs military said that the situation in the east of the region remained extremely tense as of Friday afternoon. Earlier today the Defense Army said that at least five Armenian soldiers were wounded in overnight skirmishes with Azerbaijani forces that it claimed attempted to advance further into the territory which is now the zone of responsibility of Russian peacekeepers who were deployed in the region after the 2020 war. Later, the number of wounded soldiers rose to 14. Authorities in Stepanakert admitted that Azerbaijani forces took control of one Armenian village in the eastern Askeran district. They said that they are in active dialogue with commanders of the Russian peacekeeping force over the situation. Azerbaijans Defense Ministry has denied Armenian reports about fighting in the region. According to Azerbaijani media, it said that specifications of positions and locations are taking place on the ground without any use of force. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, accused Armenia of attempting to mislead the international community by what it described as disinformation about the situation on the ground. In its March 25 statement it said that at this moment the only way of ensuring peace and stability in the region is a full implementation of the clauses of the signed joint statements, including a full withdrawal from the region of the remaining illegal Armenian armed groups and normalization of relations on the basis of international legal principles. Official Yerevan has blamed Azerbaijan for the latest escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh, also accusing Baku of not respecting the terms of the Russia-brokered ceasefire. It said that Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikian had a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoigu on March 24 to discuss the escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh. According to Russias Tass news agency, Shoigu also discussed tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh with Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to exercise restraint against the backdrop of the escalation of tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh. Nagorno-Karabakh, an autonomous region in Soviet Azerbaijan, has been claiming its independence from Baku since the collapse of the Soviet Union and a separatist war waged in the early 1990s that also led to ethnic Armenians making territorial gains inside Azerbaijan proper. The standoff with Baku led to another war in September-November 2020 in which nearly 7,000 soldiers and more than 200 civilians were killed. As a result of that war Azerbaijani forces gained control of parts of Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as seven adjacent districts that had been under Armenian control since 1994. Some 2,000 Russian troops were deployed in the region to monitor the ceasefire following the Moscow-brokered truce. Civil Contract faction member Eduard Aghajanian, who heads the parliaments foreign relations committee, noted that the areas in the east of Nagorno-Karabakh that Azerbaijani forces took control of as a result of their advancement on March 24-25 were in the zone of Russian peacekeepers responsibility under the terms of the November 2020 ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan brokered by Moscow. In fact, advancing Azerbaijani armed forces appeared behind the Russian peacekeepers backs. According to a corresponding provision of the November 9, 2020 trilateral statement, this is the area of responsibility for the Russian peacekeepers. Therefore, we expect clear answers from our Russian partners as to in what conditions this happened, Aghajanian said. The Armenian lawmaker said that Yerevan expected the problem to be solved within the shortest possible time. We expect that the Azerbaijani armed forces will withdraw and return to the positions from where they launched their advancement, Aghajanian said. He noted the use of attack drones, including Bayraktar TB-2s, by Azerbaijan during its advancement that sparked skirmishes with Nagorno-Karabakhs ethnic Armenian forces. We are talking about a very specific escalation, in connection with which our questions are first of all addressed to our Russian partners who, as we assume, should have excluded it in the area of their responsibility, Aghajanian said. Authorities in Stepanakert, meanwhile, said on Friday that so far Russian peacekeepers have been unsuccessful in trying to achieve the withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from the area of their responsibility. They added that they still hoped that due to decisive efforts of the Russian side it will be possible to achieve the withdrawal of the Azerbaijani troops and Armenian civilians will be able to return to their homes. Otherwise, the security guarantees given to the civilian population in Nagorno-Karabakh will be seriously questioned, Nagorno-Karabakhs Information Headquarters, a body affiliated with the regions de-facto government, said. In its tweet on March 25 the Verkhovna Rada welcomed Azerbaijans latest actions in Nagorno-Karabakh in the context of the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine. Azerbaijani armed forces have gone on the offensive in Karabakh, taking advantage of the circumstance that Russia has been sending its troops to Ukraine, it said, echoing media reports that Moscow has been redeploying some of its troops stationed in Armenia as well as peacekeepers stationed in Nagorno-Karabakh as reinforcements for fighting in Ukraine. The tweet was posted amid reports of renewed fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh in which at least three Armenian soldiers were killed and over a dozen wounded on Friday. This post does not reflect the position of official Kyiv in the context that we cannot be happy about a war. Now a war is ongoing in Ukraine as well. The issue was not discussed in the Verkhovna Rada, no decision was made. Our position on the territorial integrity of other countries is very well known. It applies to Moldova, Georgia and Azerbaijan, Autonomov said. Official Yerevan has taken a neutral position on the Russian-Ukrainian war, which was earlier hailed by the Ukrainian diplomat. The Ukrainian parliaments Twitter post that caused anger in Armenian social media was later removed. The Ukrainian diplomat found it difficult to say why such a post appeared on an official account. It is difficult for me to say who and why did such a thing. But now that tweet has been removed, he said. Talking to the news website Factor.am today, Armenian Ambassador to Ukraine Vladimir Karapetian said that the Armenian embassy in Kyiv acted promptly on the tweet. Due to our intervention immediately after the start of working hours here, it was deleted within 15 minutes, he said. Karapetian said that the issue had been discussed with all relevant bodies of Ukraine and was considered closed. UN General Assembly adopts resolution on humanitarian situation in Ukraine Xinhua) 08:21, March 25, 2022 UNITED NATIONS, March 24 (Xinhua) -- UN member states on Thursday adopted a resolution on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution, drafted by Ukraine and allies, received 140 votes in favor and 5 votes against, while 38 countries abstained. The text strongly encourages the continued negotiations between all parties, and again urges the immediate peaceful resolution of the conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine "through political dialogue, negotiations, mediation and other peaceful means in accordance with international law." (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) New Delhi: In what could indicate the beginning of a thaw in Sino-Indian relations at the top level, there are indications that Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi may visit New Delhi later this month. If the visit takes place, it will be the first time that a top-level visit will take place from either country to the other after the deadly conflict at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh sector between Indian and Chinese troops two years ago. External affairs minister S. Jaishankar and Mr Wang Yi, who also holds the rank of state councillor, have held meetings in other locations in third countries such as Russias capital Moscow as well as telephonic conversations in the past two years, but neither foreign minister has visited the other country after the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. Relations between the two Asian giants had deteriorated following the massing of Chinese Peoples Liberation Army troops at the border areas in the Ladakh sector that started in April-May 2020, and had eventually led to the deadly clash in Galwan, in which the troops of both sides lost their lives. Both nations have since held several rounds of talks at the diplomatic and military level, but the disengagement between the troops of both sides have not taken place at all the friction points yet due to the perceived reluctance of Chinese troops to pull back. Both countries have also accepted that bilateral ties have gone downhill in the past two years and the Chinese foreign ministers likely visit may be seen as an initiative on the part of Beijing to improve ties with New Delhi. However, India is also clear that Chinese troops must first pull back from all friction points in the border areas in Ladakh and restore the status quo that existed in the spring of 2020 before bilateral relations can be normalised. The MEA had informed Parliament only last month: As regards the disengagement in the remaining areas along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, India and China have maintained dialogue through both diplomatic and military channels. Our approach in these talks has been and will continue to be guided by three key principles that both sides should strictly respect and observe the LAC; neither side should attempt to alter the status quo unilaterally, and all agreements between the two sides must be fully abided by in their entirety. The city of Bakersfield is considering an ordinance that would help law enforcement crack down on the number of catalytic converter thefts, wh You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @idesai98 on Twitter. Bluefield, WV (24701) Today Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Thunder possible. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Thunder possible. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Bengaluru: Deputy Leader of Congress in Karnataka Assembly UT Khader urged the state government to consider allowing students to take exams wearing hijabs of the same colour as their uniform. On the contrary, the Karnataka government has refused to budge on the hijab ban even for the sake of students due to take their board exams. While addressing the assembly during the ongoing legislative session, UT Khader requested Higher Education Minister Dr CN Ashwath Narayana and primary Education Minister B Nagesh to consider the request and allow students to write the exam stating that the exams are very important for the future of those girls. Meanwhile, Congress Legislative party leader Siddaramaiah also demanded the state government allow girls to write exams. But minister for Primary Education B Nagesh replied said "we have to follow high court order". BJP MLAs raised questions over the Hijab issue and said they (students) must follow and respect the High Court's verdict. Earlier today, the Supreme Court said that exams have nothing to do with Hijab while hearing the mentioning of a plea seeking urgent hearing on a petition challenging the ban on sporting Hijab in educational institutes. A bench of Karnataka High Court comprising Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice Krishna S Dixit, and Justice JM Khazi on Tuesday held that the prescription of uniform is a reasonable restriction that students could not object to and dismissed various petitions challenging a ban on Hijab in educational institutions, saying they are without merit. The Hijab row had erupted in January this year when the Government PU College in Udupi allegedly barred six girls wearing the Hijab from entering. Following this, the girls sat in protest outside college over being denied entry. After this, boys of several colleges in Udupi started attending classes wearing saffron scarves. This protest spread to other parts of the state as well leading to protests and agitations in several places in Karnataka. As a result, the Karnataka government said that all students must adhere to the uniform and banned both Hijab and saffron scarves till an expert committee decided on the issue. On February 5, the pre-University education board released a circular stating that the students could only wear the uniform approved by the school administration and no other religious attire would be allowed in colleges. The order stated that in case a uniform is not prescribed by management committees, then students should wear dresses that go well with the idea of equality and unity, and do not disturb the social order. A batch of petitions was filed against the government's rule in the Karnataka High Court by some girls seeking permission to wear the Hijab in educational institutions. Blacklock Point Guided Hike a Wealth of S. Oregon Coast Information Published 03/24/22 at 9:45 PM PST By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Langlois, Oregon) Just north of Cape Blanco on the south Oregon coast, the sweeping grandeur and at times surreal landscapes of Blacklock Point and its brightly-colored cliffs take over the scenery. It takes a lot of effort to get there, but the rewards are nothing short of cause for dropping of the jaw. This remote and constantly-wowing section of southern Oregon coast will get some special treatment on Wednesday, March 30, as Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition hosts a guided hike to the rocky intertidal area of Blacklock Point, a journey that's over 3 miles round-trip on foot, but crammed full of insider's information. It will be led by Oregon Shores boardmember Larry Basch and CoastWatch volunteer coordinator Jesse Jones, a unique guided hike that takes a close look at this area. The hike begins at the Cape Blanco Airport trailhead at 3:30 p.m., leaving promptly to assure there's enough daylight hours. The route is 1.75 miles each way, making this trek not for everyone. In 2020, Oregon Shores and Basch helped get Blacklock Point onto a list of six intertidal areas proposed to become a Marine Conservation Area under Oregon's new Rocky Habitat Management Strategy. The Blacklock Point guided hike puts a spotlight on this, with Basch and Jones explaining why it's worthy of such official protections. Dr. Basch leads an interpretive hike to this magical spot, looking at elements such as Blacklock Point's ecological connections to Cape Blanco which has also been proposed as a protected area under the same strategy program. Dr. Basch is a marine ecologist, scuba diver, naturalist and a staunch activist in the Coos County region for conservation issues. He engages in applied research, adaptive management and monitoring, and teaching, said Oregon Shores. Oregon Shores said hikers will need to dress for the weather, which includes shoes that can get wet and muddy. Everyone will assemble at the Cape Blanco airport (92200 Airport Rd. Sixes, OR) before 3:30 p.m. To reach the trailhead, turn on Airport Road opposite Pacific High School, just north of the hamlet of Sixes, between Bandon and Port Orford. For more information, contact Jesse Jones, (503) 989-7244, jesse@oregonshores.org. MORE PHOTOS BELOW Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW Blacklock Point's intertidal area, courtesy Dr. Basch More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Guiseppe Barranco, Photo Editor / Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise The good news about special education in Texas K-12 public schools is that its being handled much better than just a few years ago. But as welcome as better is, its still not where it should be or comparable to other states. This issue varies from one school district to another, but in each of them, trustees and administrators must have a mindset to provide these students with all the services they can regardless of how many or how few students are affected. That last part became an issue when it was revealed that the Texas Education Agency had set an artificial cap of 8.5% of enrollment in special ed courses and programs for school districts. G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Tourism,Culture and Development of North Eastern Region of India addressing the media at his residence in New Delhi on Friday, 25 Mar 2022. (Photo: D. Kamraj) HYDERABAD: Union minister for tourism and culture G. Kishan Reddy alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao was provoking farmers on paddy procurement for protecting his family political interests. Chandrashekar Rao was terming BJP an anti-farmers party by spreading false propaganda on paddy and rice procurement, he said and made it clear that the Central government was ready to procure all stocks of rice from Telangana state. Speaking to reporters at BJP central office in New Delhi on Friday, Kishan Reddy came down heavily on Chandrasekhar Rao. Chandrashekar Rao is politicising paddy procurement by creating unrest among the farming community. There is no issue on paddy procurement from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states. Why has the problem been arising only in Telangana state? the union minister questioned. Kishan Reddy pointed out that Telangana state government did not allocate any funds for paddy procurement in the state so far. He said the Food Corporation of India (FCI) had always procured rice, not paddy. State government failed to inform the Central government over cultivation of paddy details, he said. The Central government was ready to procure the rice from the state, he added. Actually, the Chief Minister agreed not to supply raw rice to the FCI, Kishan Reddy said. Kishan Reddy alleged that Chandrashekar Rao was trying to adopt the West Bengal model in Telangana state to suppress the BJP. He said people of Telangana would not spare the TRS. The Indonesian government and the countrys largest Islamic organization called Friday on the Taliban rulers of Afghanistan to allow girls to attend school beyond the sixth grade, saying women need to be educated because that would shape the next generation. These calls from Indonesia came after Afghanistans Ministry of Education said this week that schools for girls beyond the sixth grade would be closed, only hours after they had reopened for the first time in nearly seven months. An official from the Taliban, which has ruled Afghanistan since U.S. forces pulled out last August, said the government needed more time to decide on a school uniform for teenage girls. Indonesia is concerned about the decision, Teuku Faizasyah, the Indonesian foreign ministry spokesman, told BenarNews. We hope that the Taliban can reconsider because education should be for all, including women and girls. It is also very important for the future of Afghanistan. Yahya Cholil Staquf, chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), arguably the worlds largest Islamic group, said education for women benefitted society. Today, we are able to do more things because we have women who excel, Yahya said in a statement posted on the groups website. Please give your daughters the best education you can provide because they are the ones who will determine the picture of your next generation, he said in English. In Afghanistan, local girls spoke of their despair after they were turned away from their schools, according to the New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW). Living in Afghanistan as a young girl under the Taliban is already unbearable but watching our dreams and futures shatter with lies like this shows we cant reach the sky, said a girl identified by HRW as Atefa. Aziz-ur-Rahman Rayan, a spokesman for the Afghan Ministry of Education, attributed the decision to suspend secondary schooling for girls to a lack of a religious uniform for girls and the lack of female teachers for girls, among other issues, The New York Times reported. The Taliban are back in charge of the nation now known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. In August 2021, they returned to power 20 years after being ousted by an American-led international military coalition in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001 suicide plane attacks on New York and Washington. During the Talibans five-year rule in the late 1990s, the group implemented policies that suppressed womens rights, such as cutting off access to education for women and girls. Troubled land Indonesia, the worlds most populous Islamic-majority nation, in recent years had tried to facilitate negotiations aimed at ending decades of war in Afghanistan. Last year, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi met Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, deputy director of the Talibans political office, in Qatars capital, Doha. At that time she said she stressed the importance of an inclusive government in Afghanistan, and respect for womens rights. In July 2019, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Talibans co-founder, met in Jakarta with the now-previous head of Nahdlatul Ulama, who told Baradar that the warring Afghan factions should sit together and agree to a peace based on the spirit of Islamic brotherhood. Since the Taliban took power again, womens rights advocacy groups have expressed grave concern over whether the Taliban will undo progress made since 2001 in boosting gender equality and opportunities for Afghan women and girls. Faisal Assegaf, a researcher on Middle Eastern affairs, said some Taliban officials appeared to be concerned that the girls school uniforms were not sufficiently modest. There are many people in Afghanistan who believe that women should wear a dress that covers the whole body and a face veil while outside of the home, Assegaf told BenarNews. The Taliban may also fear that girls returning to school could provoke attacks by the rival militant group known as the Islamic State, previously known as ISIS, he said. ISIS is opposed to girls going to school, so it may have been a consideration for the Talibans decision to postpone the return to schooling for girls, Assegaf said. Theres the potential for ISIS to mount attacks and if that happens it would make the international community think that the Taliban are incompetent, he added. Since the Taliban returned to power, the Islamic State had been active especially in the provinces of Kunar, Nangarhar and Kandahar, Assegaf said. Assegaf said he believed the Taliban would allow girls to return to schools soon, saying that the group had become more moderate. In Kabul, its not a big problem, he said. Its only a problem in the villages because there are still many people who have the outdated belief that women must be fully covered and cant go to school. Former Malaysian first lady Rosmah Mansor accompanied by her daughter, Nooryana Najwa Najib (left), arrives at the Kuala Lumpur High Court, Jan. 8, 2020. The lawyers for the wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak denied Friday that she had ever received a $23 million pink diamond necklace, after a receipt for it was presented as evidence during the U.S. trial of a banker linked to the 1MDB corruption scandal. The jeweler who created the necklace did not testify at the New York trial of ex-Goldman Sachs banker Roger Ng, but prosecutors said she issued a statement about having delivered it to then first lady Rosmah Mansor aboard a yacht off Monacos coast in 2013, according to a report by Bloomberg News. It is pertinent to note that our client had never received the pink diamond necklace and this is evident as despite being subjected to several raids by the authorities, the pink diamond necklace was never found to be in possession of our client, attorneys Geethan Ram Vincent, Rajivan Nambiar and Reza Rahim said in a statement issued Friday. Our client also has no knowledge of the invoice produced and shown to the jury in the Roger Ng trial. In any event, our client takes the position that the production of the invoice per se does not amount to any form of conclusive evidence implicating our client in the purchase of the pink diamond necklace. In her statement presented by prosecutors to the U.S. court on Wednesday, jeweler Lorraine Schwartz said Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho (also known as Jho Low) contacted her in June 2013 to create the necklace, which features a 22-carat pink diamond, Bloomberg reported, adding that Low was present on the yacht when Schwartz delivered it to Rosmah. As of Friday afternoon, the jewelers statement had not yet been entered into the courts docket, according to information obtained by BenarNews. After U.S. prosecutors rested their case against Ng on Thursday, his lawyers called one of their assistants, Katelyn Giesler, who testified that he was not on the yacht at that time, according to Bloomberg. Ng, a Malaysian citizen, allegedly acted as a key figure in an elaborate bribery, embezzlement and money-laundering scandal that crossed international borders and implicated Najib, bringing down his government in 2018, prosecutors have said. The U.S. Justice Department alleged that Ng, joined by fellow Goldman Sachs banker Timothy Leissner, Low and others, conspired to steal more than U.S. $2.7 billion (11.3 billion ringgit) from 1MDB. It charged Ng with conspiring to violate the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act by paying bribes to government officials in Malaysia and Abu Dhabi, and conspiring to circumvent Goldman Sachs accounting controls, according to court documents. Leissner pleaded guilty in 2018 to two charges related to money laundering and agreed to forfeit $43.7 million (184 million ringgit) and testified against Ng earlier this month. Malaysian charges Najib, meanwhile, is appealing his 12-year sentence following his July 2020 conviction on seven money laundering and other charges linked to SRC International, a subsidiary 1Malaysia Development Berhad. The former PM faces 35 charges linked specifically to 1MDB, the state development fund he created in 2009 while also serving as finance minister. Malaysian and U.S. prosecutors allege that at least $4.5 billion (18.9 billion ringgit) was stolen from 1MDB, in what authorities in the United States described as the worst kleptocracy scandal in recent times. In April 2019, Khalil Azlan Chik, chief of the Malaysia police Anti-Money Laundering division, said a money trail showed that 1MDB funds were used to purchase the necklace. Investigators had confiscated cash and items including jewelry and designer handbags valued at 720 million ringgit ($171 million) during searches of properties owned by Najib and Rosmah in 2018, but a court in November 2021 ordered those items be returned. Even though the pink diamond has failed to be found during the police raids, there was clear evidence to show that the purchase transaction existed, Khalil said at the time. In 2018, Malaysian prosecutors charged Low with three counts of receiving funds and five counts of transferring funds totaling 1 billion ringgit ($237 million) under the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act. Malaysian police officials have said an Interpol red notice was filed against the fugitive financier whose multi-million dollar yacht, Equanimity, was impounded and sold by the government. The Philippine Coast Guard said Friday it had seen more Filipino fishermen operating off a rich fishing ground in Manilas exclusive economic zone, describing this as a significant milestone because China has effectively controlled South China Sea waters in that area for the past decade. A patrol ship had monitored around 45 Filipino fishing boats in the Scarborough Shoal between Feb. 25 and March 5 the highest number observed since 2012, when China took control of the area according to Adm. Artemio Abu, the coast guard commandant. In a statement, the coast guard confirmed the increasing presence of Filipino fishermen in the area and said that it had also kept watch and provided the Filipino fishermen with relief supplies. Seeing more Filipino fishing boats in Bajo de Masinloc is a proof of our intensified efforts to safeguard Filipino fishermen who consider fishing as their primary source of livelihood, Abu said using the Filipino name for Scarborough Shoal, a triangular shaped rocky outcrop. Through our regular interaction, we assure them that the PCG [Philippine Coast Guard] will remain active and present in the area. We always assure them that we are here to protect their welfare and promote their safety), Abu added. Meanwhile, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) stressed the need to encourage Filipino fishermen to catch fish in the traditional fishing grounds. The Philippine name for the South China Sea is the West Philippine Sea. In 2012, the Philippine Coast Guard engaged Chinese ships in a stand-off over the Scarborough Shoal. China reneged on a deal to leave the region, and its ships stayed put. A year later, Manila filed a case against Beijing over the issue. In a landmark verdict in 2016, the International Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines and threw out Chinas expansive territorial claims in the sea region. However, Beijing has ignored the ruling and has since maintained a presence in the shoal. President Rodrigo Duterte, who came to power in 2016 just weeks before the ruling, has pursued appeasement with China instead of working to enforce the courts decision, agreeing to put the issue on the back burner until only recently. He will be leaving office after the Philippine general election in May. Still, South China Sea observers say that China has been continuing with its expansionism in the maritime region. In June 2019, a Chinese vessel rammed a Filipino fishing boat in Reed Bank, another region in the South China Sea that lies within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Chinese crew left 22 Philippine fishermen stranded at sea until a passing Vietnamese boat rescued them. Last month, a Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) reconnaissance ship was said to have been chased out of Philippine waters near the Sulu Sea. Beijing insisted it was an innocent passage guaranteed under an international convention on the law of the seas. Opposition lawmakers have sought a congressional inquiry into the recent incursion by the PLAN vessel. The repeated and unwanted incursions of Chinese vessels into Philippine territory not only raises serious concerns, but flagrant violations of the countrys national sovereignty and security, said a joint statement by leftist lawmakers Carlos Isagani Zarate, Eufemia Cullamat, and Ferdinand Gaite. These acts brazenly disregard Philippine authority over its territory, thus these should be condemned and investigated, the lawmakers said. China claims nearly all of the South China Sea as its own, but five other Asian governments Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam have territorial claims in the disputed waterway. While Indonesia does not regard itself as a party to the South China Sea dispute, Beijing claims historic rights to parts of the sea overlapping Indonesias EEZ. Separately on Friday, Rear Adm. Jeffrey Anderson, commander of aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, referred to the Philippines and other Asian allies when he said that the U.S. Navys presence in the South China Sea demonstrates our commitment to the region as we continue to protect our collective interests, enhance our security and safeguard our shared values. Anderson commented days before treaty allies Washington and Manila are set to hold their largest joint military training exercise since 2016, involving nearly 9,000 troops that will focus on training in maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire, and counterterrorism exercises. The 37th Balikatan, which means shoulder-to-shoulder in Tagalog, begins on March 28 and ends on April 8 at training sites in Luzon, the Philippines main island. Ocean surveillance ship USNS Effective sitting in dry dock at Yokosuka, Japan, Sept. 13, 2007. The ship is currently deployed to the South China Sea. China has accused the United Stated of intensifying spying activities in the disputed South China Sea after the U.S. Navy deployed three of its ocean surveillance vessels in the region. An aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, also entered the South China Sea on Friday, ahead of the large-scale Philippines-U.S. joint military exercise Balikatan 22. Data provided by the ship-tracking website MarineTraffic show the ocean survey ship USNS Bowditch is currently operating in Vietnams exclusive economic zone (EEZ), 60 nautical miles east of Danang and about 90 nautical miles south of Chinas Hainan Island. At the same time, another ocean surveillance vessel, the USNS Effective, is in waters northwest of the Philippines, 250 nautical miles from Scarborough Shoal, which China calls Huangyan Island. The third ocean surveillance ship, USNS Loyal, is in the sea east of Taiwan. Chinas state-run Global Times said these are spy ships that carry out reconnaissance in support of anti-submarine warfare against China. They have been in the area since March 17, it said. The U.S. Navy has frequently sent spy vessels near China in recent years, but it is unusual to see so many of them present at the same time, Global Times said. Sailors signal to an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the South China Sea, March 24, 2022. [Photo courtesy U.S. Navy] Spy ships The USNS Bowditch is a Pathfinder-class survey ship that has often been deployed in the South China Sea. The USNS Effective and USNS Loyal are both Victorious-class ocean surveillance ships. The ships measure water conditions and deploy underwater drones that take very detailed measurements of water temperature, salinity, the acoustic environment and the waters chemical make-up. They also conduct very detailed surveys of the ocean bottom. The ships data can be used to detect submarines and identify ships noises, so from Chinas perspective they are spy ships, said Carl Schuster, a retired U.S. Navy captain and former director of operations at the U.S. Pacific Commands Joint Intelligence Center. Chinas survey ships do similar operations so in many ways, Chinas description of the American ships provides an insight into how China uses its survey ships, he said. MarineTraffic also shows that a Chinese survey vessel has just been deployed. Chinas homegrown third-generation, spacecraft-tracking ship Yuanwang-5 is currently in waters east of Taiwan, some 255 nautical miles from the island. Its unclear where the ship, described by the Chinese military as a backbone in Chinas maritime tracking and measuring network, is heading. China has four Yuanwang-class tracking ships in active operation, including Yuanwang-5 which entered service in 2007. Some security analysts, like Paul Buchanan at the Auckland, New Zealand-based 36th Parallel Assessments risk consultancy, say the Yuanwang-class ships are dual-platform spy ships. Buchanan has previously been quoted by the NZ Herald as saying the ships are used for intelligence collection and tracking satellites. He said 60 to 70 percent of their work is looking for other peoples signals and 30 percent is satellite work. Buchanan also said the U.S. and China use their signals collection ships partly to track rival submarines. In another development, the American expeditionary mobile base USS Miguel Keith entered the South China Sea on March 21, the Beijing-based South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative (SCSPI), a think tank, said. This is the first time the USS Miguel Keith entered the South China Sea since its deployment to the West Pacific in October 2021, the SCSPI said. The 90,000-ton ship that can serve as a strategic platform and command center is the second-biggest ship type in the U.S. Navy after aircraft carriers. It is unclear if the USS Miguel Keith will join the Balikatan 22 joint exercise between the U.S. and Philippine armies taking place from March 28 to April 8 across the Luzon Strait. With over 5,000 U.S. military personnel and 3,800 Filipino soldiers, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said that Balikatan 22 will be one of the largest-ever iterations of the Philippine-led annual exercise which this year coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation. Sacramento Zoo and Sacramento Zoological Society representatives stand in the lobby just outside of the Elk Grove City Council chamber on March 23. 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. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Elk Grove Food Bank Executive Director Marie Jachino (second from left) with Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen (far left) and Assemblyman Jim Cooper (second from right) at the groundbreaking for the food banks future facility last August. A survivor of abuse, Michele Dinko is now a trauma nurse. She spoke to the Banner about what it's like to live with the burden that former police investigator Leonard Forte placed upon her at age 12, when he sexually assaulted her. Also On this date ... In 1634: English colonists sent by Lord Baltimore arrived in present-day Maryland. In 1894: Jacob S. Coxey began leading an army of unemployed from Massillon, Ohio, to Washington D.C., to demand help from the federal government. In 1911: 146 people, mostly young female immigrants, were killed when fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Co. in New York. In 1915: The U.S. Navy lost its first commissioned submarine as the USS F-4 sank off Hawaii, claiming the lives of all 21 crew members. In 1947: A coal-dust explosion inside the Centralia Coal Co. Mine No. 5 in Washington County, Illinois, claimed 111 lives; 31 men survived. In 1954: RCA announced it had begun producing color television sets at its plant in Bloomington, Indiana. In 1960: Ray Charles recorded Georgia on My Mind as part of his The Genius Hits the Road album in New York. In 1965: The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. led 25,000 people to the Alabama state capitol in Montgomery after a five-day march from Selma to protest the denial of voting rights to Blacks. Later that day, civil rights activist Viola Liuzzo, a white Detroit homemaker, was shot and killed by Ku Klux Klansmen. In 1987: The Supreme Court, in Johnson v. Transportation Agency, ruled 6-3 that an employer could promote a woman over an arguably more-qualified man to help get women into higher-ranking jobs. In 1990: 87 people, most of them Honduran and Dominican immigrants, were killed when fire raced through an illegal social club in New York City. (An arsonist set the fire after being thrown out of the club following an argument with his girlfriend; Julio Gonzalez died in prison in 2016.) In 1996: An 81-day standoff by the anti-government Freemen began at a ranch near Jordan, Montana. In 2020: The Senate unanimously passed a $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic; the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history included direct payments to most Americans, expanded unemployment benefits and $367 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers were forced to stay home. Ten years ago: President Barack Obama arrived in South Korea, where he visited the Demilitarized Zone separating the South from the communist North, telling American troops stationed nearby they were protectors of freedoms frontier. Pope Benedict XVI, on his first trip to Latin America, urged Mexicans to wield their faith against drug violence, poverty and other ills, celebrating Mass before a sea of worshippers in Silao. Five years ago: A scuffle broke out at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Southern California where supporters of President Donald Trump were marching when counter-protesters doused organizers with pepper spray. Stars and fans gathered for a public memorial to honor the late mother-daughter film stars Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. One year ago: Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed into law a Republican-sponsored overhaul of state elections that included restrictions on voting by mail and greater legislative control over how elections are run. A final vote count from Israels election showed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and right-wing allies had fallen short of winning a parliamentary majority; Netanyahu would leave office and become opposition leader. Pulitzer Prize-winning Texas author Larry McMurtry died at 84; hed won the prize for Lonesome Dove and also wrote The Last Picture Show and Terms of Endearment, which became Oscar-winning films. Childrens author Beverly Cleary, the writer behind the popular characters Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins, died at the age of 104 in Carmel Valley, California. 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. BECKET A large-scale Becket cannabis farm proposed more than a year ago then vigorously tracked and opposed by neighbors won a long-sought special permit Thursday. After hours of earlier hearings attended online by scores of residents, the towns Planning Board voted 4-1 to allow a Connecticut company, TetraHydra AgTek LLC, to create an indoor marijuana growing facility on Quarry Road, subject to conditions the panel debated at length. The project needs other approvals, including from the Cannabis Control Commission and from the town Conservation Commission and Board of Health. While people may not all agree with a decision that weve arrived at tonight, its the decision the board has made, said Robert T. Ronzio, the Planning Boards chairman. I dont remember any time in recent history where we have basically not rendered a unanimous decision, he said. Its important for people in the town to understand that, you know, this is kind of a thankless job at times. Ronzio said he voted to approve the project in part because town residents several times voted in favor of legalizing cannabis and backed zoning bylaws allowing cultivation. The applicant needed to secure four votes. The farm will erect a 31,310-square-foot greenhouse off Bonny Rigg Hill Road, about a half mile above the Massachusetts Turnpike. I am humbled and I thank you sincerely, Michael Goodenough, a project partner, told the board after the vote, then addressed opponents. I look forward to providing you with the first tours of the building to kibosh any of the concerns, he said. The decision is a victory as well for the couple that owns the land to be used, Jerome J. Schwartzbach and Adrienne K. Metcalf. Both had assailed opposition to the farm and said they had a right to draw income from a lease of their land. Wheres our quality of life in this mix? Metcalf asked at the end of a two-hour hearing in February. The approval comes with conditions designed to address concerns about the farms impact on the neighborhood, including steps to monitor odor, trees to screen the property and police patrols in summer, among other requirements. Once the decision is filed with the town clerk, opponents have 20 days to appeal it to the Berkshire Superior Court, Ronzio said. Sign-up for The Berkshire Eagle's free newsletters Sign up Member Ann Krawet, the boards clerk, opposed the project, saying she found it to be out of character with the area and not in the neighborhoods best interests. If we go forward, we will be opposing what is written in our own bylaws on protecting historic resources, Krawet said before the vote. We would be creating a conflict. She said the historic quarry site, now managed by the Trustees of Reservations, is extremely close to the front of this big building with its ugly fence and not in the character of the neighborhood. Member James P. Levy said he voted to approve the special permit in part because the farm will bring jobs to Becket and pay taxes to the town. The TetraHydra Agtek project, which eliminated outdoor growing in the face of local opposition, was unveiled in January 2021, then withdrawn and resubmitted in June. Consideration was delayed again as the applicant negotiated a host community agreement with the Select Board. In hearings over the winter, opponents raised questions about the farms use of water and the prospect of unwanted odors. Their attorney, Mitchell I. Greenwald, on Feb. 9 challenged whether proper notice had been provided. The special permit was opposed by the leaders of two local homeowners groups. We dont believe that we have the protections necessary in order to deal with worst case situations as they arise once this begins, David Edell, who chairs Skyline Ridge Property Owners Association, told the board in February. A neighbor on Quarry Road, Beverly Lambert, said she believes the project is a mismatch for the area. The proposal is not in keeping with the character of our neighborhood, she said. Tess Lundberg, a year-round resident on Valley View Road, expressed concern about how the farms use of water would affect neighborhood wells and the aquifer. Goodenough, of Tetrahydra, said at an earlier meeting that the farm would not draw more groundwater than 4.5 households. The application had been taken up at a contentious Planning Board meeting in August. The review was delayed when it was discovered that the applicant needed to have a host community agreement in hand. As new COVID cases have fallen, demand for the highly accurate PCR test also have declined. And more people are using less accurate at-home tests and not reporting their status to public health officials. Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says the commonwealth can afford his recent tax cut proposal, which includes a capital gains cut, because of federal stimulus, as well as a state economy that was more productive last year than expected. But, Bakers tax cut plan increasingly will share the headlines with a ballot question to raise $1.3 billion in taxes on annual incomes over $1 million. The Cosumnes CSD board approved this new division map that will be in effect for the next 10 years. Each division is represented by a CSD director. Up to 4,000 signs to be replaced on gravel roads BOISE Governor Brad Little commented Friday morning on his signing this week of legislation that pays off state building debt, starts clearing out the list of needed repairs in state buildings and other infrastructure, and pays cash for new projects. The proposals were part of the Leading Idaho plan. In Idaho, we run state government like a responsible family runs its household budget. In the good years, you plan for the bad years. You live within your means, save for a rainy day, and pay down any debt as quickly as you can," said Little in a statement. Thats exactly what we are doing in Idaho, and the steps were taking today to use our record budget surplus to pay off state building debt, start clearing out needed repairs in our infrastructure, and paying cash for big projects means well save Idaho taxpayers tens of millions of dollars down the road." Little says the state is also providing historic tax relief and record investments in schools, roads, water, and other key areas. "Were showing Washington D.C., and the rest of the country how to do it right, and the strength of Idahos economy proves it, Little said. As part of his Leading Idaho plan, Little recommended, and the Legislature appropriated: $175.8 million in the Department of Administrations bond payment program, averting $63 million in interest payments while lowering base budget costs at key agencies $18.5 million to pay off portions of GARVEE transportation bonds, averting interest of $3.5 million and freeing up additional ongoing transportation funding. $244 million as the first installment on a 10-year plan to clear out the state building deferred maintenance backlog (Governor recommended $250 million). A recent study revealed the state had a deferred maintenance backlog in excess of $900 million. FRUTILAND - It has been eight months since Michael Joseph Vaughan went missing. The Fruitland Police Department, the Idaho State Police and the FBI continue to search for the 5-year-old, who has been missing since the evening of July 27, 2021. "Since then, our investigators continue to work to determine just what happened during the time leading up to Michaels disappearance. We have received nearly 850 leads and nearly all have been cleared. We are working through newly obtained data from that time frame and are hopeful that will produce new leads. This is an exhaustive, labor intensive task," said an update from the Fruitland Police Department on Thursday. The search for Michael has seen several phases, and after multiple ground searches in and around the area, and across the State of Idaho, police say Michael was likely abducted. "Although we have been working the potential criminal abduction aspect since the time Michael went missing, it became our primary focus several months ago. Due to the fact that this is a criminal investigation we are limited in the information that can be shared. At this time we have no intention of coordinating another ground search as the entire area has been searched multiple times by local police agencies, professional search and rescue units, community volunteers, helicopters, drones, boats, divers, professional K9 units. These areas have been walked step by careful step and if a credible lead sends us back to that area or to a forest, a field, or anywhere, we will go," said the police statement. A white Honda Pilot mentioned by police in an earlier update has not been identified, but police say they feel strongly that we know who it belongs to, and continue to seek confirmation on the vehicle. Tips can be sent to findmichael@fruitland.org or to the Crime Stoppers website at 343COPS.com. Tips may remain anonymous. The reward for Michaels safe return is now $52,860.00. OLYMPIA A bill that aimed to limit the governors emergency powers died in a late night debate on the floor of the Washington State Legislature just hours before the bill cutoff deadline earlier this month. Critics had hoped to limit the use of gubernatorial powers, like the ones Gov. Jay Inslee has used since February 2020 to control the spread of covid-19. House minority leader Rep. J.T. Wilcox, R-Yelm, said after 30 minutes of discussion considering the first proposed amendment, debate was suddenly stopped with Democrats pulling the bill off the floor. GOP: Lots to say House Speaker Rep. Laurie Jinkins, D-Tacoma, said representatives underestimated the amount of debate the bill would receive on the floor. It became clear during the first amendment that was offered that there was going to be a lot of debate, she said. A lot of speeches on the Republican side. Jinkins said she approached Wilcox and asked if his party would rather pass the bill or give a lot of speeches. Wilcox said Republican members wanted to speak on the topic, resulting in the legislation being pulled from the floor. At that point, we were within 24 hours of cut off, and other bills were dying as a result of it, she said. So, we moved on. Wilcox said the bills 1 a.m. introduction on the floor was the first opportunity representatives had to formally debate the issue of gubernatorial emergency power. You can imagine we have some people that have been feeling strongly about being able to share their views on that for the last two years and it was taken down in 20 minutes, he said. Reasonable bill Rep. Sharon Shewmake, D-Bellingham, said in a tweet the demise of the bill stems from a Republican filibuster. However, the filibuster tactic of prolonging a debate to delay action is not allowed in either the state House or Senate. I wanted to run a reasonable bill, Shewmake said in a follow-up tweet. Its been two years and we should be reforming the emergency powers based on recent experience. When we tried to run 5909, every Republican wanted to talk on the amendment. This drew out the clock on other priorities, so it was pulled. Rep. Drew Macewen, R-Union, said the filibuster claim is unsubstantiated, referencing previous floor debates lasting for hours. A bill prohibiting the manufacture, distribution and sale of firearm magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition was brought to the floor the same day, with legislators debating for over three hours. [Democrats] didnt prioritize this bill, Macewen said. They didnt prioritize true emergency power reform. They never have. Long emergency More than two years ago, Inslee declared a statewide emergency in response to the spread of covid-19. Additional proclamations including stay-at-home orders, school closures and mask mandates were implemented as the pandemic progressed. At the end of February, Inslee announced the states indoor mask mandate would end on March 12. However, he said he will maintain the emergency declaration. He said the order is necessary to enforce a mask mandate within healthcare settings and protect individuals rights to continue wearing masks at work. Additionally, it allows the state to utilize federal relief funding. Bill joined Glenn Beck Friday to analyze the weeks biggest stories, beginning with the war in Ukraine, which Bill described as an absolute embarrassment for Vladimir Putin. Bill surmised that the Russian military may eventually turn on Putin, which would spell his downfall. He also reminded listeners that the Putin government is allowed to spew propaganda on Twitter while former President Trump is banned. His pithy opinion: That is as stunning an indictment of any corporation as I have seen. Turning to other matters, Bill predicted a relatively easy confirmation for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, even though she is another woke monster, and he denounced once family-friendly Disney. Bill noted the irony that Disney is considered ultra-woke while its exorbitant prices preclude poor families from visiting its parks. Bill wrapped up with a timely reminder that the USA, whatever our current weaknesses and problems, is still armed with stunning weaponry and intelligence capabilities. That astonishing power is comprehensively described in the upcoming Killing the Killers. Four long weeks for Ukraine and the world, with one man responsible. Isn't that incredible that one human being can do so much damage to the planet? But it is all falling apart for Putin, and now the west has to seal his doom. Vladimir Putin can never interact with law-abiding nations again. Even when he stops killing innocent people, he must be isolated like the Iranian Mullahs who are welcome in very few places. Conservatives continue to hammer President Biden just as liberals brutalized President Trump. No matter how effective Trump's policies were, the left gave him nothing. Even though Biden is a terrible president based on his failed domestic policies, he's doing okay with NATO and Ukraine. Fair-minded people should acknowledge that. I hope you watched the No Spin News this week because our analysis was incisive and ahead of the other news agencies. Premium members on this site can see the broadcasts whenever they want. Enjoy the weekend. A new column is coming Sunday noon. Thanks for listening to The OReilly Update. No Spin. Just Facts. Always looking out for YOU. Heres whats happening across our nation. The United States formally accuses Vladimir Putin of War Crimes, Joe Bidens approval rating falls to a record low, New York City resurrects an old policy to fight crime, Congress considers stimulus checks to help families pay for gas. Plus, Bill's Message of the Day, who are the people who are not calling out Putin? The O'Reilly Update is on Apple Podcasts and other podcast platforms. Subscribe to the podcast here. Taxi drivers and owners brought Cape Town's city centre to a standstill on Thursday as a large convoy of minibus taxis from Khayelitsha, along the N2, to the Western Cape Legislature. Source: GroundUp | Hundreds of taxi drivers and owners march through Cape Towns city centre airing their grievances. Photo: Ashraf Hendricks Source: GroundUp | Golden Arrow buses were stoned and set alight in Nyanga Klipfontein Road. People inside had to jump out the windows to escape. Photo: Nombulelo Damba-Hendrik Source: GroundUp | The taxi associations are threatening to take the Western Cape government to court if their taxis are continuously impounded. Photo: Ashraf Hendricks Source: GroundUp | The march was led by members of the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) and Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA). Photo: Ashraf Hendricks They also threatened to take the Western Cape government to court if their taxis are continuously impounded.Meanwhile, many commuters were left stranded on Thursday morning. For example, a worker at GroundUps office left her home in Khayelitsha at 6.30am and only reached our Rondebosch office at 10am.People affiliated to the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) and Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) marched to the office of Premier Alan Winde.The associations accuse the Western Cape government of refusing to process and issue permits timeously but being quick to impound vehicles operating without a permit.According to CATAs General Secretary Mandla Hermanus, when a taxi is impounded for the first time, the owner has to pay a R7,500 release fee.The second time the amount increases to R10,000, the third time to R15,000 and eventually R25,000.Hermanus estimated that around 2,000 taxi operators participated in the march and was adamant that they were peaceful and without incidents.But earlier on Thursday morning, at least three Golden Arrow buses were set alight, others stoned and four people were injured. Several other vehicles were also damaged during the protest.Golden Arrow spokesperson Browne Dyke-Beyek said the incidents appear to be linked to the taxi protest. She said buses were attacked in Nyanga, Philippi East and Kraaifontein.Nyanga resident Bongeka Pike said she was a few meters from where one of the buses was stopped by a group of about five men. I was going to take the same bus. Those guys came between the shacks and started throwing stones and ordering the driver to stop. People started screaming, rushing out of the bus while others were jumping through the windows, she said.Pike said the bus was then petrol bombed while people were watching. Those men ran back to the shacks, she said.Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said incidents of violence were being investigated, but arrests are yet to be made.CODETA secretary Nceba Enge accused the Western Cape government of not taking the taxi industry seriously. We do not understand why in the Western Cape we are not treated like other provinces. In Eastern Cape when a vehicle is impounded the first fine is R2,000 but here its three times that amount. And that is not fair, he said.President of CODETAs womens forum, Nelly Tom, said: I will use my situation as an example. I applied for a permit. Then I was told to wait for 180 days. In those days I could not park the taxi at home because I had a R17,000 monthly instalment fee to pay. The taxi was impounded twice. I had to make a loan to pay for it. As I speak now Im sinking in debt.When taxi drivers arrived at Premier Windes office, they were told that he was not available to accept their memo but an official from his office would come down. This angered protesters.Taxi drivers first refused to hand over their memo to the first official but could not give proper reasons why. Andre Joemat from the Premiers Office then came to accept the memo.Hermanus said the associations will go to court unless their demands are met within seven days.The Citys Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said that one of the complaints by the taxi drivers is that they are harassed by law enforcement staff. But Smith said the City is overrun by complaints about the behaviour of taxi drivers. Our staff are duty-bound to enforce the law, he said.Police continued to monitor the procession as they made their way out of the city centre on Thursday afternoon. Exciting times we live in as the world, yes, including South Africa, gets to grips with NEV (New Energy Vehicles), BEV (Battery Energy Vehicles) and the like. At their recent State of the Motoring Industry event, Toyota Motor Corporation made it clear that there will be many ways to tackle the move away from fossil fuel to electrified vehicles. But let me state straight away that Hybrid is just one way to go partly electric, as we still have to place reliance on ICE (Internally Combustible Engines) to work, side by side, with battery energy. Source: Supplied Neat styling Source: Supplied Plenty features Hybrid E-Four Power Source: Supplied Model line-up and pricing The media made our way from central Johannesburg through to Cullinan (yes the once-famous bustling diamond town), crisscrossing all sorts of road surfaces, from tar to gravel. The Rav4 did not disappoint. In fact, it was a pleasure to pull away from traffic lights, whilst in the city, ever so silently on battery power.The engine did kick in at certain points, but you hardly notice the continual switch between battery and ICE power. Seamless and in tune with the needs of the modern customer. Launched in 2021, the RAV4 Hybrid in front-wheel-drive (FWD) GX-trim garnered widespread acclaim for its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency and performance. Now the RAV4 Hybrid line-up has been revised, with a new two-grade strategy comprising the familiar GX-R and VX.In terms of character, the GX-R delivers a stylish yet rugged exterior with prominent black cladding, black over-fenders and a silver bumper protector. A large trapezoidal grille, with two parallel cross-bars, and wide-set fog lamps frame the blue-hued Toyota insignia - a hybrid exclusive.The interior on the GX-R features leather trim (which extends to the steering wheel and shift lever), as well as striking orange detailing on the stitching, seatback and console surround areas - adding a dash of flair to the cabin. The VX variant adopts a stylish and sophisticated exterior package, with a unique front grille treatment, deeper apron and vertically-mounted fog lamp bezels. The leather interior is accompanied by blue interior illumination.The GX-R features LED headlamps and daytime running lights, aforementioned fog lamps, roof rails, rear spoiler and new smoked 18" alloy wheels. Convenience specification is ample with auto air-conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, smart entry, a touchscreen infotainment system (with CarPlay and Android Auto functionality), five USB ports, a wireless charger, reverse camera, rear park distance control (PDC) and cruise control.Both seat heating and ventilation are on offer, as well as power seat adjustment for the driver. VX variants are further bolstered with power-seat adjustment for the front passenger with driver memory function (while foregoing seat ventilation), front and rear park distance control, auto high-beam functionality and auto-fold operation for the exterior mirrors.A highlight of the VX model is the panoramic view monitor which is newly joined by a digital rear-view mirror. The digital rear-view mirror uses rear-facing cameras to project a wide angle image onto the mirror surface. This function is user selectable, allowing the driver to toggle between traditional and camera views, at the touch of a button.All RAV4 Hybrid models employ Toyota's 4th-generation hybrid system which in RAV4 E-Four execution combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor (on the front axle) while adding a rear-mounted electric motor (MGR).The power units are coupled to a CVT transmission to seamlessly integrate power sources and deliver smooth acceleration. This not only provides the vehicle with new energy credentials, but adds on-demand AWD to the powertrain matrix.The electric motor is connected to a two-stage gear reduction mechanism, which utilise a parallel shaft to reduce gear engagement losses. This results in highly responsive power distribution between the front and rear wheels. The electric E-Four system automatically optimises the torque distribution ratio according to driving conditions, which can vary between 100% in the front, to a 20/80 front-rear split.In terms of performance figures, the FXS engine delivers 131 kW and 221 Nm of Torque. The electric motors pitch in 88 and 40 kW. On our long open road and city drives, we achieved a combined cycle figure of 6.0 l/100 kilometres. A 55 litre fuel tank allows a theoretical range of 1145 km on a single tank. RAV4 2.0 GX-R CVT AWD R606,600 RAV4 2.5 GX-R CVT Hybrid E-Four R 644,100 RAV4 2.0 VX CVT 2WD R 617,000 RAV4 2.5 VX AT AWD R 702,300 RAV4 2.5 VX CVT Hybrid E-Four R 723,200A six-services or 90,000 km service plan is standard with service Intervals pegged at 15 000 km / 12- months. Toyota's standard three-year/100,000 km warranty is included and hybrid customers have the additional peace of mind of an eight-year/195,000 km Hybrid battery warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets). Ukraine is looking to establish a grain export route by train through the western border, Ukraine agricultural and food minister, Roman Leshenko, said in a statement. Currently, the Ukrainian government is discussing the abolishment of import duties on Ukraine grain with neighbouring countries so it could be delivered via Moldova to Romania - to the Black Sea ports not affected by the Russian military invasion, he added. Source: wirestock via Freepik At least one port should be opened Railway infrastructure is ready However, as much as 20 to 25% of the Ukrainian grain has already been lost, Leshenko said, referring to this years spring sowing campaign, which is delayed primarily at the territory invaded by Russian troops. Bigger problems could be avoided if a ceasefire agreement is signed shortly and farmers are provided with enough fuel and fertilizers, Leshenko added.On March 9, Ukraine banned exports of grain and other food products to prevent a domestic humanitarian crisis. Even if the existing supply chain disruptions are resolved soon, the problems would most likely persist because farmers are fleeing the conflict is destroying infrastructure and equipment, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a statement."We need to open at least one port, so that we could export around five million tons of grain per month. In this case, therell be losses (of grain for the world market), but they wont be critical," Leshenko said. Ukraine has historically exported its grain, vegetable oils and other food products by ship. The country accounts for 11% of global wheat exports and 55% of sunflower oil exports."Global food chains demand global solidarity in times of crisis," said Lama Fakih, the executive Middle East and North Africa director at HRW. "Without concerted action to address the supply and affordability of food, the conflict in Ukraine risks deepening the worlds food crisis, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa.:The Ukraine state-owned railway operator also supported the idea of exporting grain by train, saying this would not only save the business but would also prevent the global food crisis. Several international organisations have recently voiced concerns that the Ukraine war could cause famine in some regions of the world.Ukrainian Railways said it might deliver grain to borders with Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Poland, from where grain can be delivered to ports and logistical hubs in European countries. Ukraine Railways said it could deliver 150 grain carriages per day to Romania, 45 to Poland, 17 to Hungary and 60 to Slovakia, with up to 70 tons of grain loaded on each carriage. Full-service advertising agency Clockwork has recently been appointed the lead agency for South African premium luxury gin brand Inverroche, with a global vision towards brand awareness, positioning, and distribution. Alongside Clockworks South African and UK branches bolstering the Inverroches wider strategy, the partnership comes off the back of the Inverroches recent distribution deal with Pernod Ricard into Africa, as well as plans to widen into European and US distribution channels.Known as one of the most premium luxury gin brands in the country, with sustainability at the heart of the brand, Inverroche combines uniquely South African indigenous botanicals, including fynbos, African sage, sour fig and citrus buchu, to produce a series of organic, homegrown gins that are handcrafted at Inverroches exclusive distillery in Still Bay.Inverroches products are in tune with many green and responsible sentiments with business values that support sustainable development and social upliftment to create opportunity as well as drive empowerment with just under 70% of employees being indigenous women from the local area.The enterprise is a return to traditional values: handcrafted, community, small batches, authentic and rare.The brand has a purpose-driven focus in 2022 that is supported by a business philosophy where the connection between the planet, people, place, partnerships, and profits collaboratively work together to achieve real life and tangible sustainability.2022 holds a lot of excitement as Inverroche will also introduce the Gin Academy as part of their By Nature marketing campaign. This bespoke gin distillation experience of the brand has been created to convey the brand story and heritage by promoting the creativity and authenticity of the founder and CEO Lorna Scott, by reinforcing her vision for Inverroche through a direct consumer engagement experience that allow our customers and consumers the opportunity to enter the luxurious and tailored world of Inverroche, exactly how it is executed at the Inverroche Brand Home in Still Bay.Clockwork has substantial experience in the lifestyle marketing world with clients such as Netflix, Xbox, LG, Cartier, SAB and many others, and with two global branches working simultaneously to support the success of Inverroche, the agency is excited to partner with proudly South African excellence beyond home-grown territories.Tapping into every sense in a gin lovers experience, Inverroche aims to redefine African standards by forging the way for luxury consumption and product excellence. Clockwork is proud to be walking alongside them on their global journey. South African television and radio personality Carol Ofori has published a series of six children's books titled The African Adventures of Sena and Katlego. The book series, published by Lingua Franca Publishers, is a delightful and educational read for children which celebrates Africa and its various countries, landscapes, traditions and more. Carol Ofori has published a series of six childrens books titled The African Adventures of Sena and Katlego What do you hope both children and parents take away from this book series? How did the idea about this book series come about? What inspired the stories behind the series? What inspired the characters we meet in the book? Tell us about the process of creating a book series. How does it all come together? What stood out for you the most while writing the books? How important was it for you to make sure these African stories be told? What advice do you have for budding authors? The book series, illustrated by Sasha Richards, tells the story of a little boy named Sena and his magical teddy bear Katlego who visits family members in different countries on the continent. Geared at readers aged 4 12, the books celebrate the magic of Africa as Sena embarks on adventures to South Africa, Uganda, Chad, Egypt, eSwatini, and Ghana.Ahead of the books official release next month, Ofori opens up on how the series came to life, what inspired the books and the importance of telling African stories.I really hope that all those who read this series take away a true love for Africa and being African. I would love to see Africans proud of their diversity and working together to be the powerful continent that I know we are. I want African children to know more about the continent that they were born in and be proud of it.The idea for this series was inspired by the lack of books that speak to African children. I struggled to find books that told my kids more about the continent they were born on and all the exciting and fun things to do and visit here.I wanted my kids to be proud of their heritage and stand tall knowing exactly who they are. This made it important for me to see more books on the shelves that represent the children on this continent and I did something about it! Literature is forever, always.Honestly, I was just letting my creativity run. I envisioned myself as a child visiting these places with friends and having fun in the process.Sena was inspired by my son and the rest of the characters were a result of my imagination simply running wild. I did research on what the most common names were in the country Sena was visiting in that book and that's how I came up with the names of the characters Sena meets.I also wanted a healthy split of male and female and uncles and aunties. Grandad had to be in Ghana and, coincidently, he has since moved there so that just adds a cherry on top.It was a lengthy project full of research, imagination, and pure fun - with loads of coffee and muffins. I spent a lot of my time writing in coffee shops and immersing myself in the story. It was great fun!Honestly, there were moments when I got writer's block, but I would eventually get over that because the adventures were endless. The writing process was a beautiful journey of teaching myself more about this beautiful continent we live on and falling in love with it all over again.I think it is the amount of work that goes into writing childrens books and the amount of creativity the books require. It was important for me to make the books easy to read and understand while keeping readers entertained throughout. As much as that was challenging - it was also so much fun.This is so important for me. The divides that we see in Africa really breaks my heart. We are one people and the sooner we can see and appreciate that, the stronger we can be as a melting pot of nations. We have so much beauty on this continent, from the raw minerals, people, food, culture, landscapes, animals and so much more. We have so many stories to tell and seeing the massive gap on bookshelves is something that I really hope is a thing of the past very soon.Ink all your thoughts and have fun when doing it. Also, all will happen in the right time. God's timing really is the best timing. I was clearly not ready four years ago and look at me now!I am totally ready and Jesus is definitely taking the wheel. I feel so blessed and I encourage you to chase your dreams. I am a mom of two that will never stop dreaming and working hard to see those dreams come true.The African Adventures of Sena and Katlego series will be available in bookstores and online stores around the country from April 2022. Netflix has pledged over R900m to contribute to the South African creative industry between 2022-2023. The announcement was made at the 4th Annual South African Investment Conference. This substantial commitment will cover four productions - one international and three local - which will be filmed in South Africa over this year and next. South Africa: a go-to location in film These productions, which are just some of the many shows the company is creating in South Africa with local production partners like Film Afrika, Gambit Films, Quizzical Pictures and Burnt Onion, will significantly boost the South African film and TV industry. They will also enable local stories to be developed and showcased on Netflixs global service available to 222 million members in over 190 countries, creating numerous job opportunities and bolstering the local economy in the process.South Africa is fast becoming a top global location for Netflix productions, with the country viewed as a go-to location with a robust and talented film industry filled with local creatives to bring international stories to life.One of the major titles being filmed in partnership with Film Afrika is- the working title of an international title- the live-action series adaptation of the immensely successful manga/anime.is reportedly Netflixs biggest production in Africa to date in terms of scale and budget, covering South African cast and crew, infrastructure, and suppliers. The production is expected to create opportunities for over 50 cast members from South Africa, with over 1,000 full-time crew member jobs (consisting of 67% previously disadvantaged individuals and 46% youth employees). This also includes a mentorship programme for over 30 young creatives and technicians in collaboration with the SA Film Academy during 2022.According to Shola Sanni, Netflixs Director of Public Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa, Netflix is committed to South Africa for the long term and were investing in talent both in front of and behind the camera. Since our launch in 2016, weve been working with South African creators and distributors to bring high-quality stories that showcase the best of South Africas creativity and talent to a global audience - and this is only just the beginning.Netflix is impacting South African storytelling in positive ways, working with people throughout the industry to create brilliant content that can find a global audience and generate even more demand for South African content. Local productions put the focus on South African stories, and also serve to showcase the countrys rich social and cultural heritage as well as other tourism assets to a global audience.Each Netflix production in South Africa supports local businesses. When a Netflix Original is commissioned, there is opportunity for writers, directors, actors, stylists and make-up artists, as well as a long list of industries and trades that make the production of a complex series or film possible. Theres also a multiplier effect with any investment: the economic impact of each of the projects in South Africa is several times greater than the actual money invested.Netflix will continue to create new opportunities and help to build up the talent required to support local productions and grow the diversity and variety of stories. Netflix will also develop and work with the industry on more industry development and skills transfer/training initiatives to contribute meaningfully to the South African creative industry's growth, added Sanni.Over the last five years, Netflix has invested over R2bn in South African productions, creating over 1900 jobs in the process. As at December 2020, more than 80 South African films and television series were available on Netflix, and members have been delighted by the ability to experience South African storytelling and culture. In 2021, Netflix estimated that for every one local view of a South African title on Netflix, there were 26 views by households outside of South Africa. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Tik Tokers, many of whom are barely out of adolescence, serve as the latest conscripts in the corporate states information war. Their assigned task is to push its literal wars on their impressionable Gen Z audiences whether kinetic (in Ukraine) or biomedical (using COVID terror): On Thursday afternoon, 30 top TikTok stars gathered on a Zoom call to receive key information about the war unfolding in Ukraine. National Security Council staffers and White House press secretary Jen Psaki briefed the influencers about the United States strategic goals in the region and answered questions on distributing aid to Ukrainians, working with NATO and how the United States would react to a Russian use of nuclear weapons. Meet Tik Tok superstar Jules Terpak. When shes not attending cyber meetings with the White House press secretary and national security advisors (see below), Terpak mostly produces content thats a weird hodgepodge of vapid Cosmopolitan-style pop-culture clickbait and pseudo-intellectual commentary on tech and the digitization of social life such as: Props to her, at least, or charting out a new lane in terms of the mix of content. Side note: Scrolling through her videos, notice how she employs the classic Ben Shapiro technique of speaking super fast so as to create the impression of depth and expertise. By design, the viewer doesnt have time to process her nonsense before she moves onto the next thing, with the intended effect of the viewer just throwing his (or her, or zher) hands up in dialectic surrender. Via Breaking Points, and interview in which Terpak discusses her infatuation with WH Press Secretary Jen Psaki and her excitement at being invited to join her digital Ministry of Truth Pravda-style team: 03:00, The White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki was there Jen Psaki was like I heard about this and I wanted to jump in which of course, thats pretty cool (cringe) Right off the bat, the fact that Terpak was so shamelessly enamored with Jen Psakis appearance (read all about whats wrong with Psaki and her propaganda press briefings) is a giant red flag. 03:34, Throughout the entire thing they were actually kind of going to three key points, circling back within every question, kind of pushing them. So the first was of course that they want to deescalate the situation and basically that all decisions are being made based off of the want to put an end to this war as soon as possible. The second was more so that $250 million in aid has been sent over the past two weeks so thats economic, military, and humanitarian. And the third point that they continued to push was that obviously Russia is having a harder time than they anticipated They kept going back to those three key points. (conditioning by repetition, classic indoctrination technique) 07:10, the interviewer asks her about how the terms misinformation and disinformation are weaponized by powerful corporate state actors at the highest levels of White House staff to silence critics, and how she views that fact in light of the context of the Ukraine war. Terpak clearly does not have the background knowledge to process and answer the question coherently, which would be fine if she just acknowledged she was out of her depth honestly. But instead, she goes off on a string of unintelligible talking points that Psaki or some national security apparently whispered in her ear like a serpent. She muddles through about a half-minute going on about depictions of violence, subjective morale, something, something, TikTok comments section, and never coming close to answering the admittedly difficult question. 09:00, the interviewer attempts to rephrase the question more directly, albeit still gently: How do you prevent yourself from just being used as a talking point receptacle? Its easy to say oh my gosh Jen Psakis here, Im just going to repeat whatever she says Terpek again delivers a self-unaware, incoherent talking points word salad: All of these [TikTok influencers] are very much independent thinkers At the end of the day, like, just still approaching this White House briefing and the information we learned there as you would every day with the content on the platform and it also pushes back on you if youre not putting the correct information out there. Heres the kicker at 12:00: I grew up watching like NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams so, like, when I was watching NBC Nightly News, I always associated with Brian Williams I have been getting a lot more respect for legacy media over the past year . Yikes! How long until Jules gets a job as a talking head on MSNBC? Or Fox News, for that matter theres not much of a difference anymore, especially when it comes to consensus-engineering to start new wars. Wars for geopolitical interests they dont understand (and that other peoples kids die in) are catnip to corporate media people. Without a hint of self-awareness, Terpak claims that Russias big military problem in Ukraine is soldier morale because they dont necessarily understand why theyre invading fully the implication being that Slay Queen Psaki and the propaganda team she assembled, with Jules playing a starring role, not only understands the nuances of the Russian invasion but is committed to conveying to their audiences the objective truth free of an agenda. Here she dinging the irony meter is in a separate TikTok video uploaded to her channel: Gen Z is particularly great at giving misinformation more reach Every single day, I see people falling for false narratives that could change their entire worldview. False narratives altering worldviews, huh? Source: GLAAD Source: World Economic Forum Terpak offers the definitive takeaway in distorted media representations of reality: Basically its just a mess on all human levels, she concludes. Truer words were never spoken. For sure, this Tik Tokers valley girl vocal aesthetic (where the confusing upward inflection concluding every declarative statement, like, makes it sound like a question?) and her obvious naivete and ignorance regarding US foreign policy are mockable. But, really, overall, the whole situation is really just sad. Terpak apparently means well, and appears to genuinely believe that shes doing something noble partnering with the White House digital propaganda all-star team. She comes off as more personable and level-headed than most internet narcissists. In reality, shes being used as what Lenin called a useful idiot in this case, an internet personality with a large following who can be counted on to repeat government talking points with an official-sounding digital meeting with Slay Queen Jen Psaki. We no longer live in a serious world. Spare yourself from Biden muddling through future Congressional addresses the current State of the Union is: totally fucked beyond repair. Let use predicate the creation of a breakaway parallel society on this reality, and the desperate need to restore sanity. Give it up for working stiffs And those who sell their bodies time and future The popular people who can shout and spread A catchy rationalization Lets have a cheer for androids, robots, Servants and their masters Blind leading the blind and slavery is freedom. Of course someone asks are they still victims if They never realize it? -NOFX, Pimps and Hookers Ben Bartee is a Bangkok-based American journalist with opposable thumbs. Follow his stuff via Armageddon Prose, Substack, Patreon, Gab, and Twitter. Please support his independent operations however you can. Bitcoin public address: 14gU3aHBXkNq8bDqmibfnubV7kSJqfx5LX Egypt's FM stresses peaceful settlement of Russia-Ukraine conflict Xinhua) 08:23, March 25, 2022 CAIRO, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Thursday discussed with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba the latest developments of Russia-Ukraine conflict and ongoing military escalations, Egypt's foreign ministry said in a statement. In a phone conversation, "Kuleba updated the Egyptian FM about the field and the humanitarian situation and the path of negotiations," the statement said. Shoukry stressed the importance of working on preventing bloodshed and exerting all efforts that lead to calm and reaching a peaceful solution for the ongoing conflict. "Egypt is very keen to settle the Russian-Ukrainian conflict peacefully," Shoukry said. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Anna Olvera leans into Texas Gov. Greg Abbott as he puts his arm around her before presenting her with a flag in honor of her sister-in-law Barbara Fenley on Friday, March 18. Fenley, a sergeant with the Eastland County Sheriff's Office, was killed in Thursday's wild fire. "Its going to be real," Biden said at a news conference in Brussels. "The price of the sanctions is not just imposed upon Russia. Its imposed upon an awful lot of countries as well, including European countries and our country as well." Pres. Biden warns that food shortages are going to be real, saying the U.S. is working with European partners to end trade limitations on sending food abroad to help alleviate supply issues caused by Russian sanctions. https://t.co/GPN1kQDMMj pic.twitter.com/0nuN0LMfve ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) March 24, 2022 As Bloomberg observes, "Ukraine and Russia are both major producers of wheat, in particular, and Kyivs government has already warned that the countrys planting and harvest have been severely disrupted by the war." And The Federalist's Sean Davis aptly summarizes where things stand... "Were about to face massive energy and food shortages, and Bidens solution is to ban drilling and put expensive and inefficient solar panels and windmills on whats left of American farmland that hasnt been bought up by China or BlackRock," he wrote on Twitter. Meanwhile, below are Biden's comments on China, coming after the formal NATO statement published Thursday: Biden says that he expected China to provide assistance to Russia in their invasion of Ukraine. If thats true, why did he share intelligence about Russian military movements with the Chinese? pic.twitter.com/D5YBOt6ovP Arthur Schwartz (@ArthurSchwartz) March 24, 2022 The NATO statement included the following: We call on all states, including the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), to uphold the international order including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter, to abstain from supporting Russias war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions. Also of note from the Thursday afternoon speech is that Biden said he supports booting Russia - and thus Putin - from the Group of 20: President Biden said Thursday that he would support Russia being expelled from the G20 over its invasion of Ukraine, a step that would further Vladimir Putin on the international stage. Biden said the decision would ultimately be up to the G20, but that he has proposed allowing Ukraine to attend as an observer nation if other members do not agree to remove Russia. Here's what he said when asked about the G20 issue by a reporter: My answer is yes, Biden said during a news conference when asked about whether Russia should be removed. It depends on the G20. That was raised today, and I raised the possibility that, if that cant be done if Indonesia and others do not agree then we should, in my view, ask to have both Ukraine be able to attend the meetings as well as basically (having) Ukraine being able to attend the G20 meeting and observe. In bears recalling concerning the global food shortage the president is warning about... * * * Update(1333ET) : President Joe Biden held a live Q&A press conference from Brussels following Thursday's NATO extraordinary session to address the Ukraine crisis. "It would trigger a response in kind," said Biden when asked what NATO 's response would be if Putin used chemical weapons. Watch: Asked by @CeciliaVega if the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine would trigger a military response from NATO, Pres. Biden says: "It would trigger a response in kind."https://t.co/WJy31kMhbt pic.twitter.com/LF1XA2VMuc Good Morning America (@GMA) March 24, 2022 But over to the press pool, something is seriously wrong when mainstream media journalists ask questions like this - almost seeming to be desirous of seeing WW3 breaking out... ABC reporter asks Biden if he was too quick to rule out world war 3 pic.twitter.com/OEjl9ijWhu Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 24, 2022 And then there are these very alarming statements... Were about to face massive energy and food shortages, and Bidens solution is to ban drilling and put expensive and inefficient solar panels and windmills on whats left of American farmland that hasnt been bought up by China or BlackRock. https://t.co/ZX8q6adj2a Sean Davis (@seanmdav) March 24, 2022 * * * Upon the close of Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's press briefing, NATO released its official statement from the extraordinary session over the Ukraine crisis... "We, the Heads of State and Government of the 30 NATO Allies, have met today to address Russias aggression against Ukraine, the gravest threat to Euro-Atlantic security in decades," the statement posted to NATO's website begins. "Russias war against Ukraine has shattered peace in Europe and is causing enormous human suffering and destruction." The statement called on Putin "to immediately stop this war and withdraw military forces from Ukraine, and call on Belarus to end its complicity, in line with the Aggression Against Ukraine Resolution adopted at the UN General Assembly of 2 March 2022." Further it said the invasion "makes the world less safe" and additionally condemned the Russian leader's rhetoric as "irresponsible and destabilizing." Biden with Jens Stoltenberg in Brussels on March, 24. Via AFP And at a moment President Volodymyr Zelensky's is being seen as a "hero" and icon of sorts, and further following his pre-recorded address before the summit wherein he urged more weapons from the West (while stopping short of requesting a no-fly zone), the NATO statement reads: Ukrainians have inspired the world with heroic resistance to Russias brutal war of conquest. We strongly condemn Russias devastating attacks on civilians, including women, children, and persons in vulnerable situations. We will work with the rest of the international community to hold accountable those responsible for violations of humanitarian and international law, including war crimes. This comes after the Biden administration on Wednesday saying it believes war crimes have been committed by Russian forces, in a first formal statement charging such. NATO urged an immediate ceasefire: Russia needs to show it is serious about negotiations by immediately implementing a ceasefire. We call on Russia to engage constructively in credible negotiations with Ukraine to achieve concrete results, starting with a sustainable ceasefire and moving towards a complete withdrawal of its troops from Ukrainian territory. On Ukraine's resistance and right to self defense, it said: Ukraine has a fundamental right to self-defence under the United Nations Charter. Since 2014, we have provided extensive support to Ukraines ability to exercise that right. We have trained Ukraines armed forces, strengthening their military capabilities and capacities and enhancing their resilience. NATO Allies have stepped up their support and will continue to provide further political and practical support to Ukraine as it continues to defend itself. On the recent allegations out of Washington and some Western allies suggesting that Moscow could be preparing deployment of chemical or even nuclear weapons... NATO Allies will also continue to provide assistance in such areas as cybersecurity and protection against threats of a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear nature. NATO Allies also provide extensive humanitarian support and are hosting millions of refugees. Foreign Ministers will discuss further our support to Ukraine when they meet in April. Crucially the statement calls out China, after a week-and-a-half of Biden administration claims that it's secretly resupplying the Russian military with weapons. The NATO statement says: We call on all states, including the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), to uphold the international order including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter, to abstain from supporting Russias war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions. We are concerned by recent public comments by PRC officials and call on China to cease amplifying the Kremlins false narratives, in particular on the war and on NATO, and to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Calling member states' commitment to Article 5 "iron-clad" it said of NATO's increased defense posture in response to events in Ukraine... In response to Russias actions, we have activated NATOs defence plans, deployed elements of the NATO Response Force, and placed 40,000 troops on our eastern flank, along with significant air and naval assets, under direct NATO command supported by Allies national deployments. We are also establishing four additional multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. We are taking all measures and decisions to ensure the security and defence of all Allies across all domains and with a 360-degree approach. Our measures remain preventive, proportionate, and non-escalatory. We will now accelerate NATOs transformation for a more dangerous strategic reality, including through the adoption of the next Strategic Concept in Madrid. Earlier Stoltenberg made the important admission of NATO having "trained" "tens of thousands" of troops in Ukraine going back to 2014... NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Russia: - NATO provides significant military support to Ukraine, trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers - We will not send NATO troops, planes - A no-fly zone over Ukraine would mean a NATO-Russia conflict pic.twitter.com/wWqq0Rpjyg TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) March 24, 2022 The NATO statement says further that "In light of the gravest threat to Euro-Atlantic security in decades, we will also significantly strengthen our longer term deterrence and defence posture and will further develop the full range of ready forces and capabilities necessary to maintain credible deterrence and defence," it continues. "These steps will be supported by enhanced exercises with an increased focus on collective defence and interoperability." On cyber attacks, the statement lays out: We are enhancing our cyber capabilities and defences, providing support to each other in the event of cyber-attacks. We are ready to impose costs on those who harm us in cyberspace, and are increasing information exchange and situational awareness, enhancing civil preparedness, and strengthening our ability to respond to disinformation. We will also enhance our preparedness and readiness for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. We will take further decisions when we meet in Madrid. The statement ends with the following lines: "President Putins choice to attack Ukraine is a strategic mistake, with grave consequences also for Russia and the Russian people. We remain united and resolute in our determination to oppose Russias aggression, aid the government and the people of Ukraine, and defend the security of all Allies." Interestingly and quite worrisome from Stoltenberg's earlier press conference, despite stressing the need for "deconfliction", he said that theoretically Article 5 'collective defense' could be triggered in the event of a major cyberattack. He said this when pressed on the issue by a reporter: "On cyber, well we have stated that cyberattacks can trigger Article 5 but we have never gone into the position where we give a potential adversary of defining exactly when we trigger Article 5." A direct NATO-Russia clash leading to WW3 based on a... cyberattack? We certainly hope not. Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Emporia, KS (66801) Today Periods of rain. The rain will be heavy at times. Thunder possible. High 61F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low 52F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch. 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Take The Survey WASHINGTON - The United States began easing its lockdown on Prince Edward Island potatoes Thursday, reaching an "understanding" with Ottawa four months after concerns about a soil-borne fungus first blocked one of the province's most famous exports from its single most crucial market. Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King speaks with media as bags of potatoes sit on a table, Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021, in Ottawa. Exports of potatoes from Prince Edward Island will soon be able to resume to the United States, months after Canada suspended shipments to that country because of the detection of potato wart. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld WASHINGTON - The United States began easing its lockdown on Prince Edward Island potatoes Thursday, reaching an "understanding" with Ottawa four months after concerns about a soil-borne fungus first blocked one of the province's most famous exports from its single most crucial market. Canada stopped sending P.E.I. potatoes to the U.S. in November, a decision designed to pre-empt an all-out ban after potato wart fungus an otherwise harmless disease that disfigures potatoes and reduces crop yields was detected in several fields on the Island last fall. That decision, coupled with the time it took the U.S. Department of Agriculture to finally issue the all-clear, has cost growers upwards of $50 million in lost revenue and convinced some that neither Ottawa nor Washington was particularly interested in resolving the dispute. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Thursday that "sound science" underpins all the USDA's agricultural trade decisions. "We are confident that table-stock potatoes can enter the United States with appropriate safeguards in place to ensure the U.S. potato industry remains protected," he said in a statement. Those safeguards, to be detailed in a forthcoming federal order, will include "additional required mitigations" to protect potato growers south of the border. Details of that order are to be published within the next 10 business days, a USDA official said. To otherwise qualify for export, potatoes and the seed potatoes used to grow them must be from fields not known to be infested with potato wart, be washed clean of soil while still in P.E.I. and be treated with a sprout inhibitor. They also need to be graded to the U.S. No. 1 standard. Seed potatoes, which comprise roughly 10 per cent of the Island's annual output, remain banned. Growing seed potatoes is a specialized process that's both vital to P.E.I.'s industry as a whole, and all but impossible without the revenue that comes from selling seed to U.S. markets, said Greg Donald, general manager of the P.E.I. Potato Board. Growers have from the outset been worried that they were being side-swiped by more powerful forces in Canada-U.S. relations, including various tensions over U.S. dairy imports, Canadian softwood lumber and ongoing fears of a Buy American approach to electric vehicles. "It was hard not to feel that way," Donald said in an interview. But despite the pressure she was under from the industry to take a harder line, Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau said Thursday's decision vindicated Canada's more cautious approach both in terms of halting exports to avoid an all-out ban and opting to wait out Vilsack. "I have always been confident that this was the right path forward," Bibeau said in an interview. She said that includes the decision early on to ask Vilsack to assess table-stock potatoes and seed potatoes separately. Had the two not been handled on separate tracks, a decision on resuming exports could have been months or years away, Bibeau said. Equally long delays would have likely resulted had Ottawa waited for the USDA to formally ban potatoes from P.E.I., she added. The D.C.-based National Potato Council said it was "dismayed" to see Thursday's news, ostensibly because of the risk of the fungus spreading to fields in the U.S. a risk Canadian growers have insisted for months is non-existent. "Given the history of disease detections, U.S. potato growers fear that potato wart in Prince Edward Island is far from under control," the council said in a statement, citing the discovery of the fungus in fields on the Island in eight of the past 10 years. The USDA is allowing trade to resume "with essentially no additional safeguards," the council said. "Should potato wart be transmitted to the United States, the economic consequences would be devastating and immediate," including lost access to markets around the world and more than US$225 million in foregone sales, it warned. The council also accused the Canadian Food Inspection Agency of holding U.S. growers to a higher standard for soil testing in order to export their wares to Canada than the USDA does for Canadian producers looking to sell their potatoes stateside. With planting season in the U.S. now underway and still a month off in Canada, P.E.I. growers suspect the U.S. wanted to delay the decision for as long as possible to give its domestic producers a head start on securing lucrative contracts with major customers. Uncertainty over whether the U.S. market would even be an option this year has already made it difficult for producers in Prince Edward Island to plan their growing season. This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 24, 2022. Mr. Speaker, high-tax, high-spend and higher costs for everything is all that this NDP-Liberal government will be delivering for Canadians. THE CANADIAN PRESS Interim Conservative Leader Candice Bergen rises during question period, Wednesday, in Ottawa. "Mr. Speaker, high-tax, high-spend and higher costs for everything is all that this NDP-Liberal government will be delivering for Canadians." Interim Conservative Leader Candice Bergen (Hansard) March 23, 2022 "Weve certainly heard the official Opposition go after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau [and] his big-time spending. Theyre right to hold the prime minister accountable on spending, but we would like to see the Conservatives then do everything they can to really look after taxpayers wallets." Canadian Taxpayer Federation federal director Franco Terrazzano Its not every day I find myself in agreement with the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, but Franco Terrazzano has a solid point, considering how much interim Conservative Leader Candice Bergen charged to taxpayers in her hastened takeover of Stornoway, the official residence of the Canadian Opposition leader. Earlier this week, the Globe and Mail published details about how much Bergen claimed in transition costs following her moving-in date of March 11. Never mind the fact that she managed to push her way into Stornoway early and pushed former leader Erin OToole out of the residence at lightning speed its to be expected that there would be a few costs associated with moving into and living within a new home. Especially one that has only just been vacated a few days earlier. Keep in mind that Bergens spokesperson, Christopher Martin-Chan, said the interim leader asked that no work be done to the residence before she moved in, such as repainting or adding furniture or new artwork. "There were no additional move-in costs as the only thing she brought into the house was what fit in her suitcase," Martin-Chan said in a statement to the Globe. "The only items changed were linens and one mattress." But not all costs Bergen racked up seem plausible. According to the report by the National Capital Commission, the interim Conservative leaders expenses included $3,832.11 for the replacement of a mattress, $5,202.35 for bed and bath linens, a further $1,690.17 for "accents/accessories" and $3,426.43 for cleaning and upholstery for the entire residence. The Globe story also notes a reference to furnishings and artwork "as required" for $4,443, for a total cost of $19,404.36, according to the commission report. Now, Ive got no issue with the need to clean the residence that probably needed to be done regardless. But perhaps she can explain to her constituents exactly how she was saving costs, particularly when it seems apparent that she wasnt shopping for items at fair market prices. Perhaps she should have come out to Brandon. Im sure someone from our business community could have helped her save some cash. With a quick search on Google for local retailers, and Ive found good mattresses available here between $229.95 and $549.99, though of course delivery might be tricky. But it must be said that prices are comparable in Ottawa thanks again, Google. To be honest, I dont know how many linens she had to purchase, but even truly fine linens for one bed will still only set you back $1,000 or so. For a Prairie native who talks at length about "tax and spend Liberals," surely a set of cotton sheets for a couple hundred dollars would suffice. Truly, $5,202.35 for linens makes a glass of $16 orange juice sound like a bargain. Harper-era reference. Sorry. Back when OTooles predecessor, Andrew Scheer, moved in, the NCC spent $18,000 on new upholstery, carpet cleaning, mattresses and linens as well, so perhaps its not so out of line. And to be fair to our political leaders, I dont think its so scandalous that the leaders of the major parties in Parliament have residences that reflect their position in our country, and that taxpayer money is spent to keep them in proper condition. Not excessively, of course, but fairly. But for an interim party leader who will not hold the job beyond Sept. 10, when the Conservatives vote on a new permanent leader, it seems an unnecessary cost. Further still, in about three months when the House of Commons ends the current session, MPs will be heading home to spend time in their constituencies. So Joe and Jane taxpayer were just handed a bill for nearly $20,000 so that Candice Bergen could live in Stornoway for what amounts to less than four months. Considering that even a backbench member of Parliament makes upwards of $185,000 per year, and that the leader of the Opposition gets an extra $88,000, she probably could have afforded to pay for her own mattress and linens. Funny then, isnt it, that Bergen should bring up the "high-spend" issue during a recent question period in the House of Commons? Matt Goerzen, editor KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Ukraine accused Moscow on Thursday of forcibly taking hundreds of thousands of civilians from shattered Ukrainian cities to Russia, where some may be used as hostages to pressure Kyiv to give up. Advertisement Advertise With Us A Ukrainian firefighter sprays water inside a house destroyed by shelling in Kyiv, Ukraine,Wednesday, March 23, 2022. The Kyiv city administration says Russian forces shelled the Ukrainian capital overnight and early Wednesday morning, in the districts of Sviatoshynskyi and Shevchenkivskyi, damaging buildings. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Ukraine accused Moscow on Thursday of forcibly taking hundreds of thousands of civilians from shattered Ukrainian cities to Russia, where some may be used as "hostages" to pressure Kyiv to give up. Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's ombudsperson, said 402,000 people, including 84,000 children, had been taken to Russia. The Kremlin gave nearly identical numbers for those who have been relocated, but said they wanted to go to Russia. Ukraine's rebel-controlled eastern regions are predominantly Russian-speaking, and many people there have supported close ties to Moscow. A month into the invasion, the two sides traded heavy blows in what has become a devastating war of attrition. Ukraines navy said it sank a large Russian landing ship near the port city of Berdyansk that had been used to bring in armored vehicles. Russia claimed to have taken the eastern town of Izyum after fierce fighting. At an emergency NATO summit in Brussels, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pleaded with the Western allies via video for planes, tanks, rockets, air defense systems and other weapons, saying his country is "defending our common values." Volodymyr, 80, rests inside his apartment damaged by shelling, in Kyiv, Ukraine,Wednesday, March 23, 2022. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) U.S President Joe Biden, in Europe for the summit and other high-level meetings, gave assurances more aid is on its way, though it appeared unlikely the West would give Zelenskyy everything he wanted, for fear of triggering a much wider war. Around the capital, Kyiv, and other areas, Ukrainian defenders have fought Moscow's ground troops to a near-stalemate, raising fears that a frustrated Russian President Vladimir Putin will resort to chemical, biological or nuclear weapons. In other developments Thursday: A Ukrainian firefighter takes a break from extinguishing a fire inside a house destroyed by shelling in Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, March 23, 2022. The Kyiv city administration says Russian forces shelled the Ukrainian capital overnight and early Wednesday morning, in the districts of Sviatoshynskyi and Shevchenkivskyi, damaging buildings. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) Ukraine and Russia exchanged a total of 50 military and civilian prisoners, the largest swap reported yet, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said. The pro-Moscow leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, warned that Polands proposal to deploy a Western peacekeeping force in Ukraine "will mean World War III." In Chernihiv, where an airstrike this week destroyed a crucial bridge, a city official, Olexander Lomako, said a "humanitarian catastrophe" is unfolding as Russian forces target food storage places. He said about 130,000 people are left in the besieged city, about half its prewar population. A serviceman carries the photo of Capt. Andrei Paliy, a deputy commander of Russia's Black Sea Fleet, during a farewell ceremony in Sevastopol, Crimea, Wednesday, March 23, 2022. Paliy was killed in action during fighting with Ukrainian forces in the Sea of Azov port of Mariupol. (AP Photo) Russia said it will offer safe passage starting Friday to 67 ships from 15 foreign countries that are stranded in Ukrainian ports because of the danger of shelling and mines. Kyiv and Moscow gave conflicting accounts, meanwhile, about the people being relocated to Russia and whether they were going willingly as Russia claimed or were being coerced or lied to. Russian Col. Gen. Mikhail Mizintsev said the roughly 400,000 people evacuated to Russia since the start of the military action were from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow separatists have been fighting for control for nearly eight years. Volunteers at a sand beach fill sandbags to defend their city, in Odesa, southern Ukraine, on Wednesday, March 23, 2022. Western officials say that Ukrainian resistance has halted much of Russia's advance. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Russian authorities said they are providing accommodations and dispensing payments to the evacuees. But Donetsk Region Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said that "people are being forcibly moved into the territory of the aggressor state." Denisova said those removed by Russian troops included a 92-year-old woman in Mariupol who was forced to go to Taganrog in southern Russia. Ukrainian officials said that the Russians are taking people's passports and moving them to "filtration camps" in Ukraines separatist-controlled east before sending them to various distant, economically depressed areas in Russia. A woman cleans the staircase of broken glass at an apartment building damaged by bombing in Kyiv, Ukraine,Wednesday, March 23, 2022. The Kyiv city administration says Russian forces shelled the Ukrainian capital overnight and early Wednesday morning, in the districts of Sviatoshynskyi and Shevchenkivskyi, damaging buildings.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) Among those taken, Ukraines Foreign Ministry charged, were 6,000 residents of Mariupol, the devastated port city in the country's east. Moscow's troops are confiscating identity documents from an additional 15,000 people in a section of Mariupol under Russian control, the ministry said. Some could be sent as far as the Pacific island of Sakhalin, Ukrainian intelligence said, and are being offered jobs on condition they dont leave for two years. The ministry said the Russians intend to "use them as hostages and put more political pressure on Ukraine." Kyrylenko said that Mariupols residents have been long deprived of information and that the Russians feed them false claims about Ukraines defeats to persuade them to move to Russia. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, front right, looks toward U.S. President Joe Biden, front left, at a group photo during an extraordinary NATO summit at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Thursday, March 24, 2022. As the war in Ukraine grinds into a second month, President Joe Biden and Western allies are gathering to chart a path to ramp up pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin while tending to the economic and security fallout that's spreading across Europe and the world. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus) "Russian lies may influence those who have been under the siege," he said. As for the naval attack in Berdyansk, Ukraine claimed two more ships were damaged and a 3,000-ton fuel tank was destroyed when the Russian ship Orsk was sunk, causing a fire that spread to ammunition supplies. Zelenskyy rallied the country to keep up its military defense in hopes it would lead to peace. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives for meetings with NATO allies about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Thursday, March 24, 2022, in Brussels. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) "With every day of our defense, we are getting closer to the peace that we need so much. We are getting closer to victory. We cant stop even for a minute, for every minute determines our fate, our future, whether we will live," he said late Thursday in his nightly video address to the nation. Zelenskyy said thousands of people, including 128 children, have died in the first month of the war. Across the country, 230 schools and 155 kindergartens have been destroyed. Cities and villages "lie in ashes," he said. Sending a signal that Western sanctions have not brought it to its knees, Russia reopened its stock market but allowed only limited trading to prevent mass sell-offs. Foreigners were barred from selling, and traders were prohibited from short selling, or betting prices would fall. U.S. President Joe Biden, center, arrives for a round table meeting during an extraordinary NATO summit at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Thursday, March 24, 2022. As the war in Ukraine grinds into a second month, President Joe Biden and Western allies are gathering to chart a path to ramp up pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin while tending to the economic and security fallout that's spreading across Europe and the world. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber) Millions of people in Ukraine have made their way out of the country, some pushed to the limit after trying to stay and cope. At the central station in the western city of Lviv, a teenage girl stood in the doorway of a waiting train, a white pet rabbit shivering in her arms. She was on her way to join her mother and then go on to Poland or Germany. She had been traveling alone, leaving other family members behind in Dnipro. "At the beginning I didnt want to leave," she said. "Now Im scared for my life." From left, Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson, French President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Joe Biden arrive for a G7 leaders' group photo during a NATO summit in Brussels, Thursday March 24, 2022. (Henry Nicholls/Pool via AP) ___ Anna reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press writers Robert Burns in Washington, Yuras Karmanau in Lviv and other AP journalists around the world contributed to this report. ___ Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine Griffin Evans, also known by his stage name Griff.ith, is a DJ with a growing presence in JMU, Harrisonburg and Washington, D.C. Over the past eight months, he's established himself in the area with a residency at Dukes Bar & Grill in downtown Harrisonburg and booking gigs with Relay for Life and JMU's University Program Board. The idea that bigger is better has taken the money management industry by storm in recent times. You can see it in the flurry of superannuation fund mergers, which are creating a handful of investment giants each controlling more than $100 billion in retirement savings. Outside super, listed fund managers such as Perpetual and Pendal (formerly BT) have been busily trying to get greater scale by buying up rival managers overseas or locally. Theres growing concern that the rise of super-sized investors could curb competition. Credit:Joe Benke But nothing exemplifies the trend quite like the behemoth US firms BlackRock, Vanguard and State Street, which provide a cheap way for people to diversify their share investments. Known as index funds, these managers do not bother with the expense and risk of trying to outperform the market by picking individual stocks. Instead, they charge low fees for trying to match the performance of a market index, such as the ASX 200. Its an approach thats increasingly popular, with good reason. But an emerging field of economic research questions if the rise of such mega funds - particularly index funds - could have some drawbacks. Premier Retails chief executive says there is a long way to go before Sydney and Melbournes CBD shopping areas return to normal after the Smiggle and Peter Alexander owner claimed thousands of days in lost trading due to COVID. Profits at the $4.6 billion retailer dropped by 13 per cent to $163 million for the six months to December, but Premiers board increased its payout to shareholders after the business posted growth in its key brands despite having storefronts shut due to COVID lockdowns. The interim dividend of 46, up from 34 a year ago, is payable on July 27. Online sales soared for Premier Investments with a number of its retail storefronts shut due to COVID lockdowns. Credit:Edwina Pickles Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, chief executive Richard Murray said the company had seen some positive results from CBD locations over the past six months, but acknowledged city shopping had not fully recovered. There is still a long, long way to go... The reality is that there are still a lot of offices where a material number of workers are not back, he said. The Hannah Cabinet, the most prized object among 1400 flood-damaged artworks from the Lismore Regional Gallery, seems to have survived the regions worst flood in living memory. Conservators are hopeful the last major public work by master craftsman Greg Hannah acquired in 2017 for $1 million can be salvaged, but it may be months if not years before the cabinet can be returned to public exhibition. The Hannah Cabinet being removed from the Lismore Regional Gallery. Credit:Lismore Regional Gallery Lismore Regional Gallery director Ashleigh Ralph said an initial report indicated that she should expect excellent results. Its been a worrying wait for Geoff Hannah who has begun the cleanup of his workshop and home. Hannahs long-time associate Greg Peters is caretaking the precious cabinet piece, now dismantled and sitting in a temperature-controlled steel container in Canberra. BODIES Your job is to curate a body of work. For the Biennale, what are your guiding principles? Where do you begin? Most of my curatorial projects in the past 15 years have been following a link between art and nature and not necessarily in a romantic way, because nature can be political. Questions of ownership of territory, ownership of water, pollution: all of these are fraught situations and concepts that bring the relationship with nature into a political arena. Thats what Im interested in. Youre turning 60 this year. How do you feel about that? All of my life Ive looked younger than I am. And Ive held some lets say, important positions and felt sometimes that I didnt look the part. So I tended to overcompensate by being very serious and formal, so people would take me seriously. But now that Im nearing 60, Im relaxed with who I am and how I look. When was the last time you felt mortal? Well, my mum died at 97 while I was here in Sydney. Oh, Im so sorry to hear that. I couldnt go [back] for her burial because I couldnt leave the country. I knew it was a possibility: when you are in your 90s, every day could be your last. So Ive realised that I might have, at best, 30-something years left. Maybe not even that. Many people my age or younger have died of COVID-19 in Colombia. Its not just a philosophical thought. [At this age], most of your living is behind you. How do you feel about, and reflect on, that? When I was in university, I came across this novel, Walden Two, by B. F. Skinner. It was, in turn, based on Walden, by Henry David Thoreau. It says that no way of life is inevitable. Take a hard look at the life you are living. And if you dont like it, change it. Every time Ive been in a bad relationship, in a bad job, in a bad situation, I remind myself that no way of life is inevitable. I stayed for 10 years in Bogota with my wife: we put together a cultural centre that became so big and so important that we were overwhelmed, but we dared not close it. Then COVID came. Then the invitation to come here came. And I decided, Ill do it. COVID helped us make the decision. Now Im living a way of life I really like. From now on, its all pleasure. MONEY Did you grow up poor, working-class, middle-class or well-to-do? I would say impoverished upper-middle-class. We never owned a house or a car, for that matter. But I was enrolled in a private school, like most middle-class kids in Colombia; the public school system is so broken there. I was in one of the good ones, but I was by far the least well-off. The others had houses, cars, went to Miami on vacation. I grew up longing for that. Loading You pursued an arts career, which doesnt necessarily guarantee money. How have you made it work? I came to the arts through exhibition design because I was an architect. And it was a passion. It wasnt like a calculation of, Will this make me wealthy? I just liked it. Then, halfway through my career, I started working for the Museum of Modern Art in Bogota. I moved from exhibition design into cultural administration. Then, later, into curatorial practice. This makes it tempting to read Kassabs title ironically, as a wry dig at such hokey nationalistic mythologising. Kassab hails from Western Sydney, which over the past decade or so has become the site of a great deal of literary activity, much of it concerned to kick against stale, limiting and downright false ideas about Australia. The very word is redolent of a long tracking shot from a Qantas commercial, surveying a harshly beautiful land where men cut down ancient trees to build bush huts while women make babies and scones, squattocrats survey their vast stolen sheep stations from the verandahs of their sprawling homesteads, the buttocks of parked cars turn glassy in the brilliant sunshine, beer and meat pies are plentiful, everybody wears Speedos and talks like Ginger Meggs, and you can hardly walk down the street without seeing one of those delightful native animals were driving to extinction which is to say, the term refers to a cliched, kitschy, romanticised, dated, historically skewed and distinctly monocultural idea of Australia that bears little relation to the nation as it actually exists. Credit: Her widely admired first book, The House of Youssef (2019), a collection of linked stories depicting the lives of Lebanese Muslim immigrants, was one of a slew of recent works insisting that there is much more to the lived reality of our vibrantly multicultural nation. Australiana is intriguing in this context, partly because it abandons the urban setting of The House of Youssef for the provinces, but also because its predominant attitude is not satirical. Though it is billed as a novel, the book is an assemblage of short fictions that develops a panoramic technique, skipping from one character to another, affording us the briefest of glimpses into their lives via a sequence of succinct, precisely written vignettes. Only in the last third of the book does Kassab present us with several sustained fictional narratives. In its understated way, the sympathetic, observant quality of Australiana redeems the cliched overtones of its title. Set in the New England region of northern New South Wales, it takes up the hoary small-town trope (though much of the action takes place in and around Tamworth, which is not exactly small). Rather than play up to the idiosyncrasies of the place, however, it tones them down. The conventional literary markers of distinctiveness (landscape, local colour, vernacular language) are set aside in favour of careful attention to the characters travails, which transcend their setting by virtue of their intimacy. In their style and substance, many of Kassabs vignettes, viewed in isolation, could be taking place anywhere. Atlanta SBS, Fridays, 9.20pm and on SBS On Demand Its been four years since the last season of Donald Glovers groundbreaking comedy (due to Glovers other commitments and the pandemic) but its not until the second episode that fans will catch up with Earn (Glover), Alfred, aka Paper Boi (Brian Tyree Henry), Darius (LaKeith Stanfield) and Van (Zazie Beetz) on Paper Bois European tour. The long-awaited third season of Atlanta, once described by creator Glover as Twin Peaks for rappers, returns with a double episode, the first of which is the kind of standalone storyline the series, which has never felt the need to remain bound to its overarching storyline, does so well. Even when it does adhere to a traditional narrative, Atlanta is suffused with a certain dream-like mood; the most prosaic moments can quickly become surreal, a device the series uses to try and show viewers what its like to be black, as Glover has described it. Atlantas third season brings the gang to Europe. From left: Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield, Zazie Beetz and Donald Glover. Written by Stephen Glover (Donalds brother) and directed by longtime Glover collaborator Hiro Murai, season opener Three Slaps begins like an urban legend ghost story before relating the disturbing story of adolescent Laquarius (Christopher Farrar), who, after playing up in class and having his mother and grandfather brought into the school, finds himself removed from his home by an overzealous social worker. Hes placed into a foster home with a white lesbian couple and what seems to start out as a white saviour satire rapidly turns into a much darker Get Out-style story and one that is reportedly based, loosely, on a true story. Like Atlantas other standalone episodes, it bobs along as darkly funny before escalating into the heart-wrenchingly sad. Back in September 2018, Tony Xie needed a break from studying for his year 12 exams. Xie, now 21, lives in Melbourne and is the son of Chinese immigrants who encouraged him to attend a Chinese-language school on weekends. As a lark, he and eight friends from the school started a Facebook group called Subtle Asian Traits, sharing jokes and memes about the experience of being Asian-Australian. It started out as this fun thing that we didnt expect to last more than three months, then wed all go to uni and forget about it, says Xie. But that didnt happen. Managing parental expectation as depicted in the TV show, The Family Law is a unifying experience for members of the Subtle Asian Traits Facebook group. Credit: What did happen was that Subtle Asian Traits went viral. Today, it has two million members and is being developed into a TV series in the US. It has also inspired more than 40 other groups, including Subtle Curry Traits, Subtle Korean Traits and Subtle Asian Dating. One of its members is writer, broadcaster and Good Weekend contributor Benjamin Law, a self-confessed aggressive appreciator since being turned on to the group by family. There was this feeling of being seen because so many aspects of my childhood were being celebrated or lovingly mocked, says Law. It was good to know I wasnt the only one who is so lactose intolerant that Id have to be rushed to emergency after drinking a milk tea, or who could relate to the meme that normal mums are 75 per cent water, but Asian mums are 75 per cent hot water. I know what these things mean because theyre ours. The sound was alien. Repetitive. Guttural. It was coming from Mums bedroom. I was on the couch, watching Wimbledon on late-night television. Mummy? No answer. Only the strange noise. It drowned out the polite clapping and the soft pock-pock of the tennis balls. Jason with his parents Narong and Patricia in the early 1980s. Credit:Courtesy of Jason Om Normally, Mum kept me company at night because at age 12 I was still easily spooked. Stay with me, Mummy, Id beg her, tugging on her arm like a bellringer. Why? Are you afraid of the bogeyman? shed tease. Of course I was. There were shadows moving under the trees along our dimly lit Melbourne street. Mum was usually my protector on the lonely nights when Dad was working in the city or out with friends. Snuggling up to her warm body was a comfort, but on this night shed gone to bed early. The noise from her bedroom continued. I crossed the polished floorboards and ran down the darkened hallway. Mums door was open but the room was pitch-black. My fingers searched for the light switch. The brightness revealed Mum flailing about in the double bed, the covers shrink-wrapped around her body. She was reaching out as though trying to grab me. Older Australians and people at the most risk of severe disease will be able to get a fourth coronavirus vaccine ahead of winters expected surge in COVID-19 and influenza infections. We ask the experts what the latest science says around fourth doses. Experts believe those most at risk of getting seriously ill from coronavirus will benefit from a second booster shot before winter. Credit:Getty What does the science tell us about the effectiveness of a fourth dose? The science is limited and continues to evolve, however, experts believe those most at risk of getting seriously ill from coronavirus will benefit from a second booster shot before winter. Sydney school students have ditched school to protest at the Prime Ministers doorstep to demand he act on climate change. Organisers estimate almost 2000 people attended Sydneys School Strike 4 Climate rally out the front of Kirribilli House on Friday, one of 36 held around the country on a global day of action. The School Strike 4 Climate rally in front of the Prime Ministers Sydney residence. Credit:Flavio Brancaleone The protesters, who vowed to stage more rallies, were joined by Lismore residents, including 13-year-old Ella ODwyer-Oshlack whose house and school were destroyed in the recent floods which devastated the town. Theres clear evidence that fossil fuels are bad, so I dont understand why they keep doing this, she said. If they saw Lismore I reckon theyd definitely get some sense in their brain. The states beleaguered Northern Rivers was spared from further flooding on Friday night, but more significant rainfall across the state is likely for next week, warns the Bureau of Meteorology. Heavy thunderstorms on Friday night failed to materialise, although Coffs Harbour and Wauchope on the mid-north coast both saw flash flooding as Wauchope received 117mm of rain in 24 hours. More wet weather lies ahead for Sydney. Credit:Wolter Peeters, Sydney is also set to cop a drenching over the weekend and into next week, as the low-pressure system causes rain from Northern NSW down to the Illawarra. Its going to be a wet week for Sydney, said the Bureaus senior meteorologist Jackson Browne. One in 50 children have tested positive to COVID-19 amid Queenslands second Omicron wave, as almost $900,000 has been spent by the state government on assessing ventilation in schools. Queenslands chief health officer, John Gerrard, said the state was well into its second wave of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, with the number of infections increasing by 54 per cent in the past two weeks. He said the surge was being experienced across all age groups, but one in 50 school-aged children had tested positive in Queensland in the past week. With fewer than one in five children having received a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, Health Minister Yvette DAth said there would be a vaccination blitz over the coming weeks on school grounds. The way she tells it, she turned her body away from the lens and said she refused to be filmed. The most senior of the Iranians reacted angrily. Through an interpreter, he declared the meeting finished and asked Biggs to leave. At which stage, something inside Moore-Gilbert snapped. Everyone has a tipping point, and one day in April 2019, after about seven months incarceration, Moore-Gilbert reached hers. It was like an out-of-body experience when it was happening, she says. That morning, a guard had collected her from her cell and taken her to a meeting room within the prison. Awaiting her there, along with Iranian officials, was Ian Biggs, then Australias ambassador to Iran. Moore-Gilbert had found Biggs formal and detached during their previous encounters, but nonetheless was pleased to see him. What concerned her was the presence of a video camera mounted on a tripod. Her jailers had previously pressured her into making statements in front of a camera. She didnt want her conversation with Biggs recorded. To meet Moore-Gilbert, now 34, is to be struck by her composure and affability. She is warm. Polite. Looks you in the eye when she speaks to you. Eats her cake with a fork. It is a matter of some satisfaction to her that despite the cruelties and indignities heaped on her in jail, she didnt completely fall apart. Most of the time, she managed to keep her act together. Moore-Gilbert went to Iran in late August 2018 to attend a seminar on Shia Islam. After checking in to her return flight to Australia three weeks later, she was arrested and charged with being a spy. Despite her protests that she was merely an academic, employed by the University of Melbourne as a lecturer in Islamic studies, she was thrown into a high-security hellhole run by Irans feared Revolutionary Guard Corps. Thus began an ordeal that lasted more than two years and often felt like a waking nightmare. For afternoon tea, Kylie Moore-Gilbert has made a Middle Eastern treat known as Persian Love Cake. The ingredients include rosewater, cardamom and lemon zest. She has scattered the icing with crushed green pistachios and dried rose petals. Slices of this fragrant confection sit before us on the table as she talks about the psychological impact of languishing in a notorious Tehran prison. In short, it seriously messes with your head. Luckily, Im a strong person, she says. Some people would have been extremely damaged for life. Shortly before going to Iran , Moore-Gilbert had bought an old weatherboard house in the Dandenong Ranges, an hours drive east of Melbourne. It has polished timber floors and a calm, uncluttered feel. A wide deck overlooks a forested slope. She had intended to return to live here with her husband, Russian-Israeli university student Ruslan Hodorov, but that isnt the way things worked out. When she was released in November 2020 after 804 days in captivity, she learnt that Hodorov was having an affair with her close friend and Melbourne University colleague, Kylie Baxter. I confess to her that I laughed out loud when I read that remark in her book, The Uncaged Sky, to be published next week. Poor Ian Biggs, she says, smiling ruefully. It was so surreal. He laughed too. To his credit, Biggs tried to answer her question despite the Iranians increasingly strident insistence that he depart. Ignore them, said Moore-Gilbert, who could feel through the trousers of the diplomats dark suit that his calves were surprisingly well-muscled. He must have been a runner or something, she tells me, adding that she still cant believe what she said to him next: Nice legs! As she recalls, Biggs made a tentative attempt to rise from his chair, but she maintained her grip and he sat down again. Please ignore these fers, she said to him. Tell me, what is the government doing to get me out? This meeting isnt over! she shouted, launching herself at the startled ambassador. Its not over until I say its over! Diving to the floor, she wrapped her arms around Biggss calves in a decent approximation of a rugby tackle. Mr Biggs, she said, please continue. What did you come here to tell me? The first intimation that she was in trouble came from the receptionist at her Tehran hotel. A group of men like police had come to the desk and asked about her while she was out, he said. Unnerved, Moore-Gilbert thought perhaps she should call the Australian embassy, but on its website she could find no phone number. She was leaving Iran the next day anyway, and she figured she had no real reason to worry: If someone wants to ask questions, thats fine because I have nothing to hide. What Moore-Gilbert doesnt want to do is paint her now ex-husband as a villain. Life is complicated, as the last few years have brought home to her. Even in her captors she saw redeeming features: a few showed her kindness at risk to themselves. My proximity to the Revolutionary Guards taught me that sometimes good people do bad things, she writes in her book. It occurs to me that theres a flip side, equally pertinent to her story. Sometimes bad things happen to good people. Motherfers! she remembers yelling as a female guard tried to prise her off the ambassadors lower limbs. Arseholes! Dont you fing touch me! By contrast, she speaks to me of Hodorov with studied indifference. Im happier without him, she says. So, you know, good riddance. Which doesnt mean she is letting him off the hook. As Moore-Gilbert demonstrated at the meeting with Ian Biggs, when her bottled-up rage at the Revolutionary Guards boiled over, her tolerance extends only so far. The last damned straw, you would imagine. It was a shock to me, the affair, she concedes. For some time, though, she had sensed that Hodorovs commitment to their marriage was waning. When she first spoke to him from jail, he was highly emotional, but in later calls he seemed distant and distracted. In his defence, she says, he did go through a hard time, too. He did care about me in the beginning, and he was quite traumatised. At Evin, she learnt that it wasnt physical assault she needed to fear. In the womens unit of the prison, mental torture was the preferred method of punishment. Moore-Gilbert spent a cumulative total of 12 months in solitary confinement, most of it in a space only slightly larger than the first cell. Its sensory deprivation, essentially, she says, and it puts so much pressure on your brain that you have to develop a coping mechanism, like slowing everything down and closing your eyes and just inhabiting your memories. Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was formed after the countrys 1979 revolution, to defend the new Islamic republic from both internal and external threats. The IRGC has its own army, navy and air force, independent of the regular military. It wields immense political and economic power. Moore-Gilbert now believes she was brought to the attention of the IRGCs intelligence branch by a dual citizen of Iran and Bahrain she had met and interviewed while at the conference. (Shed written her PhD thesis on Bahrains Shiite community and was doing follow-up research.) That her husband was from Israel Irans arch-enemy was enough to convince the men in black that she was a spy. Or that her husband was a spy. Or that they were both spies. Moore-Gilberts flight left without her. She was interrogated at a hotel for a week, then blindfolded and driven to a walled compound she later learnt was Tehrans Evin Prison, infamous for its brutal treatment of political prisoners. Her windowless cell measured two metres by two metres. The terror of it all, she says quietly. I didnt know where I was, or whod arrested me, or what the hell was going on. I was afraid they would rape me, or physically torture me. At the airport, she was plucked out of the passport-control queue and taken to a room filled with men wearing black. They demanded to know her reason for visiting Iran. Moore-Gilbert fought to keep her voice steady as she explained that an Iranian university had invited her to a seminar. Melbourne University had agreed she could go, and the Iranian embassy in Canberra had approved her visa application. Trying not to panic, she told herself the whole thing was a ridiculous mistake and she would soon be strapping herself into an airline seat, homeward bound. After school, Moore-Gilbert headed for the UK she has dual citizenship, courtesy of her father and spent several years working casual jobs to finance backpacking holidays. She then enrolled in Asian and Middle Eastern studies at the University of Cambridge, graduating with first-class honours in 2013. Sporty, studious, creative, pretty, Moore-Gilbert was a kid who seemed destined to go far. Her mother, Jenny, was a secretary, and her father, Lindsay, worked in a factory. The oldest of their three children, she was dux in her final year at Bathursts All Saints College. In her favourite subject, art, she got the highest marks in the state. There was a gentleness about her. Even from a very young age, she was kind and understanding and full of empathy, says her old friend, Yasodai Selvakumaran. In her experience, solitary confinement causes selective amnesia. If someone asked you what songs were on your Spotify list last year, what movies you saw at the cinema recently, anything like that, you would have no idea. But your long-term memory is suddenly sharpened and you can remember stuff from your childhood. For her, that meant being transported back to the regional NSW city of Bathurst, where her family lived from the time she was nine. In her head, she was no longer in a fluorescent-lit cubicle, staring at chipped grey tiles and peeling paint. She was in the backyard with her sister, Belinda, climbing gum trees under a clear Australian sky. Day after day, she lay on the floor in a trance-like state, letting her mind roam through her past. She knew this survival technique didnt work for everyone: Some people just cant switch off and they do go crazy. You can hear them screaming; banging themselves against the walls. When youre in your cell listening to that, its traumatising. During the course, she lived for 12 months in Israel, where she met Hodorov. He accompanied her when she returned to Australia in 2014 to do her PhD at Melbourne University. (Kylie Baxter was her PhD supervisor.) Moore-Gilbert converted to Judaism and married Hodorov in 2017, less than a year before her trip to Iran. When she was arrested, her phone and computer were confiscated, but during the week of interrogation in the hotel she furtively borrowed a laptop and fired off some emails. I love you very much. I love you ridiculously! she wrote to her husband, adding, Please dont worry, I have my wits about me and I am strong. She also wrote to her mother, Jenny, saying she hoped to be home in a few days, but if not, and Jenny hadnt heard from her, to please call the embassy. Her grandmother, Marjorie Cameron, who lives in a retirement village at Laurieton, on the NSW Mid North Coast, vividly remembers getting the news that she was being held in Iran. Jenny came up to see me and she told me, says Cameron, now 97. And look, I was absolutely shocked. I couldnt believe that could happen. Like other family members, she was sworn to silence. Jenny said, The government doesnt want us to let anybody know that Kylie has been detained in prison, because if it gets into the press, it might interfere with the negotiations. Cameron, a devout Anglican, asked if she could at least confide in her minister. I just had to have somebody to talk to, she tells me, and I needed somebody else to pray for Kylie. Moore-Gilbert with Gran Marjorie and mum Jenny, just after her release. Credit:Courtesy of Kylie Moore-Gilbert In the beginning, Moore-Gilberts despair and confusion were compounded by her inability to understand the orders her jailers barked at her. She had studied two Middle Eastern languages, Arabic and Hebrew, but not the Iranian language, Farsi. Not knowing what they were saying to me, not being able to communicate, that was just horrible, she says. Nevertheless, she resisted making any serious attempt to learn. I didnt want to study Farsi because that would mean acknowledging to myself that I would be there for a long time. When after six months she finally bit the bullet, and Ian Biggs brought her an English-Farsi dictionary and grammar book, it became a reason to get up in the morning. It gave me a goal, and something to do. The battle to hold on to a sense of purpose was ongoing, because everything about life in the political prisoners section of Evin was designed to crush the inmates spirits. Whenever Moore-Gilbert stepped out of her cell, she had to put on a blindfold. For a trip to the clinic inside the prison grounds, she would be handcuffed. She wasnt permitted to wear a bra under her prison uniform of a pink knee-length coat and baggy pink pants. It was a deliberate strategy of humiliation, she says. Dehumanisation, also. Whenever Moore-Gilbert stepped out of her cell, she had to put on a blindfold. For a trip to the clinic inside the prison grounds, she would be handcuffed. Each prisoner was assigned a number. To Moore-Gilberts chagrin, guards often addressed her as 97029 rather than use her name. Id always say, Im a human being! Im not a number. As proof of her existence, she sometimes sang at the top of her voice, belting out the collected works of Destinys Child, say, or the entire Amy Winehouse album Back to Black. Inevitably, the wretchedness of her situation gradually wore her down. She didnt attempt suicide, as was later reported, but she certainly thought about it. My understanding of myself as a unique human being with a personality and a character, with likes and dislikes, with talents, with a moral compass, with dreams and ambitions, slowly diminished, she writes in her book. I was losing myself. I was becoming 97029. The food was barely edible and the squalor deeply disheartening. Moore-Gilbert tells me she never got over her horror at the filthy, disgusting, squat toilet that hadnt been cleaned for god knows how many months, if ever. They said, We cant give you cleaning chemicals because youll drink them and kill yourself. I said, You clean it then. My first hunger strike, that was one of my demands: I want someone to pour bleach into the toilet. She went on seven hunger strikes in all. The first 48 hours were usually the hardest, she says. After that, the stomach cramps subsided and her blood pressure fell to the point where she passed the time dozing. She realised she was risking permanent damage to her health, but starving herself was quite an effective way of getting the prison bosses attention. Also, the strikes gave her a feeling of empowerment, as if she had some measure of control over her fate. Deep down, she knew that this was an illusion. In truth, her fate was in the hands of the man she knew as Qazi Zadeh. He had complete and utter power over me. Ibrahim Qazi Zadeh which shes sure wasnt his real name was an enigmatic figure. Though he was wholly in charge of Moore-Gilberts case, she never completely understood his larger role in the regime. He was head of legal affairs in the IRGCs intelligence branch, as far as she knew, but seemed to have his finger in many pies. Moore-Gilbert describes him as tall, broad-shouldered and completely bald, with striking blue-green eyes. He had a deep, melodic voice, and unlike most Revolutionary Guards, wore good suits. The other thing about Qazi Zadeh? He was a psychopath. A 100 per cent, genuine, bona fide psychopath. Extremely intelligent. Always operating on multiple levels, playing multiple games, manipulating everybody, including his own colleagues. He would taunt Moore-Gilbert, telling her, for instance, that Australian embassy staff knew she was guilty, or assuring her that she would be buried in Iran. At other times he would play good cop, claiming he was on her side and that he would organise her release if only she agreed to switch allegiances and spy for the Islamic Republic. It was this weird relationship, says Moore-Gilbert, who came to realise that he had a crush on her. More than that, actually. He was in love with me. It was clear to everyone, not just me. The knowledge was useful to her: I was always trying to leverage that weakness in him his partiality for me to benefit myself. But her response wasnt entirely cold-blooded. She admits she felt a real connection with him. On his frequent visits to the prison, We had a lot of intellectual conversations, and flirty banter was going on as well, she says. It was probably Stockholm syndrome. Loneliness no doubt came into it, too. I was in solitary. I had nobody else to talk to. Qazi Zadeh was appalled by Moore-Gilberts behaviour during the meeting with Biggs. In Iran, women arent supposed to shake hands with men to whom theyre not related, much less seize them around the legs. Neither are they supposed to hurl sweary abuse at Revolutionary Guards. As retribution, he cut her off from the outside world, stopping consular visits and prohibiting phone calls. Books that Biggs had delivered were withheld from her. The crackdown was a strategic error, in Moore-Gilberts view. Rather than have a chastening effect, it made her more defiant. I wasnt afraid of them any more, she says. They couldnt take anything away from me: Id already been banned from everything. I had nothing to lose. A couple of months later, during an exercise period in a prison courtyard, she scaled a two-metre-high corrugated-iron fence and climbed onto the roof of the interrogation building. It was exhilarating to feel the breeze in her hair and the sun on her face. She took in the panoramic view of the sprawling city. Salaam, Tehraaaaan! she shouted jubilantly. When guards appeared, she said she would jump off the roof unless access to her books, consular visits and phone calls was restored. She also demanded that she have her day in court. The verdict was a foregone conclusion she knew she would be found guilty but she wanted to get the trial behind her. Abolqasem Salavati, who presided over Moore-Gilberts case, is known in Iran as the hanging judge. (Dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam, convicted of spreading corruption on earth and executed in December 2020, was among those hes sent to the gallows.) Though Moore-Gilbert expected no mercy from Salavati, she was knocked for six when in August 2019 he sentenced her to 10 years jail, the maximum term possible, for cooperation in espionage for the tyrannical Zionist regime. In the custom of the Islamic Revolutionary Court, she was handed a piece of paper and invited to write a response. I am still free, she wrote, because freedom is an attitude, freedom is a state of mind. By this time, Moore-Gilbert had acquired two cell-mates Niloufar Bayani and Sepideh Kashani who, with six other members of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, had been arrested on espionage charges while filming and researching endangered animals. Moore-Gilbert had grown close to the pair and knew they would support her when she returned from court after the sentencing. What she didnt predict was that the cell would erupt in a strange kind of celebration. We were dancing and singing and crying, just an explosion of emotion, she says. The three women laughed until tears rolled down their cheeks, overwhelmed by the sheer absurdity of their shared plight. Freedom is an attitude, freedom is a state of mind! Bayani whooped. Isnt that the slogan of one of those luxury watch brands? (Moore-Gilbert has dedicated her book to Bayani and Kashani, who are still in prison.) Moore-Gilbert in Iran before her arrest: My proximity to the Revolutionary Guards taught me that sometimes good people do bad things. Credit:Courtesy of Kylie Moore-Gilbert The longer she was in Iran, the less Moore-Gilbert allowed herself to pine for home. I told myself, This is your new life, she says. I taught myself not to think about Australia and not to think about my life before I came to Iran, including not thinking about my family, not thinking about my job, just trying to focus on the here and now. In a way, the ban on phone calls had been a blessing. Her irregular, rushed conversations with her parents always left her distressed, she says, because they drew me back to my old life. I preferred to keep the wall up and pretend none of it existed. As the first anniversary of her arrest approached, Moore-Gilberts family was still being told not to talk about it. Marjorie Cameron struggled under the strain: Going about the day as if everything was okay it was really hard. When people asked after her granddaughter, she kept her answers vague. Id say, I havent heard from her for a while or something like that. Moore-Gilbert tells me her sister took calls from some of her friends, baffled that she no longer responded to their messages and emails. Belinda would say something really ambiguous, like, Shes going through a really hard time at the moment and cant be in contact, but shes still your friend. I understand how quiet diplomacy is supposed to work. But the fact was, it had not produced results. Was Kylie home? Was she being treated well? The answer to both questions was no. Word had spread quite fast in academic circles, says Australian National University lecturer Jessie Moritz. But as soon as you found out, you were told to be quiet. Moritz, based at ANUs Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies, initially accepted the need for discretion, given that delicate diplomatic manoeuvring was said to be going on behind the scenes. But as time went by, she and others started wondering whether it mightnt be better for Moore-Gilberts predicament to be publicised. I understand how quiet diplomacy is supposed to work, she says. But the fact was, it had not produced results. Was Kylie home? Was she being treated well? The answer to both questions was no. Moore-Gilbert herself was increasingly frustrated by the secrecy surrounding the case. What her colleagues didnt know was that she had started urging her parents to go to the media within a couple of months of her arrest. Marjorie Cameron understands why they were reluctant to take that step: It was all so foreign to them. They had no idea. They could only be guided by what the government said was the best way to do it. The story of Moore-Gilberts incarceration finally broke in September 2019, a year after shed been arrested. That December, the US-based Centre for Human Rights in Iran published letters shed managed to have smuggled out of Evin, in which she said her physical and mental health were deteriorating. She said, too, that she felt abandoned and forgotten. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, she wrote: Please, I beg you to do whatever it takes to get me out. Individuals sprang into action. In Wales, a man called Phil started a change.org petition calling for Moore-Gilberts release, and more than 250,000 people signed it. A Free Kylie website and Facebook group popped up. As the pandemic took off in early 2020, Victorian film and television special effects supervisor John Sanderson found himself part of an online coalition intent on helping Moore-Gilbert in any way it could. Says Sanderson: We were total strangers to each other, stuck in different countries and time zones in a locked-down world, with nothing but an encrypted group chat and a common objective. Lobbying parliamentarians was one method of putting pressure on the Australian government to bring Moore-Gilbert home. Keeping her name in the news was another. When her supporters learnt she had been transferred in mid-2020 to Qarchak womens penitentiary, a grim establishment in the desert east of Tehran, and was running in a tiny prison yard to keep up her morale, they organised a #WeRunWithKylie event to mark the second anniversary of her arrest. We had people running in Canada and Qatar and South Africa just all over the place, says Sanderson. On her 800th day in prison, the campaigners attached bamboo sticks to 800 blue cardboard butterflies and planted them in the lawn of St Pauls Cathedral, in the Melbourne CBD. It was such a huge number of sticks, says Sanderson, who had bought tomato stakes at Bunnings and cut them into the right sized pieces. I thought, My goodness, each one of these is a day in somebodys life that they can never get back. To mark Moore-Gilberts 800th day in prison, campaigners placed 800 cardboard butterflies outside Melbournes St Pauls Cathedral. Credit:John Sanderson Three days later, Moore-Gilbert was abruptly removed from her cell and driven to the Revolutionary Guards grandiose Tehran headquarters. She walked into the room understandably looking a little dazed, remembers Nick Warner, then director-general of Australias peak intelligence agency, the Office of National Intelligence. Since soon after Moore-Gilberts arrest, Warner had led a team trying to stitch together a deal that would secure her release. A former Australian ambassador to Iran, he still had high-level contacts there. This was the first time he had met Moore-Gilbert. I gave her a long hug, he tells me, and whispered in her ear, Im taking you home. Loading After one more night in prison, she was free. Her first stop was the residence of the current Australian ambassador, Lyndall Sachs, where she had a slap-up lunch and her first glass of wine since 2018. Offered coffee, she threw back two cups in quick succession. She was bubbly, happy, chatty and focused, Warner recalls. Says Moore-Gilbert: I was probably tipsy, and high on caffeine. At the beginning of that week, an Airbus A319 chartered by the Australian government had flown from Canberra to Tehran, then on to Qatar, where it parked for a day. The next stop was Bangkok, where it picked up three Iranian prisoners men who had been convicted of the attempted 2012 bombing of Israeli diplomats in Thailand. The Airbus returned them to Tehran. A few hours later, Moore-Gilbert boarded the plane with Warner for the trip home to Australia. She tells me that, even after take-off, she half-expected to be snatched back by the Revolutionary Guards. Qazi Zadeh had actually said, If youre on a plane, I can make a call and re-route that plane, force it to land. Until we left Iranian airspace, I had that nagging fear at the back of my mind. Former intelligence boss Nick Warner who helped secure Moore-Gilberts release. Credit:Louie Douvis Iran has a history of hostage diplomacy arbitrarily arresting foreign citizens on trumped-up charges and exacting a high price for their release. Moore-Gilberts freedom had been granted as part of a prisoner swap: she was exchanged for the three convicted terrorists. The Australian government stands by its handling of the case. Moore-Gilberts release was achieved through careful and considered diplomatic engagement, says a spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. In the governments opinion, a public media campaign would not have offered the best chance of a positive outcome. Moore-Gilbert disagrees. Though she cant say definitively that public campaigning helped get her out of jail, she strongly suspects it gave new urgency to the negotiations, which she gets the impression had been moving at a glacial pace. She has no doubt the campaigning was responsible for an improvement in the way she was treated in prison. There was a direct benefit to me of having a spotlight on my conditions, she says. I saw that the Revolutionary Guards were responsive to public pressure, even though they claimed they werent. To Hadi Ghaemi, executive director of the Centre for Human Rights in Iran, there seems no advantage to a hush-hush approach to hostage negotiations. I have never seen it work, he says. Ghaemi knows that, for Moore-Gilbert, the story is not over. We are seeing a lot of innocent lives ruined through these imprisonments. The healing process is very challenging. Moore-Gilbert at home in the Dandenong Ranges. She says she has no bitterness towards Iran. Its a beautiful country. And ordinary Iranians are wonderful people. Credit:Josh Robenstone The house in the Dandenong Ranges is Moore-Gilberts haven. She tells me as we drink tea and nibble Persian Love Cake that she worried, while in Iran, about whether her mortgage payments were being made. Everyone kept saying, Youre in prison! Who cares about finances? But this was a life I had been building for myself. I saved for a decade to buy this house. I had a scholarship for my PhD but I worked two or three jobs sometimes, to pay for my living expenses during my studies, so I could save all my scholarship for a house deposit. She runs daily in the surrounding forest, breathing the clean air and savouring the sensation of being embraced by nature. Nick Warner is hugely impressed by Moore-Gilbert. An amazing person, he says. So strong. So smart. How do you teach yourself Farsi in solitary confinement? She tells me that another of her mental exercises was committing to memory the events of each day from the time of her arrest. She would pace up and down in her cell for hours, going over and over the details of incidents and conversations. Memorisation was an intellectual challenge and a way of keeping my brain occupied, she says. On the plane home, she started jotting it all down. This was the raw material for The Uncaged Sky. Writing the book has forced her to re-examine some painful experiences, but the process has had a cathartic side. Ive been thinking a lot about what happened to me, she says. Sometimes even dreaming about it. Now I would like to put it to one side and move on. Moore-Gilbert has no bitterness towards Iran. Its a beautiful country, she says. And ordinary Iranians are wonderful people so hospitable and friendly and warm. Her interest in the Middle East is undiminished. If anything, Im more interested in the Middle East. Moore-Gilberts ex-husband Ruslan Hodorov with his new partner Kylie Baxter. Credit:Media Mode Imprisonment has made her reassess her priorities, though, and she has quit her job at the University of Melbourne. Im cynical about academia. I love teaching, and I love research. But teaching isnt valued, and nobody really cares about research. Its all about chasing the grants, the money. Higher education is just in a terrible state. She says in her book that Iran profoundly changed her: Some of these changes have been positive. I am more confident and assertive, and I am more of a risk-taker. I back myself. But prison has also made me a lot more guarded and emotionally cautious. I am slow to trust, and slow to let people in. Not that she has turned her back on romance. Im dating someone and Im happy in that new relationship, she tells me. Her friends insist she is still the Kylie they have always known. Shes probably sick of us saying, Are you sure youre okay? Because she actually is doing really well, says Jessie Moritz. Long-time friend Hannah Kunert is slightly more cautious: If anyone can get over something like this, shes the one. But I think it will take time. Moore-Gilbert hasnt decided what she will do with the rest of her life. Im not particularly worried, she says. I feel like Ill just go with the flow and Ill find something. Before I leave, she packs the rest of the cake into a plastic container. She insists I take it home with me. Kylie Moore-Gilbert will feature on 60 Minutes on Sunday, March 27. She will speak at the Wheeler Centre, Melbourne on March 29 and at the Sydney Writers Festival on May 21. To read more from Good Weekend magazine, visit our page at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Brisbane Times. The best of Good Weekend delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. Sign up here. Later that year, Border Force intercepted a second package this time marked as a car positioning wheel dolly containing 7.89 kilograms of cocaine. Schwartzs double life came crashing down in September 2016, as he and then-fiancee boarded a flight. The Silverwater correctional complex, where Schwartz was found dead last month. Credit:Kate Geraghty The paediatric nurse watched on in horror as Schwartz was pulled off a plane and remanded into custody two weeks before the pair were due to marry. She has not seen him since. Snitch Schwartz was to spend four years inside the Silverwater correctional complex after he pleaded guilty to two counts of importing a commercial quantity of cocaine. In jail, he suffered badly; a 2016 newspaper report that incorrectly labelled him an executive for Rio Tinto resulted in another inmate trying to extort $15,000, then $30,000 out of him. Some of the drugs police allege Schwartz imported to Australia via DHL. When Schwartz didnt pay, he was set upon by another inmate with a Breville sandwich maker in an attack so brutal he permanently lost hearing in one ear. So-called 3LA powers meant Schwartz was compelled to give investigators the password to his encrypted BlackBerry Phantom, leading to an erroneous TV report that he had snitched in 2017. The label of police informant stuck, and Schwartz was stabbed by another inmate, leaving him with PTSD that would continue after he walked out of Silverwater on parole in August 2020. The pushers, the pullers and Mostafa Baluch Where are we sending dummy from? an An0m user named anybreak asked in April last year. Greece seems good to go again, he texted later that day. Police say that anybreak was Schwartz, and the dummy in question was a precursor to the 27 kilograms of cocaine, 48.6 kilograms of methylamphetamine and eight kilograms of heroin that he and his co-conspirators allegedly imported from Greece and the UK last year. Investigators say that Schwartz positioned himself as something of an adviser to several of the transnational crime syndicates blown up by the An0m sting last year that led to hundreds of arrests across the globe, including one of his alleged co-conspirators Mostafa Baluch. The Bayview restaurateur made national headlines and sparked an international manhunt when he cut off his ankle bracelet while on bail for allegedly importing 900 kilograms of cocaine to Australia from Ecuador. Mostafa Baluch was extradited from Queensland after a two-week manhunt. Credit:Brook Mitchell Mr Baluch was discovered sitting in a Mercedes inside a shipping container on the back of a truck crossing into Queensland last year and is yet to enter a plea to a slew of charges. He remains before the courts. Detectives say the two met in prison and exchanged letters after they were freed. Schwartz claimed to have a trusted Border Force insider who would ensure packages concealing drugs would pass through customs unbothered. An investigation unearthed no evidence of this. Rather, police believe that Schwartz was big-noting himself to create the impression he was indispensable and was instead reliant on something that had served him in the past obsessively checking the DHL website. Schwartz tracked over 100 consignments, a number of which contained drugs hidden in TV brackets or clay pots, and checked on one package 167 times. Schwartz, whose own messages are not pictured, was one of hundreds of alleged criminals communicating on An0m. Schwartz allegedly advised the syndicate on the weight of packages, how to conceal cocaine, and DHLs turnaround and processing times, as well as pushers people who get the shipments of drugs into the airfreight system and the pullers who remove it. He was speaking to lots of people, lots of different syndicates. He was respected, he had his craft down. [But] his business model was quite simply just checking the DHL systems, he knew that really well. And he just communicated that knowledge on, said the federal polices Detective Sergeant Brendon Basford, one of the officers involved in arresting Schwartz at his Double Bay home in October last year. Its been two months. Please help. Back in prison, Schwartz was in agony. Without his medication or a visit from a doctor, he began to ask for help that would never come. Please I have bad PTSD, stuck in quarantine and night terrors getting worse, he wrote on a request for medication in early November. Loading He filled out requests the next two days, then every second day the following week. On November 25, he wrote: Family has sent in my prescription & psych report three times but no one has spoken to me. I need help. On December 8, he wrote that his PTSD is out of control and unbearable and complained of nightmares. I need to see a psych and have not been given my medication its been 2 months. Please help. He pleaded for help again in January, describing night terrors, cant remember things, flashbacks in shower. A last-ditch attempt at securing Schwartzs freedom in the Supreme Court last month heard that his anxiety was almost palpable. He had received absolutely no assistance for his severe mental health issues but was inexplicably offered treatment for arthritis, his barrister Grant Brady SC said. He did not have arthritis. Loading Schwartzs mother Laelie was so desperate to free him, she bet her $4.5 million Paddington home of 39 years on him not skipping town. While he was in jail the first time, Laelie had found a dead rat inside an envelope on her doorstep one morning, and had received threatening texts. Schwartz also offered to forfeit $100,000 in cash if he failed to appear. But Crown lawyers argued that Mr Baluch absconded despite a $4 million surety, and because Mr Baluch and Schwartz were allegedly connected to the same criminal syndicate, the latter may have the same criminal associations available ... to similarly attempt to flee. It wasnt until February 16, nearly four months after he walked into Silverwater, that Schwartz got a visit from a psychologist. It was fleeting, and no medication was prescribed for logistical and medical reasons. Two days later, Supreme Court Justice Mark Ierace SC said he was satisfied that Justice Health would provide Schwartz with the medication and psychological treatment he had requested. Justice Ierace refused bail. But Schwartz would never receive the promised treatment. On the morning of February 19, he was found alone in his single maximum-security cell, dead. The coroner will investigate the cause of death. Most Australian schools do a poor job of teaching students how to write, and a report has found students suffered a 10-year decline in skills such as constructing sentences and grammar as a result. A report has warned not enough time is given to teaching writing in Australian classrooms, almost half of graduate teachers lack confidence in their ability to teach the skills, and universities provide inconsistent and, in some cases, shallow instruction on how to teach writing. A report has found the teaching of writing is inadequate in most Australian schools. Credit:Tanya Lake In its first major research report, the Australian Education Research Organisation sounded the alarm on what it says are inadequate practices in classrooms when it comes to writing, leading to a long-term stagnation in students writing skills. There are two principal findings from the writing research, which seem to be consistent across grades and locations, the report states. Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers said this week Labor would bring down a fresh budget before years end. From what we know of the economic and fiscal outlook to be outlined in Tuesdays budget, the newly-minted treasurer would be working in a favourable setting. How much of Josh Frydenbergs budget an Albanese government might unpick will become clearer before the election, but there would also be surprises in the Chalmers one. Labor has said it would look at where theres presently waste, allowing for funds to be reallocated, which would inevitably mean some losers. The campaign is already with us. Indeed, it has been for months. Before that budget, PM Albanese would convene a jobs summit, including business, unions, all levels of government, and community representatives. This would be broadly modelled on Bob Hawkes economic summit of 1983; it is part of Albaneses mantra that he would govern in the Hawke consensus style. The summit would be as important for its symbolism as its outcomes. Summits need to be carefully handled. Hawkes 1985 tax summit, promised before the 1984 election, ended in an imbroglio. Kevin Rudds 2008 Australia 2020 summit over-promised and under-delivered. Albanese has also flagged he wants to tackle reforming the federation, saying we need a clearer delineation of who is responsible for what. If he is truly serious about such a clearer delineation and hes yet to provide details achieving it would be a big task that has eluded governments before. Peter Malinauskas, right, was sworn in as South Australian premier this week, giving Labor power in four of Australias five mainland states. Credit:AAP, Matt Turner After Labors South Australian election win, Albanese would have the advantage of Labor being in power in four of the five mainland states (with the possibility of its winning in NSW next year). Not that having federal and state governments of the same hue automatically guarantees smooth relations. On the legislative front, the new Labor government would be putting into law its 2050 net zero target, as well as preparing for Australia to take a higher profile at the next UN climate change conference, in Egypt in November. It would also be working on its model for a national integrity commission, to which it has firmly committed. On the other side, the Liberals and Nationals would be shattered but not surprised by their loss, and mired in the usual recriminations that follow defeat. The new oppositions ability to regroup quickly could depend on the size of its defeat, and that would subsequently shape its chances of vying for a return to power at the next election, likely in 2025. Josh Frydenberg and Peter Dutton are the most likely candidates to become opposition leader if the Coalition loses the federal election in May. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The battle for Liberal leader would likely be a face-off between Frydenberg and Peter Dutton, who are both showing their paces for the future as key frontline players in the struggle to keep the Morrison government in office. The centrist Frydenberg would be favoured by the moderates in the Liberal Party and (from this distance out) the frontrunner. Dutton would be the conservatives candidate. As opposition leader, Frydenbergs treasury background would give him an advantage in taking the economic debate up to Labor. Dutton would probably follow the Tony Abbott model, using bare-knuckle tactics to try to tear down the Albanese government. Loading Flip the coin to assume the Coalition win with a majority: the Morrison agenda is sketchy, a version of more of the same. Morrison would be unlikely to transform into the ambitious reformer, regardless of the wishes of some in the business community and the Liberals base. His approach would likely continue to be a managerial one. As one Liberal man says, Hes not a policy guy. Hes not a conviction politician. His objective is remaining in power. Also, Morrison would have the constraints of his majority almost certainly being extremely narrow. Not in the short term, but after a year or so, speculation would turn to the leadership. There would be pressure for a transition, a realisation the government could not go around again with Morrison. After another election defeat, following (once again) high expectations of victory, Labor morale would be rock bottom. The new leader would face a massive job in rebuilding. Those potentially with an eye to opposition leadership would include Jim Chalmers, Tanya Plibersek, Richard Marles, Chris Bowen, and Tony Burke. Possibly, Bill Shorten. Chris Bowen, Tanya Plibersek, possibly Bill Shorten, and Jim Chalmers would be among the leading contenders for the Labor leadership if Anthony Albanese were to lose the May election and resign the party to another term in opposition. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Of this list, only Plibersek is from the left. The field would quickly whittle itself down, probably leaving only two perhaps Chalmers versus Plibersek. Assuming a contest, the leader would be chosen by a combination of caucus and rank and file ballots on a 50-50 basis. The third potential election outcome is a hung parliament. And that takes us into the realm of maximum uncertainty. Loading The present crossbenchers are coy about how theyd play the situation. There is general wariness on the crossbench about the sort of formal agreements we saw in the Gillard days. Regardless of whether Morrison or Albanese ended up PM in the hung parliament, the crossbenchers with most of the existing ones being likely returned and possibly at least one new face in their ranks would be extracting action on issues they cared about. A hung parliament can bring out the best or the worst features of the parliamentary system, or a combination of both. The relationship between the two countries has been in the diplomatic deep freeze for close to two years and Mr Xiaos request for a meeting came as Mr Morrison attacked Labor as relatively weak on China and questioned whether it would stand up to Beijing. Loading In meetings with Australians in the private sector in recent weeks, Mr Xiao said he was carrying a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping for the Australian government: Australia has been treating China like the enemy. Australia has to decide whether it is Chinas enemy or Chinas friend. John Blaxland, a professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies at the Australian National University said it was likely the meeting was declined because I dont think it works for the PMs rhetorical posturing on national security and the characterisation of China in adversarial terms. To be fair, [a meeting] is something both sides would probably want to avoid until the election is clear, and the ambassador would know that. Anthony Albanese wouldnt want to be too sympathetic either, he said. China would be eager to capitalise on the optics of a meeting and use it for its own purposes in terms of demonstrating that it is being the more magnanimous and broad-minded of the parties. The revelation that Mr Morrison declined the meeting comes as Australia and New Zealand signalled they will push to stop a security agreement between China and the Solomon Islands from being signed. There is deep concern in Canberra, Wellington and Washington about the implications of a potential base for Chinese naval vessels right on Australias doorstep that will be able to cut off key supply lines into Asia and the Pacific in the event of a conflict. On Friday Mr Morrison urged the Solomon Islands to remember Australias work in the Pacific, and New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta warned the arrangement could destabilise the current institutions and arrangements that have long underpinned the Pacific regions security. This would not benefit New Zealand or our Pacific neighbours, she said. NZ High Commissioner Georgina Roberts directly raised Wellingtons concerns with Honiara on Friday. The Ardern government is also attempting to establish contact with Beijing over the draft agreement revealed on Thursday. Since being appointed Ambassador and arriving in January, Mr Xiao has met with former Australian prime ministers Paul Keating and John Howard and reportedly exchanged views on the development of China-Australia relations. He also met Labor foreign affairs spokeswoman Penny Wong and former foreign minister Julie Bishop. Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne met with the Chinese Ambassador in place of the PM. Credit:Steven Siewert The Ambassador has struck a conciliatory tone in public comments since arriving in Australia in January but the essential impasse between the nations Chinas government demanding Australia make concessions in 14 areas of its sovereignty has not changed. According to a readout provided to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Senator Payne set out frankly Australias positions on a range of issues, including the importance of appropriate ministerial and other high-level dialogue and engagement, stability in the Indo-Pacific, free and open trade, human rights and the welfare of Australians detained in China during her meeting with the Ambassador. Senator Payne said Australia remains committed to a constructive relationship with China in which we can pursue areas of co-operation but this was conditional on remaining consistent with our own national sovereign interests and focused on stability. The relationship between China and Australia has been strained by Canberras call for an independent inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus, as well as by the so-called Pacific step up, which is designed to increase Australias diplomatic focus and the amount of aid that flows to the Pacific states. China responded by imposing trade boycotts on more than $20 billion of Australian goods. In his meetings with the former prime ministers Keating and Howard, Mr Xiao made clear the Chinese government was willing to work with the Australian side to review the past, face the future, uphold the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and jointly promote the development of China-Australia relations along the right track. The Chinese embassy in Canberra was contacted for comment. Star casinos senior regulatory officer did not update a satisfactory rating of a notorious junket operator even after he was told money was potentially being secreted in the coat pockets of men into an exclusive gaming room. Graeme Stevens on Friday told an inquiry he should have updated a May 2019 report about Chinese junket operator Suncity after he received an email with concerns about hidden money and a lack of surveillance. Suncity was given access to a private gaming room in 2016 for its customers, provided they used Stars cage to purchase or cash in gaming chips, which the inquiry has heard it did not do. CCTV footage shows Suncity staff dealing with large amounts of cash in the junkets private gaming salon at The Star Sydney, which one casino executive has said was probably money laundering. We know the money is leaving the cupboard, wrote an internal investigator in the June 2019 email reviewing the operators exclusive use of the Salon 95 gaming room. Kampala, Uganda: Ethiopias government has announced what it called an indefinite humanitarian truce in its war-ravaged Tigray region, saying the action was necessary to allow unimpeded relief supplies into the area. The aid agency Oxfam International warned on Tuesday that widespread hunger across East Africa could become a catastrophe without an injection of funds to the regions most vulnerable communities. The government calls upon the donor community to redouble their generous contributions to alleviate the situation and reiterates its commitment to work in collaboration with relevant organisations to expedite the provision of humanitarian assistance to those in need, authorities said in a statement issued by the Government Communication Service. Workers clean the floor as sacks of food earmarked for the Tigray and Afar regions sit in a warehouse of the World Food Program (WFP) in Semera, the regional capital for the Afar region, in Ethiopia, last month. Credit:AP The government statement said Tigrays forces must reciprocate the truce for the humanitarian situation to improve in the region. Singapore/Washington: Australia and New Zealand will push to stop a security agreement between China and the Solomon Islands from being signed as officials scramble to understand how they were blindsided by Beijings proposed deal. There is deep concern in Canberra, Wellington and Washington about the implications of a potential base for Chinese naval vessels right on Australias doorstep that will be able to cut off key supply lines into Asia and the Pacific in the event of a conflict. New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta Credit:Getty The Solomon Islands Office of Prime Minister and Cabinet on Friday afternoon said it was working with China to create a secure and safe environment for local and foreign investment while deepening its relations with Beijing and other governments. The government is expanding the countrys security arrangements with more countries, it said in a statement. Broadening partnerships is needed to improve the quality of lives of our people and address soft and hard security threats facing the country. Madrid: Former king Juan Carlos does not have the right to sovereign immunity, the Spanish High Court has ruled, meaning he could now face trial in a British court over allegations he caused a former lover great mental pain by spying on and harassing her. Justice Matthew Nicklin rejected Juan Carloss claim that his status as a senior member of the Spanish royal family meant he could not be sued by Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein, ruling that the civil claim could go ahead. Spanish emiritus king Juan Carlos and Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein attend the Laureus Sports Awards 2006 at Parc del Forum in Barcelona. Credit:Getty Sayn-Wittgenstein, a 57-year-old Danish businesswoman, who is a resident of Monaco and has homes in London and Shropshire, has accused Juan Carlos and agents of the Spanish state of mounting a continuous campaign of intimidation against her after their relationship ended in 2009. According to her claim, the pair stayed close friends for a period after their break-up, but after she declined his attempts to rekindle their relationship he became hostile and demanded that she return 65 million ($95 million) he had donated to her in 2012. India's largest private port operator and SEZ (APSEZ) Ltd has emerged as the highest bidder for the West Bengal government's greenfield deep-sea port project at Tajpur in a neck-to-neck fight with JSW Group, a source said on Friday. and Sajjan Jindal-led JSW Group were the only two entities that took part in the financial bid round, though there were more port and logistics majors who had expressed initial interest in the estimated Rs 7,000-crore project in Purba Medinipur district. " is the highest bidder, offering a share of 0.25 per cent of gross revenue. It was marginally higher than the second bidder who offered 0.23 per cent," a senior government official said, without wanting to be named. The revenue share will increase to 4 per cent, but that will be at a much later date of the concession period, which is 99 years, he said. The price bid for the tender, floated by the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC), was opened on Wednesday in the presence of the bidders -- and JSW Infrastructure Ltd, the official said. A note has been prepared after APSEZ emerged as the highest bidder, and it will be placed before the state cabinet for final approval, he said. As per an analyst, 0.25 per cent revenue share is very low and will lead to an adverse impact on the existing Kolkata Port. West Bengal government expects that the first phase of the project will be completed in three-four years, and it will be operational, the official said. Road access to the site is the biggest challenge, while railway connectivity is also crucial, he said. For a 15-16 metre draft, an 18-km channel has to be built into the sea. For Panamax size vessels, 12 meters draft is necessary. APSEZ will get 125 acres of seafront land for the development of the port, and another 1,000 acres, situated 4 km away, for port-linked industrial development. Adani Group did not bid for the privatisation of Kolkata Port's Kiddherpore dock, but is the highest bidder for modernisation of Berth 2 of Haldia dock. In less than two decades, APSEZ has built, acquired and developed a portfolio of ports infrastructure and services across India. Its 13 ports and terminals represent 24 per cent of the country's port capacity. Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani met Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in December last year to discuss investment possibilities in the state. In February, his son Karan also visited the state and met Banerjee. Group company Adani Wilmar recently acquired a rice mill in Burdwan. The group also has acquired gas distribution licences in certain parts of West Bengal in partnership with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). (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.) Tata Group-owned Ltd. is looking at buying as many as 30 widebody aircraft, the enginemaker for SEs A350 jets said, an order that will allow the former state-run carrier to aggressively pursue international growth. I think they are looking at something up to 30 aircraft, could be as big as that, which is a big order. A really big order, Chris Davie, a senior vice president in Asia Pacific for Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc said in an interview on the sidelines of the airshow in Hyderabad. An order for 30 A350-100 jets could be valued at about $9.5 billion at 2018 sticker prices, although large discounts are common in big plane purchases. Based on prices provided by aircraft appraiser Avitas Inc., the market value of 30 such jets in 2021 was $4.5 billion. Davie declined to comment on a timeline for any potential order, but said his team has accompanied officials when the planemaker flew an A350 to multiple Indian cities showcasing the jet. The European planemaker has doubled down on efforts to sell its A350 jets to local carriers in recent days, with a specific eye on . The airline, which under its new owners -- Indias largest conglomerate -- needs to revamp its fleet of Boeing 777 jets to take on its profitable local rivals such as Indigo and Spicejet Ltd. and Boeing Co. are in talks with the new owners of about an order for a raft of new jets, Bloomberg reported last month. Those discussions involved both A350-900s and 787-9 Dreamliners. Boeing dominates the widebody fleet in India while Airbus doesnt have a single active customer. Singapore-based Davies visit to India was aimed at meeting key players in the Indian market, and to hold discussions with Air India and Tata Sons Pvt., the $103 billion salt-to-software conglomerate that bought the chronically unprofitable airline from the government earlier this year. The rupee-ruble trade arrangement as an alternative arrangement for Russian oil will soon be ready, said an Indian official privy to it. Ironically the US and other NATO members are still buying energy from Russia, but the White House is trying to tell other countries not to buy. US President Joe Biden has mostly been ignored by China and India, who just snubbed him, ignoring the tie-in to restrict Vladimir Putin. Rupee-Ruble Trade Arrangement India chose to stick with Russia causing Biden to lose face with allies. No threat or coercion would deter a Moscow-Delhi trade scheme for oil, reported CNBC. The president of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), A Sakthivel, announced that the monetary trade deal would be inked with Russian counterparts. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi was subjected to pressure by Washington to drop Russia. He said that Russia has been steadfast in supporting India even in the LAC conflict recently, cited Hindustan Times. He was not ready to let go of a reliable partner and jump ship to the US, which added another dead end to Biden's failed efforts to rally everyone against Putin. Federation of Indian Export Organisations It is an Indian government endorse association that includes about 200,00 exporters and manages export promotion councils. The Indian Ministry of Finance and Reserve Bank of India have yet to respond to the system that would allow Indian exporters to continue doing business with Russia despite limitations of international payment mechanisms due to Western restrictions. India would also be able to purchase Russian energy exports and other commodities under the terms of the rupee-ruble trade arrangement. Read Also: Vladimir Putin Net Worth 2022: Does Anyone Know Russian President's Hidden Wealth? Sakthivel remarked that Delhi is going over the details enabling nationalized Indian banks to transact from Indian to Russian currency; collaboration from the India central bank governor, minister of Finance, and banks involved. He explained that the West would regret its sanctions because it allows new Russian market players. Indian exporters could have an opportunity in another market with no competition, though most exports are agriculture and pharmacy products. It will be the gain of India, and the West will lose out in a market they are present in. India Sees Opportunity in Russian Market Modi is confident enough to stick it out with Russia, the Democratic nations, and the US intend to deplete Putin and isolate him for the Ukraine incursion. According to the data, the move to sidestep sanctions could be serious for India with trade-in billions. In 2021 it was $112.6 billion, consisting of $71 billion in exports and $41 billion in imports. Trade with Moscow is less than the US in 2021, about $3.3 billion worth of goods, including pharma products, tea, and coffee. The trade included other goods at $6.9 billion for defense, minerals, fertilizers, metals, and gems. India and Russia have enjoyed a long-standing friendship that goes back to the Cold War. India is heavily reliant on Russian arms, with around 85 percent of its military equipment coming from Russia or former Soviet Bloc countries, noted India Today. But the Indian government is playing it cool by choosing neutrality in the issue of Russia. The rupee-ruble payment arrangement is an advantage for the Kremlin that Delhi decides to keep their relation, but is a slap for the Biden administration and America's diminishing status. Related Article: Joe Biden Falls Into Another Foreign Policy Disaster With Attempts To Resurrect Iran Nuclear Deal @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Rebel Foods, the worlds largest internet restaurant company, announced a $10 million employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) programme for eligible current and former employees. or employee stock ownership plans are investments in companys shares given to employees by the company. Through this programme, Rebel Foods over 150 current and former employees were given an opportunity to liquidate their vested options this year. Under the ESOP program by Rebel Foods, employees can liquidate the periodically without terms and conditions. The opportunity can be availed once in a one-year period. The company will set aside a pool of funds every year to enable such . Rebel Foods is proud of each and every employee in the company. We appreciate their contribution and faith in the company," Ankur Sharma, co-founder of Rebel Foods. "Our success and achievements would not be possible without the efforts of our teams across geographies. The $10 million ESOP program will offer significant wealth creation opportunities for those who have joined us in our mission of building and scaling a platform for great quality brands across all customer food missions in every neighbourhood in the world." All those who had vested options by October 31, 2021, were eligible for the . The move comes at a time when Rebel Foods is aiming for a widespread expansion and growth trajectory post committing $150 million for strategic brand investments and acquisitions in India and globally. The company attained unicorn status with its Series F funding of $175 million in October 2021. "We will continue creating similar opportunities in the future while rewarding our employees for their hard work, contribution and belief in Rebels vision and missions," said Sharma. Founded in 2011 by Jaydeep Barman and Kallol Banerjee, Rebel Foods started its journey with Faasos in Pune. From becoming a unicorn to Faasos crossing over 500 restaurants and becoming the largest Indian-origin QSR chain, Rebel Foods has achieved notable milestones over the years. Rebel Foods currently is home to over 45 brands in 10 countries. It is home to brands such as Faasos, Behrouz Biryani, Ovenstory Pizza, Mandarin Oak, The Good Bowl, SLAY Coffee, Sweet Truth and Wendys. FMCG major on Friday said it has acquired the 'Dermicool' brand from Reckitt for a total consideration of Rs 432 crore. The acquisition is funded through internal accruals and is subject to the customary closing conditions, the company said in a statement. The Dermicool brand is popular for providing respite from the prickly heat caused during summers. "We are very happy to announce the acquisition of Dermicool brand, which offers great synergy with our existing businesses and is a perfect strategic fit. It will strengthen our presence to make us #1 in the prickly heat powder & cool talc category," Ltd Director Harsha V Agarwal noted. Emami, as one of its core business strategies, has always been open to growth through inorganic route. The company considers acquisitions that not only add value and have synergy with the current line of businesses, but also offer opportunities for the organisation to be present in categories that have high growth potential, it said. Zandu, Kesh King, and German brand Creme 21 are some of the brands or businesses acquired by the company in the past few years, it added. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As India is set to recommence scheduled international flight services from March 27, which remained suspended for the last two years, Gulf carrier Emirates on Friday announced it re-introduce its pre-pandemic service frequency across its destinations in the country from April 1. Prior to the pandemic hitting the country in March 2020 and grounding overseas flight services, Emirates was operating 170 weekly flights to nine destinations, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, among others. All these flights are being restored now, starting from April 1, as per the airline. These 170 weekly flights include 35 services to Mumbai, 28 to Delhi, 24 to Bengaluru, 21 each to Chennai and Hyderabad, 14 to Kochi, 11 to Kolkata, nine to Ahmedabad and seven to Thiruvananthapuram, Emirates said in a statement. The move comes on the back of the decision by the Indian government to restore to and from the country in line with established bilateral agreements from the end of March, it said. Emirates said it has also brought back its Airbus A380 on a daily basis between Dubai and Mumbai in March 2022, which has been deployed on its flight EK 500/ 501 (Mumbai-Dubai-Mumbai). In a related development, Sri Lankan national carrier SriLankan Airlines, in a statement, said it is set to celebrate the reopening of Indian skies on March 27 by doubling up to 88-weekly flights to India to match its pre-Covid-19 flight schedule. The Colombo-based airline currently flies to nine Indian cities-- Delhi; Mumbai; Hyderabad; Trivandrum; Kochi; Chennai; Trichy; Madurai; and Bangalore. The reopening of Indian skies would allow a passenger to book a SriLankan Airlines' flight from any of these Indian cities to any other online destination via Colombo, it said in the statement. Similarly, passengers originating from non-Indian cities within the airline's network could connect to any of the nine Indian cities that the airline flies to via Colombo, it added. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US-based aircraft engine manufacturer GE is bullish that will order more wide bodies as the industry revives after being ravaged by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. GE engines currently power all Indian wide bodies operated by and . If you look at mature aviation markets like China or the US which have around 4,000 aircraft, the ratio of wide bodies is around 20-25 percent. By that same parameter, India with a fleet of 700 aircraft should have around 140 wide bodies. By 2027, when we are supposed to have 1,000 aircraft, even with a conservative estimate India should have around 150-200 wide bodies. I believe the next phase of growth in India will be the wide bodies, said Vikram Rai, country head, GE Aviation. Rai said that the slot constraint at Indian airports is also going to play a role in pushing airlines to have wide bodies. Airlines will need bigger aircraft to tide over the slot constraint problem, he said. Today, every Indian airline is a customer of GE or its joint venture CFM with around 600 aircraft using the GE engines. IndiGo, Indias largest airline in 2019 and 2021, signed deals for CFM LEAP-1A engines for a total of 590 A320 and A321 family aircraft. A growth in the number of wide bodies bodes well for the US aerospace giant as it manufactures the Boeing 777, 787 aircraft. All 45 wide bodies in the Indian airlines' fleet use GE engines. We are talking to all airlines to convince them that a wide body is the future. I believe that the airlines will choose GE as engine provider, Rai said, adding that it will grow to 2,000 plus engines. This is more than a 3x growth in the next five years, he said. When asked if the growth in GEs aviation business would lead to more localisation of components by the manufacturer in India, Rai said that it will ultimately depend on the volume of the business. He pointed out that the company already had multiple initiatives for research & development, manufacturing in India. GE has developed a supply chain network which feeds into the requirement of the companys business at global level. There is a multimodal factory in Pune where the company makes engine components for the GE9x engine. In partnership with the Tata group, GE also manufactures engine components for the LEAP 1A engine. GEs center at Bangalore has close to 1,000 engineers and also works on future engines which will be commercially produced from 2030. The engine manufacturer is also a key player in the global aviation industrys attempt to bring in sustainability. Sustainability is our north star. The LEAP engine has a 15 per cent better fuel burn than its predecessor. The GEnX engine has a 15 per cent lower emission than its older model," said Rai. "We have developed a foam wash program for the 787 fleet of which helps in lowering emissions, Rai said. Recently IndiGo, which uses the CFM engines (developed by GE and SAFRAN), did a test flight for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Pune-based Gennova Biopharmaceuticals' mRNA Covid-19 vaccine is in the eye of the storm after US based start-up HDT Bio Corp filed a lawsuit in a Seattle federal court against Gennovas parent company Pharmaceuticals. HDT has accused of stealing and misappropriation of HDTs billion dollar trade secrets and sought $950 million in damages. The US firm has alleged that willfully and maliciously violated the Defend Trade Secrets Act and Washingtons laws against trade secret theft. Emcure Pharma did not immediately respond to the queries. A spokesperson with Emcure said the licence agreement, which is the subject matter of the suit, is between Gennova and HDT. Emcure Pharma has no connection whatsoever with the matter. Emcure has been legally advised that no suit lies against it; and it has been wrongly joined as a party. The company is initiating steps to have the claims dismissed, the spokesperson added. The lawsuit filed in a Seattle federal court is over an exclusive agreement between Gennova and HDT, which gave the former a limited license to use the US firms proprietary technology to develop and sell an mRNA based Covid-19 vaccine in India. HDT has sought $950 mn in damages and a court order permanently banning Emcure from using its trade secrets. HGCO19, the mRNA vaccine candidate from Gennova, which is now in clinical trials in India, has received grants from the Ind-CEPI mission. An Emcure spokesperson said the company had no connection with the matter and that the licence agreement, which is the subject of the suit, is between Gennova and HDT. What is the lawsuit about? The 34-page lawsuit by HDT Bio, reviewed by Business Standard, says that HDT and Gennova entered into various contracts in 2020, which led to an exclusive license agreement giving the Pune based company a limited license to use HDTs technology to develop and sell a Covid19 vaccine in India. HDT, in return, would receive royalties and payments. It would also have an unrestricted license to use Gennovas data to develop and sell the vaccine elsewhere. In the lawsuit, HDT has claimed that by late 2021 Emcure, the parent company of Gennova, which is also going for an initial public offering (IPO) in the Indian bourses, started proclaiming the HDT-301 and LION technology as its own. HDT-301 is the Covid19 vaccine the culmination of the lifes work of its scientists, the US firm has claimed. mRNA vaccines require sub-zero temperatures to remain stable. However, thanks to the proprietary LION platform, the Gennova-HDT vaccine cand be stored in 2-8 degree Celsius temperature. This makes it a much more lucrative option compared to the currently available mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna which have very stringent temperature requirements in logistics. HDT says that its vaccine candidate dramatically improves upon the existing mRNA vaccines in two ways first it uses a special form of mRNA called self-amplifying RNA or saRNA, which is effective at a much smaller dose than regular mRNA. Lower dosages mean fewer adverse reactions and lower costs. And, secondly, to deliver saRNA into human cells, HDT-301 uses a proprietary delivery platform called LION. LION is a cationic nano-emulsioni.e., a positively charged (cationic) mixture (emulsion) of very small (nano) particles. Unlike some other vaccines, which must be stored and transported at extremely cold temperatures with LION can be stored in standard refrigerators or even freeze-dried and stored at temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. LION thus solves a major barrier to distributing vaccines in developing countries. LION also makes saRNA safe in humans, HDT says in the lawsuit. HDT has said that Emcure recently announced that it intends to go public on the strength of its so-called proprietary mRNA platform, which includes a COVID-19 vaccine. But that mRNA platform and vaccine belong to Plaintiff HDT Bio Corp, the lawsuit says. It goes on to add: Emcures Cinderella story is a fairy tale spun to lure investors to a generics maker whose prior attempt to go public failed for lack of interest. The truth is mundane: Emcure stole HDTs technology, which HDT had licensed to its subsidiary Gennova for manufacture and distribution in India. The background HDT has alleged that Emcure got its hands on a saran vaccine in a faster way: by stealing it from HDT. HDT goes on to elaborate that Emcure Director (and Gennova Chief Executive Officer) Dr. Sanjay Singh visited HDTs headquarters in Seattle in January 2020. There, Dr. Singh met with HDT Chief Executive Officer Dr. Steven Reed, whom he had befriended over a decade earlier. Dr. Singh proposed a partnership to bring HDTs then-incipient COVID-19 vaccine to market in India: HDT would provide the technology, and Dr. Singh and his team would manufacture the product at scale and shepherd it through the regulatory approval process, the US firm narrates in the lawsuit. After Reed agreed, HDT and Emcure subsidiary Gennova then entered into various contracts, culminating in the Exclusive License Agreement that gave Gennova a limited license to use HDTs technology to develop and sell a COVID19 vaccine in India. In exchange, HDT would receive payments and royalties along with an unrestricted license to use Gennovas data to develop and sell the vaccine everywhere else. The Agreement also specified that HDT retained all rights in the transferred technology, and that HDT would jointly own any improvements that Gennova might make to HDTs inventions, the lawsuit mentions. The US firm says that at first Emcure and its subsidiary acted like a partner. Emcure publicly acknowledged that its vaccine was developed in collaboration with HDT. Dr. Singh coined a name for the vaccineHGCO19in which H stood for HDT. HDT said. And when Emcure and Gennovatogethersought regulatory approval to conduct clinical trials in India, they promised that the characteristics, specifications, dosage, and storage temperature would be the same as that of HDT 301 vaccine developed by HDT. By late 2021, HDT alleged that Emcure was proclaiming HDT-301 and the LION technology behind it as its own. The company further alleged that Emcure and/or Gennova have sought two Indian patents on HDTs technology over the summer. In a draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), Emcure has described the Covid19 vaccine as indigenously developed and touts Emcures proprietary mRNA platform, and does not mention HDT, the US firm alleged. In fact, by fall of 2021, Emcure and Gennova had been refusing to share clinical data on the vaccines safety and efficacy with HDT, it said. HDT demanded an explanation during Dr. Singhs next visit to Seattle in November 2021. Caught red-handed, Dr. Singh denied that the Emcure and Gennovas vaccine was based on HDTs technology at all. He falsely claimed that Gennova had independently developed the vaccine that Emcure and Gennova are testing in phase III clinical trials, which on information and belief is the same as HDT-301 except that it removes one immunologically inactive component, HDT has noted. The US firm says that Singh asserted that Emcure and Gennova could sell their vaccine without paying HDT royalties. Gennova then terminated the License Agreement. Real estate developer on Friday was declared bankrupt by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), a move that could have a bearing on 10,000 home buyers of the firm's ongoing projects in the Delhi and NCR region. Acting on a petition filed by the Union Bank of India for non-payment of around Rs 432 crore worth dues, the bankruptcy court ordered the initiation of insolvency proceedings against real estate firm Ltd, one of the of group. The NCLT said "there has been a default in payment of the financial debt" and appointed Hitesh Goyal as the Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) superseding the board of Supertech Ltd. A two-member NCLT bench comprising P S N Prasad and Rahul Bhatnagar said the documents submitted by the financial creditor Union Bank of India as well as the corporate debtor Supertech had "substantiated" the former's claim that there was a debt on which the builder had defaulted. "In light of the above discussion, after giving careful consideration to the entire matter, hearing arguments of the parties and upon the appreciation of the documents placed on record to substantiate the claim, this tribunal admits this petition and initiates CIRP on the corporate debtor with immediate effect, the NCLT said. CIRP refers to Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP). Supertech Ltd has 38,041 customers and out of them, homes have been delivered to 27,111 people. As many as 10,930 homes are yet to be delivered and among them, over 70 per cent construction is complete with respect to over 8,000 homes, according to Supertech Group Managing Director Mohit Arora. The tribunal has also directed the IRP to make a public announcement in this regard and declared a moratorium against the company as per the provision of the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code. Moratorium will continue till a resolution plan is approved and during that period no new cases or claims can be filed against the company in any court of law, tribunal, arbitration panel or any other authority. Apart from this, Supertech is also barred from transferring, encumbering, alienating, or disposing of any assets. This is the second major setback for Noida-based developers in the last one year. On August 31 last year, the Supreme Court had ordered the demolition of Supertech Ltd's twin 40-storeyed towers, which are part of the under-construction Emerald Court project in Noida for violation of building norms. Supertech Group said it would challenge the order before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). "In the matter of appointment of IRP in one of the Supertech Group by the NCLT, management of the company stated that the company will be approaching NCLAT in an appeal against the order," Supertech Group said in a statement. However, it also added the NCLT order will not affect operations of other of the Supertech Group. The NCLT order will not impact the construction at all ongoing projects or operation of the company and "we are committed to giving delivery of units to allottees," it said. When contacted, Arora said, "there are around 11-12 housing projects in the Supertech Ltd against which insolvency proceedings have been initiated. Around 90 per cent of these projects are completed." The debt of Supertech Ltd is around Rs 1,200 crore, including nearly Rs 150 crore loans from Union Bank of India, he added. According to Arora, there are three-four other companies in the group that are developing many projects across Delhi-NCR, including luxury project Supernova. The default pertains to the loan given by Union Bank of India to Eco Village II project at Greate Noida (West) in Uttar Pradesh, which was being developed at a cost of Rs 1,106.45 crore. In 2013, Supertech Ltd had approached various financial institutions to avail a credit facility of Rs 350 crore from a consortium of banks, and out of them, Union Bank of India, the lead bank, had an exposure of Rs 150 crore. A loan agreement was executed between the banks and Supertech on December 30, 2013. Later, loan account of banks which was maintained by Supertech in respect of credit line became highly irregular with repeated defaults in payment of principal and interest. Finally, a notice was sent on April 24, 2019 and Supertech again failed to pay and Union Bank of India moved the NCLT. Supertech had opposed the plea contending that it was filed by the lenders with the authority and as per the clauses of their inter credit agreement, lenders are restricted to initiate any action of winding up, liquidation, bankruptcy, insolvency or dissolution of the borrower. Moreover, NPA classification of their account was contrary to the guidelines issued by RBI, as per the realty firm contended. Rejecting the argument, the NCLT said Suptech had submitted a one time settlement proposal which was not accepted by the financial creditor. "The counsel for the corporate debtor has therefore admitted the debt and default," it 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.) Industries follow-on public offering (FPO) was subscribed 33 per cent on Friday. The share sale closes on Monday. The qualified institutional buyer (QIB) portion was subscribed 41 per cent, high networth individual (HNI) portion 18 per cent, retail portion 36 per cent and the employee portion over four times. Investment bankers expect most of the bids to come on the final day of the issue. On Wednesday, allotted shares worth Rs 1,290 crore to anchor investors at Rs 650 apiecethe top-end of the price band. The lower-end of the price band is Rs 615 per share. Shares of on Thursday finished at Rs 867. Some of the foreign investors given allotment in the anchor category include Societe Generale, BNP Paribas, Oman Pension Fund, and YAS Takaful. Among domestic investors, SBI MF, Kotak MF, Birla MF, HDFC Life Insurance, Ask Group, and Quant MF too have got an allotment under the anchor book. The company will raise Rs 4,500-crore from the FPO, which it plans to use to pare debt. The Baba Ramdev-led Patanjali Ayurved owns 98.9 per cent stake in Ruchi Soya. The FPO is being done to dilute the promoter holding in the company in order to comply with the 25 per cent minimum public shareholding norms. Following the FPO, Patanjalis shareholding will reduce to 81 per cent, while public shareholding will rise to 19 per cent. Ruchi Soya is primarily engaged in manufacturing and selling of edible oil and soya products under brands, such as Mahakosh, Sunrich, and Nutrela. Ruchi Soya has a strong backup from the Patanjali group and we are seeing a turnaround in the company where it managed to turn profitable. It has a strong product portfolio and is one of the largest fully integrated edible oil refining in India. The stock is trading with a price-to-earnings multiple of 32, which is lower than the industry average, said Aayush Agrawal, senior analyst, Swastika Investmart. For the quarter ended December 2021, Ruchi Soya clocked a net profit of Rs 234 crore on revenues of Rs 6,280 crore. At the current market price, the company commands a market cap of around Rs 25,640 crore. Ruchi Soya FPO Day 2 Subscription (%) QIB 41 HNI 17 Retail 36 Employee 318 Overall 33 : NSE, BSE; as on 4 pm Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor and are partnering with Boeing and French respectively to explore opportunities for development and use of sustainable (SAF). The initiatives are in the backdrop of aviation industry's call to reduce . Globally, International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set a target for airlines to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. French Safran, Axens and Airbus have teamed up with to examine the development of sustainable demonstrator, based on agricultural products. A memorandum of understanding was signed at Wings India event on Friday. Similarly, Boeing is partnering with and CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum. The will work together to leverage SAF supply from CSIR-IIP and its production partners and licensees to help decarbonize its fleet has said it will continue to look at acquisitions to become a large player in the packaged foods business. The company recently acquired Kottaram Agro Foods, which houses the brand Soulfull, and Tata SmartFoodz, which have food products in the premium food space. Under the Soufull, now rebranded as Tata Soulfull, the company sells packaged healthy snacks and cereals. Tata SmartFoodz has heat-to-eat food products ranging from pastas and noodles to biryanis. Our vision is to become a really large player in the packaged foods business and within the packaged foods business. Given that it (packaged foods segment) is such a fast-evolving space, we will be happy to look at new categories as well, said Deepika Bhan, president, packaged foods (India), . At this point, Tata Consumer has the wherewithal to be able to use the cash we have to acquire. We are okay to look at anything thats interesting. We are happy to look at an inorganic way to grow. As we make those decisions, we will be conscious about what is building complementary strength on the table, Bhan added. Bhan said the consumers who are comfortable paying a certain premium for packaged goods are accessing the e-commerce channel. She said Tata Consumer Products, which sells staples like pulses and spices under the Tata Sampann brand, is the number one player in the vital staples of e-commerce. Tata Consumer's India business sees more than 7 per cent of its sales come from e-commerce. Bhan said the company will take measured price increases, but didnt elaborate on the extent to which the hike would be taken. The Chinese drone maker DJI was requested by Ukraine to stop assisting the Russian army with its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).These devices are supposed to coordinate missile attacks on Ukrainian targets, which the US dislikes. Not only then, but the US wants all tech companies to agree forcefully like a hegemonic power, but not all agree. Drone Maker Blacklisted The US is supporting Kyiv in asking the China-based drone maker to stop providing UAVs for Russians to use, reported the Eurasian Times. Ukraine is complaining that the DJI UAVs allow the Russians to crush them, which they don't like. DJI is a famous civilian UAV manufacturer headquartered in Shenzhen, near Hong Kong. Photographers, companies, and movie fan all deploy their drones because of the added precision guidance technology. Ukraine's Vice-Prime Minister, Mykhailo Federov, has challenged DJI Technology Co. to restrict its solutions that enable Russia to aim at Ukrainians, cited SCMP. He posted that DJI products were used as markers for the Russian Missiles on social media, but the obverse is the Ukrainians can use Chinese drone maker DJI devices unhampered. Read Also: Vladimir Putin Net Worth 2022: Does Anyone Know Russian President's Hidden Wealth? Global Campaign To Isolate Russia Fedorov has undertaken a mainly strong campaign for global tech businesses to abandon Russia. Companies in the United States and Europe reacted positively to his pitch. The US and its allies are putting tremendous pressure on Chinese firms, who are forced to walk a fine line in the middle of the Situation in Ukraine, noted CNBC. Although DJI can't turn off individual drones, it will use geofencing, or programming restrictions, to prohibit drone activities near an airport and other important locations, according to its own Twitter account statement. These limitations, nevertheless, will affect all DJI drones in Ukraine, according to the business. Concerns were raised regarding DJI's drone detection technology, AeroScope, which he claimed Russia was employing to try and locate Ukrainian drones from a range of about 50 kilometers. The firm remarked that its newest drone is equipped with a safety mechanism that sends its location and could trace other UAVs to keep from a mid-air collision. One of its systems called Geofencing has its bugs noted the firm; all drones linked via the internet with updated software only. It means once off-line, the drones are on AI process only. But the insistence of the problem will be answered by the firm. DJI said its product is not for military use; the Aeroscope function and Remote ID requirements are why it is not appropriate as military devices. The remote ID is a regulation that compels DJI products to emit a signal that acts as a digital license plate scheme for drones, enabling authorities to recognize who is flying them. Customization of Drones for Military Missions The drone maker said Russia could repurpose the product for combat purposes though it is an after-market modification done to the unit. China has declined to condemn Russia's military intervention in Ukraine. In the wake of the Ukraine war, Beijing likewise refused to vote on all UN resolutions denouncing Moscow. Last year, the US government put eight Chinese companies, mainly drone manufacturer DJI, on a blacklist for allegedly being involved in monitoring Uyghur Muslims, mentioned Asia Nikkei. Chinese drone maker DJI did not say it would not sell to Russia despite Ukraine wanting to stop sales which are compromising it. Related Article: Russians Favor Military Action Against NATO Countries Deemed as Threat by Putin, New Poll Says @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. British carrier on Friday said it will operate a second daily service between Delhi and London starting from June 1. The flight will be operated from Heathrow airport to Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital. The airline has also announced some changes in the departure timings of its Mumbai flight, effective March 27. Coupled with its service from Mumbai, will offer three daily flights from India, it said in a statement. The announcement comes ahead of the resumption of regular to and from India from March 27. Scheduled commercial international flight services were suspended in the last week of March 2020 in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. said that from June onwards, it will offer morning as well as night departure Delhi-to-London flights. The new second flight will be operated with a 258-seater Boeing 787-900 aircraft. "... with a double daily Delhi service, alongside our daily Mumbai service, this will be our largest ever flying programme to India, which is our third largest market globally," Alex McEwan, Country Manager for South Asia at Virgin Atlantic, said. Virgin Atlantic also said its flight from Mumbai will now have an afternoon departure. The airline is also offering a flexible booking policy, allowing customers to amend their flights with no change fee until December 31, 2023. Together with Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic will offer seamless connections between Delhi and the USA via Heathrow, the statement 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.) Indian full-service airline is in talks with lessors about getting long-haul planes to cover a gap left by delays in 787 deliveries, chief executive Vinod Kannan said. Vistara, owned by Singapore and India's Tata Group, is waiting to receive four aircraft from Boeing's 787 production line, but deliveries have been frozen globally since May 2021 due to quality-control shortcomings. To provide substitute capacity in the short term, is talking to lessors about renting 787s, Kannan said in an interview with Reuters. "There is enough availability (of airliners) in the market because there are still parts of the world where flying has not come back," he said, adding that the company is yet to make a final decision on whether to rent aircraft. Kannan said the market was too volatile to consider ordering new planes right now. But, in the longer run, could also consider buying Airbus A350s, he said. Vistara has about 50 aircraft, including two 787-9s received before the delivery suspension and a mix of Airbus and narrow-body airliners. It plans to take 20 more aircraft by the end of 2023, mostly A320s to be used domestically and for nearby international destinations. Expanding its footprint globally is a priority for Vistara, which began operations in 2015 but has not yet made a profit. India's domestic market is dominated by low-cost carriers, such as IndiGo. International flying offers stronger pricing. The airline's losses narrowed last fiscal year, and Kannan said he had seen a further improvement until February, when fuel prices spiked. While demand is growing and air fares are moving higher, it will be difficult to offset higher fuel costs and the burden of a depreciating rupee, he said. FLYING INTERNATIONAL Vistara's international operations - reaching about a dozen foreign cities, such as London, Paris and Frankfurt - comprise around 25% of its capacity. It wants to expand this to 35% over the next two years and is looking at direct flights to the United States, South Korea and Japan, Kannan said. "A lot of the long haul depends on aircraft availability. This is the time to capitalise, especially with India opening up international travel," he said. Tata this year acquired Vistara's direct competitor, Air India. Kannan said the two are exploring how they can cooperate without violating competition rules. Vistara began looking at international expansion before the pandemic but paused as air travel came to a near halt in 2020. Now high fuel prices and Russia's invasion of Ukraine are forcing it to look again at its plans. The airline operated charter flights to such places as Hong Kong and Moscow during the pandemic. But Hong Kong is now closed to visitors and Moscow is "out of the question", Kannan said. "With fuel price where they are, we have to think twice in terms of whether we need to bring on those additional aircraft," he said. "But we know that not just the U.S., but all these long-haul points are important." (Reporting by Aditi Shah; editing by Jamie Freed and Bradley Perrett) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A total of 106 projects have been envisaged under the Mission in the national capital and of these, 86 have been completed while six are at the DPR stage, according to the Economic Survey of Delhi 2021-22. Launched in 2015, the "Smart Cities Mission" scheme has the objective of promoting cities that provide core infrastructure and give a decent quality of life to its citizens, a clean and sustainable environment and application of "smart" solutions. The survey report shared the status of its implementation in Delhi for which the Municipal Council (NDMC) was selected on January 28, 2016. "A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), namely Ltd. ( SCL), has been incorporated on 28th July, 2016 with equity contribution from Government of India (Gol) and . Total 106 projects envisaged under Mission and out of these, 86 have been completed, nine are on-going, four are at tendering stage, six projects are at DPR stage. The DPR of one project has been approved," the report said. The economic survey for the financial year 2021-22 was presented in the Assembly by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Friday. The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs had released a total amount of Rs 294 crore (Rs 2 crore + Rs 8 crore + Rs 186 crore + Rs 98 crore) to the Delhi government for the implementation of Smart City Mission. As of now, the SPV has received a grant of Rs 294 crore from the ministry and Rs 200 crore from the NDMC, thereby bringing the seed capital to Rs 494 crore, the report said. The Economic Survey of Delhi 2021-22 report also said that "more than 60 per cent of the households occupy one-room and two-room dwelling units in Delhi. The UN describes average household size at 2.5 per room, to be above the congestion level. With average household size of 5, housing congestion is a matter of concern". About one-third of Delhi's population lives in sub-standard housing, which includes 675 slum and JJ clusters, 1,797 unauthorised colonies, old dilapidated areas and 362 villages. These areas often lack safe, adequate housing and basic services, it added. "According to the projections, Delhi needs 24 lakh new housing units by the year 2021 (MPD 2021). Of these, 54 per cent are required for the EWS and LIG. About 42 per cent housing units, i.e. about 10 lakh are to be provided by densification and redevelopment of existing residential areas, covering in-situ slum rehabilitation, infill development, regularisation and redevelopment of unauthorised colonies and by densification and up-gradation of old residential areas," the report 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.) As many as 491 stations have been installed as of March 1 this year under the two phases of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid) and (FAME) scheme, Parliament was informed on Friday. As per information received from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, a total of 1,536 stations have been installed at oil marketing companies retail outlets in the country as of March 1, Minister of State for Heavy Industries Krishan Pal Gurjar said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. The Phase-II of FAME India scheme proposes to give a push to (EVs) in public transport and encourage adoption of EVs by way of market creation and demand aggregation. "Under FAME India Scheme I and II, a total of 491 stations have been installed as on 1st March 2022," he said. In a separate reply, he said 17 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have approved/notified/ formulated dedicated EV policies for promotion of . In another reply, he said that as per information received from Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), some manufacturers in India have undertaken initiatives to develop prototypes of Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicles and some of the Global manufacturers in India have also demonstrated Fuel Cell vehicles. (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.) As many as 577 are in the custody of and India has been consistently raising the incidents of their detention and the capture of fishing boats by the neighbouring country, the was informed on Friday. Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said according to the India- "Agreement on Consular Access" signed on May 21, 2008, lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen of each country, lodged in the jails of the other, are exchanged on January 1 and July 1 every year. "According to the lists exchanged on January 1, 2022, has acknowledged the custody of 577 fishermen who are Indian or are believed to be Indian," he said during the Question Hour. Besides, the minister said, according to government records, 1,164 Indian fishing boats are also believed to be in Pakistan's custody. However, the neighbouring country has not acknowledged the custody of the boats. He said incidents of apprehension of and their boats by Pakistani authorities are consistently raised with the neighbouring country and it is conveyed that the issue may be considered on purely humanitarian and livelihood grounds. All possible assistance, including legal help, is extended to the fishermen for their early release and repatriation, along with the release of their boats. As a result of the sustained efforts by the government, 2,140 and 57 Indian fishing boats have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2014, Muraleedharan said. He said the government attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. As soon as cases of apprehension of Indian fishermen and their fishing boats are reported, immediate steps are taken by Indian missions and posts to seek consular access, ensure their welfare and also pursue their early release and repatriation, along with their boats, the minister informed. Given the humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of the issue, the government has put in place several bilateral mechanisms to ensure cooperation and understanding with the countries concerned to promote the safety and security of Indian fishermen, 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.) on Friday took oath as chief minister for the second term in a mega ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top BJP leaders. and Brajesh Pathak were also sworn in as deputy chief ministers. Governor Anandiben Patel administered the oath to Adityanath in a ceremony also attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP national president J P Nadda. Chief ministers of BJP-ruled states, including Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, attended the swearing-in ceremony. Adityanath was unanimously elected the BJP legislature party leader in UP on Thursday, after which he staked claim to form the government. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium, the venue having the capacity to accommodate 50,000 people. Suresh Khanna, Surya Pratap Sahi, Swatandra Dev Singh, Baby Rani Maurya and IAS-turned politician A K Sharma were administered oath as cabinet ministers. BJP ally Ashish Patel of Apna Dal (Sonelal) and NISHAD party chief Sanjay Nishad also took given oath as cabinet ministers. Jitin Prasada, who had quit the Congress to join the BJP just ahead of the polls, made it to the state cabinet. Danish Azad Ansari has been made a minister of state. He is the lone Muslim face in the Adityanath government. IPS-turned politician Aseem Arun, Daya Shakar Singh, Nitin Agarwal and Kalyan Singh's grandson Sandip Singh have been made ministers of state (independent charge). The BJP-led alliance had won 273 of 403 seats in the just-concluded Assembly polls. While the BJP got 255 seats, its allies Nishad Party and the Apna Dal (S) bagged 18. (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.) Chief Minister is likely to meet Chief Minister on Friday over the coal crisis in . "The mines that are allocated to us (Rajasthan) by the Coal Ministry in are left with a limited quantity of coal. So to start second mines, we need government's permission and for that Chief Minister will meet Chhattisgarh Chief Minister today," Power Minister, Bhanwar Singh Bhati told media persons here today. Gehlot had last months reached out to Coal India Ltd and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to expedite clearance from the Baghel government to secure coal from state-owned coal mines in Chhattisgarh. In a letter dated February 10, Gehlot wrote to Gandhi saying that Rajasthan state may suffer power crisis due to outage of 4,340 MW power plant on the ground of non-availability of Parsa East & Kanta Basan (PEKB) Coal block in Surguja, Chhattisgarh, which was allotted by Ministry of Coal, Government of India to Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam (a State Government undertaking) for power generation. "Mining from this coal block is likely to be exhausted after February 2022," Gehlot said. Notably, both Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are Congress-ruled states. (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 court on Thursday dismissed the bail application of observing that any thesis or research done by any accused can not be a ground for assessing mens rea or his bent of mind. A bail application must be decided on facts presented in the charge sheet. Additional Sessions Judge Amitabh Rawat dismissed the bail plea saying there are reasonable grounds for believing that the accusation against is prima facie true. The Court noted that the contention of Advocate Trideep Pais senior counsel appeared for accused that is a researcher and his bent of mind can be assessed from his doctoral thesis on welfare aspect of Adivasis of Jharkhand and other writings is not a relevant consideration while deciding the bail application If the bent of mind is to be assessed in this manner, then the co-accused Sharjeel Imam has written a thesis on riots but any thesis or research work, by itself, done by an accused cannot be a ground for assessing mens rea or his bent of mind. A bail application must be decided on facts presented in the charge sheet, the court observed. Umar Khalid is accused in a larger conspiracy case related to the Northeast violence of February 2020. He was booked under UAPA by Police Special Cell. He was arrested on 13 September 2020 for conspiracy of Delhi riots 2020. The Court in its order observed, " It is also important to highlight that in a conspiracy, various continuous acts are committed by different accused persons. One act cannot be read in isolation. At times, if read by itself, a particular act on an activity may appear innocuous, but if it is a part of a chain of events constituting a conspiracy, then all the events must be read together. The Court agreed with the contention of the Advocate Trideep Pais, Senior Counsel for accused that accused Umar Khalid was part of the Whatsapp group MSJ and DPSG but he has not written many messages in those groups and they are not overtly provocative or incriminatory. However, the Court observed that the accused was part of such groups created for specific objects and his acts or presence throughout the period beginning from the passing of the CAB Bill in December 2019 till the February 2020 riots, has to be read in totality and not piecemeal. He has connectivity with many accused persons. The Court rejected the contention of defence counsel that the accused was not present in Delhi during the time of riots. In this regard, Court said that in a case of conspiracy, it is not necessary that every accused should be present at the spot. Moreover, as per witness Neon, Amanullah has said that the accused will move out on 23 February 2020 before riots. Witness Tariq Anwar had stated that Umar Khalid had told him to book tickets for him, specifically, for 23 February for travelling to Patna. When he said that the flight tickets are costly and he may book tickets after a few days, then Umar Khalid refused and thereafter, a flight ticket was booked for Umar Khalid for 23 February at 9.30 am, the court observed. Senior Advocate Pais had argued that the present FIR is an omnibus FIR, the narrative of which is in itself fabricated and aimed at an open-ended investigation by which any and every person opposed to the CAA/NRC has been falsely implicated. The accused was not even present in New Delhi from 23-25 February 2020. Thus it is only rhetoric referring to the accused as the 'silent whisper' of the conspiracy or making vague allegations of remote supervision. On the other hand, the bail application was vehemently opposed by the Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Amit Prasad. He argued that the Delhi riots was a large scale and deep-rooted conspiracy hatched after the passing of the resolution by the Cabinet Committee ot present CAB in both houses of Parliaments on 4 December 2019. Amit Prasad had argued Umar Khalid participated in the conspiracy. He had also argued that the case under sections is made out against the accused persons. There is sufficient material on record to establish that the accusation against the accused Umar Khalid is prima facie true and hence bail application of the accused may be dismissed. This case pertains to large scale violence in Northeast Delhi in which 53 people had lost their lives and hundreds were injured. (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 bill to merge the three municipal corporations in the national capital into a single entity was introduced in the on Friday amid opposition claims that the move was beyond the legislative competence of Parliament. Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai introduced the Municipal Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2022, dismissing the claims made by the opposition. Rai said Article 239AA gave Parliament the right to make laws with respect to any matter of Union Territory. RSP member N K Premachandran, Congress members Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, BSP member Ritesh Pandey opposed the introduction of the bill contending that Parliament lacked the legislative competence to amend the Bill. Premachandran said the Bill to trifurcate the Municipal Corporation of was passed by the Assembly and it was beyond the domain of Parliament to pass law to merge the civic bodies. Gogoi claimed that the move by the Centre to merge the three municipal corporations into one through a law of Parliament was an attack on the federal structure of the constitution. He also questioned the rationale behind capping the number of seats in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi at 250, contending that the same should be decided after taking into account the population of the national capital. Pandey said that the Constitution granted powers to states to constitute municipal corporations. The Bill states that the 2011 trifurcation of the erstwhile Municipal Corporation of Delhi was uneven in terms of territorial divisions and revenue generating potential. At present the three corporations in Delhi -- North, South and East Delhi Municipal Corporations -- have a total of 272 seats. While North and South corporations have 104 seats each, the East corporation has 64. The bill has a provision that the Central government may, "if necessary", appoint a person to be called the "Special Officer", to exercise the power and discharge the functions of the Corporation until the date on which the first meeting of the body is held after the commencement of the Delhi Municipal Corporation (Amendment) Act, 2022. (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 CBI on Friday filed cases in connection with the killing of eight people in West Bengal's Birbhum district, shortly after the directed the central probe agency to take over investigation into the case, a senior official said. A team of CBI officials from Kolkata will on Friday night reach Bogtui village, where miscreants had on March 21 set 10 houses on fire, killing at least eight people including women and children, and begin its probe on Saturday, he told PTI. The on Friday directed the CBI to take over the investigation into the case from the state police and submit a progress report before it on the next date of hearing. Earlier in the day, a Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CSFL) unit of the CBI visited the site of crime to collect evidence. "We cannot say much right now. We are here to collect samples as part of our investigation," a member of the CFSL team said. Meanwhile, arrested TMC leader and former Rampurhat block-1 president Anarul Hossain claimed that he had surrendered before police. "I surrendered before the police after 'didi' (TMC chief Mamata Banerjee) instructed me to do so," Hossain said while he was being taken to a court here. Police had Friday said Hossain was arrested from outside a hotel near Tarapith, hours after Banerjee had directed the force to nab the TMC leader in connection with the killings. Police officers had earlier visited Hossain's residence to apprehend him, but he was not present in the house at that time. He has been remanded to 14 days' police custody. (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.) Former President Donald Trump sued Hillary Clinton, former FBI Director James B. Comey, and others on Thursday in response to years of allegations that his campaign colluded with Russia to sway the 2016 election. The Clinton campaign, the Democratic National Committee, and others are accused of conspiring to commit fraud and obstruct justice, prohibiting the president from doing his duties while in office, according to the long lawsuit. According to the complaint, Trump was compelled to spend more than $24 million defending himself against the bogus charge he cooperated with Russia. Donald Trump Sues Hillary Clinton, Others The allegations that Trump's campaign colluded with Russia during the 2016 election sparked a two-year investigation conducted by special counsel Robert Mueller, which followed Trump throughout his administration but resulted in no criminal charges being brought against him or his family. Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign and the Democratic National Committee were tied to the false narrative of the Trump-Russia connection sold to the FBI and the news media, according to Special Counsel John Durham. According to 9News, Durham is looking into the beginnings of the FBI's Russia connection investigation. His discoveries led to the prosecution of lawyer Michael Sussmann, who worked for the Democratic National Committee and is accused of lying to agents about his contact with them while peddling the conspiracy notion. Former British agent Christopher Steele, who created a dossier of lurid, unproven allegations against Trump and Russia, promoted the collusion theory. The 108-page lawsuit reads like a greatest-hits collection of Trump's long-held complaints against the public people most directly involved with the 2016 Russia inquiry. It brings together data found in special counsel John Durham's continuing probe, as well as long-known details regarding the FBI's Russia investigations and special counsel Robert Mueller's follow-up investigation. Read Also: Hunter Biden Scandal: US President Joe Biden Slammed for "Lying to the American People," Son Is Predicted To Be Indicted Hillary Clinton Accused Trump of Colluding With Russia The lawsuit appears to be seeking more than $72 million in damages, which the complaint claims are the total of legal bills and other expenditures associated with fighting against the alleged lies. Trump's lawyers requested merely $21 million in another court filing in the lawsuit. Philippe Reines, a former State Department employee, and Clinton's spokeswoman, is one of the defendants in the lawsuit. The suit's sole specific claims against him are that he made public remarks implying that Trump colluded with Russia in 2016 and that he was facing major legal issues. Former FBI counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok, another defendant in the case, said through his counsel that the claim was likely outrageously false, Politico reported. It's "odd," according to Atty. Aitan Goelman that Trump is launching a new lawsuit against Strzok and others while opposing efforts to depose him in connection with a lawsuit Strzok filed alleging he was fired from the FBI for political reasons. According to Trump's complaint, Clinton and the other defendants colluded to have the FBI open an "unfounded investigation" into possible Trump-Russia cooperation during the 2016 election. Several federal judges affirmed the validity of that probe, which was eventually taken over by special counsel Robert Mueller and revealed scores of links between Trump associates and Russian officials. The inquiry found that Russia meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump win, using a hack-and-leak operation against Clinton and a sophisticated social media misinformation campaign targeting US voters. The investigation also discovered that Trump's campaign attempted to profit from Russia's meddling, while it found no evidence of a criminal conspiracy between Trump advisers and Russians, CNN reported. Related Article: Trump Family Appeals To Stop NY Attorney General From Trying To Grill Them as Part of Civil Investigation, Seeks To Quash Her Subpoenas @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Supporters of Bharatiya Janata Party held special prayers in temples across the state on Friday in the run up to the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected government. BJP's State General Secretary Govind Narayan Shukla told 'PTI' that the workers have come out for the swearing-in ceremony after performing prayers and havan in temples across the state between 8 and 9 am. According to the news received from Varanasi, before attending the swearing-in ceremony of government, office-bearers and workers in Varanasi also prayed in various temples and sought blessings for the government. Before leaving for Lucknow at the swearing-in ceremony, Mahesh Chandra Srivastava, the president of Kashi region, offered prayers at the Mahavir temple in Parade Kothi, Varanasi and sought blessings for the Yogi government. The officials of Namami Gange performed aarti at the Ganga gate of Kashi Vishwanath Dham by anointing Mother Ganga with milk along with the picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and . Rajesh Shukla, convener of Namami Gange said that we prayed for the best future of the state under the leadership of Adityanath by performing aarti of Mother Ganga. Metropolitan President of Varanasi Vidyasagar Rai informed that more than 2000 office bearers of Varanasi will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Yogi government in Lucknow. For this, workers have left for Lucknow by buses and four wheelers. In the state capital workers offered special prayers at prominent Mankameshwar Temple, Hanuman Setu Temple, Buddheshwar Mahadev Temple, Shanidev Temple, Bhoothnath Temple in the morning. The swearing-in of the BJP government will be held at Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium at 4 pm today and Adityanath will be taking oath for the chief minister for the second time. was unanimously elected as the leader of the newly elected legislatures of the BJP in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and co-observer Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghuvar Das on Thursday. Governor Anandiben Patel has invited him to form the government. Adityanath will take oath in the presence of close to 70 thousand workers, besides dignitaries from across the country including Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Shah and BJP President JP Nadda. The venue, Ekana stadium was opened for general public from 11 am according to officials. The movement of VIPs and dignitaries will resume from 2 pm onwards. Social workers, prominent leaders, writers, litterateurs, doctors, engineers and sages and saints of religious monasteries and temples from across the state have been invited for the ceremony. Prominent sages from across the country have also been invited. BJP sources said that many prominent industrialists of the country are coming to attend the program. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar told PTI that close to 8000 personnel of the Police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) along with specialised units like the Special Task Force (STF) and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have been deployed in and around the venue for security. All the access to the venue is being regulated strictly with ATS commandos manning all sensitive spots. Police have also installed CCTV cameras in and around the venue. The feed from the CCTV cameras is being monitored live at the control room under the supervision of senior officials. Drones will also be kept on standby, said Kumar. According to officials, a three-layer security will be put in place at the venue. The Lucknow police commissionerate has also issued a detailed traffic diversion plan for the entire day. It has also launched a helpline for people stuck in the traffic. The election results of 403 assembly constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, which were held in seven phases, were declared on March 10, in which BJP won 255 seats, ally Apna Dal (Sonelal) won 12 and Nirbal Indian Shoshit Hamara Aam Dal (Nishad) won six seats. After getting the absolute majority, the BJP is going to form the government for the second time in a row, 37 years after Narayan Dutt Tiwari-led Congress formed the consecutive government with an absolute majority in 1985. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The on Friday took over the case of killing of eight people in Birbhum district of West Bengal, hours after a order. The case will be monitored by a Joint Director-level officer and supervised by a DIG/SP-ranked official, they said. The agency has already dispatched a team, along with eight experts from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) who have visited the site of crime, they said. Miscreants had on March 21 set 10 houses on fire in Bogtui village in Birbhum district, killing eight people including women and children, in a suspected fallout of the murder of a ruling Trinamool Congress leader and upa-pradhan' (deputy chief) of the local panchayat. The on Friday directed the to take over the investigation into the case from the state police and submit a progress report before it on the next date of hearing. The court, which suo motu took up the case on Wednesday, said that facts and circumstances demand that the investigation be handed over to the CBI in the interest of justice and also to instill confidence in the society. "We direct the CBI to forthwith take over the investigation in the case and submit the progress report before us on the next date of hearing," the court said in its order. The matter will be heard again by the court on April 7. Noting that the incident had a "nationwide ramification", a division bench headed by Chief Justice Prakash Shrivastava asked the government to extend full cooperation to the central agency. (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 (CCI) has clubbed the information presented by Indian Newspaper Society on Googles alleged abuse of its dominant position with an earlier order to investigate the technology giants practices in the online news publishing business. After examining the contentions of INS, the representative organisation of newspapers in the country, the CCI found that prima facie allegations of abuse of dominant position are under the purview of the Competition Act, 2002 and that it requires a detailed investigation by the Director General. Accordingly, the antitrust watchdog has passed an order to club the information submitted by the INS with the submissions made by the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) who filed their complaint before the commission on similar contentions last year. In January this year, the CCI ordered a probe against for its alleged abuse of dominant position. "In a well-functioning democracy, the critical role played by news media cannot be undermined, and it needs to be ensured that digital gatekeeper firms do not abuse their dominant position to harm the competitive process of determining a fair distribution of revenue amongst all stakeholders," it said in the order. The European Publishers Council had also filed a competition complaint against alleging that has achieved end to end control of the ad tech value chain, thus abusing its dominant position. According to INS, news media houses are completely kept in the dark on the total advertising revenue collected by Google and what actual percentage of the advertising revenue is being transferred to media organisations. In its appeal, the news paper body has stated that Alphabet Inc (parent company of Google), Google LLC, Google India Private Limited, Google Ireland Limited, and Google Asia Pacific Pte Ltd are allegedly abusing their dominant position related to News Referral Services and Google Ad Tech Services in the Indian online news media market, which is in violation of Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002. The INS has highlighted the fact that the producer/publisher of news which are made available in digital format, are not being paid a fair value for their content, despite them having invested heavily in creating appropriate content for the customers, who search for news items using the Google platform. Several countries including Australia, France and Spain have passed legislation requiring tech companies, including Google to adequately compensate content producers for using their content on search results. China does not want unipolar Asia and respects India's traditional role in the region, Chinese Foreign Minister told National Security Advisor during their meeting in Delhi, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Wang conveyed to Doval that China is open to 'plus one' projects in South Asia, and both countries should cooperate multilaterally, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated. Wang is in Delhi for two days. He landed in the national capital on Thursday evening. China and India have a thousand-year history of cultural exchanges, and friendly cooperation has always been the mainstream, Wang said. The realisation of national rejuvenation between China and India will have a significant and far-reaching impact on Asia and the world at large, the Minister said. "Both sides should adhere to the strategic judgment of the leaders of the two countries that 'China and India do not pose a threat to each other, but provide opportunities for each other's development', place differences on the border issue in the proper position of bilateral relations, and adhere to the correct development direction of bilateral relations," Wang said during the meeting with Doval, and extended invitation to him to visit China. Replying to the invitation, Doval said he could visit after immediate issues are resolved successfully, sources said. India and China have been engaged in border disputes for the last two years in Eastern Ladakh. Doval discussed the need to take forward early and complete disengagement in remaining areas and remove impediments to allow the bilateral relationship to take its natural course. He also conveyed to Wang that restoration of peace and tranquility will help build mutual trust and create enabling environment for progress in relations The Chinese foreign minister met the National Security Advisor at his office here in the South Block. It is the first high-level Chinese visit to India in over two years of border dispute between the two countries in Eastern Ladakh. So far, 15 rounds of military talks have taken place between both countries to resolve the issue. --IANS sk/pgh (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab leader on Friday targeted AAP convener over the 2015 sacrilege issue, asking who was stopping his party's government in the state from taking action against those involved in the desecration of religious text. Sidhu, the former Punjab chief, shared a video clip from last year in which Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal is heard saying that action can be taken against the accused in the sacrilege incidents within 24 hours. "So who is stopping you now.@ArvindKejriwal," Sidhu said in a tweet. MLA Pargat Singh too shared the video clip and asked Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, "Who is stopping you now?" In the clip posted by Sidhu on his Twitter handle, Kejriwal is heard saying that the people of Punjab were angry at the inaction over the 2015 Faridkot sacrilege incidents. "The masterminds in the sacrilege incidents have not been punished till now. I don't need to tell who the masterminds are. The names are there in the report of Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, and (Charanjit Singh) Channi saab can go through that. The culprits can be arrested within 24 hours," Kejriwal said the clip, addressing the media. Former IPS officer Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh was part of a special investigation team probing the 2015 Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan police firing incidents in Punjab. He joined the AAP last year and was elected as MLA from the Amritsar North assembly segment. The incidents of sacrilege and subsequent police firing had taken place in Faridkot in 2015, when the SAD-BJP government was in power in the state. The previous Congress-led government was targeted by the AAP over its inaction on the issue. Three cases -- theft of a "bir" (copy) of the Guru Granth Sahib from the Burj Jawahar Singh Wala gurdwara, putting up of handwritten sacrilegious posters in Bargari and Burj Jawahar Singh Wala, and torn pages of the holy book found scattered in Bargari -- were registered in 2015. (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.) Veteran leader Thalekunnil Basheer passed away at his residence here on Friday morning. He was 79. Often referred to as the 'soft face' of the party, Basheer was confined to his house on account of his failing health over the past few years. He was also a two-time Lok Sabha member, served one term in the Upper House and won the state Legislative Assembly. Basheer, the brother-in-law of the legendary evergreen actor Prem Nazir, had resigned from his Assembly seat to enable A.K.Antony contest after he was sworn in as the chief Minister in 1977, replacing K.Karunakaran. Apart from being a lawmaker, he also occupied key party posts including that of the vice-president of its unit and president of the Thiruvananthapuram unit of the party. His last rites would be performed here on Saturday and before that, the body would be placed at various offices for party workers to pay tributes to him. --IANS sg/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.) Acknowledging the current visit of Chinese Foreign Minister to India for the first time, the Foreign Ministry here said on Friday that the details of his "working visit" will be released in due course. As to the question to the working visit by State Councillor Wang Yi, we will release (the details) in due course, please stay tuned," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said during a media briefing here, when asked about the Foreign Minister's visit to New Delhi. Wang, who holds the rank of State Councillor - a high ranking position in the executive organ of the Chinese government, arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening from Kabul on an unannounced visit. This is the first time in recent days, China has officially acknowledged his visit to New Delhi during his recent trips to Pakistan and Afghanistan. There was no official announcement or word on the visit. Wang is also the Special Representative of China for India-China border talks along with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the first visit by a high ranking Chinese official since the Ladakh standoff started in May 2020 leading to the breakdown of the relations between the two countries. In the first major diplomatic engagement between India and China in nearly two years, Wang and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held extensive talks covering the eastern Ladakh row and the geopolitical turmoil triggered by the crisis in Ukraine, official sources in New Delhi said. Ahead of talks with Jaishankar, Wang met National Security Adviser Doval and held extensive talks on the border row, the sources said. India and China have been holding high-level military talks to resolve the face-off in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh. Both sides withdrew troops already from some of the friction points following the talks. On March 11, India and China held the 15th round of high-level military dialogue to resolve the pending issues in the eastern Ladakh region. However, there was no forward movement in the talks which were aimed at resolving the remaining issues. (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 parents of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput's former manager Disha Salian wrote to President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday seeking action against Union Minister and his MLA son for allegedly maligning their late daughter. "Our life has gone haywire and becomes miserable because of our daughter's death and after that this blatant falsehood spread by Rane and others. Even after registration of offence, Union Minister Rane and his son have not stopped maligning our name. It seems we will not get justice till we are alive as their right to spread falsehood is more important than our fundamental right to life, right to privacy and live with dignity," said Vasanti Salian and Satish Salian, the parents of Disha. "We, therefore, request you to issue directions to the concerned authorities to take appropriate steps so that justice is done, otherwise we will be left with no other alternative but to end our lives," urged Disha's parents. Notably, Union Minister and Maharashtra BJP MLA had appeared before Police on March 6 in connection with the Disha Salian death case. The father-son due had allegedly made defamatory remarks against late Disha Salian. On February 27, a case was registered against and for allegedly spreading false information about the death of Salian. The case was registered by Salian's mother under sections 500, 509 of IPC and Section 67 of the Information Technology Act. In the FIR copy, Disha's mother alleged that her daughter was defamed by these politicians while making statements about late actor . Salian died on June 8, 2020 following which a few days later on June 14, actor was found dead at his residence in . (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 current situation between India and China on the eastern issue is "a work in progress" but moving at a slower place than desirable, External Affairs Minister said on Friday after talks with his Chinese counterpart . He asserted that the restoration of normal ties will require normalcy in border areas. Addressing a press conference after talks with Wang, Jaishankar noted that 15 rounds of talks between senior military commanders have taken place over the eastern standoff and pointed out that progress has been achieved on several friction points from the disengagement perspective. "This needs to be taken forward since completion of disengagement is necessary for discussions on de-escalation to take place. I would describe our current situation as a work in progress, obviously at a slower place than desirable, and my discussions with Foreign Minister Wang were aimed at expediting that process," the external affairs minister said. The impact of border tensions on the overall ties has been visible in the last two years, he said. "This is only natural since peace and tranquillity in the border areas have been the foundation of stable and cooperative ties," Jaishankar said. He said his nearly three-hour talks with Wang addressed a broad and substantive agenda in an open and candid manner. Jaishankar said he discussed with Wang bilateral relations that have been disturbed due to Chinese actions since April 2020. "I was honest in conveying our sentiment on this issue during talks with Wang Yi," Jaishankar said while referring to the eastern standoff. Frictions and tensions arising from China's deployments since April 2020 cannot be reconciled with a normal relationship between two neighbours, he asserted. Asked whether terrorism emanating from Pakistan figured in the talks, Jaishankar said the issue came up. Wang, who holds the rank of state councillor, arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening from Kabul. (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.) has recommended a fourth Covid-19 dose for people above 80 years and those living in care homes. Hanna Nohynek, an executive physician at the Institute for Health and Welfare, told a press conference that the threshold of 80 years had been chosen as the third dose which "was established to give enough protection against severe illness from that age down." Some 300,000 people will now be eligible for the fourth dose, which so far has been given to people with seriously weakened immune systems, Xinhua news agency reported. Taneli Puumalainen, a director at the Ministry for Health and Welfare, described the number of Covid-19 infections in as "alarming". The health care system is over-burdened, he said, adding: "We appeal to people to protect themselves and others." The reinfection rate in has exceeded 1.0, and is now hovering between 0.90-1.05. This rate has increased from a previous level of 0.80-0.95. Liisa-Maria Voipio Pulkki, a senior expert at the Ministry, said the share of positive results in clinical tests had increased from 34 per cent at the end of January to 44 per cent in mid-March. However, she explained that this does not reflect true levels of Covid-positive cases, as home tests are not registered and the availability of clinical testing has been reduced. The weekly number of deaths from Covid-19 in Finland has recently been the highest since the start of the epidemic. Early this week, the two-week total was 378, while two weeks earlier, the number stood at 209. --IANS int/khz/ (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.) Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has expressed his opposition to President Joe Biden's Supreme Court nominee, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, for a lifetime appointment to the highest court over her sentencing record which he called "troubling." The Republican's remarks were made during a speech on the Senate floor amid Jackson's confirmation hearings. McConnell said that his decision was based on Jackson's answers on adding seats to the Supreme Court. He also cited the nominee's record on both the federal district court and U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Jackson's Confirmation Hearing Jackson, the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court, declined to answer and give her opinion on proposals to increase the number of seats in the highest court. The proposal has been advocated by progressive judicial groups that are vocal supporters of her nomination. "Other nominees to this Supreme Court have responded as I will, which is that it is a policy question for Congress and I am particularly mindful of not speaking to policy issues because I am so committed to staying in my lane of the system because I just am not willing to speak to issues that are properly in the province of this body," Jackson said during her confirmation hearing, as per CBS News. The Biden nominee faced lines of contentious questioning from Republicans on Tuesday and some GOP lawmakers took more aggressive approaches on Wednesday. On Jackson's third day, she was repeatedly interrupted, and her attempts to answer questions were dismissed. Republicans also argued with Democrats on whether they were being fair to the nominee. Read Also: 2024 US Elections: Joe Biden Hints He Wants Rematch With Donald Trump Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina repeatedly talked over Jackson while she tried to answer questions and accused her of judicial "activism." He questioned her on her thoughts on what Justice Brett Kavanaugh faced during his 2018 confirmation proceedings. According to CNN, after the Wednesday hearing, Democratic Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont criticized senators who acted inappropriately in their questioning of the "highly qualified, remarkable woman." The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on Jackson's nomination on Apr. 4 as Democratic leaders hope to confirm the nominee before the mid-April recess. Aggressive Republican Questioning The hostile questioning of Jackson came after Republicans committed early in her nomination that the process would be marked by decorum and respect. However, as the confirmation hearing continued, it became a bruising affair for the Senate, which was no less bitter or partisan than their immediate predecessors. Even Nebraska Republican Sen. Ben Sasse expressed his exasperation of the "jackassery" that was seen in the hearings of "people mugging" for the cameras. However, despite widespread attempts by GOP lawmakers to discredit Jackson, there was no indication that her confirmation would be derailed. New Jersey Democrat Sen. Cory Booker, who is currently the only Black member of the committee, reflected on the historic nature of Jackson's nomination. He reminded her, and the country, of the significance of the nominee's quest. In a statement, Booker called Jackson his "star" and his "harbinger of hope," arguing that the United States would only get better with the help of the Black woman, the New York Times reported. Related Article: Kevin McCarthy Predicts Big Republican Win in Midterm Election, Says He'll Be House Speaker in January @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Prime Minister has said the flavour of India's wheat must capture the entire world's taste buds and help increase the country's wheat exports, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Friday. Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, informed this while replying to the supplementary question related to wheat export during the Question Hour. Goyal was responding to a question raised by Congress MP Anand Sharma. Pointing out the situation arising out of the Ukraine-Russia war and the sanctions imposed against Russia, Sharma had asked if the Union government was looking at exporting India's wheat in the international market and for alternate routes due to the problems in the high seas. The Union Minister for Commerce and Industry said the Central government is continuously monitoring the opportunities that open up for India and India's exporters. India can proudly say that it has high quality wheat and our farmers are truly making the country proud by the growth in wheat production. Similarly, our exporters increased wheat exports from nearly two lakh metric tonne (LMT) two years ago, in 2021 they grew ten times to 21 LMT and in 2022, we will close with more than 70 LMT of wheat export, Goyal added. "But Prime Minister Modi has set a much more aggressive target for this year. We have been holding joint consultation with the Union Ministry of Agriculture. The Railways has risen to the occasion by assuring availability of adequate rakes so that wheat can be moved to the ports. The Shipping Ministry is also working to ensure seamless movement of agricultural products, particularly wheat, given the current situation." The Union Minister said how in February the Prime Minister called him asking about the steps taken for wheat export. "After I gave the entire report to Modi, he said, but you have not reported the most important thing. I was quite taken aback." "Take this opportunity so that we give such good quality to the whole world that woh "swad hamare gehun kaa sabko itna (achcha) lag jaaye, ki uske baad (sirf) hamare desh ka hi gehun niryat ho" (so that the whole world remembers the taste of only India's wheat and help increase our export of wheat). "We have also taken FSSAI on board as the Prime Minister insisted on the highest quality for export. Just like India's rice earns a premium across the world, we need to take India's wheat to that level," Goyal added. Earlier, Anand Sharma had also congratulated -- as a former Commerce and Industry Minister -- for crossing the $400 billion mark for exports. "Our exporters have risen to the occasion in the past. When I had demitted office, our exports were at $318 billion. Last two years were very difficult due to Covid-19 and this is a remarkable achievement," the Congress MP said. The government had announced on Thursday that India has achieved $400 billion goods' exports target for the first time. Goyal thanked Sharma for his "gracious comments" and said, "Our exporters deserve it." --IANS niv/khz/ (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government is continuously monitoring the opportunities that the Russia-Ukraine war has opened up for India and is in dialogue with traders to ensure more exports of wheat and other commodities, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told the Rajya Sabha on Friday. Replying to supplementaries during Question Hour, he said Indian wheat exports are set to cross 70 lakh metric tonnes this year from merely 2 lakh metric tonnes two years ago. Goyal said many ships and containers have been blocked in several European countries following the Russia-Ukraine war and the crisis has only deepened, especially after the Covid-19 crisis. "The government has maintained dialogue with shipping companies and those who operate containers. The government is keeping a close watch on the situation and whatever steps are required to be taken it will take action," he told the members in the upper house. He also said that the government is in dialogue with exporters and importers and those involved in business and various measures are being taken to ensure that payments come on time and businesses do not suffer. "India, despite the constraints due to Covid, has achieved exports of USD 400 billion, which is historic as India has never achieved this figure," he also said. The minister said India has been continuously monitoring the opportunities this opens up for India and Indian exporters. "We have produced good quality wheat and our exports have grown. From 2 lakh metric tonnes two years ago, our exporters have exported 10 times more than 21 lakh metric tonnes last year and in the current year, we will close the year with over 70 lakh metric tonnes in a year. "We are working in coordination among various ministries for a smooth shift. Because Ukraine and Russia were large exporters of wheat, we are on track to increase our wheat exports to current importers. Agriculture department is in dialogue with various countries for the process to be speeded up and expedited so that newer markets for wheat can be sought," Goyal said. He said when the entire government is involved in this, efforts are there to provide high-quality wheat, just as Indian rice has become a premium product in the world. To another supplementary, the minister said as regards trade is concerned, trade stands on its own legs and diplomacy and geo-politics stands on its own legs. "It is important that the two should not be mixed up, while one may have an impact on the other." Due to our excellent relations with many countries, Goyal said, we are able to expand our trade and there is excitement and interest among many countries to have economic partnerships. "However, our interests and strategic interests will always be supreme over any bilateral relations that we may have with any country," he noted. In his written reply on the impact of the Ukraine crisis on Indian industry and commerce, Goyal said, "The impact can be assessed only after the situation stabilizes. However, the Department of Commerce is holding regular consultation with all stakeholders to ensure availability of essential imports and to find alternate destinations for our exports." Sunflower oil imports have been affected as it largely came from Ukraine, it has a smaller proportion in our edible oils basket. But, whenever there is a situation like this it obviously has an impact all over the world and almost all edible oil prices in the entire world have shot up today because of the Russia-Ukraine war, he said. "Therefore, this is an impact that we are also facing. Fortunately, our farmers are doing a good job and we are looking at a much more robust mustard crop this year. This is also a good opportunity for us to diversify to oilseeds and other crops," he said. To another supplementary on the MSME sector, the minister said it is an extremely important sector and the mainstay of the nation's economy and directly and indirectly they continue to contribute in a very big measure to our economy and to the export that India does. In the years to come, their role is going to become increasingly more important, he quipped. "Engineering has seen a growth of nearly 50 per cent. Auto components and some other small engineering items are actually highly job-creating and there is a major thrust on them. Technology and the adoption of new-age requirements of the world have also been our mainstay," he said. With mobiles being one of the biggest success stories that India has and large mobile manufacturers have set up shop in India, he said the new policy that Rs 76,000 crore is being offered as support from the Government of India to promote the semi-conductor industry to come in India is another massive initiative. Never before has India come out with such a robust and futuristic technology-oriented policy and I am confident that India will soon become a global player in the semiconductor industry, he noted. (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.) Keeping up its streak of abstentions on Ukraine-related resolutions at the UN, on Thursday abstained in rapid succession for the sixth and seventh time at the General Assembly which confronted duelling resolutions. The Assembly approved a resolution on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine proposed by that country criticising Russia's role, but it throttled another put forward by South Africa that did not mention Moscow. India's Permanent Representative T.S. Tirumurti said at the Assembly's emergency session that New Delhi abstained on the resolution proposed by Ukraine because it "did not fully reflect" India's expected focus on "on cessation of hostilities and on urgent humanitarian assistance". The resolution squarely blaming Russia for the humanitarian crisis that was proposed by Ukraine with the backing of about 90 countries passed with 140 votes, with five against and 37 abstentions. It had more than the required two-thirds majority to pass. On a procedural matter raised by Ukraine, the Assembly voted not to take up South Africa's resolution effectively killing it. It called for humanitarian aid, ceasefire and safe corridors for refugees and assistance, but without criticising Russia. As many as 65 countries were against taking up South Africa's resolution, while 49 wanted it voted upon and 33 abstained. Tirumurti said that humanitarian assistance, should be based on humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence and "should not be politicised". "We firmly believe efforts at the should contribute to de-escalation of the conflict, facilitate immediate cessation of hostilities to promote dialogue and diplomacy and bring together parties to find an immediate end to the suffering of the people," he said. Speaking to reporters after the vote, US Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield said: "What I say, and what I said, to the countries who abstained previously, is that there's no neutral ground here. We're watching every day what is happening in Ukraine. And we have to stand with the Ukrainian people." But on Wednesday, had joined the US in abstaining at the Security Council on a resolution submitted by Russia on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine, which failed because only China joined in voting for it while all the other 13 countries abstained depriving it of the required nine votes to pass. did not speak at the Council on its abstention. India had earlier abstained on an Assembly resolution that was carried condemning Russia's invasion, and in the Council on two procedural votes related to Ukraine and on a resolution censuring Moscow's invasion that was vetoed by Russia. Russia had withdrawn its request for a vote on its Council resolution last Friday, but suddenly called for a vote on it on Wednesday in a failed attempt to upstage the Assembly vote. Russia's resolution made several proposals to deal with the humanitarian situation but, of course, did not refer to its invasion, which is the reason for the abstention by the US and its allies. Vetoing the resolution would have opened them up to propaganda campaigns ignoring the context. The resolution proposed by South Africa at the Assembly called for a cessation of hostilities and for a comprehensive humanitarian response, but it also would not have named Russia. In calling for a vote against taking it up, Ukraine's Permanent Representative Sergiy Kyslytsya denounced it as a "twin brother" of Russia's Council resolution. South Africa's Permanent Representative Mathu Joyini said: "While we should not ignore the context that gave rise to this crisis, and nor should we ignore any violations of the UN Charter and international law, that should not ever divert our focus from the fact we ought to be immediately doing." South Africa resisted tremendous pressure from the US and its allies to drop its resolution. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor on Wednesday to dissuade Pretoria from going ahead with the resolution saying that there should be a unified international response to Russia's invasion. Joyini said that there should be no attempt to "muzzle" countries seeking independently to find solutions. "The vast majority of countries in this assembly have never invaded or colonised other countries, yet have suffered the consequences. There are a few powerful countries that have been parties to most of these conflicts, often in the form of proxy wars in other countries or regions," she said. "In Iraq for example, over 2.4 million people are reported to have died since 2003", the year of the US-led invasion, she asserted, Beijing cosponsored South Africa's resolution and China's Permanent Representative Zhang Jun said that developing countries were not parties to the Ukraine conflict and should not be drawn into it and forced to pick a side as "friend or foe". Several countries, including Brazil, Malaysia and Indonesia, which voted for Ukraine's resolution, said that they did not see a contradiction between it and South Africa's for which they would have also voted. India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who had come to New York on Tuesday in the midst of heated diplomatic activity, left for India on Wednesday ahead of the Assembly votes. Tirumurti said at the Assembly: "India continues to remain deeply concerned at the ongoing situation which has rapidly been deteriorating since the beginning of the hostilities." "We have constantly called for cessation of hostilities. The humanitarian situation continues to worsen particularly in the conflict zones in urban areas. Women, children and elderly are disproportionately affected by the prolonged prolonging of this conflict," he said. "We hope the international community will continue to respond positively to the humanitarian needs of Ukraine," he said. India has already sent over 90 tons of humanitarian, including medicines and essential supplies, to Ukraine and its neighbours and will provide more, he added. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed @arulouis) --IANS al/vd (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government on Friday said it is in the process of analysing the impact of sanctions on Moscow for India-Russia bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The US and several Western countries have imposed crippling economic sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. "Many countries have imposed sanctions on Russia due to the conflict. These are expected to have an impact on the global economy, including through disruption of supply chains. Its impact on energy and commodity prices is already visible," Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi said. She was replying to a question in Lok Sabha. "We are in the process of analysing its impact on India-Russia bilateral trade and economic cooperation, in consultation with all stakeholders. India's relations with Russia stand on their own merit," Lekhi said. She also referred to discussions on the conflict at the United Nations and said India has called for an immediate cessation of violence and an end to all hostilities. "We have expressed deep concern at the worsening situation and called for an immediate cessation of violence and end to all hostilities," she said. Lekhi said India has reiterated that there is no other choice but the path of diplomacy and dialogue to resolve the crisis. "We have emphasised to all member states of the UN that the global order is anchored on international law, UN Charter and respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states," she 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.) More than three crore women availed the facility of free travel in public transport buses in Delhi in 2021-22, Deputy Chief Minister informed the Legislative Assembly on Friday. Sisodia was presenting the status report of the Outcome Budget for 2021-22 in the Delhi Assembly. There is a combined fleet strength of 6,900 buses in the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and the Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS). The free bus ride scheme for women was launched by the AAP government in the national capital in 2019. "In the last year, more than three crore women availed the free bus ride scheme in public transport buses," Sisodia said. The deputy chief minister, who also holds the finance portfolio, said that in the transport department, faceless services benefitted more than five lakh people during August-December 2021. Nearly 10 per cent of the total vehicles purchased in Delhi are electric vehicles, he added. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President on Friday said the is continuously enhancing its strengths to meet an expanding range of missions as he awarded the prestigious President's Colour to INS Valsura in an impressive ceremony here in Gujarat. The President's Colour is bestowed on a military unit in recognition of exceptional service rendered to the nation, both in peace and in war, an official said. The is safeguarding our interest in the maritime domain. The Navy, over the years, has emerged as a combat-ready, credible and cohesive force and is a preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean Region, Kovind said in his address on the occasion. It is a matter of great pride that the has consistently evolved to safeguard our maritime interest with resolve and tenacity, said the President, who is also the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. He said the Navy is continuously boosting its strengths to achieve various goals. The Indian Navy is continuously enhancing its strength keeping in mind the long-term prospective plans and towards meeting the expanding range of missions, he said. To mark the occasion, a ceremonial parade was held and a 150-men guard of honour was presented to the President. Established in 1942, to Indian Naval Ship (INS) Valsura is a premier training establishment of the Navy. It is entrusted with the responsibility of imparting training to officers and sailors of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and friendly foreign countries in electrical, electronics, weapon systems and information technology. I congratulate the Indian Navy and officers and sailors of INS Valsura. With the award of President's Colours, the responsibility of INS Valsura has increased, Kovind said. The President also praised INS Valsura for community services rendered by it during the Kutch earthquake of 2001 and recent floods in Gujarat. Speaking about Jamangar city, the President emphasized on its strategic importance. The beautiful city of Jamnagar is an important industrial as well as economic centre. Jamangar has all wings of the armed forces the Army, the Navy and the Air Force - which underlines its strategic importance, he said. The President recalled that he had last month participated in a fleet review at Visakhapatnam. The fleet review showcased India's maritime power. As the Supreme Commander of the armed forces it was a moment of great pride for me, 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.) Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba is set to embark on a three-day official visit to starting from April 1. According to local media reports, Deuba's trip comes on the heels of an invitation by his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, which the Nepali leader has accepted. The visit will take place shortly after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi concludes his three-day visit on March 27. As per the existing plan, Deuba will travel to Delhi on April 1, hold talks with Modi and other Indian politicians the next day and return home on April 3, the local media reports said. This will be Deuba's first official trip since his appointment as Prime Minister in July last year. Earlier in January, Deuba was scheduled to travel to to participate in a business summit in Gujarat. But the trip was cancelled after the summit was postponed in the wake of the third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Deuba and Modi, however, met in Glasgow in November last year on the sidelines of the UN climate conference. Officials said some agreements between and India, including on cross-border railway, which have been on the table for a while, are likely. The Kurtha-Jayanagar railway is on a dry run since the second week of February for the lack of a law to guide the operations. The government, however, on Tuesday reissued the railway ordinance for the operation of the cross-border shuttle. Officials who are preparing the agenda for Deuba's visit said the two Prime Ministers are likely to inaugurate the Kurtha-Jayanagar railway which was reconstructed with Indian assistance. A Memorandum of Understanding on rebuilding around 137 health posts with Indian financial assistance that New Delhi had announced in the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake is also likely, they added. Nepal- relations had hit a new low during Oli's tenure after some of his statements. Rapprochement efforts were made starting with Indian foreign intelligence chief Samant Goel's visit to Kathmandu, which was followed by the visit of Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali to Delhi. External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar also visited Kathmandu in August 2019 to take part in the fifth Nepal-India Joint Commission meeting. In November 2020, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla also arrived in Kathmandu as an introductory visit. But a political crisis was triggered by an infighting in the then ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) led by Oli, who unsuccessfully dissolved Parliament twice and was ultimately ousted from the government in July 2021. Deuba returned to power with the backing of all anti-Oli forces. As far as Nepal-India ties are concerned, some irritants continue to remain which Deuba and Modi are likely to discuss during their one-on-one meeting, the officials said. The former Oli government's decision to issue a new map of Nepal depicting Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura within the Nepali territory has not gone down well with New Delhi. India has also built a road via Lipulekh to Mansorvar in Tibet, to which Nepal has taken exception as it is a tri-junction between the three countries. Nepal has sent a slew of diplomatic notes to India in order to resolve the boundary row but no progress has been made. All outstanding issues between Nepal and India will be discussed during Deuba's visit, said Nepali officials. --IANS ag/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.) India on Friday clearly told China to complete the disengagement process in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh quickly, asserting that bilateral ties cannot return to normal if the situation in the border areas is "abnormal". In his nearly three-hour "candid" talks with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, External Affairs Minister conveyed that restoration of normalcy in ties will require restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas. "If we are both committed to improving our ties then this commitment must find full expression in the ongoing disengagement talks," Jaishankar said at a media briefing shortly after the talks. Describing the current situation as a "work in progress", he also said that relations between India and China have been "disturbed" as a result of the Chinese actions in April 2020. Wang flew into Delhi from Kabul on Thursday evening in an unannounced trip in the first highest-level visit to India by a Chinese leader after the border standoff in eastern Ladakh erupted nearly two years ago. Referring to a series of military and diplomatic talks between the two sides, the external affairs minister said progress has been achieved on several friction points from the disengagement perspectives and this process needs to be taken forward. "I would describe our current situation as a work in progress, obviously at a slower pace than desirable and my discussions with Foreign Minister Wang Yi today were aimed at expediting that process," Jaishankar said. To a question, Jaishankar referred to the presence of a large number of troops in the border region in contravention of laid down norms and agreements. "If you ask me if our relationship is normal today, my answer to you is no, it is not. It cannnot be normal if the situation in border areas is abnormal," Jaishankar said. "Foreign Minister Wang spoke about China's desire to return to normalcy (in the relationship) while also referring to the larger significance of our ties. I was equally forthcoming that India wants a stable and predictable relationship but restoration of normalcy will obviously require a restoration of peace and tranquillity," he added. Jaishankar said the military and diplomatic talks produced positive outcomes but noted that the situation in the region was not normal. "We have a situation where peace and tranquillity in the border areas have been disturbed. So the situation there is not normal. (if) the situation there is not normal, if peace and tranquillity is the foundation of the basis of how we are going forward, then obviously that is also disturbed," he said. The external affairs minister described the talks as a "candid" exchange of views. "We met for about three hours and addressed a broad and substantive agenda in an open and candid manner. We discussed our bilateral relations that have been disturbed as a result of the Chinese actions in April 2020," Jaishankar said. "The occasion provided an opportunity to exchange views on major international issues including Afghanistan and Ukraine. We also took up some other important concerns in our bilateral relationship including education travel and commerce." India and China have held 15 rounds of military talks to resolve the face-off in the remaining friction points in eastern Ladakh. On March 11, India and China held the 15th round of high-level military dialogue to resolve the pending issues in the eastern Ladakh region. However, there was no forward movement in the talks which were aimed at resolving the remaining issues. In September 2020, Jaishankar and Wang held extensive talks in Moscow on the sidelines of a conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during which they reached a five-point agreement to resolve the eastern Ladakh border row. The pact included quick disengagement of troops, avoiding action that could escalate tensions, adherence to all agreements and protocols on border management and steps to restore peace along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The two foreign ministers had held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of another SCO meeting in Dushanbe in July last year with a focus on the border row. They again met in Dushanbe in September. India has been consistently maintaining that peace and tranquillity along the LAC is key for the overall development of the bilateral ties. Recently, Wang said some forces have always sought to stoke tensions between China and India, an apparent reference to the US. The Ladakh border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas. The face-off escalated after the Galwan Valley clashes on June 15, 2020. As many as 20 Indian soldiers and an unspecified number of Chinese troops were killed in the clashes. 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 last year in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector. (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 Nidhi Verma NEW DELHI (Reuters) - has asked India's largest gas transmitter (India) to pay for gas imports in euros instead of dollars, two sources said, in a sign the Russian energy giant seeks to wean itself away from the U.S. currency in the wake of the Ukraine conflict. European countries and the United States have imposed heavy sanctions on Russia since Moscow sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24. has a long-term gas import deal with Marketing & Trading Singapore to annually buy 2.5 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas and has been settling trade with in dollars. GAIL, which imports and distributes gas, also operates India's largest gas pipeline network. Last week, Gazprom wrote to requesting that the company settle payments for gas purchases in euros instead of dollars, the sources familiar with the matter said, adding the state-run Indian firm is still examining the request. "GAIL doesn't see any problem in settling payment in euros as European countries are paying for their imports in euros," said one of the sources. The sources said that sanctions might not hit payments in euros because GAIL's contract is with a Singapore unit of Gazprom. Gazprom and GAIL did not respond to Reuters' emails seeking comment. Western sanctions have dealt a crippling blow to Russia's economy, but the European Union, which relies on Russian oil and gas, has stopped short of placing curbs on energy imports and continues to pay in euros. President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia, the world's largest gas producer, will soon require "unfriendly" countries to pay for fuel in roubles. India, however, has refrained from outright condemnation of Russia, although it has called for an end to violence in Ukraine, and it has not banned Russian oil and gas imports, unlike several Western countries. In fact, Indian companies are snapping up Russian oil as it is available at a deep discount after some companies and countries shunned purchases from Moscow. The sources said that so far Gazprom is supplying the volumes committed to under its contract with GAIL. The sources declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak to the media. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by Susan Fenton) (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 selection-cum-search panel headed by Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has shortlisted three names for the post of director which will be placed before the Institute Body, the top decision-making body of the institute, on March 29. Once approved by the Institute Body, the names will be sent to the Appoints Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), headed by the prime minister, for final assent. The three names shortlisted are Dr Nikhil Tandon, head of the department of endocrinology at AIIMS, Dr Rajesh Malhotra, chief of Trauma Centre and the head of the department of orthopaedics and Dr Pramod Garg, a professor in the gastroenterology department at the institute. Apart from Rajesh Bhushan, the four-member search-cum-selection committee tasked with shortlisting names for the director's post include Secretary of Department of Biotechnology Rajesh S Gokhale, Principal Scientific Advisor to the government K Vijay Raghavan, and Delhi University vice-chancellor Yogesh Singh. They held a meeting on Tuesday and shortlisted three names. "These three names will now be placed before the Institute Body of AIIMS on March 29 for approval before being sent to the ACC headed by the prime minister for final approval," said an official source. The tenure of New Delhi AIIMS director Dr Randeep Guleria, which was set to end on March 24, was extended by three months. He was appointed to the post on March 28, 2017. "He will complete his tenure on 24.03.2022. President, AIIMS, is pleased to extend his tenure with effect from March 25, 2022, by three months or by the time a new director is appointed, whichever is earlier," an office memorandum by the hospital on March 22 said. Around 32 candidates had applied for the post of director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. They included 13 doctors from AIIMS as well as ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava. (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.) Australian scientist receives cooperation award from China Xinhua) 08:34, March 25, 2022 CANBERRA, March 24 (Xinhua) -- China has granted Australian geoscientist Sue O'Reilly the International Science and Technology Cooperation Award on Thursday. At the presentation ceremony hosted in the Chinese Embassy in Australia, O'Reilly, Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and Professor of the Macquarie University, received the award from Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian. "Professor O'Reilly epitomizes the two-way endeavors to promote China-Australia exchanges and cooperation in science and technology," Xiao said in his address. "What she represents is a broad-mindedness to pursue ideals across national borders, and deep feelings and friendship for China." He noted that the award attested to the Chinese government's high recognition of Professor O'Reilly's contributions to China-Australia exchanges and cooperation in science and technology, and the Chinese people's high respect for a friend from Australia. He said that in the past decades, cooperation between China and Australia has promoted the advancement of science and technology undertakings, and economic and social development of the two countries, as well as tangible benefits to the two peoples. "They have also served as a bridge to deepen mutual understanding, an engine to promote common prosperity, and a bond to enhance friendship between our two peoples," said the ambassador. The International Science and Technology Cooperation Award of the People's Republic of China is a state-level annual award established by the State Council of China in 1994, which is conferred on foreign experts or organizations that have made important contributions to China's science and technology development. O'Reilly, 76, said she first traveled to China in 1982. During the past 40 years, she visited China many times, working with Chinese colleagues, sometimes in remote mountainous areas. In her speech, she recognized science cooperation as "a robust reach that can unite people and institutions from different cultures and backgrounds for the great benefit of all those involved, and indeed, making a difference for society." "This award is indeed proof that science collaboration is a powerful way to build lasting international bonds and ongoing cooperation in an increasingly complex world that we all share, and we have a responsibility to shape for the future," she said. "Science across national borders is a better way to make a better world for all and for a more sustainable future, for our planet and society," added the scientist. "I consider this award as a testament to China-Australia scientific cooperation and a shared vision for a future." Professor Chennupati Jagadish, president-elect of Australia Academy of Science, said that the award indicates "how both of our countries can come together through the size of project cooperation". "These international scientific collaborations are more important than ever to find solutions to major global problems, and that has economic productivity and competitiveness through innovation," he said. He told audiences that the Australian Academy of Science and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have been collaborating since 1978. Now about 15 percent of Australia's research publications are jointly completed with Chinese scientists. Ambassador Xiao said China-Australia exchanges and cooperation in science and technology had huge potential. "Looking forward to the future, China is willing to work with Australia to actively promote practical cooperation in science and technology, so that more results of cooperation will bring benefits to our two countries and peoples, making more contributions to the development of science and technology of the whole world and advancement of well-beings of the entire humankind," he said. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu is rumored to be suffering from health concerns as he has been missing in recent days, being absent despite having a leading role in Moscow's war on Ukraine. Speculations about the official's whereabouts grew concerning as the Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, declined to comment on media reports about the issue. The rumors began after Shoigu, who is known to be a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, kept a low profile during the invasion of Ukraine. Missing Russian Defense Minister On Wednesday, independent Russian outlet Agentstvo said that Shoigu was in poor health, citing anonymous sources in the defense ministry. But on Thursday, Peskov avoided answering questions about the minister's condition. He said that Shoigu had many concerns at the moment, saying it was not the right time for media activity. When questioned regarding Agentstvo's previous report about Shoigu's health, Peskov said that questions should be directed to the Ministry of Defense. On Mar. 18, the defense minister appeared in a Channel One broadcast that the outlet said was captured on that day. However, Russian journalists speculated that the event shown was from Mar. 11, as per CNN. Peskov added that Shoigu attended a recent meeting where the defense minister briefed President Putin on the state of the invasion of Ukraine. However, no video recording of the event was released. Read Also: Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Exec Warns Chemical Weapons Would "Change the Nature of the Conflict" Rumors about Shoigu's health concerns spread after longtime Putin adviser Anatoly Chubais abruptly resigned and left the country earlier this week. The former official's decision was allegedly made in protest of the Kremlin's aggression in Ukraine. According to The Daily Beast, the Kremlin spokesperson attempted to downplay Chubais' departure in comments that he made on Thursday to Russian media. Peskov claimed that the adviser was not a "direct employee of the presidential administration." Russia-Ukraine War The stalled movements in Ukraine have caused Putin to be on edge, who has lashed out against the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service, Sergei Naryshkin. It was seen in a televised meeting over the fate of the Russian-controlled territories in eastern Ukraine. Russian journalists have since filed reports on an investigation in the FSB directorate that is responsible for foreign intelligence. This includes Ukraine and the arrest of a senior official from Russia's national guard. A Russian foreign ministry official said that the invasion of Ukraine was going according to plan but it was unclear if any of those events were related to the situation. Many residents, however, believe that the war has not been going well and is completely off the rails. Some expect that men such as Shoigu, who have prominent positions and roles in the invasion, could shoulder the blame. Amid the speculations, the video recording of Shoigu briefing Putin was released, which still received doubts because the sound was turned off. Furthermore, the defense minister only appeared for a few seconds. Shoigu was seen sitting in front of several Russian flags at an undisclosed location and showed his arm moving to prove that it was not just a picture of the official, The Guardian reported. Related Article: Putin Demands 'Unfriendly Countries' Pay For Russian Natural Gas Exports in Rubles To Boost Currency Value @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Several opposition leaders including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief and others have been invited to the oath-taking ceremony of as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in Lucknow on Friday. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati among others have also been invited. on Thursday met Governor Anandiben Patel and staked a claim to form the government in the state after he was elected leader of the legislative party. Adityanath will take oath as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh for the second time in a grand ceremony at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium at 4 pm today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party national president JP Nadda are among the list of invitees scheduled to attend the oath-taking ceremony. Apart from the union ministers, the Chief Ministers and deputy chief ministers of BJP-ruled states and senior leaders are expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony. Chief Ministers from ruled states who will attend Yogi Adityanath's oath-taking include Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Haryana CM ML Khattar, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu, Manipur CM Biren Singh, Himachal Pradesh CM Jai R Thakur and Tripura CM Biplab Deb, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami. Pramod Sawant, who will take oath as the Chief Minister of Goa on March 28, will also be present at the event in Lucknow. Religious leaders are being invited in large numbers to give their blessings for the government to work for the people of the state in the next five years. Prominent Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev will also be present at the ceremony. Eminent industrialists, sportspersons, artists, Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardees are also invited to the event. The guest list also includes professionals, leaders from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and retired government officers. The BJP retained power in Uttar Pradesh by winning 255 out of 403 constituencies, securing a 41.29 per cent vote share. (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.) Chief Minister M K Stalin, who is in the United Arab Emirates to attend Expo 2022, is expected to meet chief executive officers of industries, government officials especially from industries departments among others in a bid to woo potential investors here. The Chief Minister flew to on Thursday for a four-day trip. He is scheduled to inaugurate the 'Tami Nadu' stall on Friday at the expo's Indian pavilion. Notably, week will be observed at the Expo for one week from March 25 to 31. The six-month-long Dubai Expo that commenced in October last year, witnessed the participation of as many as 192 countries. The Indian government had said that Dubai Expo 2020 will be a significant platform for India to showcase its vibrant culture and tremendous growth opportunities for the next six months. Fifteen states and nine central ministries from India are participating in this expo, which will be ending on March 31, 2022. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also visited the expo last month. While inaugurating the Kerala pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020, he said that he hopes companies and businesses in the would be able to take advantage of the present business-friendly environment in Kerala to make the partnership stronger. (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.) NCLT declares Supertech insolvent, 25,000 home buyers may be affected The Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has declared Noida-headquartered realty major Supertech Ltd as insolvent while admitting a plea filed by the Union Bank of India over non-payment of its dues. READ MORE... The NCLT order is likely to hit over 25,000 homebuyers who have booked their homes with the company for over several years. Adityanath takes oath as Uttar Pradesh CM; Maurya, Pathak to be deputy CMs Yogi Adityanath on Friday took oath as Uttar Pradesh chief minister for the second term in a mega ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top BJP leaders. Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak were also sworn in as deputy chief ministers. READ MORE... Eastern Ladakh situation a work in progress: EAM after talks with Wang Yi The current situation between India and China on the eastern Ladakh issue is "a work in progress" but moving at a slower place than desirable, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday after talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. He asserted that the restoration of normal ties will require normalcy in border areas. READ MORE... 300 dead in Russian airstrike on theatre in Mariupol: Officials The government of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol says 300 people died in a Russian airstrike on March 16 on a theatre being used as a bomb shelter. The post Friday on the city government Telegram channel cited eyewitnesses for the toll of about 300. READ MORE... India's central bank will review business models of payment aggregators in view of a spate of frauds hitting customers. Data by the Department of Commerce says that achieved $400 billion target with help of economic recovery from the pandemic in the US. More one these stories in our top headlines: Data breach: Biz models of payment platforms under RBI scrutiny The (RBI) has decided to review the business models of payment aggregators in view of a spate of frauds hitting customers due to unauthorised sharing of financial data, sources aware of the development said. The banking regulator has sought information from these entities on their activities, including the sharing of customer data, the sources said. Read more US recovery helped India achieve the $400-billion mark for exports Economic recovery from the pandemic in the US has helped India achieve the $400-billion mark for exports for the first time in any fiscal year. According to the preliminary data compiled by the Department of Commerce, India exported goods worth $73 billion to the US from April 1 to March 21 up 47 per cent, compared to last year. Read more Petrol, diesel prices hiked by 80 paise, third increase in four days The price of petrol and diesel in Delhi increased by 80 paise a litre each on Friday. Petrol is selling at Rs 97.81 per litre in the capital while diesel is trading at Rs 89.07 per litre. This is the third increase in four days with total hike now is Rs 2.4/litre. Read more With record GMV of $13.4 bn, GeM catching up with Amazon and Flipkart With record gross merchandise value (GMV) of $13.4 billion, the governments five-year-old public procurement website or the Government eMarketplace (GeM) is slowly catching up with e-commerce behemoths like Amazon and Walmart-owned Flipkart. Read more FinMin proposes changes to Finance Bill for crypto assets' taxation The government on Thursday proposed to tighten the norms for taxation of cryptocurrencies by disallowing set-off of any losses with gains from other virtual digital assets (VDAs). This was part of the 39 amendments proposed by the government to the Finance Bill, 2022. Read more has denied any connection with a multinational firm part-owned by his wife that has continued to operate in Russia during the war in Ukraine, BBC reported. The Chancellor said he had "nothing to do" with Infosys, in which his wife Akshata Murthy holds shares. He has also urged firms to pull out of Russia to inflict "economic pain" on President Vladimir Putin. Sunak's spokesperson said Murthy had no role in Infosys's operational decisions. Pressed on Infosys' presence in Russia, Sunak told Sky News on Thursday: "I'm an elected politician, and I'm here to talk to you about what I'm responsible for. My wife is not." He added that companies' operations were "up to them". "We've put in place significant sanctions and all the companies we're responsible for are following those, as they rightly should," said the Chancellor. The software giant was co-founded by Murthy's father Narayana Murthy, who retired from the company in 2014, BBC reported. Founded in 1981, the firm has since expanded into a number of countries and operates an office in Moscow. The most recent annual report lists Akshata Murthy as holding 0.9 per cent of the company's shares -- reportedly worth hundreds of millions of pounds. Earlier this month, Sunak had said the government would "fully support" firms that pull out of Russia voluntarily. After meeting a group of leading British companies, the Chancellor said he welcomed the "consensus on the need to inflict maximum economic pain on Putin and his regime". "While I recognise that it may be challenging to wind down existing investments, I believe there is no argument for new investment in the Russian economy," he added. --IANS san/arm (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The on Friday granted bail to Gautam Thapar, the promoter of and non-executive chairman of Avantha Realty in connection with the fraud case involving a transaction of Rs 307 crore with the realty company. A single bench of Justice Anuja Prabhudessai granted bail to Thapar on a bond of Rs 2 lakh. The CBI had registered an offence against Thapar, founder Rana Kapoor and other accused under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sections 7, 11 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA). According to the investigating agency, Kapoor, the prime accused in the case, had acquired property belonging to Avantha at a prime location in Delhi at a considerably lower price than its market value. The allegation was that Kapoor had official dealings in the form of loans with Avantha. The CBI has alleged that Thapar had entered into a criminal conspiracy with Kapoor for the purpose of cheating. The central agency filed a chargesheet on October 8, 2021. Thapar was arrested by the ED in a money laundering case registered by it based on the CBI probe. Thapar's counsel Mahesh Jethmalani, along with Karanjawala and Co firm, stated that after the FIR was registered, Thapar had participated in the investigation as and when he was called upon. Advocate Hiten Venegaokar for the CBI argued that Thapar, along with co-accused Rana Kapoor and his wife Bindu Kapoor, had hatched a criminal conspiracy in various financial transactions and committed fraud. had already extended credit facilities of approximately Rs 2,500 crore to various Avantha companies and yet a loan of Rs 400 crore was granted, it was submitted. (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.) Several prominent faces are missing from the government this time as new ministers took oath at a grand swearing-in ceremony here on Friday. The oath ceremony was held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium in the presence of PM and top BJP leaders. Dinesh Sharma, who in the previous government held the charge of the deputy CM, has been replaced by Brajesh Pathak. Shrikant Sharma and Siddhartha Nath Singh also failed to make the cut. The name of Satish Mahana, who headed the industry department in the previous BJP government and was elected from Maharajpur in Kanpur district, was missing from the list of new ministers. Ramapati Shastri, a BJP MLA from Mankapur in Gonda district, too was left out. Earlier, he held the charge of the social welfare minister. With UP BJP chief Swatantra Dev Singh taking oath as a cabinet minister, the post of state party chief is likely to fall vacant and a new leader may be appointed to the position, a senior leader said, citing the "one person, one post" principle. Among the leaders who failed to get a ministerial berth this time were Jai Pratap Singh, Ram Naresh Agnihotri, Ashutosh Tandon, Neelkanth Tiwari and Mahendra Singh. Mohsin Raza, who was the lone Muslim minister in the previous state government, was replaced by Danish Azad Ansari. Swami Prasad Maurya, Dharam Singh Saini and Dara Singh Chauhan, who were ministers in the previous BJP government, had quit the BJP just ahead of the Assembly polls and contested from the Opposition Samajwadi Party. Ministers Mukut Bihari Verma and Swati Singh were not given ticket by the BJP in the just-concluded Assembly polls. (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.) Chief executive officers of reiterated the call for lower taxes, improved infrastructure and better processes to enable them to tide over the rise in fuel prices and become hubs for international travel. The CEOs made the plea at a panel discussion at Wings India event in Hyderabad on Friday. "Twenty-one per cent of an airline's revenue goes straight to the government in the form of taxes. This issue needs to be addressed immediately," IndiGo CEO Ronojoy Dutta said. " are among the most efficient in the world but are saddled with high taxes," added Sunil Bhaskaran, CEO of AirAsia India. The CEOs made the plea in a panel discussion at Wings India event at Hyderabad on Friday. Domestic air traffic is on a rebound with the decline in Covid-19 cases. Scheduled international flights too are starting on March 27 and are looking to increase flights on overseas routes. But increase in aviation turbine fuel price is increasing burden for airlines. "We need to get our basics right if we have to become an aviation hub," SpiceJet chairman Ajay Singh said. Singh said processes at airports need to be more efficient to encourage more people to connect from Indian airports. "We need our own hubs. It is time for India to take share of business both in passenger and cargo," he added. has topped Niti Aayogs Export Preparedness Index 2021 that aims to help evaluate states and Union Territories preparedness to export and take measures for improvement wherever possible. This is the second consecutive year that has emerged as the top performer. According to a report by the governments policy think tank on Friday, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Haryana bagged the second, third, fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Lakshadweep, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Ladakh and Meghalaya were placed at the bottom of the index. While the central government plays an active role in enhancing Indias exports, it is also essential for the state governments to actively strategise their industrial policies to achieve more significant . The top-six states in India Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana contribute 75 per cent of Indias overall exports, Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar said. The ranking is based on four main pillars policy, business ecosystem, export ecosystem and export performance and 11 sub-pillars, such as export promotion policy and business environment. The index aims to instil competition among all states to bring about favourable policies, ease the regulatory framework, create necessary infrastructure and assist in identifying strategic recommendations for improving export competitiveness. Since states have a predominant role in the allocation of all factors of production, Indias export policy needs to be more decentralised and state-specific, Kumar said. The index was released days after the government said India had exported goods worth $400 billion 10 days ahead of schedule 37 per cent higher than the earlier fiscal year. Commerce Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam said have done extremely well and crossed $400 billion-target ahead of schedule despite issues like shortage of containers, shipping freights, shortage of chips and semiconductors. About 18 per cent of the economy is merchandise ... I think we should be aiming at something like 25 per cent of the GDP to be actually traded, he said, adding that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) comes out with ODOP (One District One Product) programme, which has actually created a buzz all around and we have actually built on that to have district export hub initiative, which we are trying to convert into a scheme. The commerce secretary also said the government will soon be launch a portal which will contain commodity and country-wise export data. It will also provide real-time data of exports from states and possibly from districts. I think we should get it going in April, he added. Imports from China declined 7.2 per cent to USD 65.21 billion in 2020-21 from USD 70.31 billion in 2018-19, Parliament was informed on Friday. On the other hand, India's exports to China rose 26 per cent to USD 21.18 billion in 2020-21 from USD 16.75 billion in 2018-19, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Anupriya Patel said in a written reply to the Rajya Saha. "The imports from China have exhibited a declining trend from USD 70.31 billion in 2018-19 to USD 65.21 billion in 2020-21, a decline of 7.2 per cent," she said. The minister said India has made sustained efforts to achieve a more balanced trade with China, including bilateral engagements to address the non-tariff barriers on Indian exports to China and measures against unfair trade practices. In a separate reply, the minister said the trade deficit with China stood at USD 44.02 billion in 2020-21 as against USD 48.65 billion. Replying to another question, Patel said representations from industry are received from time to time on surge in imports from ASEAN countries, Japan and Korea, which are examined in consultation with the concerned administrative ministries. They are taken up with the respective trading partners under the existing institutional mechanism enshrined in the respective free trade agreements, she added. "FTAs have inbuilt provisions to check any misuse of the FTA concessions, which inter-alia include strict compliance of the Rules of Origin, checking mis-declaration, if any, and taking trade remedial actions," the minister noted. To another question, she replied that the ministry is holding regular meetings with stakeholders to draw a road map and strategy to control the expected loss in the trade industry due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. On a similar question, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the impact can be assessed only after the situation stabilises. "However, the Department of Commerce is holding regular consultation with all stakeholders to find out the impact on bilateral trade between India and Russia," 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.) Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), who effectively buried a huge climate and social spending package by refusing to vote for it in December, has restarted discussions with his colleagues on the Build Back Better agenda. Manchin has reminded his Democratic colleagues that a vote on the bill must be held before the senators leave for the summer session in August. The senator assured them that an agreement could be reached that included billions of dollars to combat climate change, lower prescription medication prices, and modernize the tax system. Joe Manchin Is Ready To Restart Talks on Build Back Better Plan However, he demanded concessions on Gulf of Mexico oil and gas extraction, according to The Hill. While the existing five-year plan for offshore oil and gas leasing in federal seas is set to expire by the end of June, the Interior Department has been hesitant to design a new one. This comes after E&E News reported on Wednesday that Manchin was ready to restart talks on the package and aimed to get an agreement on a slimmed-down climate and social spending measure during the Senate's April and May work periods. There is a text circulating, but it is in its early stages. Manchin also listed some of the energy measures he supports on Wednesday, including a tax credit for renewable energy production and legislation to replace fossil fuel generation with advanced nuclear power. Senators Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., have long voiced doubts about Biden's measure, but Manchin essentially killed it in December 2021 when he said on "Fox News Sunday" that he would vote "no" on it. During informal talks, Manchin is said to have sketched a package that includes around $500 billion for climate and $1 trillion in new income, according to sources. He has expressed no support for universal preschool or any of Biden's other care-economy initiatives in his first "human infrastructure" package. Read Also: Donald Trump Hits Hillary Clinton, FBI Officials, More With Lawsuit Over Fake Russia Claims [FULL DETAILS] Manchin Demands To Increase Corporate Tax Revenue Per Fox News, Manchin is also allegedly demanding that at least half of the increased corporate tax revenue, as well as the expected savings from enabling Medicare to directly negotiate the cost of prescription medications, be used to reduce the deficit. Any slimmer Build Back Better bill will face additional obstacles, including Sinema's possible rejection and progressive Democrats' unwillingness to support a lesser plan. It's uncertain whether a compromise can be reached before the end of July, after which big legislation will be tough to pass in time for the midterm elections. The confirmation hearings for Biden's Supreme Court candidate, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, are presently occupying the Senate's attention. Biden is ready to reengage with Manchin on tax credits and other initiatives targeted at increasing sustainable energy and electric cars, according to White House national climate coordinator Gina McCarthy. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), one of Congress' most outspoken climate activists, said in an interview on Wednesday that Manchin seemed to support renewable energy tax credits as well as a levy on methane emissions, a strong greenhouse gas. Last Friday, Manchin spent time with Haaland and Granholm in his home state of West Virginia, promoting measures in the bipartisan infrastructure bill, as per The Washington Post via MSN. Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.), who had tried unsuccessfully to persuade Manchin to support a program that would shift power companies away from fossil fuels, said she was encouraged to hear of the "good discussion" on Friday between Manchin and Granholm, who were both in Paris for the International Energy Agency's ministerial meeting this week. Related Article: US Daylight Savings Bill Hit With Potential Issues: Why Are Lawmakers Hesitant About Passing It? @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. India is looking to replace Russia and Ukraine in around 30-odd wheat importing countries across the globe, a senior government official said. Of these 30 countries, almost 10-15 are already existing customers of Indian wheat along with that of Russia and Ukraine, but Indias share is less in the total volume of imports than Russia or Ukraine. That apart, another 10-15 countries have been exclusive buyers of Russian and Ukrainian wheat for the last several decades. India is keenly eyeing them as well, in order to boost its exports either through government-to-government ... Union Civil Aviation Minister on Friday said Indian airline operators are expected to add 110 to 120 new aircraft every year in the days to come. Speaking at the inaugural session of Wing India 2022, a civil aviation show being held here, Scindia also said the operators need to include more wide-bodied aircraft to their fleet in order to connect several global points. Exuding confidence about air traffic figures rebounding, the minister said the number of domestic passengers is expected to touch 4.10 lakh per day by next year and will surpass that number by 2024-25 as the airline industry is in a "V" shaped recovery. "India is looking at tremendous expansion. Expansion in the area of airlines, expansion in the area of airports. And therefore fleet augmentation is also important . A country that had a fleet of only 400 aircraft in the year 2013-14 has grown to a fleet of 710 aircraft in the last seven years with an addition of 310 aircraft. And we intend to add at least 110 to 220 aircraft per year as we go forward," Scindia said. A senior official of Airbus had on Thursday said the European aircraft maker expects that India will need over 2200 aeroplanes in the next two decades. According to the minister, currently India has about 9000 pilots, out of which 15 per cent are women. This number was way ahead of the global benchmark of five per cent. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian carriers intend to add 110-120 planes a year as they look to rebuild their business after the third wave of Covid-19 pandemic, Civil Aviation Minister said on Friday. Domestic airlines added more than 100 planes for the first time in 2018 with IndiGo accounting for half of 120 inductions. But the growth slowed down with the collapse of Jet Airways in 2019 and the spread of Covid-19 infections in 2020. At present, have a combined fleet of 710 aircraft, up from 400 eight years ago. While most of the aircraft inductions have been led by narrow-body Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 aircraft, Scindia called upon airlines to consider inducting widebody aircraft that fly the long haul routes. We need to connect the world, he said, in his address at the Wings India event at Hyderabad on Friday. Demand has bounced back strongly with the decline in Covid-19 cases. Airlines have planned 25,309 flights per week in summer schedule 2022, which is around 4 per cent higher than summer of 2020. The daily total domestic traffic has reached 383,000 and is expected to cross the pre-Covid-19 figure of 410,000 this year as airlines are adding capacities. Annual passenger throughput at airports is expected to reach 300 million this year and will surpass 410 million in 2024-25, the minister said. Passenger throughput refers to the number of passengers handled at an airport, including both arrivals and departures. We have emerged stronger and fitter (from the pandemic) and are ready to face the challenges and opportunities, Scindia remarked. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the Central Board of Directors of on Friday discussed the overall impact of current global geopolitical crises on the . The 594th meeting of the Central Board of Directors of RBI was held on Friday at Bengaluru under the Chairmanship of Governor Shaktikanta Das, the RBI said in a release. "The Board in its meeting reviewed the various areas of operation of the Bank and the current economic situation, global and domestic challenges including the overall impact of current global geopolitical crises," it said. Further, the Board discussed the Reserve Bank's activities during the current accounting year 2021-22. The Board also approved the budget for the accounting year 2022-23. Deputy Governors Mahesh Kumar Jain, Michael Debabrata Patra, M Rajeshwar Rao, and T Rabi Sankar, attended the meeting. Other Directors of the Central Board Satish K Marathe, S Gurumurthy, Revathy Iyer and Sachin Chaturvedi too attended the meeting. The release further said Ajay Seth, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs and Sanjay Malhotra, Secretary, Department of Financial Services also participated in the meeting. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sagarmala, the Centres flagship project for the development of ports and waterways infrastructure, has seen significant progress and projects worth Rs 2.12 trillion will be completed by 2024, Union minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Friday. This is in addition to the Rs 99,000 crore worth of projects that have already been completed under the project till now, he said at an event celebrating seven years of Sagarmala, adding that 194 projects have been completed under the scheme. The Centre has identified a total of 802 projects under the programme at an estimated cost of Rs 5.48 trillion. With the central governments push towards port-led infrastructure development and de-congestion at major ports, the turnaround time at major ports has been reduced to 26.58 hours. The number is significantly down from over 44 hours in the financial year 2013-14, and slightly less than 27.38 hours in the last fiscal year, the minister said. This shows that we have provided quality service at our ports, he added. The ministry intends to bring vessel turnaround time to under 20 hours in the near term. ALSO READ: Sagarmala project: Poor planning on container traffic haunting shippers Currently, major ports can handle 254.30 million tonne per annum (mtpa) against the traffic of 152.67 mtpa upto February. Major Ports are ready to handle increased exim trade in future due to availability of extra capacity, a shipping ministry official said. Of the 218 development projects in the pipeline for 2024, 31 are under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, at an estimated cost of 50,000 crores, Bhushan Kumar, a senior ministry official said. Overall, 123 PPP projects worth Rs 2.63 trillion have been identified out of the total 802 projects envisaged under . We (the ministry) always focus on PPP first, so there will be plenty of opportunities for private players going forward, Kumar added. The Centre is targeting the development of 14 new ports worth Rs 1.25 trillion under the project. With the recently launched water taxi service from Mumbai to Navi Mumbai, the Centre also plans to collaborate with private players and local authorities to create 15 additional water taxi berths in the city. Under Sagarmala, the Centre plans to achieve port modernization & new port development, port connectivity enhancement, port-led industrialization and coastal community development. While the initial plan was to build 14 coast economic zones (CEZs) for enhanced port connectivity through infrastructure development and freight-friendly expressways, some of the projects appear to have hit a wall as other crucial government initiatives such as Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC) have also been envisaged along the same routes. As per a reply by the minister in the Parliament, the national perspective plan for the development of CEZs is being modified to accommodate clashes with other . Breakdown Stage Amount (in Rs crores) Number of Projects Number of PPP Completed 99,000 194 29 In Progress 212,801 218 31 Sanctioned 104,947 157 13 Detailed Project Report 56,429 138 25 Under Concept 76,004 95 25 Source: Ministry of Porsts, Shipping, and Waterways As commodity prices continue to escalate due to the Russia-Ukraine war, manufacturers of consumer durables are being forced to increase prices yet again. This is not the only problem the industry is grappling with. The rise in Covid-19 infections in China and Hong Kong has also affected the supply of components such as open cell and mainboard, which are typically imported from China. Hence, there could be a shortage of these components from next month, which would impact manufacturers of televisions. While consumer goods companies have planned price hikes to offset the ... Spectrum auctions will be conducted very soon, and the next-generation services are expected to commence before the end of the year, Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan said in the Rajya Sabha on Friday. Replying to a supplementary question during Question Hour, Chauhan also said that the four companies have been allotted spectrum for conducting trials and added that the trials are expected to be completed soon. In parallel, the minister said that the telecom regulator TRAI has also been asked to give its recommendations related to the upcoming auction. "We will conduct auctions very soon. By the end of this year, we will start services in the country," he said. He also asserted that state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) will begin its 4G services this year. The minister said that a "great revolution" has taken place in the telecom sector over the last seven years and that data consumption has soared while tariffs are at the lowest. There is a robust public grievance mechanism in place and complaints pending for over 48 hours are escalated to senior officials, Chauhan said. The government has taken a slew of measures to revive telecom PSUs BSNL and MTNL. The quality of BSNL services will also improve with the launch of the state-owned corporation's 4G services, he asserted. Chauhan also outlined the reforms undertaken by the government in the telecom sector and cites measures like re-definition of AGR (Adjusted Gross Revenue). In a written reply, Communication Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "There is no decline in the number of mobile subscribers in the country in the year 2020-21." As per the monthly Telecom Subscription Data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), the number of mobile subscribers in India increased from 1,157.75 million in March 2020 to 1,180.96 million in March 2021. To improve the Quality of Service (QoS), he said drive test and Radio Frequency (RF) optimization are carried out regularly by mobile service providers. "Further in order to provide state-of-the-art and prompt service to mobile customers, service providers optimally manage the increasing traffic by way of adding more number of sites, providing fibre backhaul, using small cells and undertaking network optimization," Vaishnaw said. Moreover, TRAI has issued guidelines and set various parameters & benchmarks to monitor QoS. These parameters are assessed for the entire license service area on a quarterly basis. For ensuring compliance with the QoS benchmarks and to protect the interests of the consumers, TRAI has prescribed the system of financial disincentives for non-compliance with the benchmarks, Vaishnaw 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 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has asked commercial as well as payment system operators (PSO) to geotag payment touch points like branches and automated teller machines while announcing a framework for Geo-tagging of Payment System Touch Points. Geo-tagging refers to capturing the geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude) of payment touch points deployed by merchants to receive payments from their customers. Geo-tagging has various benefits, such as, provide insights on regional penetration of digital payments; monitor infrastructure density across different locations; identify scope for deploying additional payment touch points; facilitate focused digital literacy programmes, said in a notification. said that capturing the accurate location of existing payment system touch points / acceptance infrastructure is essential to upscaling and chalking out intervention strategies. This requirement can be effectively facilitated by geo-tagging of payment touch points, it said. Digital payment transactions carried out by customers using payment touch points use two broad categories of i) physical infrastructure - Banking infrastructure comprising bank branches, offices, extension counters, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) micro-ATMs used by Business Correspondents (BCs), and ii) payment acceptance infrastructure comprising Points of Sale (PoS) terminals, Quick Response (QR) codes deployed by / non-bank Payment System Operators (PSOs), etc. All / Non-bank PSOs shall report information on payment touch points to the Reserve Bank through the Centralised Information Management System (CIMS) of RBI, the notification said. The regulator further said banks / non-bank PSOs will be solely responsible for ensuring data pertaining to payment touch points deployed and the merchants acquired / on-boarded by them is up to date and accurate. The date from which the banks and PSOs need to report the information to be advised later. The government of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol says 300 people died in a Russian airstrike on March 16 on a theatre being used as a bomb shelter. The post Friday on the city government Telegram channel cited eyewitnesses for the toll of about 300. It was not immediately clear whether emergency workers had finished excavating the site or how the eyewitnesses arrived at the horrific death toll. When the theater was struck, an enormous inscription reading CHILDREN was posted outside in Russian, intended to be visible from the skies above. Soon after the airstrike, Ludmyla Denisova, the Ukrainian Parliament's human rights commissioner, said more than 1,300 people had been sheltering in the building. As Russia relentlessly besieges and pummels Ukraine's cities, nearly anyone who can is trying to leave and those left behind face desperate food shortages in a country once known as the breadbasket for the world. In the shelled city of Kharkiv, mostly elderly women came to collect food and other urgent supplies. In the capital of Kyiv, ashes of the dead are piling up at the main crematorium because so many relatives have left, leaving urns unclaimed. For civilians unable to join the flood of refugees from Ukraine, the days of plenty in the country are becoming just a fading memory, as the war grinds into a second month. With Ukrainian soldiers battling Russia's invasion force to a near stalemate in many places and the president urging people to remain steadfast, the US and the European Union announced a move to further squeeze Russia: a new partnership to reduce Europe's reliance on Russian energy and slowly squeeze off the billions of dollars the Kremlin gets from sales of fossil fuels. In Ukraine, the war for hungry civilians is increasingly being counted in precious portions of food, and block of cheese now goes a very long way. Fidgeting with anticipation, a young girl in Kharkiv watched intently this week as a volunteer's knife cut through a giant slab of cheese, carving out thick slices one for each hungry person waiting stoically in line. Hanna Spitsyna took charge of divvying up the delivery of food aid from the Ukrainian Red Cross, handing it out to her neighbours. Each got a lump of the cheese that was cut under the child's watchful gaze, dropped chunk by chunk into plastic bags that people in line held open like hungry mouths. They brought us aid, brought us aid for the elderly women that stayed here," Spitsyna said. All these people need diapers, swaddle blankets and food." Unable to sweep with lightning-quick speed into Kyiv, their apparent aim on Feb. 24 when the Kremlin launched the war, Russian forces are instead raining down shells and missiles on cities from afar. The outskirts of Kharkiv were shrouded by foggy smoke Friday, with shelling constant since early in the morning. In a city hospital, several wounded soldiers arrived, with bullet and shrapnel wounds, a day after doctors treated a dozen civilians. Even as doctors stabilised the direst case, the sound of shelling could be heard in the surgery ward. Russia's military claimed Friday that it destroyed a massive Ukrainian fuel base used to supply the Kyiv region's defenses, with ships firing a salvo of cruise missiles, according to the Interfax news agency. Videos on social media showed an enormous fireball explosion near the capital. For civilians, the misery has become unrelenting. Kyiv, like other cities, has seen its population dramatically reduced in the vast refugee crisis that has seen more than 10 million displaced and at least 3.5 million fleeing the country entirely. In the capital, over 260 civilians have died and more than 80 buildings been destroyed since the start of the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged his country to keep up its military defense and not stop even for a minute. Zelenskyy used his nightly video address on Thursday to rally Ukrainians to move toward peace, move forward. With every day of our defense, we are getting closer to the peace that we need so much. We can't stop even for a minute, for every minute determines our fate, our future, whether we will live. He said thousands of people, including 128 children, died in the first month of the war. Across the country, 230 schools and 155 kindergartens have been destroyed. Cities and villages lie in ashes, he said. At an emergency NATO summit in Brussels Thursday, Zelenskyy pleaded with the Western allies via video for planes, tanks, rockets, air defense systems and other weapons, saying his country is defending our common values. In a video address to EU leaders, meanwhile, Zelenskyy thanked them for working together to support and impose sanctions on Russia, including Germany's decision to block Russia from delivering natural gas to Europe through the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline. But he lamented that these steps were not taken earlier, saying there was a chance Russia would have thought twice about invading. While millions of Ukrainians have fled west, accused Moscow of forcibly removing hundreds of thousands of civilians from shattered cities to Russia to pressure Kyiv to give up. Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's ombudsperson, said 402,000 people, including 84,000 children, had been taken against their will into Russia, where some may be used as hostages to pressure Kyiv to surrender. The Kremlin gave nearly identical numbers for those who have been relocated, but said they were from predominantly Russian-speaking regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern and wanted to go to Russia. Pro-Moscow separatists have been fighting for control for nearly eight years in those regions, where many people have supported close ties to Russia. (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.) Canadian authorities have announced plans to increase the country's oil and gas exports this year which could result in up to 300,000 more barrels per day in an attempt to replace Russian supply amid the invasion of Ukraine. The announcement was made by Canadian natural resources minister Jonathan Wilkinson in a Thursday talk. He said that the decision would lead to a roughly 5% increase in exports which aims to support Canada's allies to respond to the "energy security crisis" caused by Moscow's war on its neighboring country. Increased Oil Production In his remarks, Wilkinson, who was in Paris at the time to participate in a meeting at the International Energy Agency (IEA) headquarters, said that Canada's European friends and allies needed the supply. He also encouraged other nations to lend a helping hand and step up to the plate to assist the world. The minister said that many nations were calling for help to get rid of their dependence on Russian oil and gas in the short term. He said they wanted to speed up the energy transition across the continent, arguing that Canada was in a unique position because it was capable of helping with both issues, as per Aljazeera. However, in a statement, the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers' Ben Brunnen said that a short-term increase in oil and gas production carries risk for the country's industry. On the other hand, a government source said that while Canadian authorities are unable to control the destination of the oil, it could still help the market once it is made available. Read Also: Gas Tax Suspension by State Revealed; West Virginia, California Propose Measures to Ease Oil Price Hike Currently, Canada is the fourth-largest oil producer in the world and could have the resources needed to supply much-needed products. Last week, the IEA urged governments to immediately implement measures to cut global oil consumption after fears of dwindling supply due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. According to NDTV, the war has caused surging prices in fuel worldwide and has caused major economies to take immediate actions against Russia, imposing sanctions on its lawmakers and companies. On Thursday, oil prices fell with Brent North Sea crude, the main international benchmark, dipping below $120 per barrel to trade at roughly $116. Effects of Russia-Ukraine War Wilkinson added that Canada was coordinating with officials from the U.S. Department of Energy. They are working to make the increased volumes of oil and gas from existing pipelines to be shipped efficiently as crude or refined before export. The minister said that the oil produced by the process will be distributed to the international markets that desperately need the supply. Wilkinson added that some of the oil that does not go to Europe could be utilized by the U.S. to offset some of the supply that has been hampered due to sanctions on Russia. Wilkinson said that the additional natural gas production will mainly be shipped through the U.S. to various destinations in Europe. The situation comes as the largest producers in Canada's energy patch have been wary with respect to growing production despite the effects of Russia's war on Ukraine, Yahoo Finance reported. Related Article: Demand for Electric Bikes Surge as Consumers View Oil, Gas Price Crisis as Long-Term @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Citing Belarus' continuous strategic support to and its military forces, on Friday has placed sanctions on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and members of his family along with 22 Russians including senior editors from organisations including Today, the Strategic Culture Foundation, InfoRos and NewsFront. The Government of Belarus, under President Lukashenko, continues to provide strategic support to and its military forces in their assault on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, said the Australian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking on the sanctions on Lukashenko's family, the statement read, "We are also placing sanctions on his son Viktor Lukashenko, who previously held senior national security roles in the Belarussian Government, and his wife Galina Lukashenko, the First Lady of ." "These latest steps, one month into Russia's invasion of Ukraine, continue our focussed efforts to ensure that Russia and those who support its illegal, unprovoked invasion of its democratic neighbour, pay a high cost," it read. It slammed saying, "it has allowed Russia to fire ballistic missiles from into Ukraine, enabled the transport of Russian military personnel, heavy weapons and tanks into Ukraine, provided refuelling points in Belarus for Russian military aircraft and stored Russian weapons and military equipment." reiterated its "unwavering" support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the people of . It called upon Russia to immediately withdraw its military forces from . (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 Vienna-based Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Ukrainian authorities have informed that workers of the now-defunct Chernobyl nuclear power plant were at risk due to continued Russian shelling of checkpoints in the city of Slavutych. According to the UN watchdog, many people working at the plant live in the city which is located outside the Exclusion Zone that was established around the site after the 1986 nuclear catastrophe. In a statement on Thursday, the IAEA citing Ukraine's regulatory authority said the shelling was endangering "the homes and families of those operational personnel that ensure the nuclear and radiation safety" of the plant, which fell to the Russian forces on February 24, the day Moscow launched its invasion of Kiev. It was also "preventing further rotation of personnel to and from the site". Although operations stopped at the plant after the disaster, Chernobyl was never fully abandoned and still requires constant management. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has expressed concern over the development, which comes just a few days after technical staff at Chernobyl were finally able to rotate and go to their homes in Slavutych and rest after working for nearly four weeks without a change of shift. He said the IAEA would continue to closely monitor the situation. According to the Ukrainian regulatior, out of the country's 15 reactors at four sites, eight were continuing to operate, including two at the Russia-controlled Zaporizhzhya plant, three at Rivne, one at Khmelnytskyy, and two at South . --IANS 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.) continues to battle its worst COVID-19 outbreak, driven by the omicron variant, with health officials on Friday calling the situation severe and complex." The country has counted more than 56,000 cases since March 1, according to national health officials, who gave a press briefing Friday. More than half of those cases have been recorded in northeastern Jilin province and include asymptomatic cases as well. The numbers do not include Hong Kong, which tracks its COVID-19 data separately. continues striving to "achieve dynamic zero-COVID in the short term, as it is still the most economical and most effective prevention strategy against COVID-19," said Wu Zunyou, an infectious disease expert at China's Center for Disease Control. Only by doing dynamic zero-COVID can we eliminate the hidden dangers of the epidemic, avoid the run on medical resources that may be caused by large-scale infections and prevent a large number of possible deaths of the elderly or those with underlying diseases, Wu added. The zero-COVID strategy relies on lockdowns and mass testing, with close contacts often being quarantined at home or in a central government facility. The strategy focuses on eradicating community transmission of the virus as quickly as possible, sometimes by locking down entire cities. Last week, Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged the toll of the stringent measures, saying should seek maximum effect with minimum cost in controlling the virus. Since then, officials have emphasized that they will ensure their approach and restrictions are targeted. For example, authorities adjusted mass testing measures so they don't involve entire cities and are targeted instead at specific neighborhoods or areas, in line with where the virus turns up, Jiao Yahui, a senior official with the National Health Commission, said at a press briefing Tuesday. Health officials are especially concerned about people aged 60 and older and spent much of Friday's press briefing urging people to get vaccinated. National data released last week showed that over 52 million people aged 60 and older have yet to be vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine. Booster rates are also low, with only 56.4% of people between 60-69 having received a booster shot, and 48.4% of people between 70-79 having received one. The situation in Hong Kong has highlighted the importance of vaccinating the elderly people. The daily death toll in the semi-autonomous region remains above 200, according to Wu, the CDC official. A vast majority of Hong Kong's COVID-19 deaths have been among those who are not fully vaccinated, with many in the elderly population. The city reported 10,401 new cases Friday, continuing a downward trend, although social distancing measures have yet to be rolled back. The city has recorded over 1 million cases in the latest surge. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chinese Foreign Minister Wangi Yi will look to ink key agreements on (BRI) with on his three-day visit to the country starting today, as the Himalayan country looks to flag reservations. Officials familiar with the preparations said as many as 10 agreements related to technical and economic assistance to are likely to be signed during Wang's visit, reported Kathmandu Post. The focus will be on signing at least implementation agreements for projects to be developed under the BRI, officials said, adding that, not even a single project has taken off under the BRI in in the last five years. The Nepali side, however, has expressed reservations about financing and developing projects under the BRI, the report said citing sources. Kathmandu has made it clear that there should be a joint mechanism for selecting the projects, preference should be given to grants but if a loan is required then the loan interest should not go beyond two per cent and that repayment time for the loan should be decided based on a mutually agreed timeline. Nepal has also set a condition that there should be competitive bidding in BRI projects and they should be open to all, not just Chinese firms. "After shortlisting projects, we can move ahead with a few under the BRI," said Prakash Sharan Mahat, spokesperson of the Nepali Congress who was former foreign minister when the BRI was signed in 2017. "Preference should be given to infrastructure and connectivity-related projects as per our requirements and priority." The Chinese visit also comes amidst a recent deterioration in ties between the two countries in light of Nepal's recent ratification of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact with the US. The MCC compact grants USD 500 million worth of developmental assistance to Nepal from the US. Following the MCC deal, the foreign ministry in Beijing reportedly concluded in its review that the Chinese presence in Nepal is weakening, hence, Foreign Minister Wang is being sent to Kathmandu to explore ways to turn things around, media reports said. The Nepali side is also expected to raise other issues including allowing more Nepali vehicles to enter by relaxing the COVID protocol, while also allowing more Chinese trucks to enter Nepal. The Chinese side has been allowing only 20 Chinese cargo containers to cross over to Nepal daily via the Tatopani border and nine containers via the Kerung border, Kathmandu Post reported. Nepal will also raise the issue of the Nepali students enrolled in Chinese universities who are currently stuck in Nepal after returning home due to the pandemic due to not reopening flights. Wang's Nepal visit will culminate the slew of trips that the Chinese Foreign Minister has made to the South Asian countries since he arrived in Pakistan on March 21 to attend the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) summit as a "special guest". Wang held talks with Taliban representatives in Afghanistan on Thursday, followed by his arrival in New Delhi the same evening, where he is expected to hold talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval today. Wang had drawn a sharp rebuke from New Delhi on Wednesday on his remarks at the OIC summit where he had said that "shares the same hope" as their "Islamic friends" on the Kashmir issue. "We reject the uncalled reference to India by the Chinese Foreign Minister during his speech at the Opening Ceremony. Matters related to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir are entirely the internal affairs of India. Other countries including China have no locus standi to comment. They should note that India refrains from the public judgement of their internal issues," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said. Notably, Nepal's Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba is expected to arrive in Delhi on April 1 for a three-day visit, soon after Wang's visit concludes. (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 closure of the Nepal- border since 2020 has impacted Kathmandu's trade and with China, experts said raising questions regarding the geopolitical and strategic interest of both the countries' economic benefit through the transboundary Himalayan multi-dimensional connectivity network. At a seminar organized by the Center for Social Inclusion and Federalism on BRI and Nepal Relations in Kathmandu on Thursday, experts questioned if the relation of China-Nepal is based on friendship or just a mercantile partner, Khabar Hub reported. According to the media outlet, as many as 80 participants attended the event including diplomats, bureaucrats, journalists and reporters, and scholars of various fields. The seminar was organized at a time of the impending visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the seminar, three major themes were discussed by three separate panels. The themes include BRI and Geopolitics: Risks and Opportunities, Nepal- Cross-border Relations, and Nepal-China Trade, Transit, and Transport. Ajaya Bhadra Khanal, Arpan Gelal, and Shraddha Ghimire presented their research findings on the topics respectively. The first panel emphasized the impacts of ensuing great power rivalry on Nepal and viewed Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit from the same lens. Furthermore, the panel discussed the contrasting models of diplomacy being practiced by Washington and Beijing and their averments towards one another regarding MCC and BRI, according to Khabar Hub. Foreign Minister Wang is expected to hold bilateral talks with his Nepali counterpart Dr Narayan Khadka and is also expected to talk to various key leaders including President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and former Prime Ministers and key leaders K P Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', the Nepal foreign ministry press release said. Nepal has seen a rising discontent and suspicion among the people against Chinese projects and investments in the country, with recent large-scale protests against (BRI) project in Eastern Nepal's Jhapa district. Chinese officials say Wang's main agenda in Kathmandu is to reassess Beijing's geopolitical and security challenges, as China no longer feels secure in Nepal. "Implementation of the BRI projects in Nepal is important for Beijing," says a second Kathmandu-based Chinese official who has long liaised between Kathmandu and Beijing. He was also speaking on the condition of anonymity. "But this time Beijing is more worried about the security challenges emanating from the compact's approval," During his visit, Foreign Minister Wang will also take stock of the political climate in Kathmandu, reported The Annapurna Express. (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.) One by one, a voice called out the names of 169 people just released by U.S. Border Patrol. rose from folding chairs in a clinic warehouse and walked to a table of blue-robed workers, who swabbed their mouths. All but two Cuban women tested negative for COVID-19 that February morning. They were quarantined to motel rooms, while other boarded chartered buses to Phoenix's Sky Harbour Airport for flights across the U.S. Theirs were among just seven of 5,301 tests the Regional Center for Border Health near Yuma, Arizona, did last month for released that were positive a rate of 0.1% COVID-19 rates are plunging among migrants crossing the border from Mexico as the Biden administration faces a Tuesday deadline to end or extend sweeping restrictions on asylum that are aimed at limiting the virus' spread. Lower rates raise more questions about scientific grounds for a public health order that has caused migrants to be expelled from the more than 1.7 million times since March 2020 without a chance to request asylum. While there is no aggregate rate for migrants, test results from several major corridors for illegal border crossings suggest it is well below levels that have triggered concerns among U.S. officials. In California, 54 of 2,877 migrants tested positive the first two weeks of March, according to the state Department of Social Services. That's a rate of just 1.9%, down from a peak of 28.2% on Jan. 8. In Pima County, Arizona, which includes Tucson, the seven-day positivity rate among migrants didn't exceed 1.3% in early March and dropped to 0.9% on March 10. The seven-day rate topped 5% on only two days during the final three months of last year. Then, as the omicron variant spread, it surged to double-digits for most of January, peaking at 19.2% on Jan. 12 and falling below 5% on Feb. 12. McAllen, Texas, the largest city in the busiest corridor for illegal crossings, has a higher rate among migrants 9.2% on March 2 but it is also falling and is consistently lower than the general population. Only two of 24 border counties have had high rates in the general population: Hidalgo, which includes McAllen, and Yuma in Arizona. The rate among migrants in McAllen peaked at 20.8% the last week of January, when it was double that in the general population. It bottomed at 1.4% the last week of November, when the general population was at 6.2%. As mask mandates have lifted, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention is under mounting pressure to fully restore asylum by ending Title 42, named for a 1944 public health law. Critics say it has been an excuse to wriggle out of asylum obligations under U.S. law and treaty. Justin Walker, a federal appeals court judge in Washington, wrote this month that it was far from clear that the CDC order serves any purpose for public health. Walker, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, noted that the Biden administration hasn't provided detailed evidence to support the restrictions. The CDC's order looks in certain respects like a relic from an era with no vaccines, scarce testing, few therapeutics, and little certainty, Walker wrote for a three-judge panel. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky noted falling rates when she ended asylum limits on unaccompanied child migrants on March 11, while keeping them for adults and families with kids. In August, U.S. border authorities began testing children traveling alone in their busiest areas: positives fell to 6% in the first week of March from a high of nearly 20% in early February. The White House and Homeland Security Department have said decisions on Title 42 rest with the CDC. Walensky told reporters Wednesday that the CDC was reviewing data ahead of next week's deadline, noting that its two-month renewal in late January came near the peak of the omicron variant. Scientific arguments for Title 42 have met with scepticism from the start. The Associated Press reported in 2020 that Vice President Mike Pence directed the CDC to use its emergency powers, overruling agency scientists who said there was no evidence it would slow the . Anne Schuchat, the second-highest ranking CDC until last May, told members of Congress after her departure that the asylum limits lacked foundation as a public health measure when introduced. The bulk of the evidence at that time did not support this policy proposal, she said. Title 42 also has supporters. In a ruling this month in a lawsuit over the order, U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman in Fort Worth, Texas, said: There should be no disagreement that the current immigration policies should be focused on stopping the spread of COVID-19. Even while large-scale expulsions were carried out under Title 42, the U.S. processed more than 2.8 million cases under normal immigration laws, which allow people to seek asylum. With costs and strained diplomatic relations limiting expulsions to many countries, migrants are often released to nongovernmental groups and ordered to appear later in immigration court. The groups test for COVID-19. In El Paso, Annunciation House saw positives plunge to around 2% among the roughly 175 migrants it tested daily in early March, said director Ruben Garcia. Positives were close to 40% at the height of the omicron variant, he said. In Arizona, at the Regional Centre for Binational Health, monthly rates peaked at 3% last year. Still, Amanda Aguirre, its president, is wary about lifting Title 42. My concern is that at any time we're going to see new variants coming into this area, she said. The Val Verde Border Humanitarian Coalition, which tests migrants in the busy Del Rio, Texas, area, said it went several weeks without a single positive. Yesterday there was one positive and today there was one positive that's out of hundreds tested, the group wrote last week in response to questions. (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.) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked EU leaders for working together to support and impose sanctions on Russia, including Germany's decision to block from delivering natural gas to Europe through the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline. But he lamented that these steps weren't taken earlier, saying there was a chance would have thought twice about invading. He then appealed to the EU leaders, who had gathered on Thursday in Brussels, to move quickly on Ukraine's application to join the bloc. Here I ask you, do not delay. Please, Zelenskyy said by video from Kyiv. For us this is a chance. He then listed the 27 member countries, noting those he said were for us. He appealed to Germany and particularly to Hungary not to block Ukraine's bid. Listen, Viktor, do you know what is happening in Mariupol? Zelenskyy said, addressing Hungarian President Viktor Orban. I want to be open once and for all you should decide for yourself, who you are for. Orban is widely considered to be Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest ally among EU leaders. Zelenskyy said is certain that in the decisive moment, Germany also will be with us. (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.) Belgium's prime minister said on Friday that European leaders would discuss measures to reduce the impact of high energy prices on consumers as the war in Ukraine was "ruining" the EU's population. "The EU is not only about big principles, big meetings and American presidents," Alexander De Croo told reporters on arrival for an EU summit in Brussels. "Today is about the everyday issues of the people and that is the electricity and gas invoice of the people and that's the impact we see today of that war in Ukraine in that country and so we need to intervene and I hope this time we have measures that have an impact." He said the EU needed to buy together and intervene in the market to reduce prices. "We are ruining our population and public finances with these high prices. We are at war and in a war you need to take extraordinary measures," he said. (Reporting by John Irish editing by Benoit van Overstraeten) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The (EU) countries and lawmakers have reached an agreement on an unprecedented law to curb the market dominance of the biggest tech such as Alphabet's Google, Meta, and . The EU countries and lawmakers on Thursday agreed upon a law to curb dominance of big tech companies, Xinhua news agency reported. The law called the Digital Markets Act (DMA) is aimed at stopping the largest tech platforms from using their interlocking services and considerable resources to box in users and squash emerging rivals, giving new entrants a better chance to survive against the world's powerful tech juggernauts. "DMA. 3 letters -- and a lot of work done for fair & open digital markets," European Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton said in a tweet. "And with tonight's agreement, soon a reality. Because no one should be 'too big to care'." Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age, Margrethe Vestager also confirmed in a tweet that there was a deal on the law. --IANS int/khz/ (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 set the stage for a stepped-up crackdown on big with an agreement on landmark digital rules to rein in online gatekeepers" such as Google and Facebook parent Meta. EU officials agreed late Thursday on wording for the bloc's Digital Markets Act, part of a long-awaited overhaul of its digital rulebook. The act, which still needs other approvals, seeks to prevent tech giants from dominating digital markets, with the threat of whopping fines or even the possibility of a company breakup. For instance, they face tighter restrictions on using people's data for targeted online ads a primary source of revenue for the likes of Google and Facebook. And different messaging services or social media platforms will be required to work together. The new rules underscore how Europe has become a global pacesetter in efforts to curb the power of through an onslaught of antitrust investigations, stringent regulations on data privacy and proposed rules for areas like artificial intelligence. What we have been deciding about yesterday will start a new era in tech regulation," lawmaker Andreas Schwab said at a press conference Friday. The European Consumer Organisation, or BEUC, welcomed the agreement, saying it would help consumers by creating fairer and more competitive digital markets. were less enthusiastic. Apple said it was concerned that parts of the Digital Markets Act will create unnecessary privacy and security vulnerabilities for our users while will prohibit us from charging for intellectual property in which we invest a great deal." Google said it will study the text and work with regulators to implement it. While we support many of the DMA's ambitions around consumer choice and interoperability, we remain concerned that some of the rules could reduce innovation and the choice available to Europeans," the company said. Amazon said it is reviewing what the rules mean for its customers. Facebook didn't reply to a request for comment. The Digital Markets Act includes a number of eye-catching groundbreaking measures that could shake up the way big tech companies operate. Big tech companies wouldn't be allowed to rank their own products or services higher than those of in online search results or reuse data collected from different services. A user's personal data can't be combined for targeted ads unless explicit consent is given. Messaging services and social media platforms must work with each other to avoid the domination of a few companies that have already established big networks of users. That opens up the possibility, for example, of Telegram or Signal users being able to exchange messages with WhatsApp users. Criteria for defining a gatekeeper have been tweaked to include companies that earn at least 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) in annual revenue in Europe in the past three years, have a market value of 75 billion euros, provide services in at least three EU countries, and have 45 million users and 10,000 business users each year in the bloc. Violations could be punished with whopping fines: up to 10% of a company's annual income. For a repeat offense, a fine of up to 20% of its worldwide turnover may be imposed. That could work out to billions of dollars for wealthy Silicon Valley companies. Negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council, which represents the 27 EU member countries, reached the deal after months of talks. It now needs to be endorsed by the Council and the European Parliament. (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 new book revealed conflict between Joe Biden and Kamala Harris despite the White House working hard to present a unified front between the president and vice president and their separate teams. According to the New York Times' Jonathan Martin and Alex Burns' upcoming book "This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America's Future," Harris and Biden have a "friendly but not close" personal connection. Book Reveals Tensions After Joe Biden Blasted Kamala Harris Their weekly lunches lacked a true depth of personal and political closeness, according to the author. Throughout the first year, Kamala Harris' associates protested to the book that she was given an impossible portfolio. When Joe Biden's communications director Kate Bedingfield got tired of the allegations that the White House was mismanaging Harris, she blamed the vice president, according to the book. After Harris' trip to Guatemala to address immigration in June of last year, accusations of dysfunction in her office were leaked, as per GG2.net. According to the book, Biden summoned top officials to the Oval Office and warned them against "stirring up unfavorable tales about the vice president." According to Martin and Burns' book, Harris' popularity ratings were even worse than Biden's, and other Democrats were already planning to run in 2024 if the president declined. Kamala Harris informed White House officials that she did not want to be limited to a few topics that were mostly associated with women and African-Black Americans. According to the book, when the campaign to strengthen federal voting rights stagnated in Congress, leaving the White House (and Harris) with few alternatives, she laid part of the responsibility at Biden's feet. Read Also: Kevin McCarthy Predicts Big Republican Win in Midterm Election, Says He'll Be House Speaker in January Jill Biden Was Upset About Kamala Harris as Joe Biden' Running Mate Meanwhile, First Lady Jill Biden was not pleased with Harris as a potential VP candidate after she criticized Biden during the campaign, according to the book. President Joe Biden chose Kamala Harris as his running mate and went on to win the 2020 presidential elections, making Harris Vice President of the United States. According to the new book, Jill Biden was dissatisfied with President Biden's choice of Harris as his running mate. On the 46th President's election and first year, the First Lady had an outburst at a 2019 debate in which Kamala Harris squared off against Joe Biden in the Democratic primary, Republic World reported. Jill Biden was enraged by Joe Biden's choice to run for president alongside sitting Vice President Kamala Harris. The book gives insight on Biden's victory in the presidential race. The book will be released on May 3. Jill Biden's remark in the book is based on a debate between Harris and Biden in 2019. During the discussion, Harris went after the current President, chastising him for the manner he represented his previous working relationships with two segregationist lawmakers. During his time as a senator in the 1970s, she accused Joe Biden of being a racist for opposing bussing, a method of racially integrating public schools. The claim made by Kamala Harris is said to have hurt Joe Biden. According to Daily Mail, many feel that this schism will ruin Democrat prospects in the upcoming election, returning Donald Trump to the White House. While Biden's approval ratings fell to a new low of 40% this week, continuing a slide that began with the botched US withdrawal from Afghanistan and rising COVID-19 deaths last August, Harris' approval ratings have already dropped to 28%, making her the least popular vice president in more than 50 years. It was before she burst out laughing when addressing a question on the fate of Ukrainian migrants at a news appearance in Poland earlier this month. Donald Trump's little hands must be rubbing together with delight. Regardless of how many Americans fear his gaining a second term (which he has stated he intends to do), his aspirations might come true if the opposition can't square their ship and find a competitive opponent for 2024. Related Article: Hunter Biden Scandal: US President Joe Biden Slammed for "Lying to the American People," Son Is Predicted To Be Indicted @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. In firing an almost cartoonishly massive intercontinental ballistic missile into space, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has turned back the clock to the fire and fury days of 2017 as he revives nuclear brinkmanship aimed at pressuring the US to accept his country as a nuclear power and remove crippling sanctions. Thursday's launch of the Hwasong-17 was North Korea's most provocative weapons test since US President Joe Biden took office and underscores Kim's determination to continue building his military while diplomacy remains frozen. This experimental launch is worrying because the weapon is being developed to be armed with nuclear bombs and to threaten Washington, DC, New York and much of the rest of the world. The North, however, may need more tests including of nuclear bombs in coming months as Kim tries to both perfect his technology and get a response from the Biden administration, which is distracted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and an intensifying rivalry with China. Here's a closer look at Kim's new missile and what he may be up to next: DOES SIZE MATTER? At around 25 metres (82 feet) long, the Hwasong-17 is by some estimates the world's largest road-mobile ballistic missile system. revealed the missile during a military parade in October 2020, and Thursday's launch from an airport near the capital Pyongyang was its first full-range test. Kim could be seen in images released by his state media relishing the test's success as he walks past the missile wearing sunglasses and a black leather motorcycle jacket. He leads military officials along the airport's runway in a scene reminiscent of a Hollywood action movie, at one point whipping his shades off to stare at the camera. last flew an in November 2017 when it tested the Hwasong-15. That was during a run of nuclear and missile tests that led to an exchange of insults and threats between Kim and then-US President Donald Trump, who said the North's threats against the US would be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen. While Hwasong-15 demonstrated the potential to reach targets in the American homeland, the latest test displayed a missile that could possibly travel even farther. The Hwasong-17, which was fired at a high angle to avoid the territorial waters of neighbours, reached a maximum altitude of 6,248 kilometres (3,880 miles) and travelled 1,090 kilometres (680 miles) during a 67-minute flight before landing in waters between and Japan, according to North Korea's state media. The flight details were similar to assessments by the South Korean and Japanese militaries and suggested that the missile could reach 15,000 kilometres (9,320 miles) when fired on a normal trajectory. That would effectively place the entire US mainland within striking distance. Extending its range is crucial for North Korea as it tries to build a more credible nuclear threat to target the US, said Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute. To strike the US mainland, North Korea's previous ICBMs would have had to pass Alaska, where the US deploys a larger number of missile interception systems. Hwasong-17's extra range could theoretically allow the North to avoid Alaska by travelling westward so that it reaches the US mainland by way of the Atlantic Ocean, Lee said. WILL THE WARHEAD SURVIVE? North Korea's development of a larger could be a reflection of a desire to eventually arm it with multiple nuclear warheads to improve its chances of defeating missile defences. It, however, may take years and major technological advancements to perfect such designs. It also remains unclear after Thursday's launch whether the North has solved the problem of ensuring that its ICBM warheads can withstand the harsh conditions of atmospheric reentry. While extensively reporting other details of the launch, the North's state media made no mention of whether any warhead survived. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said that Japan may try to retrieve missile debris to analyse the North's technology. Lee said North Korea could conduct more Hwasong-17 tests, including launches over Japan so North Korean scientists could see how it operates at a more normal trajectory. The North in 2017 conducted two launches over Japan of an intermediate range missile potentially capable of reaching Guam, a major US military hub in the Pacific. IS A NUKE TEST COMING? North Korea is showing signs that it may be restoring tunnels at its nuclear testing ground that it detonated in 2018, as Kim tried to leverage his nukes for badly needed economic benefits from the US. Kim held his first summit with Trump weeks later. The diplomacy derailed after their second meeting in February 2019, when the Americans rejected the North's demands for major sanctions relief in exchange for a limited surrender of its nuclear capabilities. The site in Punggye-ri in the country's northeast was used for its sixth and most recent nuclear test in 2017. After declaring the site's closure, Kim invited foreign journalists to observe the destruction of tunnels in May 2018, but did not invite outside experts to certify what had been destroyed. Some South Korean analysts said the North may feel the need to resume nuclear tests in coming months to get the attention of the Biden administration, which has offered open-ended talks but showed no willingness to concede on sanctions. The missiles the North tested this year included a purported hypersonic weapon and short-range solid-fuel missiles targeting South Korea. Analysts said the North may use another nuclear test to claim it had acquired the ability to produce a nuclear warhead small enough to fit on those missiles. A raging fire erupted Friday at an oil depot in Jiddah ahead of an F1 race in the Saudi city, according to videos, with Yemen's Houthis rebels acknowledging they had launched a series of attacks on the kingdom. While and its state-run oil behemoth Saudi Aramco did not immediately acknowledge the blaze, it appeared to be centred on the same fuel depot that the Houthis had attacked in recent days. The North Jiddah Bulk Plant sits just southeast of the city's airport, a crucial hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. Videos of the blaze corresponded to known geographic features around the plant. The Saudi Arabian Oil Co, known as Saudi Aramco, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Those at the F1 track could see the large black smoke cloud in the distance. The cause of the blaze was not immediately known. The second-ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jiddah is taking place on Sunday, though concerns had been raised by some over the recent attacks targeting the kingdom. The F1 said in a statement that: The position at the moment is that we are waiting for further information from the authorities on what has happened. The F1 did not elaborate. However, the al-Masirah satellite news channel run by Yemen's Houthi rebels said more details would be released later about their attacks. The Iran-backed Houthis did not immediately claim they were behind the Jiddah fire on Friday. Meanwhile, Saudi state television acknowledged attacks in the town of Dhahran targeting water tanks that damaged vehicles and homes. Another attack targeted an electrical substation in an area of southwestern near the Yemeni border, state TV said. The North Jiddah Bulk Plant stores diesel, gasoline and jet fuel for use in Jiddah, the kingdom's second-largest city. It accounts for over a quarter of all of Saudi Arabia's supplies and also supplies fuel crucial to running a regional desalination plant. (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.) First Lady was scheduled to travel to St Jude Children's Research Hospital in Tennessee on Friday, a visit expected to include meetings with Ukrainian children with cancer and their families fleeing the war and seeking treatment in the US. Biden's afternoon visit to the Memphis hospital is the first leg of a trip Friday that also includes travel to Colorado for a Democratic National Committee finance event in Denver, the White House said. Her visit to St Jude, considered a leading researcher of cancer and other life-threatening diseases that affect children, is part of her and President Joe Biden's so-called Cancer Moonshot effort, which aims to reduce the cancer death rate by at least 50% over the next 25 years. Improving the lives of children with cancer is a main goal of St Jude, founded by late actor Danny Thomas in 1962. Using mostly private donations, families with children who are patients at St Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing and food. Thomas' daughter, actress Marlo Thomas, is St Jude's national outreach director. will meet with a cancer survivor, tour a laboratory and receive a briefing on St Jude's research programmes, the White House said. Then, she will visit privately with Ukrainian pediatric cancer patients and their relatives. On Monday, St Jude received four Ukrainian children, ages nine months to 9 years old. In addition to receiving cancer treatment, the children also will get therapy to address their psychological, emotional and cultural needs, the hospital said. After Russia invaded in late February, St Jude teamed up with foundations in Poland to evacuate children with cancer from the war zone, St Jude President and CEO James Downing said. The collaborative has helped more than 600 patients by translating medical records and coordinating convoys from the Ukrainian city of Lviv to the Unicorn Marian Wilemski Clinic, a summer resort converted into a triage centre in Poland. From there, sick children have been transported to cancer centres in Europe, Canada and the US, Downing said. The four St Jude patients travelled aboard a US government-operated medical transport aircraft from Krakow, along with a St Jude doctor who had been in Poland with them, the hospital said. A second group of Ukrainian patients could arrive at the hospital next week, Downing said. The US has granted patients and their families accelerated immigration parole status, Downing said. In 2019, St Jude began working with the government and hospitals in to assess the level of care they could provide. Ties were established with four Ukrainian hospitals and other entities in Poland, Moldova and Romania, Downing said. Within hours of the Russian invasion, St Jude was asking its partners how it could help, Downing said. In those early hours of the war, it was clear that, over time, children were going to have to be evacuated, Downing said. Downing said he knows of at least two children who have died in the process of moving from to Poland. It is a journey that is life threatening, in and of itself, Downing said. I think it was Marlo who said these children face two wars the war of fighting cancer and the war in their homeland. Part of the drive to help Ukrainian children with cancer involves translating their medical records. St Jude established a network of 200 translators across the world who work on patient records. A Memphis doctor, Lana Yanishevski, and her husband Yuri have been involved in that effort. The Jewish couple fled anti-Semitism in Ukraine and arrived in Memphis in 1991. They received asylum and have become US citizens. Lana is a pediatrician and Yuri works as a engineer for ALSAC, St Jude's fundraising arm. With help from Yuri, who converts photographed and emailed medical charts into a more easily-readable format, Lana translates them from Russian or Ukrainian into English. She then sends them to St Jude, which distributes them to the proper hospitals. During a Zoom interview with The Associated Press, Lana held up a medical chart for a child who has an inoperable brain tumour and is under palliative care. She does not know the child's location. No hope for survival, and then he's dealing with war, Lana said. Imagine those parents. Lana and Yuri said they have felt depressed and helpless as they've watched the war unfold in Kyiv, where they lived and still have friends and relatives. But now, they feel like they are making a tangible difference. That was kind of like a light inside me, against all this darkness, Yuri Yanishevski said. It makes me feel great, makes me feel useful. (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.) Ruling out any military involvement in the ongoing Ukraine- war, French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (local time) said that France has decided to "step up" work to prevent escalation of the war, according to a media report. Macron's remarks came during a press conference after a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit and Group of Seven meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Thursday. "We have decided to step up the work to prevent escalation and organize ourselves in case it happens. We are acting on the need to continue adapting our posture to the new strategic circumstances caused by the war in and its consequences," CNN quoted Macron as saying as he highlighted the participation of 3,200 French military personnel in NATO exercises. However, ruling out any direct military participation, Macron reiterated that France will not be "co-belligerent" in the war. "We continue to stand by the side of the Ukrainian people with military, economic and humanitarian support. Our determination has led us to adopt with unity an unprecedented series of sanctions," the media outlet quoted him as saying. Further describing a unified response by NATO allies and the European Union (EU) to isolate Russia, Macron said, " has taken a historic responsibility by starting this war. Our strategy is to do everything to stop any escalation and stop as quickly as possible this conflict through our support to Ukraine, our sanctions and the discussions that continue between a few of us and [Russian] President Putin to find the ways and means to a negotiated solution." began a special military operation in on February 24 after the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics requested help in defending themselves. What followed the military operation was a slew of sanctions imposed by the western countries targeting the Russian economy. (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.) Iran's foreign minister claimed Thursday that his country is ready to reach a lasting agreement with world powers, blaming the latest failure to revive Tehran's tattered nuclear deal on an allegedly unrealistic vision by the . Speaking during a visit to Beirut, Hossein Amirabdollahian urged the US to stop wasting time. Nuclear negotiations nearly reached completion on the deal earlier this month before Russia demanded that its trade with be exempted from Western sanctions over Ukraine, throwing the process into disarray. Negotiators have yet to reconvene in the Austrian capital, and its unclear exactly what hurdles lie ahead. Amirabdollahian discussed a range of issues with Lebanese officials, including the tiny Mediterranean country's parliamentary elections due in May, Russia's war in Ukraine and the latest developments on efforts to resurrect the nuclear deal. We believe that if there is a realistic American vision in dealing with the situation, we will very soon see the birth of this nuclear deal, he said. Asked about the main obstacles, he said some matters are still pending and they are related to lifting the unjust sanctions imposed on . We believe that the should move on the right track instead of wasting time, he said, without elaborating. We are ready to reach a strong, good and lasting agreement as long it does not cross the Islamic Republic of Iran's red lines. enjoys wide influence in Lebanon through the Shiite militant Hezbollah group that Tehran has funded and armed since the early 1980s. Amirabdollahian arrived in Lebanon Thursday from neighbouring Syria, where he met with Syrian President Bashar Assad and other top officials. Iran is a strong ally of Assad and has sent thousands of Iran-backed fighters from around the region, including Hezbollah militants, to bolster Syrian government forces against opponents in the 11-year Syrian conflict. On Monday, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, signaled support for Tehran's nuclear negotiations to secure sanctions relief a rare reference to the still-halted talks as world powers near a diplomatic turning point. And last Friday, news of Tehran's decision to reprocess a fraction of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium into material that can be used in medicine instead of enriching further, to weapon-grade levels appears to signal the negotiations may still see the parties return to Vienna and reach a deal. (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 Israeli Ministry of Health has announced a Covid-19 vaccination campaign for people aged 60 years and above, citing a recent surge of morbidity nationwide fueled by the BA.2 Omicron subvariant. The operation, to start on Sunday, will be carried out by the Ministry, Health Maintenance Organisation(HMO) clinics, and Israel's Defense Forces' home front command across the country, the Ministry said on Thursday in a statement. HMOs will directly contact 212,000 people over the age of 60 years, who are eligible for a third Covid-19 vaccine dose but are yet to get one, and the Ministry will also encourage 450,000 eligible people aged 60 years and above to take the fourth-dose jab, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, the Ministry reported 13,603 new Covid-19 cases, bringing the national total to 3,818,065 as of Thursday. Israel's Covid-19 reproduction number indicator, also known as the R number, has increased from 1.39 to 1.42. When the R number is greater than one, the number of patients increases at an exponential rate and multiplies from time to time. --IANS int/khz/ (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President will hear directly from US troops stationed near Poland's border with Ukraine on Friday and learn about the growing humanitarian response to the millions of Ukrainians who are fleeing to to escape Russia's assault on their homeland. Biden planned to meet with members of the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division, who are serving alongside Polish troops. He arrived on Friday afternoon at the airport in Rzeszow, the largest city in southeastern Poland, where some US troops are based about an hour's drive from the Ukrainian border. He will be in Warsaw on Saturday for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and . The Polish leader was to welcome Biden at the airport on Friday, but his plane was delayed by a technical problem. The European Union said some 3.5 million Ukrainians half of them children have fled the country, with more than 2.2 million ending up in . The US Congress this month approved spending more than USD13 billion on humanitarian and military assistance for Ukraine. The administration has begun allocating those funds. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will hear directly from the American troops and humanitarian experts about the situation on the ground and what further steps need to be taken to make sure that we're investing US dollars in the right place. Biden, who spent Thursday lobbying US allies to stay united against Russia, speculated that what he sees in will reinforce my commitment to have the US make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine. Speaking in Brussels after meetings with other world leaders, Biden said he had visited many war zones and refugee camps during his political career and it's devastating to see young children without parents or men and women with blank looks on their faces wondering, My God, where am I? What's going to happen to me? He said Poland, Romania and Germany shouldn't be left on their own to deal with the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. This is an responsibility, Biden said shortly after he announced USD1 billion in additional assistance to help Ukrainian refugees. He also announced that the US would take in up to 100,000 of those refugees. The White House has said most Ukrainian refugees eventually want to return home. Biden said the US is obligated to be engaged and do all we can to ease the suffering and pain of innocent women and children and men" who make it across the border. He said, I plan on attempting to see those folks ... I hope I get to see a lot of people. Some refugees interviewed on Friday at the train station in Przemysl, Poland, said they hoped to eventually return to Ukraine. They also were not very hopeful about Biden's visit. For sure I do not have any expectations" about Biden, said a tearful Ira Satula, 32, from Kremenchug. Satula was grateful for all the support and Poland's warm reception. But home is home, and I hope we'll be there soon," Satula said. Olga Antonovna, 68, from Chernigov, said it's really 50-50" that Biden will help enough. I think that we needed help a long time ago, long before, she said. Sullivan said Biden will give a speech on Saturday on the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world". (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 test-launch of a new type intercontinental (ICBM) Hwasongpho-17 of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) strategic forces was conducted under the direct guidance of DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported early Friday. The missiles were tested on Thursday local time, Xinhua news agency reported. Kim, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, President of the State Affairs of the DPRK and supreme Commander of the armed forces of the DPRK, gave a written order to conduct the test-launch of the new type ICBM of the DPRK strategic forces on Wednesday. He visited the launch ground on Thursday and personally guided the overall process of the test-launch, according to the KCNA report. --IANS int/khz/ (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 virtual address to the European Council summit in Brussels, Ukrainian President said that the military alliance is "yet to show what it can do to save people" in the wake of Russia's continued war on Kiev. In a late night address, Zelensky said that although is not part of the 30-member defence alliance and was currently in a "grey zone between the West and Russia", yet "we defend our common values". "And being in a grey zone, we are enlightened people, just like you! That helps us to defend ourselves for a month." As the war completed 30 days on Thursday, the President said it had been "month of heroic resistance, a month of the darkest suffering. A month, when Russia enjoyed impunity for the destruction of the peaceful state, along with it the whole global security architecture". He accused Russia of "investing absurd amounts of money in death, while the world invested in life". Zelensky went on to thank Europe for uniting in their support for Ukraine, saying that three and a half million of the people who fled are "already in the territory of countries". "We are grateful for the support being provided to these people." He, however, told European leaders that they had acted too late in stopping Russia. Zelensky started by saying that on February 24, when Russia began its invasion, he appealed to the European leaders to close the Ukrainian airspace "to protect our people from Russian bombs and missiles", but, "we never got a clear answer", As a result, "people were killed... peaceful cities were destroyed", he said. " appealed to you for planes so that we would not lose so many people. You have thousands of fighter jets, but we have yet to receive one. "You have at least 20,000 tanks. Ukraine has asked for just 1 per cent of all your tanks... But we have not received a clear answer to this request either... "Not having clear answers is the worst thing for us, being in the war," Zelensky added. But the Ukrainian leader made it clear that he did not blame . "It's not your fault, as it's not your missiles and bombs destroying our cities... I just want you to know that the alliance can still prevent Ukrainians from dying from Russian strikes. You can save them by giving us all the weapons we need. "Ukrainians thought that the alliance is so different from the allies... But one you're together - you appear not strong at all. Also, we never thought that could be so afraid of Russia," he said. He concluded his address by saying that "our needs are on the table. Peace is needed immediately. The choice is yours". "Ukraine never wanted this war and has not sought war. Now we just want to save our people; we just want to survive." --IANS 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.) Landmark EU rules targeting Alphabet unit Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta, and are likely to set a global benchmark and may even force the tech giants to be more innovative, lawyers and experts said. Europes antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager has won backing from members and EU lawmakers for her proposal, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), to rein in the powers of the tech giants via legislation for the first time, rather than lengthy antitrust probe. The DMA sets out a list of dos and don'ts targeting each tech giant's core business practices. DMA is here to stay and will be quickly mirrored in a number of countries. The flexibility that big tech had will be constrained, as the regulatory straitjacket will get tighter globally, said Ioannis Kokkoris, competition law professor at Queen Mary University in London. Vestagers switch to legislation came amid frustration over slow-moving antitrust investigations that deliver remedies criticised by rivals as inadequate, with often cited as an example despite being hit with more than 8 billion ($8.8 billion) in fines. But the new rules also have the potential to spur more innovation contrary to the tech giants worries, said Nicolas Petit, professor of competition law at the European University Institute in Florence. It might even boost some companies business models, he said. I think the DMA indirectly places a premium on business models based on subscriptions or device level monetisation. We might see more (increased) prices, and vertical integration into hardware in the future. Still, enforcing the DMA will require a bigger team than the small group planned by the European Commission, said Thomas Vinje, a partner at law firm Clifford Chance in Brussels who has advised rivals in cases against Microsoft, and Apple. Police in Rhode Island has arrested a man after discovering his girlfriend's body in the kitchen refrigerator of their apartment. According to the Boston Globe, Nathan Cooper, 53, was charged with murder and other firearm-related offenses in connection with the death of his girlfriend. Investigators discovered the corpse of Sherbert "Strawberry" Maddox, 40, inside his Parkis Avenue home on Tuesday morning, where they suspect she had been held for many days following her death, according to authorities in Providence, Rhode Island. Rhode Island Woman Found Dead in Freezer Maddox was shot and kept in the refrigerator after being covered in blankets and plastic. A worried relative informed authorities about the corpse, according to Providence Police Major David Lapatin. At about 2:30 a.m., investigators arrived at the residence in the Elmwood area. According to The Providence Journal, Cooper was at the house where they seized a 38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver as evidence, which they suspect was used in the murder. A rifle was also taken from the residence. Court documents said Cooper was arrested and charged with first-degree domestic violence murder, possession of a stolen handgun, and carrying a firearm without a permit. Family members stated Maddox did not live in the house where her corpse was discovered. However, Detective Lapatin told Oxygen.com, "They lived there together." According to the journal, authorities suspect Maddox was slain as early as Sunday afternoon and that Cooper had "violent inclinations." Lapatin said that there had been no accusations of domestic violence between the couple to police. Cooper has a long history of criminal offenses extending back to 1989, including a number of assaults, drug charges, no-contact orders breaches, and domestic violence charges (including domestic strangling) against a former partner, according to court documents. Read Also: Michigan Teen Arrested For Dousing, Killing Dad With Drain Cleaner Victim's Family Fumes on Suspect in Courtroom The suspect appeared in court on Wednesday for his arraignment, but the proceedings were halted as the defendant sobbed and tried to control his emotions in the courtroom. Cooper couldn't keep his composure long enough to identify himself by name, as shown in footage from the Boston Globe. Maddox's sister hurled profanities at the defendant in the courtroom, accusing Cooper of placing Maddox in a freezer. On March 23, family members gathered in a courthouse to watch Cooper meet with a judge, and some couldn't hold back their tears. From Tuesday to Wednesday, a memorial for Maddox had grown significantly in size. Family and friends came to remember a life that was taken short. When asked whether he knew of a probable cause of the crime, detective Lapatin said that it "could be anything." Nathan Cooper is being held without bail. According to court records, he hasn't made a plea or been scheduled to appear in court. Cooper does not appear to have engaged legal counsel, as per The Sun. Related Article: New York Mom, Boyfriend Face Charges After 8-Year-Old Autistic Boy Died as a Result of Battered Child Syndrome @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. National Assemblys crucial session on a no-trust motion against embattled (pictured) was adjourned on Friday without tabling of the resolution, amid vociferous protests from opposition lawmakers. National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser said that the session was adjourned till 4pm on March 28 due to the demise of Tehreek-e-Insaf lawmaker Khayal Zaman on February 14. Several prominent opposition members, including Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif, Peoples' Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and co-chair Asif Ali Zardari were in the Parliament House on Friday to participate in the much-anticipated session. As Speaker Qaiser adjourned the session, opposition leaders started protesting, requesting him to take up the motion but the speaker did not turn their microphones on and retired to his chamber. The speaker said t the decision on taking up the no-confidence motion would be taken in the next session. Evidence signals midair break-up of plane At least one piece of the Boeing 737-800 that crashed in appears to have broken loose well before impact, a finding that adds mystery to the planes fatal dive. The piece suspected to have come from the Eastern Airlines jet was found about 10 km from the main wreckage area, Chinese officials said. If investigators confirm that the part came from the jet, it would indicate the plane suffered some kind of midair breakup, which could offer clues about what led to Mondays crash or at least shed light on the flights final seconds. The questions are: exactly what piece was it and when did it come off? said Jeff Guzzetti, the former chief of accident investigations at the US Federal Aviation Administration. Fire in Saudi city before F1 race; Houthis claim attacks A raging fire erupted Friday at an oil depot in Jeddah ahead of an F1 race in the Saudi city, according to videos, with Yemen's Houthis rebels acknowledging they had launched a series of attacks on the kingdom. While and its state-run oil behemoth Saudi Aramco did not immediately acknowledge the blaze, it appeared to be centred on the same fuel depot that the Houthis had attacked in recent days. The North Jeddah Bulk Plant sits just southeast of the city's airport, a crucial hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. Videos of the blaze corresponded to known geographic features around the plant. Saudi Aramco did not respond to a request for comment. Those at the F1 track could see the large black smoke cloud in the distance. N Korea: New ICBM to curb dangerous moves by US North Korean leader Kim Jong Un near Hwasong-17 the countrys latest ICBM. said the new ICBM test-fired on Thursday will curb dangerous moves by the US Microplastics found in for the first time Microplastics were detected in human for the first time, according to a study that may indicate the potential for particles to travel to organs. Scientists found 17 of the 22 healthy people they took samples from had quantifiable amounts of plastic particles in their . Researchers said further study is needed to determine the health risks of the materials. Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and can be found in marine animals to drinking water, though the WHOhas said theres insufficient information to draw firm conclusions about how toxic they are for people and more research is needed. Over 300 mt of plastic are produced every year and at least 14 mt end up in the ocean where they can be ingested by animals and risk entering the human food supply chain, according to the Union for Conservation of Nature. Some materials can take centuries to break down, and growing concerns about their pollutive impacts have spurred bans on single-use plastic bags. (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.) said Friday it test-fired its biggest intercontinental ballistic missile under the orders of leader Kim Jong Un, who vowed to expand the North's nuclear war deterrent while preparing for a long-standing confrontation with the United States. The report by North Korean state media came a day after South Korea and Japan said they detected the North launching an in its first long-range test since 2017. The launch extended a barrage of weapons demonstrations this year that analysts say are aimed at forcing the United States to accept the idea of as a nuclear power and remove crippling sanctions against its broken economy. The United States requested an open UN Security Council meeting on the launch, and a session was set for Friday afternoon New York time (1900 GMT). State TV dramatised the testing process like a Hollywood movie, showing Kim walking in slow motion in front of a giant missile in sunglasses and a black leather motorcycle jacket. It edited quick cuts that alternately show Kim and military officials staring at their watches before Kim takes off his shades and nods, with the video then showing the missile being rolled out of the hangar. The Hwasong-17, which was fired at a high angle to avoid the territorial waters of neighbours, reached a maximum altitude of 6,248 km (3,880 miles) and travelled 1,090 km (680 miles) during a 67-minute flight before landing in waters between and Japan, Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency said. KCNA claimed the launch met its technical objectives and proved the could be operated quickly during wartime conditions. The South Korean and Japanese militaries had announced similar flight details, which analysts say suggested that the missile could reach targets 15,000 km (9,320 miles) away when fired on normal trajectory with a warhead weighing less than a ton. That would place the entire US mainland within striking distance. Believed to be about 25 metres (82 feet) long, the Hwasong-17 is the North's longest-range weapon and, by some estimates, the world's biggest road-mobile ballistic missile system. North Korea revealed the missile in a military parade in October 2020 and Thursday's launch was its first full-range test. KCNA paraphrased Kim as saying that the new weapon would make the whole world clearly aware of the North's bolstered nuclear forces. He vowed for his military to acquire formidable military and technical capabilities unperturbed by any military threat and blackmail and keep themselves fully ready for long-standing confrontation with the US imperialists. The agency published photos of the missile leaving a trail of orange flames as it soared from a launcher truck on an airport runway near the capital, Pyongyang, and Kim smiling and clapping as he celebrated with military officials from an observation deck. Other images showed Kim penning a memo ordering the Hwasong-17 test flight and approving the launch. Kim has issued handwritten orders for some of the most significant weapons demonstrations of his rule, including the most recent test-flight in November 2017, which capped a highly provocative run in nuclear and missile tests that triggered a verbal exchange of war threats with then-President Donald Trump. South Korea's military responded to Thursday's launch with live-fire drills of its own missiles launched from land, a fighter jet and a ship, underscoring a revival of tensions as diplomacy remains frozen. It said it confirmed readiness to execute precision strikes against North Korea's missile launch points as well as command and support facilities. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin held separate telephone conversations with his counterparts in South Korea and Japan where they discussed response measures to North Korean missile activities and vowed to strengthen defence cooperation, according to US Defence Department statements. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said he talked with South Korean counterpart Chung Eui-yong over the phone and agreed to strengthen cooperation against the North Korean threat and seek further UN Security Council actions against Pyongyang. Seoul's Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, criticised the North for breaking its self-imposed moratorium on ICBM tests. Whatever North Korea's intent may be, the North must immediately suspend action that create tensions on the Korean Peninsula and destabilises the regional security situation and return to the table for dialogue and negotiations, ministry spokesperson Cha Deok-cheol said in a briefing. The United States also imposed fresh sanctions against five entities and individuals in Russia and North Korea over transferring sensitive items to the North's missile programme, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said. Thursday's test was North Korea's 12th round of launches this year and the most provocative since President Joe Biden took office. North Korea's resumption of nuclear brinkmanship reflects a determination to cement its status as a nuclear power and wrest economic concessions from Washington and from a position of strength, analysts say. Kim may also feel a need to trumpet his military accomplishments and drum up internal loyalty while the country faces economic difficulties. The other recent tests included a purported hypersonic weapon, a long-range cruise missile and an intermediate-range missile that could reach Guam, a major US military hub in the Pacific. The US and South Korean militaries had expected a full-range test of the Hwasong-17 after concluding two of the recent midrange launches included components of the new ICBM. Following its streak of nuclear and ICBM tests in 2017, Kim suspended such testing ahead of his first meeting with Trump. But the diplomacy derailed in 2019 when the Americans rejected North Korean demands for a major release of US-led sanctions against the North in exchange for a limited surrender of its nuclear capabilities. The ICBMs launched in three 2017 test flights demonstrated they could reach into the US mainland. The larger Hwasong-17 may be intended to be armed with multiple warheads to overwhelm missile defences. North Korea's ruling party in January had issued a veiled threat to end Kim's moratorium on ICBM and nuclear tests, citing US hostility. South Korea's military has also detected signs North Korea may be restoring some of the nuclear-testing tunnels it detonated just before Kim's first meeting with Trump in 2018. Some experts say the North may resume nuclear testing in coming months. (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.) fell about a $1 on Friday as the United States and allies considered releasing more oil from storage to cool and as traders faced higher costs for trading benchmark Brent futures. Brent crude futures fell $1.07, or 0.9%, to $117.96 a barrel at 0053 GMT, after sliding 2.1% in the previous session. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell $1.20, or 1.1%, to $111.14 a barrel, having dropped 2.3% in the previous session. Despite the declines, both contracts were headed for their first weekly gains in three weeks, with Brent on track for a 10% jump and WTI on course for a 7% rise amid broader fears of a supply crunch due to sanctions on Russia, the world's second-largest crude exporter. The punitive measures against Russia were imposed since its invasion of Ukraine last month, which Moscow calls a "special operation". Supply concerns heightened after the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal on Russia's Black Sea coast stopped exports on Wednesday after being damaged by a major storm. Kazazkstan said on Thursday it expects the CPC to resume shipping crude within a month, but added it may reroute some oil towards tankers on the Caspian Sea and pipelines going to Russia's Samara and to China. "It's tough to be short oil as U.S. inventories continue to dwindle, (and) as we are bound to have more supply shocks in the future," said Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management. Reflecting the market's volatility, the Intercontinental Exchange raised margin rates for Brent futures, with margins up 19% for the May contract as of Friday, marking the third rise this year and making it more expensive to trade. Futures margin rates are hiked when are volatile, forcing traders to increase the deposit they hold at the exchange for each contract to prove they can deliver on their obligations. Helping ease prices, the United States and its allies were discussing a possible further coordinated release of oil from storage, U.S. energy secretary Jennifer Granholm said on Thursday. Separately, the United States was set to unveil a deal on Friday to supply Europe with more U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) for this year and next, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. (Reporting by Sonali Paul in Melbourne; Editing by Shri Navaratnam) (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 Ahmad Ghaddar LONDON (Reuters) - slipped on Friday after exports from Kazakhstan's CPC crude terminal partially resumed and after the EU held off on imposing an embargo on Russian energy after members remained split on the issue. fell $2.04, or 1.7%, to $116.99 a barrel at 1413 GMT and U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude slipped $1.99, or 1.8%, to $110.35 after both had dropped more than 2% the previous session. Despite the falls, both benchmarks were heading for their first weekly gains in three weeks. Brent was on track for an 8% jump and WTI for a 6% rise as broader supply concerns sparked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine underpinned the market. Concerns were heightened after the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal on Russia's Black Sea coast stopped exports on Wednesday after being damaged by a storm. The terminal partially resumed oil loadings on Friday, according to two sources familiar with the process and shipping data on Refinitiv Eikon. Most of Kazakhstan's crude is exported via the CPC pipeline to the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, supplying around 1.2% of global oil demand. At a European Union summit in Brussels, member states remained split on whether to impose an oil embargo on Russia. The United States and Britain, both less reliant on Russian oil than the European Union, have imposed bans on Russian crude. The EU, which is heavily dependent on Russian oil and gas, faces a bigger dilemma over whether to impose sanctions on the sector. "As the single largest buyer of Russian oil, the more rapidly Europe seeks to cut Russia's imports, the higher global will rise," J.P. Morgan analysts said in a note. OPEC sources said the producer group's officials believe that a possible EU ban on Russian oil would hurt consumers and that it had conveyed its concerns to Brussels. With global stockpiles at their lowest since 2014, analysts said the market remained vulnerable to any supply shock. Prices also remained pressured by the potential for another coordinated release of oil from storage by the United States and its allies to help to calm oil . Responding to market volatility, the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) raised margins for Brent futures by 19% for the May contract from Friday, the third rise this year. Futures margin rates are increased when are volatile and the move makes transactions more expensive because it forces traders to increase the deposit they hold at the exchange for each contract to prove they can deliver on obligations. In a bid to ease gas supply worries, the United States said it will work to ensure additional liquefied natural gas (LNG) volumes for the EU market of at least 15 billion cubic metres (bcm) in 2022, with increases expected in the future. China's state-run Sinopec Group has suspended talks for a major petrochemical investment and a gas marketing venture in Russia, sources told Reuters, heeding a government call for caution as sanctions mount over the invasion of Ukraine. (Reporting by Ahmad Ghaddar; Additional reporting by Sonali Paul in Melbourne and Isabel Kua in Singapore; Editing by David Goodman and Susan Fenton) (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.) Ukrainians will hold a rally in Warsaw, demanding for a no-fly zone over the war-torn country and providing it with fighter jets as US President is set to visit Poland, reported local media. Biden will travel to Poland during his Europe trip to discuss efforts to support and impose "severe and unprecedented costs" on for its invasion, the White House said in a statement. The statement said, on Friday, President Biden will travel to Warsaw, Poland, where he will hold a bilateral meeting with President Andrzej Duda. According to The Kyiv Independent, the rally will be taken out on March 25, 5 p.m. local time at Warsaw, Palace of Culture and Science, Marszalkowskiej Street entrance. As the war between and entered its second month, 2 more children are killed by Russian forces. They were killed in Donetsk Oblast. An 11-year-old girl in Mariupol and a 14-year-old boy in the town of Yasnaya Polyana lost their lives, according to the head of the Donetsk Oblast State Administration Pavlo Kyrylenko, reported the local media. Ukrainian army reports taking down 130 troops, 9 tanks, 6 infantry fighting vehicles at the eastern front in one day. Ukraine's Operational Tactical Group "East" repels 5 separate attacks by Russian forces on Thursday, reported local media. Residents of Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine, were also warned to seal windows. Due to fire and explosions occurring in Kyiv Oblast, people in the capital are being asked to close their windows during the night, according to the Kyiv City State Administration. launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country.The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals.A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces. (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.) Ahead of Opposition's no-confidence motion Session against Prime Minister Imran Khan, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed on Thursday hit out at the turncoats of the ruling Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and hinted at 'early elections'. While addressing a press conference post holding a meet with Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar, the interior minister said that those who switch loyalties won't get any respect, reported ARY News. "Those switching loyalties should keep in mind that early elections could be held in the country," the minister warned. "There are reports that Usman Buzdar is quitting. No one is going anywhere. Buzdar is also standing with PM Imran Khan like a rock," he added. In retaliation to the dissident PTI members who are ready to quit the party, Rasheed said that the ruling party also have the support of the opposition Minister of the National Assembly (MNAs). At the press conference, he spoke of his proposal to the Pakistani for the imposition of emergency in the centre and governor's rule in Sindh and said that though he made the proposals however it was rejected by the PM. Rasheed said the ruling PTI will hold a historic public gathering at Islamabad's Parade Ground on March 27. He also said that action against those who spread fake news against institutions, including the army and judiciary will be taken, He added that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Pakistan's top probe agency has been directed to take strict action against those using social media for peddling such fake news, reported the news channel. The Opposition parties in are jettisoning mutual hatred to oust Imran Khan as they submitted the no-trust motion in the National Assembly secretariat on March 8. Khan is set to face a no-confidence vote against him today. (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.) Militants attempting to sneak into from early on Thursday triggered a shootout with soldiers that killed four Pakistani troops, the military said. The Pakistani have claimed responsibility for the attack. According to the military statement, the attack happened in Hassan Khel, a border town in North Waziristan, a former militant stronghold, after midnight on Wednesday. It also said that the attack was foiled and that the militants suffered casualties. The statement did not provide any further details. The Pakistani are known as Tehrik-e- and they are a separate group from the Taliban in neighbouring Afghanistan, who took over that country in August. However, the two groups are close allies and TTP leaders and fighters have over the years sought sanctuary across the border in . Before the Afghan Taliban seized control of last August, the two countries often blamed each other for sheltering militants. (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 House committee investigating the Capitol riot said Thursday that it had set a vote for next week to consider contempt of Congress charges for two aides of former President . The committee will meet Monday to discuss whether to recommend referring for potential prosecution Trump's former trade adviser, Peter Navarro, and Dan Scavino, the onetime chief of staff for communications. The committee subpoenaed Navarro for his testimony in early February, seeking to question the Trump ally who promoted false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election. Though Navarro sought to use executive privilege to avoid cooperation, the Biden administration this month denied claims from him and another onetime Trump aide, former national security adviser Michael Flynn. Scavino, who was subpoenaed last September, called the committee vote an unprecedented partisan assault on executive privilege. The committee knows full well that President Trump has invoked executive privilege and it is not my privilege to waive. He said it was premature for the committee to pursue criminal charges against an individual of the highest rank within the White House for whom executive privilege undeniably applies. Scavino said the dispute seemed inevitably headed to the Supreme Court, and until there was a resolution, the House committee should cease its tactics of harassment and intimidation. Navarro did not immediately return a messages seeking comment. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President Vladimir Putin's threat to have unfriendly countries pay for Russian natural gas exports only in rubles from now on got the not-so-friendly treatment from nations on Thursday. I don't think anybody in Europe really know how rubles look like, said Slovene Prime Minister Janez Jansa. Nobody will pay in rubles. If others put it less bluntly, it came down to the same from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who as former chief of the European Central Bank, knows something about currencies. Early this week, Putin launched the idea that because of Western sanctions targeting the Kremlin and freezing Russian assets, they were "effectively drawing a line over reliability of their currencies, undermining the trust for those currencies. So instead of euros and dollars, Putin wants Russian rubles for Russian gas. Economists said the move appeared designed to try to support the ruble, which has collapsed against other currencies since invaded on February 24 and Western countries responded with far-reaching sanctions against Moscow. Making such demands though, would fundamentally change contracts and render them null and void, several European leaders said during the first day of their EU summit. What we have learned so far boils down to the fact that there are fixed contracts everywhere, where the currency in which payment is made is also part of the contract," said Scholz. "Those are the starting points that we have to work from. Draghi simply said that if Putin pushed through the plan, we consider it a violation of existing contracts. And considering the skyrocketing prices for gas, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo even saw possibilities in the proposal, though not the kind Moscow intended. In any case, if one element of a contract is changed, than we can talk about a whole range of issues, including the price, De Croo said. The Russian threat is potent since the EU imports 90 per cent of the natural gas used to generate electricity, heat homes and supply industry, with supplying almost 40 per cent of the bloc's gas. With the ruble in trouble because of the stringent economic sanctions, Putin would use any financial lift he can find. He instructed the country's central bank to work out a procedure for natural gas buyers to acquire rubles in . But some analysts expressed doubt that it would work. (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.) World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that food price growth that's happening as a result of the situation in Ukraine may prompt unrest among undernourished people in poverty-stricken countries. "I think we should be very worried. The impact on and hunger this year and next could be substantial. Food and energy are the two biggest items in the consumption baskets of poor people all over the world," Okonjo-Iweala said in an interview with The Guardian, adding that "it is poor countries and poor people within poor countries that will suffer the most." The chief went on to say that the member countries should avoid the strategy of restricting the export of their own food supplies, providing an example of the so-called "vaccine apartheid" during the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is a natural reaction to keep what you have -- we saw that with vaccines. But we shouldn't make the same mistake with food," she added. Okonjo-Iweala also said that Russian and Ukrainian wheat supplies account for 24% of the global market and that Ukraine provides about 50% of wheat to the World Food Programme, warning of a new possible catastrophe. "If we don't think about how to mitigate the impact of the war that will be another catastrophe, not just this year but next year," she said, adding that "we are talking to our members and urging them not to compound this crisis by having export restrictions on food." Ukraine and Russia remain the world's leading suppliers of wheat as well as sunflower, rapeseed, linseed and soybeans used for oil and animal feed. Half of the world's sunflower oil comes from Ukraine and another 21% from Russia. In Italy, prices of bread, pasta and meat have already risen as the country imports most of its wheat from Eastern Europe and 80% of its sunflower oil from Ukraine. Earlier this week, President of the German Farmers' Association Joachim Rukwied said that the cost of wheat and other foods in Germany has increased significantly since the beginning of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine and is expected to keep increasing. At the same time, the Carrefour supermarket chain, which is widely represented in France, Spain and Italy, said it was not experiencing any scarcity. Secretary-General of the Norwegian Refugee Council Jan Egeland warned that Somalia, importing 90% of its wheat from Ukraine and Russia, may face acute food insecurity. Last week, the told Sputnik that it had received a statement of intention to take action against Russia over its military operation in Ukraine, including depriving it of the "most favoured nation" treatment, from 14 member states. The WTO was created with the goal of liberalizing trade and regulating trade and political relations among member states. The organization currently unites 164 countries, Russia officially joined on August 22, 2012, after 18 years of negotiations. (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 the United States, four Russian hackers were charged with hacking a Kansas nuclear power plant, a Saudi oil refinery, and other institutions throughout the world. According to Justice Department authorities, three of the individuals indicted worked for the Russian intelligence agency, the Federal Security Service, and another for the Russian Defense Ministry's research and development arm. Russian Spies Indicted in Worldwide Hacks The two indictments alleged that the men targeted hundreds of firms in 135 countries over a six-year period. Russian spies attacked an electrical firm in Topeka, Kansas, the Wolf Creek nuclear reactor in Kansas, and the Saudi Arabian oil refinery Petro Rabigh on the Red Sea, which is part of a joint venture between Japan and the Arab Kingdom, between 2012 and 2018. According to the accusation, computer programmer Evgeny Gladkikh, 36, broke into the Petro Rabigh in Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea, compromising the gas plant's computer system, installing the 'Trinton' computer virus, and forcing two consecutive emergency refinery shutdowns. The two-phased plot reportedly took place between 2012 and 2017, with targets including the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, an unspecified renewable energy facility in New York, and Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corp. in Kansas, where the spies were indicted in August by a grand jury. Per Daily Mail, prosecutors believe that other firms targeted by Russian government agents were based in the United Kingdom, Canada, China, France, and Germany. The Department of Justice is focused on "its mandate to preserve the safety and security of our nation," according to Duston Slinkard, US Attorney for the District of Kansas. The trio is charged with a bevy of counts, including conspiracy to conduct wire fraud, which carries a potential penalty of 20 years in prison. Other accusations against Akulov and Gavrilov include identity theft, according to the DOJ. Read Also: Donald Trump Hits Hillary Clinton, FBI Officials, More With Lawsuit Over Fake Russia Claims [FULL DETAILS] US Warns Large-Scale Cyber Attacks Amid Russian Invasion of Ukraine The indictments were made public as Russia's continuing invasion of Ukraine further isolates Ukraine diplomatically. As Russia feels the pinch of economic sanctions imposed as a result of the war, the US has warned that large-scale cyberattacks are a possibility, NY Post reported. Evgeny Viktorovich Gladkikh, a Russian national who hacked into networks with the goal of undermining the safety of energy plants, was charged in a second indictment unsealed Thursday in Washington, DC. Gladkikh used malware to hack into Schnieder Electric's networks in 2012 with the goal of stopping plant safety measures from working, according to the indictment. As a result of the installation, the refinery was forced to shut down automatically. Gladkikh and others later studied additional sites and attempted to get into the refineries of an unidentified US energy business, according to the DOJ. Per Fox News, several analysts said earlier this month that the facility is home to Russian diplomats, many of whom serve in the US as intelligence officials - or intelligence "operatives," as the Russians term them - and seek information or contacts that the federation may require. According to Robin Dreeke, a retired FBI special agent and former head of the bureau's Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, most Russian intelligence officers - those who work for the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) or the federation's military intelligence agency, known as the GRU - live in the building, which is known to some law enforcement officers as the "plex." Related Article: Joe Biden, White House Issue 8 Urgent Steps to Take Amid Potential Russian Cyberattack @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. on Friday claimed to open a humanitarian corridor to allow foreign ships to leave Ukrainian ports, said Ukraine's local media outlet The Kyiv Independent on Friday. "The supposed corridor would be 3 miles wide an open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 25. Earlier, claimed there were drifting mines in the Black Sea," wrote the media outlet. Moreover, as the Ukraine- war enters the second month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gives four cities the honorary title of 'Hero City' and seven National Guard service members 'Hero of Ukraine' title. The four cities to receive the title were Bucha, Irpin, Mykolaiv, and Okhtyrka. Five of the seven service members received the award posthumously. The humanitarian condition in continues to worsen as Mariupol City Council calls for help as residents begin to die from starvation. According to the local media, more and more people are left without any food while multiple attempts to create humanitarian corridors and to provide aid have failed as Russian troops continue to violate ceasefire agreements. Russia launched its invasion last month after recognising the Ukrainian breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as "independent republics." Russia has since continued to maintain that the aim of its operations has been to "demilitarize" and "de-nazify" the country. The Russian actions were immediately condemned by almost all the western countries, who rolled out severe sets of sanctions targetting the Russian economy, and key individuals. A number of countries, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Finland and several others, also banned Russian aircraft over their airspaces. (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.) Ukrainian authorities said on Friday Russian forces had effectively surrounded the northern city of Chernihiv and were bombarding areas where residents were stuck without electricity, heating and water. Chernihiv's mayor, Vladyslav Atroshenko, said bombing had destroyed a bridge linking the city to Ukraine's capital to the south, severing the main route for humanitarian aid and the evacuation of wounded people. Reuters could not confirm the accounts from Chernihiv, which lies near the border with Belarus. Russia's defence ministry earlier said its forces had "blocked" Ukrainian cities, including Chernihiv, to tie down the Ukrainian military while Russia focused on taking control of the eastern Donbass region. "(We are) being essentially completely surrounded and having a humanitarian catastrophe," Atroshenko said on television. "People are without water, without heat, without electricity ... people realize that the worst is yet to come." Moscow has regularly denied targeting civilians since it invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a "special military operation". The mayor said bombing had destroyed more than half of the private homes on the outskirts of the city, which had a population of around 285,000 before the conflict and is famous for its historical buildings and ancient churches. City authorities had resorted to delivering water to districts in whatever containers they could find, while residents had to cook on open fires outside their homes, Atroshenko added. "The city is completely destroyed," he said. Viacheslav Chaus, governor of the surrounding Chernihiv region, said the city was under fire from Russian artillery and war planes. It had been "operationally surrounded by the enemy," he said on national television. Authorities in Kyiv said they hoped to agree a humanitarian corridor for Chernihiv for Saturday that would allow civilians to evacuate and aid to reach the city safely, but warned that negotiations with Russia were difficult. Similar efforts to help thousands of residents trapped for weeks in the encircled city of Mariupol in the south have mostly failed. Russian and Ukraine blame each other for not observing temporary ceasefire agreements. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Russia's armed forces have taken control of the city of Izyum in Ukraine's Kharkov region, a top official in Moscow confirmed. Addressing a media briefing, Defence Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said on Thursday that Russian forces also hit 60 Ukrainian military facilities over the past day, including two command posts, two multiple launch rocket systems, four ammunition depots, and 47 sites with equipment and military hardware, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, according to a spokesman for the Regional Military Administration of Ukraine's southern Black Sea port city of Odessa, the city came under shelling from Russian warships on Thursday. The strikes were aimed at putting "psychological pressure" on Odessa residents, Bratchuk said on Facebook, without providing information on whether there were any casualties in the incident. Earlier in the day, the press service of the Ukrainian Naval Forces said on Facebook that the military destroyed the Orsk large landing ship of the Russian forces near the southeastern city of Berdyansk. --IANS 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.) As the Russian invasion of grinds on with no apparent solution through diplomacy, some commentators are wondering if an end of the conflict could come from Vladimir Putins removal from power in Russia. Russian troops on the Ukrainian front lines are struggling, prominent Russian generals are among the thousands who have been killed and street protests have occurred in Russian cities every day since the invasion in dozens of cities across the country involving thousands of people every day. These numbers are not large for a country the size of Russia, with a population of 145 million. Disinformation, risks to protesters The rapidly closing independent media environment in Russia may help explain these small numbers, with many Russians unexposed to the truth about the invasion and consequently supporting it. Theres also significant and escalating risk involved for those willing to protest. According to a longstanding Russian NGO, over 15,000 protesters have been detained across the country since the invasion began. A new Russian law makes speaking out against the government narrative, and even using the word war to describe the so-called special operation, a criminal offence and subject to up to 15 years in prison. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko) But mass opposition on its own is likely insufficient to produce regime change in . Organized Russian opposition to Putin has faced crackdowns in recent years that has left their ranks thin and in disarray, with their chief leader, Alexei Navalny in prison for years to come. Many liberal-leaning Russians are also fleeing the country while they can. The defection of powerful elites, rather than civil dissent, is almost always necessary to remove an authoritarian regime. The split is essentially between hardliners who will defend the regime by any means, and softliners who have their doubts and want reform. Reluctant to give up power Research also shows that in personalist autocracies like Russias regimes in which nearly all power lies in the hands of a single person dictators rarely relinquish power through negotiation. This is because such leaders are typically determined to cling to power, and only a small and tightly controlled circle of people have any influence on them. By all accounts in Putins case, the pandemic has exacerbated this, and his circle is much smaller and more hardline authoritarian than it used to be. (Sergei Guneyev/Sputnik Pool Photo via AP) It is possible that the effects of harsh sanctions imposed upon Russia, combined with high levels of non-violent protest, could spur a loss of confidence among the softliner elites more broadly in . Awareness of excessive violence inflicted upon Ukrainians, with whom many Russians have family connections, and heavy casualties among Russian troops may lead key elite circles to lose confidence in the regimes ability to withstand these challenges. Who could these softliners be? Several potential sources exist: economic leaders, the Russian military or state security services. While many of these likely dont represent a more democratic future in Russia, they may be able to oust Putin and end the invasion. Putins advisers consist mainly of military and security officials, referred to as the siloviki. What about the oligarchs? There has been much speculation that Russias economic oligarchs could be a disgruntled constituency poised to oust Putin. They have been in the cross-hairs of sanctions against Russia, and are no doubt displeased with the ruin of the countrys economy. But since Putin consolidated power in the early 2000s, the super-rich beneficiaries of the post-Soviet capitalist transition and state corruption have relied on his approval to accumulate assets. They have a lot to lose if they oppose him and fail, despite how sanctions may be affecting them now. Still, some of them hold considerable assets on behalf of Putin to hide his wealth, and in one possible scenario, they could collude to present an ultimatum to persuade him to step down. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali) The military in Russia has historically been resistant to launching coups largely due to Communist party oversight in the U. S. S. R. and a continuation of these habits in the post-Soviet era, along with a heavy dose of infiltration by the security services. Yet significant losses by the Russian military in Ukraine, as well as the reported recent replacements of military leaders because of these failures, could foster disgruntlement in the ranks that would lead some to support a coup. The former KGB Finally, state security services might provide the most likely source of an insider coup. Putin is a creature of these agencies, but tensions are surfacing. Putin recently placed the head of the Federal Security Bureaus (responsible for external intelligence) under house arrest due to bad intelligence about prospects for a quick and successful victory in . An elite palace coup is possible, particularly if several of these groups join forces to forcibly remove Putin or persuade him to step down. These processes would take time to develop, and they may be unlikely since major cracks have not yet emerged. But if there is no coup, Russias path will unfortunately involve even more severe repression of its population and continuing devastation in . Lisa McIntosh Sundstrom, Professor of Political Science, University of British Columbia This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Yemen's Houthi rebels attacked an oil depot Friday in the Saudi city of Jiddah ahead of a race there, their highest-profile assault yet that threatened to disrupt the upcoming grand prix. The attack targeted the same fuel depot that the Houthis had attacked in recent days, the North Jiddah Bulk Plant sits just southeast of the city's airport, a crucial hub for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. Videos of the blaze corresponded to known geographic features around the plant. The Saudi Arabian Oil Co, known as Saudi Aramco, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Saudi state TV only acknowledged a hostile operation targeting the depot, without elaborating. The attacks came as still leads a coalition battling the Iran-backed Houthis, who seized Yemen's capital of Sanaa in September 2014. The kingdom, which entered the war in Yemen in 2015, has been internationally criticized for its airstrikes killing that have killed scores of civilians something the Houthis point to as they launch drones, missiles and mortars into the kingdom. An Associated Press photojournalist covering practice laps at the F1 track in Jiddah saw the smoke rising in the distance to the east, just after 5:40 pm. As the flames rose, the tops of the tanks of the bulk plant were clearly visible some 11.5 km (7 miles) away. Drivers raced on into the evening even as the fire burned and authorities offered no explanation for the blaze. The second-ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jiddah is taking place on Sunday, though concerns had been raised by some over the recent attacks targeting the kingdom. The F1 said in a statement that: The position at the moment is that we are waiting for further information from the authorities on what has happened. The F1 did not elaborate. The al-Masirah satellite news channel run by Yemen's Houthi rebels later claimed they had attacked an Aramco facility in Jiddah, along with other targets in Riyadh and elsewhere. The report provided no further details. ALSO READ: Formula 1 shifts from racing to human rights in Saudi Arabia Meanwhile, Saudi state TV also acknowledged attacks in the town of Dhahran targeting water tanks that damaged vehicles and homes. Another attack targeted an electrical substation in an area of southwestern near the Yemeni border, state TV said. The North Jiddah Bulk Plant stores diesel, gasoline and jet fuel for use in Jiddah, the kingdom's second-largest city. It accounts for over a quarter of all of Saudi Arabia's supplies and also supplies fuel crucial to running a regional desalination plant. The Houthis have twice targeted the North Jiddah plant with cruise missiles. One attack came in November 2020. The last came on Sunday as part of a wider barrage by the Houthis. At the time of the 2020 attack, the targeted tank, which has a capacity of 500,000 barrels, held diesel fuel, according to a recent report by a UN panel of experts examining Yemen's war. Repairing it after the last attack cost Aramco some $1.5 million. The UN experts described the facility as a civilian target, which the Houthis should have avoided after the 2020 attack. While the facility also supplies the Saudi military with petroleum products, it is mostly supplying civilian customers, the panel said. If the plant had been out of service of a significant period, the impact on the kingdom's economy as well as on the welfare of the residents of the Western region would likely have been significant. Cruise missiles and drones remain difficult to defend against, though the US recently sent a significant number of Patriot anti-missile interceptors to to resupply the kingdom amid the Houthi attacks. In September, the AP reported that the US had removed its own Patriot and THAAD defence systems from Prince Sultan Air Base outside of Riyadh. The attacks have renewed questions about the kingdom's ability to defend itself from Houthi fire as a yearslong war in the Arab world's poorest country rages on with no end in sight. It also comes as Saudi Arabia issued an unusually stark warning that it is unable to guarantee its oil production won't be affected by further attacks which could push global energy prices even higher amid Russia's war on Ukraine. The second black box, believed to be the flight data recorder of the crashed Chinese passenger plane was found by the search team, official media here reported on Friday. The second black box has been located, state-run Daily reported. The first black box stated to be the cockpit voice recorder, (CVR) which was recovered earlier is being decoded at a laboratory in Beijing and the data downloading and analysis work is underway, officials said. The second black box located in the back of the plane was stated to be the flight data recorder (FDR). The flight data recorder stores information about speed, altitude and direction, as well as pilot actions and performance of important systems. The data of the Cockpit Voice Recorder was awaited keenly as Eastern Airlines flight MU5735 sharply dropped from an altitude of 29,100 feet to 9,075 feet in just two minutes and 15 seconds, crashing into a mountainous area. Zhu Tao, head of the aviation safety office of the Civil Aviation Administration of said the possibility that the data storage unit of the cockpit voice recorder was damaged cannot be ruled out at present. Hu Xiaobing, professor of School of Safety Science and Engineering of the Civil Aviation University of China, told state-run CGTN that this crash is very unusual for it being vertical. It seems to him, for some reason unknown yet, the pilots may have already become unconscious during the flight's steep descent. The Boeing 737-800 plane with 132 people on board crashed on Monday in a village in Tengxian County in the city of Wuzhou. No survivors have been found so far. China Eastern Airlines, which owned crashed airline and its subsidiaries temporarily grounded 223 Boeing 737-800 aircraft and the airline has launched a sweeping safety overhaul, Liu Xiaodong, head of the airline's publicity department, told a press briefing. All grounded aircraft are undergoing checks and maintenance according to the highest safety standards to ensure that they meet the airworthiness requirements, Liu said. Liu added that 305 family members of 56 passengers on board the crashed plane arrived at Wuzhou by Thursday morning, with over 200 family members visiting the crash site. On Thursday, pieces of engine wreckage from the crashed passenger plane have been found. The main impact point of the has been basically determined, Zhu said, adding that most of the plane wreckage was scattered within a radius of about 30 metres of the main impact point and the depth from the surface extends to about 20 metres underground. So far, a total of 183 pieces of aircraft wreckage, some remains of victims and 21 pieces of belongings of victims have been found and handed over to the investigation team, Zheng Xi, head of the fire brigade of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 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.) Criticising the idea of allowing Russian President Vladimir Putin's attend the this year at Bali amid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Australian Prime Minister said that "we need to have people in the room that aren't invading other countries", according to a media report. After the Russian President indicated his intention to attend the in Bali in November this year, Morrison said that the idea of sitting around a table with Putin is a "step too far", reported Sky News. Earlier this week, Russia's envoy to Indonesia, Lyudmila Vorobieva, had told a news conference that the Russian President "wants to" go to the summit, adding the country "has been invited". "It will depend on many, many things, including the COVID situation, which is getting better. So far, his intention is... he wants to," the media outlet quoted her as saying. Following this, Morrison said that Australia has been raising concerns regarding Russia's involvement in the G20 in view of its aggressive action against the rule of law. "We've been raising concerns about this. And has invaded Ukraine. I mean, this is a violent and aggressive act that shatters the rule of law," he said, according to the media outlet. "And the idea of sitting around a table with Vladimir Putin, who the United States are already in the position of calling out war crimes in Ukraine, for me is a step too far. I think we need to have people in the room that aren't invading other countries," he added. Meanwhile, United States President Joe Biden on Thursday said that he believes should be removed from the G20. Responding to a question regarding the removal of Russia, Biden said, "My answer is yes. It depends on the G20. That was raised today, and I raised the possibility that, if that can't be done - if Indonesia and others do not agree - then we should, in my view, ask to have both Ukraine be able to attend the meetings as well as.. basically Ukraine being able to attend the G20 meeting and observe." Notably, Biden has travelled to Brussels to meet with NATO allies and G7 and European Union leaders over the ongoing Ukraine- conflict. (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 spoke to Chinese President on Friday in what was termed as a frank and candid conversation, which lasted almost an hour. Downing Street said the two leaders spoke on a range of issues of mutual interest, including the situation as a result of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It is expected that would have used the conversation to press Premier Xi to proactively work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest including the situation in the Ukraine, a Downing Street spokesperson said, in a readout of the phone call. It was a frank and candid conversation lasting almost an hour. They agreed to speak again soon, the spokesperson said. Johnson is said to have started by expressing his sympathy with the victims of the Eastern plane that crashed with 132 people on board in southern last week. President Xi asked the Prime Minister to convey his best wishes to Her Majesty the Queen on her Jubilee, Downing Street added. The conversation comes soon after an emergency summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) military alliance, where NATO leaders issued a joint statement saying that must uphold the order including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter, and to abstain from supporting Russia's war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions. We are concerned by recent public comments by PRC (People's Republic of China) officials and call on China to cease amplifying the Kremlin's false narratives, in particular on the war and on NATO, and to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict, the NATO statement reads. Ahead of the summit in Brussels on Thursday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters that western allies are concerned that China could provide material support for the Russian invasion. The west has been exerting pressure on China, as one of Russia's closest allies, to use its influence over Russian President Vladimir Putin to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) and have conducted the first prisoner swap since Moscow waged its war on Kiev on February 24, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said here Ten Ukrainian prisoners-of-war held by the Russian military were released in exchange for 10 Russian soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces, Xinhua news agency quoted Vereshchuk as saying in a Facebook post. Besides, handed over 11 civilian Russian sailors, who were rescued from a sunken ship near Odessa to in exchange for 19 Ukrainian civilian sailors, she added. "Under terms of exchange, the rescue ship itself will also be returned to and will be sent to the port in Turkey." --IANS 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.) President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Friday that Ukrainians "need to achieve peace" and halt Russian bombardment that has forced millions to flee to countries like Poland, where U.S. President is due to visit and witness the crisis first hand. On the heels of leaders' summits in Brussels that aimed to show a united Western front against Russia's month-long invasion of its neighbour, Biden goes to on Friday to meet with experts involved in the refugee response. After announcing new military and humanitarian aid on Thursday in Brussels, Western leaders denounced Moscow's invasion as barbaric while the United States and Britain expanded sanctions on Russia to new targets. The Russian invasion, which President calls a "special operation", has killed thousands of people, sent 3.6 million abroad and driven more than half of Ukraine's children from their homes, according to the United Nations. Appearing exhausted in a brief video address early on Friday, Zelenskiy said he had made appeals to Western leaders "all for one reason - so that Russia understands that we need to achieve peace. Russia also needs to achieve peace." Zelenskiy also said: "Every day we defend, we get closer to the peace we need so much ... and you can't stop for a minute. Because every minute is about our destiny, it is about our future. About whether we live." The new Western aid stopped short of Zelenskiy's pleas for a full boycott of Russian energy and a no-fly zone over Ukraine where Moscow's bombs have blasted some residential areas into wastelands. But Russia has so far failed to capture any major Ukrainian city in an assault it says is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy Ukraine's military capabilities. Russia's shelling has been relentless but its armoured columns have barely moved in weeks, stalled near the capital Kyiv. In the east, however, Russian forces have laid siege to cities. Russian forces have taken heavy casualties and are low on supplies, and U.S. officials told Reuters that Russia is suffering failure rates as high as 60% for some of its precision-guided missiles. The United States accused Russia of committing war crimes in Ukraine, allegations Russia denies. In video remarks released late on Thursday, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said Russian forces had tortured Ukrainian prisoners. The allegations of torture could not be independently verified. "We will find every Russian soldier who commits war crimes, along with their accomplices ... do not think that your surnames are unknown to us. No one will be able to escape punishment," Vereshchuk said. CITIES UNDER SIEGE Russia says its aims in Ukraine include capturing what it regards as dangerous nationalists. It also says that the NATO military alliance's eastern expansion threatens Russia's security. Weeks of on-and-off peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials have failed to reach a breakthrough. Meanwhile, civilians have come under heavy Russian aerial assaults and artillery strikes. In the besieged southern port of Mariupol, which lies between Russian-annexed Crimea and eastern areas held by Russian-backed separatists, thousands are in basements with scant water, food, medicine or power. One woman waiting in line to receive food supplies in the city told Reuters her diabetic husband had slipped into a coma and died before the aid arrived. He was buried in a flowerbed. "We are planning on leaving but it's very difficult at the moment," the woman, who gave her name as Alexandra, said. "I can't leave my husband in a flowerbed ... And then we have nowhere to go." Ukraine's armed forces chief of staff said on Thursday Russia was trying to resume offensives to capture Mariupol as well as Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy and Kharkiv, where hundreds have hunkered down inside metro stations to avoid Russian strikes. Still, Ukraine says it is shifting to the offensive and has pushed back Russian forces in some places. On Thursday, it said its forces had destroyed the Russian landing ship the "Orsk" at the Russian-occupied port of Berdyansk. Russian officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the ship. Video footage showed smoke rising from a blaze at a dock and the flash of an explosion. Civilians have managed to flee the fighting through humanitarian corridors negotiated by Ukrainian and Russian officials. Over 3,300 fled on Thursday, officials said. Poland, home to the biggest Ukrainian refugee population in the region even before the war, has taken in more than 2.1 million people. Some plan to head elsewhere, but the influx has left public services struggling to cope. During his visit to the country, Biden will meet with President Andrzej Duda "to thank him for everything the people of are doing and to discuss our coordinated humanitarian response to support the many Ukrainians who have been impacted by Putin's war," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. (Reporting by a Reuters journalist in Mariupol; Pavel Polityuk in Lviv; David Ljunggren in Ottawa; and Reuters bureaus worldwide Writing by Rami Ayyub; editing by Grant McCool) (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Construction of a huge oceanfront home in Southern California thought to be owned by 66-year-old Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates for use as his summer bachelor pad has begun for months. Gates paid $43 million for the six-bedroom, three-bathroom 5,800 square-foot mansion in affluent Del Mar, north of San Diego, in March 2020, but remodeling work has just recently begun. Bill Gates' Beachfront Palace Upsets Neighbors It was one of the most costly home purchase in San Diego County history, but Bill Gates is now gutting the house in order to effectively create a completely new property for himself, which would eventually span four plots of land and encompass more than 6,000 square feet. However, the construction work is starting to upset the neighbors, who have now had to put up with weeks of construction work. Local realtors were also perplexed by the construction activities. "The house he bought was in great condition, so I'm not sure why he'd want to demolish it," one said, as per Daily Mail. Bill Gates, whose 27-year marriage to Melinda, 57, ended in May, has been spotted in the area twice in recent months, inspecting the construction, with a potential completion date of August for the property. Six times a month, Bill Gates flies into Carlsbad before driving the 30 minutes to Del Mar. A number of factors contributed to the couple's highly public breakup, not the least of which was Bill's affair in 2000. The Gates are projected to be worth $130 billion, making them the fourth richest people on earth, behind Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Bernard Arnault, the French luxury goods tycoon. With a net worth of $130.5 billion dollars, the sky's the limit for Gates' renovation. The house had 5,800 square feet, six bedrooms, and three and a half baths before it was demolished. Read Also: Prince Charles Sparks Health Concern After Royal Fans Notice Disturbing Images Showing His Swollen Hands, Feet Bill Gates' Other Properties A $130 million estate in Medina, Washington; a $18 million property in Rancho Paseana, California; a $8.7 million home in Wellington, Florida; and a $8.9 million ranch in Wyoming are among Gates' properties. Bill Gates' San Diego home is causing a commotion, due to the loud and continuing construction, The Sun reported. According to sources, his frequent excursions to the area, which are accompanied by a large security detail and bulletproof cars, are also disturbing. The New York Post said that construction workers are "working around the clock to get it done," but it's unknown how long Bill Gates intended to keep working on the property or what sort of bachelor pad he intends to build. Melinda Gates bought her own $1.2 million villa in Seattle three weeks before they announced their divorce in April 2021. As Bill Gates delves into his beachfront building site, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home has apparently become Melinda's "bachelorette" pad. Apart from the Seattle and San Diego residences, it's unknown who would maintain the other properties during the couple's split. Related Article: Bill Gates Warns About New Pandemic Amid Weakening of COVID-19: "It Will Be a Different Pathogen" @YouTube @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The US and on Friday announced a new partnership to reduce the continent's reliance on Russian energy, the start of a years-long initiative to further isolate Moscow after its invasion of Ukraine. As part of the plan, the US and other nations will increase liquified natural gas exports to Europe by 15 billion cubic metres this year, the White House said, adding that even larger shipments would be delivered in the future. At the same time, they will try to keep their climate goals on track by powering gas infrastructure with clean energy and reducing methane leaks that can worsen global warming. Although the initiative will likely require new facilities for importing liquified natural gas, the partnership is also geared toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the long run through energy efficiency and alternative sources of energy, according to the White House. US President Joe Biden was set to discuss the issue with Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Union's executive arm, before leaving for Poland, the final leg of his four-day trip. Earlier this week, Von der Leyen said the EU was "aiming at having a commitment for additional supplies for the next two winters. Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security adviser, recently told reporters that the administration wanted to quickly surge gas to Europe. Russian energy is a key source of income and political leverage for Moscow. Almost 40 per cent of the European Union's natural gas comes from Russia to heat homes, generate electricity and power industry. After leaving Brussels, Biden travels to Rzeszw in Poland, where US troops are based roughly an hour's drive from the Ukrainian border. The US president will get briefed on the humanitarian response to the refugees streaming out of Ukraine and those still suffering inside the country. He will also meet US service members from the 82nd Airborne Division, who serve alongside Polish troops. Biden is then expected to continue on to Warsaw for talks on Saturday with Polish President Andrzej Duda. Before returning to Washington, the White House said Biden will give an address "on the united efforts of the free world to support the people of Ukraine, hold Russia accountable for its brutal war, and defend a future that is rooted in democratic principles. While in Brussels, Biden on Thursday participated in a trio of summits hosted by NATO, the Group of Seven industrialised nations and the . The extraordinary series of meetings reflected heightened concerns about the war in Ukraine, which on Thursday entered its second month. Although Ukraine has resisted the Russian invasion much more successfully than initially expected, the conflict has become a gruelling and bloody affair, with thousands of casualties on each side and millions of refugees fleeing the country. Western leaders are also concerned that Russian President Vladimir Putin could use chemical or even nuclear weapons to regain momentum in the war. Getting more liquefied natural gas to Europe could be difficult, even though the US has been dramatically increasing its exports in recent years. Many export facilities are already operating at capacity, and most new terminals are still only in the planning stages. Most US shipments already go to Europe, according to the Centre for Liquefied Natural Gas, an industry lobbying group. Although much of the supply is already contracted out to buyers, there's still opportunities to shift its destination. The US is in a unique position because it has flexible LNG that can be rerouted to Europe or to Asia, depending on who's willing to pay that price, said Emily McClain, gas markets analyst at Rystad. Even if the US can ship more gas to Europe, the continent may struggle to receive it. Import terminals are located in coastal areas, where there are fewer pipeline connections for distributing it. Even if all Europe's facilities were operating at capacity, the amount of gas would likely be only about two-thirds of what Russia delivers through pipelines. (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.) Ukrainian troops are recapturing towns east of the capital Kyiv and Russian forces who had been trying to sieze the city are falling back on their overextended supply lines, Britain said on Friday. U.S. President Joe Biden meanwhile was due to visit Poland for a first-hand look at the refugee crisis in which nearly a quarter of Ukraine's 44 million people have been uprooted and more than 3.6 million have fled to neighbouring states since the Russian invasion on Feb. 24. A month into their assault, Russian troops have failed to capture a major Ukrainian city. An offensive that Western countries believe was aimed at swiftly toppling President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's government has been halted at the gates of Kyiv. Battlelines there have been frozen for weeks with Russian columns threatening Kyiv from the northwest and the east. But in an intelligence update on Friday, Britain described a Ukrainian counter-offensive that had pushed the Russians far back. "Ukrainian counter-attacks, and Russian forces falling back on overextended supply lines, has allowed to reoccupy towns and defensive positions up to 35 km east of Kyiv," the update said. It said Ukrainian forces were also likely to try to push the Russians back on the other main axis threatening Kyiv from the northwest, while in the south could still be planning to attack the port of Odesa after abandoning efforts to take Mykolaiv. The Ukrainian military said its troops were repelling Russian forces trying to fight their way into Kyiv. Troops were also still holding on to the city of Chernihiv, northeast of Kyiv, hindering a Russian advance in the direction of the capital. ANTI-SHIP MISSILES Moscow calls its actions in a "special military operation" to disarm its neighbour. Kyiv and its Western allies call it an unprovoked war of agression and say Russia's true aim was to overthrow the government of what President Vladimir Putin regards as an illegitimate state. Unable to capture Ukrainian cities, has resorted to pounding them with artillery and air strikes. The eastern port of Mariupol has been under siege since the war's early days. Tens of thousands of people are still believed to be trapped inside with no access to food, medicine, power or heat. In a part of the city now captured by the Russians, one woman waiting in line to receive food supplies told Reuters her diabetic husband had slipped into a coma and died. He was buried in a flowerbed. "We are planning on leaving but it's very difficult at the moment," the woman, who gave her name as Alexandra, said. "I can't leave my husband in a flowerbed ... And then we have nowhere to go." ANTI-SHIP MISSILES After attending an emergency summit of NATO and the G7, Biden will visit Poland, which has taken in more than half of Ukraine's refugees. The West has ruled out intervening on the ground or answering Ukraine's plea for a no-fly zone, but has supported Kyiv with hundreds of anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons that have blasted Russian armoured columns and prevented Moscow from taking control of the air. A senior U.S. administration official said Washington and its allies were also working on providing anti-ship weapons to protect Ukraine's coast. Ukrainian forces claimed on Thursday to have blown up a Russian landing ship in a Russian-occupied port. U.S. officials told Reuters that is suffering failure rates as high as 60% for some of its precision-guided missiles. With stocks of precision-guided munitions running low, Russian forces were more likely to rely on unguided bombs and artillery, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said. (Reporting by a Reuters journalist in Mariupol, Pavel Polityuk in Lviv and Reuters bureaus worldwide; Writing by Peter Graff; editing by Michael Perry and Angus MacSwan) (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 UN has warned of a deepening food crisis in as result of the African country's economic downturn, displacement and devastated harvests. "The combined effects of conflict, and poor harvests are significantly affecting people's access to food and will likely double the number of people facing acute hunger in to more than 18 million people by September 2022," the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) said in a press release on Wednesday. "There are already worrying signs that access, affordability and the availability of food is shrinking for most people in Sudan, which is pushing more people deeper into poverty and hunger," Eddie Rowe, the WFP representative and country director in Sudan, was quoted as saying. In recent months, there has been a surge in the number of people displaced due to conflict in parts of Darfur and the Kordofan region, Xinhua news agency reported. "This insecurity has eroded livelihoods, damaged farms and triggered widespread unemployment," Rowe added. The depreciation of the Sudanese pound as well as the rising food and transportation prices are making it more difficult for Sudanese families to put food on the table, and a lack of access to hard currencies is expected to cause the currency to depreciate further. Domestic cereal production for the 2021/22 crop season in is estimated to be 5.1 million metric tons, which will only meet the demands of less than two-thirds of the population, according to the Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission report issued by the FAO and WFP. "Rising food prices and scarcity of essential agricultural inputs such as fertilisers and seeds mean that farmers have no other option than to abandon food production if they do not receive immediate support," said FAO Representative in Sudan Babagana Ahmadu. This will likely have "grave consequences" not only for their food security but also on food availability in Sudan, and may ultimately lead to more conflict and displacement, Ahmadu added. Sudan is reliant on wheat imports from the Black Sea region. The current Russia-Ukraine conflict has disrupted the flow of grains into Sudan, raising food prices, according to the press release. At present, the wheat price in Sudan has already surpassed $550 per ton, up 180 per cent from the same period in 2021. In 2021, the WFP was a lifeline for almost 9 million Sudanese, who were suffering from political unrests and economic uncertainty. However, WFP food reserves in Sudan are dangerously low this year, and without new funding, they would run out by May, according to a WFP report. A budget shortage has already compelled the WFP to target the most vulnerable individuals, said the report. "Urgent support is required to provide essential agriculture inputs to vulnerable farming households before the main agriculture season starts in June, so that they can produce enough food and become self-reliant," the FAO said in Wednesday's press release. Sudan has been facing an since the US and agencies suspended aid after Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the general commander of the Sudanese armed forces, declared a state of emergency on October 25, 2021, and dissolved the Sovereign Council. The US has suspended $700 million in economic aid to Sudan, while the World Bank failed to provide $500 million to Sudan, which was expected in November 2021. The Monetary Fund (IMF) has also halted $150 million in special drawing rights for Sudan. Sudan's debt relief process under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative of the IMF has also been suspended. Sudan has been plagued by an since the secession of South Sudan in 2011, due to which Sudan has lost 75 per cent of its oil revenue. --IANS int/khz/ (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 overwhelmingly approved a resolution Thursday blaming Russia for humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and urging an immediate cease-fire and protection for millions of civilians and the homes, schools and hospitals critical to their survival. There was loud applause in the assembly chamber as the result of the vote was announced: 140-5 with only Belarus, Syria, North Korea and Eritrea joining Russia in opposing the measure. There were 38 abstentions, including Russian ally China. The resolution, introduced by Ukraine, deplores the dire humanitarian consequences of Russia's aggression which it says is on a scale that the community has not seen in Europe in decades. It deplores Russia's shelling, airstrikes and besiegement of densely populated cities, including the southern city of Mariupol, and demands unhindered access for humanitarian aid. The vote was almost exactly the same as for the March 2 resolution the assembly adopted demanding an immediate Russian cease-fire, withdrawal of all its forces and protection for all civilians and infrastructure indispensable to their survival. That vote was 141-5 with 35 abstentions. The General Assembly's action followed the Security Council's overwhelming defeat on Wednesday of a Russian resolution that would have acknowledged Ukraine's growing humanitarian needs -- but without mentioning Russia's invasion that has left millions of Ukrainians in desperate need of food, water and shelter. To be adopted, Russia needed a minimum of nine yes votes in the 15-member Security Council and no veto by one of the four other permanent members the US, Britain, France and China. But Russia got support only from China, with the 13 other council members abstaining. The votes in the General Assembly and Security Council reflect Moscow's failure to get widespread backing for its military offensive in Ukraine, which marked its one-month anniversary Thursday. Britain's UN ambassador, Barbara Woodward told reporters Wednesday that Russia has consistently misplayed its hand here, and seriously underestimated the consequences of what it's done and the perception of what it's done. The assembly also had before it a rival South African resolution, which didn't mention Russia and was similar to the Russian resolution rejected by the Security Council. The assembly dropped action on that resolution after the Ukraine-backed resolution was approved. Before and after Wednesday's Security Council vote, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia and US Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield argued about Russia's offensive and its decision to even draft a humanitarian resolution. Nebenzia told the council that Russia's resolution, like other humanitarian resolution, is not politicised. Thomas-Greenfield countered that Russia was attempting to use this council to provide cover for its brutal actions. Russia does not care about the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, she said. If they cared, they would stop fighting. Russia is the aggressor, the attacker, the invader, the sole party in Ukraine engaged in a campaign of brutality against the people of Ukraine, and they want us to pass a resolution that does not acknowledge their culpability. China's vote Wednesday marked the first time it supported a Russian draft on Ukraine since the Feb 24 invasion. It abstained on a March 2 General Assembly resolution demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of all Russian forces from its smaller neighbour. Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun said China's support for the resolution was to stress its call for the community to place high importance to the humanitarian situation in Ukraine and for the parties to protect the safety of civilians. Russia introduced its resolution on March 15. A day earlier, France and Mexico decided to move their proposed humanitarian resolution blaming the Russian invasion for the humanitarian crisis out of the Security Council, where it faced a Russian veto, to the 193-member General Assembly where there are no vetoes. Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, but they do have clout in reflecting international opinion. Throughout Wednesday, the assembly heard speeches starting with Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsy, who urged all nations to vote for the resolution on the humanitarian consequences of Russia's military assault. He said this would send a powerful message aimed at helping people caught in the conflict and ending Moscow's military action. Nebenzia told the assembly that by considering the Ukraine-backed resolution, it was engaging in another political anti-Russian show, set this time in an allegedly humanitarian context. He warned that adoption of that draft will make a resolution to the situation in Ukraine more difficult because it will likely embolden Ukrainian negotiators to maintain their current unrealistic position and not tackle the root causes of Russia's military action. Thomas-Greenfield sharply criticized Russia in her assembly speech, saying, In one month, Russia caused the fastest-growing humanitarian catastrophes in the world. According to the UN, about 10 million Ukrainians -- a quarter of its population -- have fled their homes and are now displaced in the country or among the 3.6 million refugees, she told the assembly, and 12 million need aid and 5.6 million children are unable to go to school. South Korean Ambassador Cho Hyun compared what Ukrainian children are experiencing to the plight of kids in his own country during the Korean War in the 1950s. It is this organisation's most urgent and collective responsibility to stop this haunting replication of the agonies of children in the 20th century. Albanian Ambassador Ferit Hoxha urged the world's nations not to forget the responsibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin. This is a war of one man, in his own seclusion, and who, by his reckless actions, has managed to generate in a few weeks, the biggest ever solitude and world isolation of his own country. But Russia has some supporters other than China, including Syrian Ambassador Bassam Sabbagh, who said the assembly once again is seeing an exploitation of human rights issues in order to create a state of polarisation and politicisation, used to serve the political interests of some. Russian authorities maintain they did not start the war and have repeatedly and falsely decried reports of Russian military setbacks or civilian deaths in Ukraine as fake news. State media outlets and government officials insist Russian troops target only military facilities. (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 US and on Friday announced a new partnership to reduce the continent's reliance on Russian energy, a step top officials characterised as the start of a years-long initiative to further isolate Moscow after its invasion of Ukraine. US President Joe Biden asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin uses energy to coerce and manipulate his neighbours and uses the profits from its sale to drive his war machine. Biden said the partnership he announced jointly with a top official would turn that dynamic on its head by reducing Europe's dependence on Russian energy sources, as well as the continent's demand for gas overall. The president said such a step was not only the right thing to do from a moral standpoint but it's going to put us on a stronger strategic footing. Under the plan, the US and other nations will increase liquified natural gas exports to Europe by 15 billion cubic metres this year. Even larger shipments would be delivered in the future. At the same time, they will try to keep their climate goals on track by powering gas infrastructure with clean energy and reducing methane leaks that can worsen global warming. Although the initiative will likely require new facilities for importing liquified natural gas, the partnership is also geared toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the long run through energy efficiency and alternative sources of energy, according to the White House. Ursula von der Leyen, head of the EU's executive arm, said it was important for Europe to shift away from and toward energy suppliers that were trustworthy, friendly and reliable. We aim to reduce this dependence on Russian fossil fuels and get rid of it," she said. Russian energy is a key source of income and political leverage for Moscow. Almost 40 per cent of the European Union's natural gas comes from to heat homes, generate electricity and power industry. Biden was leaving Brussels after the announcement and heading to Rzeszw in Poland, where US troops are based roughly an hour's drive from the Ukrainian border. He will be briefed on the humanitarian response to the refugees streaming out of Ukraine and those still suffering inside the country. The president will also meet US service members from the 82nd Airborne Division, who serve alongside Polish troops, and then expected to fly to Warsaw for talks on Saturday with Polish President Andrzej Duda. He will also address the Polish people before departing for Washington. While in Brussels, Biden on Thursday participated in a trio of summits hosted by NATO, the Group of Seven industrialised nations and the European Union, a move that reflected heightened concerns about the war in Ukraine that has entered its second month. Although Ukraine has resisted the Russian invasion much more successfully than initially expected, the conflict has become a gruelling and bloody affair, with thousands of casualties on each side and millions of refugees fleeing the country. Western leaders are also concerned that Russian President Vladimir Putin could use chemical or even nuclear weapons to regain momentum in the war. Getting more liquefied natural gas to Europe could be difficult, even though the US has been dramatically increasing its exports in recent years. Many export facilities are already operating at capacity, and most new terminals are still only in the planning stages. Most US shipments already go to Europe, according to the Centre for Liquefied Natural Gas, an industry lobbying group. Although much of the supply is already contracted out to buyers, there are still opportunities to shift its destination. The US is in a unique position because it has flexible LNG that can be rerouted to Europe or to Asia, depending on who's willing to pay that price, said Emily McClain, gas markets analyst at Rystad. Even if the US can ship more gas to Europe, the continent may struggle to receive it. Import terminals are located in coastal areas, where there are fewer pipeline connections for distributing it. Even if all Europe's facilities were operating at capacity, the amount of gas would likely be only about two-thirds of what delivers through pipelines. (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 will work to supply 15 billion cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the this year to help it wean off Russian energy supplies, the transatlantic partners said on Friday. The EU is aiming to cut its dependency on Russian gas by two-thirds this year and end all Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027 due to Russias invasion of Ukraine. supplies around 40 per cent of Europes gas needs. Concerns over security of supply were reinforced this week after ordered the switch of gas contract payments to roubles, raising the risk of a supply squeeze and even higher prices. warned the West on Friday that billing in roubles for billions of dollars of natural gas exports to Europe could be just days away and ordered Gazprom to work out how the payments can be made within four days. Senior US administration officials did not specify what amount or percentage of the extra supply would come from the US. US plants are producing at full capacity and analysts say most of any additional US gas sent to Europe would have to come from exports that would have gone elsewhere. It normally takes two to three years to build a new production facility, so this deal may be more about the re-direction of existing supplies than new capacity, said Alex Froley, gas and analyst at ICIS. LNG under contract cannot be easily redirected. Already high European gas prices would have to rise further to attract those cargoes to the 27-nation bloc, analysts said. Even if the 15 bcm is achievable, it still falls well short of replacing Russian gas imports, which amounted to around 155 bcm in 2021, analysts at ING Bank said. US President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also announced a plan to form a task force to cut Europes reliance on Russian fossil fuels. Sinopec Halts Russia plans amid fear of Sanctions China's state-run Sinopec Group has suspended talks for a major petrochemical investment and a gas marketing venture in Russia, sources told Reuters, heeding a government call for caution as sanctions mount over the invasion of Ukraine. This hits the brakes on a potentially half-billion-dollar investment. HSBC steps up scrutiny of Russia Clients HSBC is shunning prospective Russian clients and declining credit to some existing ones, two sources told Reuters, as the bank seeks to shield itself from Western sanctions against Moscow. HSBC is shunning prospective Russian clients and declining credit to some existing ones, two sources told Reuters, as the bank seeks to shield itself from Western sanctions against Moscow. This affects HSBCs individual and business customers and goes further than its stated intentions to curb ties with lenders such as VTB Russia shrugs off threat of G20 expulsion The Kremlin said nothing terrible will happen if the US and its allies succeed in expelling Russia from the G20 economies because many of the G20's members are at economic war with Moscow anyway. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said some countries were taking a sober approach towards Russia and not burning bridges (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President Joe Biden's visit to on Friday gave him a chance to underscore the US commitment to protect a key NATO member on Ukraine's doorstep and to thank Poles for their generous welcome to refugees fleeing Russia's invasion. But is also a complicated ally whose populist leaders are accused by some European partners of riding roughshod over democratic norms, and liberal Poles will be seeking a sign that the US remembers its role in promoting democracy. Biden's two-day visit follows a trio of emergency summits in Brussels and brought him to the country that has accepted the lion's share of the more than 3.5 million people who have fled Ukraine. More than 2.2 million refugees have entered since the start of the month-old war, and many propose to stay there. Polish assistance to Ukrainians has won praise near and far. Not only have shelters and schools opened their doors to refugees, with 90,000 children registering to attend classes, but many regular Poles have welcomed Ukrainians into their homes. In some cases, they're taking in friends and in others, complete strangers. President Andrzej Duda, who is allied with a right-wing political party accused of eroding democratic norms, and who clearly preferred former US President Donald Trump to Biden, was set to welcome his American counterpart upon Air Force One's arrival in Rzeszow, a city some 70 km (45 miles) from the border with Ukraine. But Duda arrived late due to a technical problem with his own plane, which had to make an emergency landing in Warsaw. The delay forced Biden to change his schedule and to meet before a briefing on the humanitarian crisis facing Ukrainians with American soldiers who are serving alongside Polish troops on NATO's eastern flank. He lavished praise on the members of the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division and told them they were in the midst of a fight between democracy and autocracy. The soldiers Biden met are among thousands of additional US troops deployed due to Russia's war in Ukraine and come in addition to thousands deployed on a rotating basis since Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2014. Many Poles find their presence reassuring: Russia's March 13 strikes on the Yavoriv military base in western Ukraine were so close that they were felt or seen in border communities. At the same time, many Poles will be hoping for a sign from Biden that Washington will continue to urge the Polish government's adherence to democratic values, hoping that won't be forgotten amid the need for wartime NATO unity. During his election campaign, Biden mentioned Poland along with Belarus and Hungary in warning about the rise of totalitarian regimes in the world. The comment caused offense to leaders in Poland, which has become a refuge for dissidents from authoritarian Belarus. The European Union has accused Poland of eroding judicial independence since the Law and Justice party started governing in 2015. The EU sees political interference in the judiciary as an attack on the 27-member bloc's fundamental democratic values, and particularly objects to a Supreme Court body with powers to suspend judges whose rulings displease government authorities. Recently, the EU withheld millions of euros from a pandemic recovery fund from Warsaw, seeking to use the money as leverage for change. Poland's government has also incurred criticism for eroding media independence, for anti-LGBT rhetoric by Duda and others, and over the use of Pegasus spyware against government critics. The Justice Defense Committee, an umbrella group in Poland that includes independent judges, prosecutors and civil groups, alleged in a March 13 letter to EU institutions that since the war in Ukraine began, Polish authorities have taken a number of measures to further destroy the rule of law. The government denies its behavior has been undemocratic, noting that it keeps winning elections and arguing that it is trying to reform a corrupt, inefficient court system. Duda late last year moved to ease one key US concern, vetoing legislation that threatened to silence an independent broadcaster, TVN. The legislation would have forced Discovery Inc., a American company that owns TVN, to give up its majority stake in the broadcaster - the largest ever US investment in Poland. Biden, however, will likely not have forgotten that Duda and other Polish officials were ardent supporters and ideological brethren of Trump, particularly in their opposition to accepting Middle Eastern refugees and migrants. Duda was among a handful of leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, who waited weeks before congratulating Biden after he won the 2020 election, taking a wait-and-see approach as Trump refused to accept his defeat. In 2018, while asking the US to establish a permanent military base in Poland, Duda proposed calling it "Fort Trump. The proposal sparked some mockery in Europe and was quickly dropped. Poles continue to want a permanent base and a greater US military presence as safeguards against Russian aggression. They hope Biden's visit to Poland will bring stronger military commitments. Before Biden returns to Washington on Saturday, he is expected to address the Polish people. The White House said he would deliver remarks on the united efforts of the free world to support the people of Ukraine, hold Russia accountable for its brutal war, and defend a future that is rooted in democratic principles. In its latest action to impose severe costs on the Russians, the US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating key enablers of the invasion. This includes dozens of Russian defense companies, 328 members of the Russian State Duma, and the head of Russia's largest financial institution. This action aligns with similar actions taken by the European Union, the UK, and Canada, and reflects continued unity to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin accountable for his war of choice. It has also issued new directions to blunt the Russian Central Bank's ability to deploy reserves, including gold, to prop up the Russian and fund Putin's brutal war. This guidance makes clear that any transaction involving gold related to the Central Bank of the Russian Federation is covered by existing sanctions. OFAC is designating multiple companies that are part of Russia's defense-industrial base and that produce weapons that have been used in Russia's assault against Ukraine's people, infrastructure and territory. Today's designations build on those levied by Treasury in previous weeks against key components of the Government of the Russian Federation that facilitate Putin's hostile campaign against Ukraine. By cutting off 48 companies from western technological and financial resources, today's action will have a deep and long-lasting effect on Russia's defense-industrial base and its supply chain, US Treasury said. "The US, with our partners and allies, is striking at the heart of Russia's ability to finance and carry out its warfare and atrocities against Ukraine," said Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen. "The Russian State Duma continues to support Putin's invasion, stifle the free flow of information and infringe on the basic rights of the citizens of . We call on those closest to Putin to cease and condemn this cold-blooded war." US Treasury has also issued new guidance on transactions with the Central Bank of the Russian Federation involving gold. --IANS san/khz/ (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 594th meeting of the Central Board of Directors of Reserve Bank of India was held today at Bengaluru under the Chairmanship of Shaktikanta Das, Governor. The Board in its meeting reviewed the various areas of operation of the Bank and the current economic situation, global and domestic challenges including the overall impact of current global geopolitical crises. Further, the Board discussed the Reserve Bank's activities during the current accounting year 2021-22. The Board also approved the budget for the accounting year 2022-23. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The current export boom has enabled India to attain the $400 billion target for the current fiscal year, a significant achievement when set against near-stagnant levels of the past decade. But the factors driving this boom high commodity prices and post-pandemic recovery in demand are unlikely to last, pointing to an urgent need for constructive policy support to create a sustainable export sector, the top edit points out. Read it here In other views: Vir Sanghvi explains why defeating Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party in 2024 will be a tough ask. Read it here Atanu Biswas wonders at the lengths the West is going to culturally boycott Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Read it here The second edit argues for ramping infrastructure for the industry which has emerged as a larger employer than the textiles sector. Read it here Investment funds domiciled in Ireland grew by 3.8% during July and August to reach a whopping 3.805 trillion, an all-time record high for the Irish funds' industry. This is in comparison to, and more than, the midyear total of 3.683 trillion as of the end of June 2021. This is certainly welcome news for Sparkasse Bank Malta plc, as it long realised the tremendous opportunities and benefits of setting up a branch presence in Ireland. Today, due to its strong foundation and early entry into the Irish market, the Bank is well positioned to benefit from the continued growth of the investment funds industry in Ireland. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc lays a Solid Foundation in Ireland A major strategic focus of Sparkasse Bank Malta plc was to continue its expansion overseas, not only geographically, but also in the variety of services offered. Incidentally, one of the major achievements of Sparkasse Bank Malta plc thus far was the launch of its Ireland Branch, allowing it to expand operations across Europe. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc was granted its licence by the Central Bank of Ireland to provide custody and depositary services, which it has been doing successfully since 2019. Paul Mifsud, CEO of Sparkasse Bank Malta plc, remarked, "The Branch's licence will enable it to prioritise actively seeking new business from Ireland, which boasts a fund sector north of 3 trillion, compared to Malta's 17 billion." The Branch has not looked back since and continues to bolster its status as a major player in the investment funds space in Ireland. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc Ireland Branch is authorised to act as Depositary to authorised investment funds and the forward-looking and strategic decision to set up base in Dublin early on seems to be paying off. Due to Ireland's favourable business climate, strong pool of talented, skilled employees, and the strong presence of other significant players in the fund industry, Paul Mifsud from early on saw the country as a competitive and very important market for Sparkasse Bank Malta plc to offer its investment services. Mifsud believed Dublin was ideal for opening a branch location to utilise its licence for depositary and custody services to Irish funds. Mifsud also reckoned more companies would eventually set up branch locations in the Irish capital once Britain left the European Union and this has been proven to be the case. "The establishment of our Branch in Ireland is a positive addition to our product offering, for our customers and staff in general," Mifsud said. Shortly after the Bank received its Irish Fund Service Provider Authorisation in 2018, Sparkasse Bank Malta plc's CEO, Paul Mifsud, said: "Ireland was a natural choice for the Bank due to its membership in the EU and its English-speaking environment. The Bank had already established relationships and contracts with several service providers in Ireland, which made the move and the decision all the more feasible." Ireland is a member of the EU, and its favourable business environment, bustling infrastructure, and the wide use of the English language were some of the attractive attributes touted as to why the country was such a great choice for setting up a Branch or subsidiary in Europe. More Room for Investment Funds Growth in Ireland Investment funds in Europe during the two months leading up to August, led by Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) funds, grew by 4.8% during the period, compared to the 3% funds growth in Ireland. During the same period, hedge funds in Europe grew 2.9%, compared to 1.7% growth in Ireland. Generally, the Irish percentage of European assets slid slightly, from 18.0% to 17.8%, due partly to higher Irish redemptions more than matched by net sales, which exceeded the average. This data indicates that although Ireland as a European domicile is doing very well, there is still a lot of room for growth in the investment funds space and Sparkasse Bank Malta plc Ireland Branch is determined and well positioned to take full advantage. More Asset Management Firms Setting up EU Operations in Dublin According to a report by think tank New Financial, since Sparkasse Bank Malta plc opened its Ireland Branch, 45-plus asset management firms have followed suit in setting up EU operations in Dublin. This is further validation Sparkasse Bank Malta plc made the right decision. Having established a solid foundation in Ireland, Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is benefiting from the competitive advantage gained from being one of the first to set up operations there. "We believe new opportunities will arise as the Branch gathers repute and business in Ireland. Moreover, the new Branch, is centrally located, features as a direct business line within the Bank's organisational structure and is considered as a direct profit centre." Mifsud said. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc: Then and Now Sparkasse Bank Malta plc was established in 2000 and has been operating for more than two decades, which started off by offering private banking, and eventually expanding into investment services including depository and custody services to its growing clientele. Most recently the Bank was authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority to also act as a Custodian or Pension Schemes. The Bank holds multiple licences allowing it to fully service individuals and corporations as a credit institution and as an investment services firm. The Bank is licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority as a credit institution via the Banking Act and as an investment firm and depository via the Investment Services Act. Sparkasse's banking and investment services are geared primarily towards corporate entities, private customers, funds, and asset managers, and today the Bank has over 8 billion of assets under custody. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is expanding its operations across Europe and is now authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland to act as depositary to Irish authorised investment funds. The Bank was granted its licence to provide custody and depositary services in Ireland, and now has a Branch Office in Dublin. Mr. Paul Mifsud was appointed CEO in 2007 and has been overseeing its operations since. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc provides various investment services under its investment firms licence, including advisory and non-advisory services, execution, settlement services, and custody. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc's custody department offers high-quality custodian and securities services to foreign as well as local institutional investors, professional investor funds, fund of fund managers, financial institutions, domestic mutual funds, corporate investors, high net worth investors, and brokers. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc's vision is to grow into a recognised European financial institution providing banking, investment, depositary, and fund custody services, excelling in service and expertise. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The government which begins its second term on Friday, will focus on youth, education, health, women, employment generation and infrastructural development. According to sources, these policies will consolidate BJP's socio-political positioning, ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third consecutive term. sources said that the party is expected to put the non-Yadav OBC and Dalit ranks on a high priority index in a bid to consolidate the two communities. Of the 273 MLAs of the BJP-led alliance in the state, 89 are OBC while 63 are Dalit, which is more than 55 per cent of the total NDA strength in the state Assembly. Sources said that the party faced a palpable change in the mood of Backward Classes towards the after some of the top non-Yadav OBC leaders, including Swami Prasad Maurya, Dara Singh Chauhan and Dharam Singh Saini turned rebel and joined the Samajwadi Party. "Yet the community showed its electoral allegiance towards the . This is certainly being recognised by the party," said a senior functionary. Uttar Pradesh BJP OBC Morcha chief Narendra Kashyap said that there is no doubt that the backward community has emerged as a major power centre in the state . "The community supported BJP this year also the way it did in 2017. It will continue to support the party in the future also," he stated. In the previous 49-member Yogi cabinet, 17 ministers were from the OBC and five were from the Dalit community. Uttar Pradesh received special attention as three ministers each from OBC and Dalit categories were inducted in the Modi cabinet which underwent an expansion last year. Besides perfecting its caste bouquet, the BJP is also expected to factor in an array of parameters which will programme its overall political positioning and social outreach. "This time, we are being challenged by our own achievements and we face the task of pushing the envelope further and outdoing our own performance. The party hopes to get the best of the balance in terms of caste, community and region where development is concerned," said the functionary. Since women voters have played a vital role in ensuring the return of the BJP in the state, the chief minister will be giving special attention to making women feel even more secure and self-reliant in financial terms. The opposition had tried to turn unemployment into a major election issue and the Yogi government will now try to create jobs and nullify the opposition charge. Apart from giving a push to infrastructural development, the new Yogi government will also work on improving the health sector and increasing facilities. --IANS amita/dpb (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.) Chief Minister on Friday lashed out at the BJP for seeking state minister Nawab Malik's resignation over alleged links with gangster Dawood Ibrahim, and reminded the saffron party that it once shared power with the PDP which had 'backed' terror convict Afzal Guru. Speaking in the Assembly on the last day of Budget Session, Thackeray also said he was surprised that central probe agencies did not realise all these years that Dawood Ibrahim's agent Malik was roaming freely. Malik, a senior NCP leader, was arrested earlier this month in a money laundering case over a land deal allegedly involving Ibrahim's aide. Thackeray also dared the BJP to storm into the fugitive gangster's home and kill him instead of levelling baseless allegations against leaders of the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition of the Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress in the state. Hitting back, BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis said it was unfortunate that Thackeray had to defend Malik who engaged in land deals with 1993 Mumbai blasts accused and aide of . I sometimes feel surprised. Have the central probe agencies become so hollow that Malik, an 'agent' of Dawood Ibrahim, is roaming freely in Mumbai and in the entire country, gets elected four-five times, becomes minister and still the central agencies don't know about it?" chief minister Thackeray said on a sarcastic note. What are central agencies doing then? Clanking plates, lighting lamps? he asked. Central agencies were the "arrows" that the BJP was directing at its political opponents, he alleged. Thackeray also quipped that the Union government should recruit Fadnavis in the R&AW or CBI, as the BJP leader is said to have passed on information about Malik's alleged deals to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). so you will give information, you will level allegations, you will conduct probe and you will also award punishment. What will the courts do if you file such a strong case? We have faith in the judiciary. But if you are using agencies in this manner... is it 'ED', or is it 'ghar-gadi' (domestic help/servant)? the chief minister said. The BJP once sought votes on the Ram temple issue, Thackeray said, adding if it will now seek votes using the issue. Where is Dawood? Does anyone know? Nobody knows. (Late BJP leader) Gopinath Munde had said he would drag Dawood back to . Now, we (the BJP) are getting dragged behind him (Dawood) and searching for his agents, Thackeray said sardonically. US security forces killed terrorist Osama bin Laden when Barack Obama was president, he said, praising Obama for showing manliness. Why don't you kill Dawood? Go storm into Dawood's home and kill him like Obama killed Osama. That's called courage. But instead of doing anything you are making allegations against us, Thackeray said. Further hitting out at the BJP for seeking Nawab Malik's resignation, Thackeray reminded the saffron party that it had formed government in Jammu and Kashmir in alliance with the Mehbooba Mufti-led PDP which had opposed the hanging of Afzal Guru, Parliament attack case. Wasn't Afzal Guru anti-national? he asked. Countering the chief minister in his speech later, Fadnavis said the Thackeray-led was now sharing power with those who opposed the hanging of persons convicted in terror cases. The BJP leader praised the Union government for ensuring peaceful elections in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir at a time when the separatists and Pakistani intelligence agency ISI had threatened that they would not allow elections to be held. The separatists had then said they would not allow formation of government. Hence, it was the need of the country at that time, and therefore, we formed a government with Mehbooba Mufti, Fadnavis said. We showed the ISI that a government could be formed there. But we did not remain in the government (for long). The moment we showed it to the world that elections could be held there, we kicked that government the next moment, Fadnavis 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.) Days after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) took action against his brother-in-law, a combative Chief Minister on Friday said in the state Assembly that he was ready to go to jail if the wanted power but it should not harass his family members. Speaking on the last day of Budget session, Thackeray said former prime minister Indira Gandhi had the courage to declare Emergency while the has ushered in an undeclared Emergency. He also asked Urban Development Minister Eknath Shinde to conduct a probe into a proposal of Rs 10,269-crore cost escalation in Metro work during the previous Devendra Fadnavis government in the state, and trashed corruption allegations against the Shiv Sena-controlled Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The ED earlier this week attached assets worth Rs 6.45 crore of a company owned by Shridhar Madhav Patankar, Thackeray's brother-in-law, in connection with a money laundering investigation.I am telling you (the BJP) in front of all. You want power, right? Don't go collecting pen drives (referring to leader Devendra Fadnavis submitting 'evidence' in a pen drive). Its sale goes up.I am saying I will go with you. Not for power. The things you are doing now, defaming my family members, seizing their assets, I am not afraid of such actions, Thackeray said.We did not defame your family membersI will come along with you. Jail me, he added. Allegations are made up when action is taken against any non-BJP leader or his or her relatives, and the individuals against whom action is taken are not even given a hearing, the chief minister alleged. Evidence is fabricated, and then one is produced before court. What will a court do? It awards punishment based on what is produced before it, he said. Thackeray, who heads the Shiv Sena, said he was ready to take responsibility for his party workers' "sins", if any. But don't harass the Shiv Sena workers who saved Mumbai by risking their lives in 1992-92 (during riots), he said. Some BJP leaders were behaving as if they were agents or spokespersons of central probe agencies, Thackeray alleged. What else can be called the murder of democracy and law and order? Indira Gandhi had at least declared Emergency. This is an undeclared Emergency. She was not a coward. She had declared it. Good or bad, that's a different issue. But she had the courage, said Thackeray, whose party is now in alliance with Congress and NCP in . The BJP wanted power in Mumbai even though it rules the country, the chief minister said. He trashed allegations of corruption levelled by Devendra Fadnavis against the BMC, and hailed the corporation and the state government for taking steps to save lives during the coronavirus pandemic. Thackeray also said the ruckus witnessed during Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's joint address to both the Houses did not behove a state like . He also accused the Union government of not giving land for setting up car shed for Mumbai Metro, and not doing anything about granting the classical language tag for Marathi and resolving the Maharashtra-Karnataka boundary dispute. He also asked minister Eknath Shinde to probe a proposal of Rs 10,269 crore cost escalation of Mumbai Metro project when Fadnavis was chief minister. Why did the cost escalate? Eknath ji, you should order a probe. It is a different case if the escalation was genuine. But how come the expenses increased suddenly? What is behind it? he asked. On his part, Fadnavis said the chief minister did not reply to any of the issues he had raised in the House a day earlier. (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.) Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu Friday targeted AAP chief over the 2015 issue, asking who was stopping his party's government in the state from acting against those involved in the desecration of religious texts. Sidhu, the former Congress chief, shared a video clip from last year in which Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal is heard saying that action can be taken against the accused in the incidents within 24 hours. "So who is stopping you now .@ArvindKejriwal," Sidhu said in a tweet. Congress MLA Pargat Singh too shared the video clip and asked Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, "Who is stopping you now?" In the clip posted by Sidhu on his Twitter handle, Kejriwal is heard saying that the people of Punjab were angry at the inaction over the 2015 Faridkot incidents. "The masterminds in the sacrilege incidents have not been punished till now. I don't need to tell who the masterminds are. The names are there in the report of Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, and (Charanjit Singh) Channi saab can go through that. The culprits can be arrested within 24 hours," Kejriwal had said in the media clip. Former IPS officer Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh was part of a special investigation team probing the 2015 Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan police firing incidents in Punjab. He joined the AAP last year and was elected as MLA from the Amritsar assembly segment. The incidents of sacrilege and subsequent police firing had taken place in Faridkot in 2015, when the SAD-BJP government was in power in the state. The previous Congress-led government was targeted by the AAP over its alleged inaction on the issue. Three cases -- theft of a "bir" (copy) of the Guru Granth Sahib from the Burj Jawahar Singh Wala gurdwara, putting up of handwritten sacrilegious posters in Bargari and Burj Jawahar Singh Wala, and torn pages of the holy book found scattered in Bargari -- were registered in 2015. Sidhu further slammed Kejriwal, saying he sent CM to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for seeking financial aid for the state. "@ArvindKejriwal on one hand talking about generating 30000 cr by omitting corruption and 20000 cr from sand mafia .. On the other hand you send your protege to the same PM @narendramodi you criticised yesterday with a begging bowl asking for 50000 cr annually-What a paradox," Sidhu said in another tweet. Mann on Thursday had met PM Modi and sought a financial package of Rs 1-lakh crore for the revival of the state's economy, besides ensuring holistic development and welfare of its people. (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.) was sworn in as the 33rd chief minister of on Friday in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers and a galaxy of chief ministers. Adityanath was administered the oath of office by Governor Anandiben Patel at the Ekana stadium here, with over 75,000 people from different walks of life, cheering him on. Two deputy chief ministers were also sworn in along with the chief minister. They include Keshav Maurya -- who recently lost the election, and Brajesh Pathak. Deputy chief minister Dinesh Sharma in the previous government, has been dropped this time. Sources said that he would now be given an organisational post. The new ministry sworn in on Friday includes 52 ministers, including 18 in cabinet rank, and the government now has a new complexion. Five women ministers have been included. They are -- Baby Rani Maurya, Gulab Devi, Pratibha Shukla, Rajni Tiwari and Vijay Laxmi Gautam. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Swatantra Dev Singh has been inducted into the ministry while some senior leaders including Shrikant Sharma, Siddhartha Nath Singh, Ashutosh Tandon, Mahendra Singh, Jai Pratap Singh, Satish Mahana and Mohsin Raza have been dropped. A much-awaited inclusion was that of former IAS officer Arvind Sharma who had quit his job in the PMO last year and was made MLC in Uttar Pradesh. Asheesh Patel of Apna Dal and Sanjay Nishad of Nishad Party have also found a berth in the council of ministers as cabinet ministers. Daya Shankar Singh, husband of former minister Swati Singh, has also been made minister of state. Former IPS officer Aseem Arun, who quit his job in January to join politics, has also been made minister. However, former ED official Rajeshwar Singh, who won the election after quitting his job, has not been made minister. Among the surprise omissions in the government formation are rebel Congress MLA Aditi Singh who had contested the elections on a ticket from Rae Bareli. Aparna Yadav, younger daughter-in-law of Mulayam Singh Yadav, who was also tipped to become a minister, was not on the list. (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.) Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 25 (ANI/NewsVoir): The Chengalpattu Campus of Chennais Amirta International Institution of Hotel Management (CAIIHM) - South India's most reputed Hotel Management Institution, celebrated Holi in style, mixing the festival of colours with the spirit of culinary delights. The students and staffs of each department let their creative juices flow with innovative projects, flaunting the uniqueness of their specialization. The Holi celebrations at the campus with about 1000 students featured a prayer for global peace and unity, cultural events, and of course, throwing and smearing of colors, without which Holi is not complete. However, what made Holi at Chennais Amirta, the Best Hotel Management College, unique was the participation of each of its departments in a way that exemplified the skills of the students in all hospitality domains including food production, food & beverage, and housekeeping. The students and staffs of the food production team prepared different varieties of food using rice and pulses, while those from the carving department produced artistic carvings on vegetables, fruits and dry ice. The cynosure of all eyes was the glass pyramid with vivid food colours and serums with dry ice smoke, made by the students of the service department. The display of different varieties of pizza and colourful sub roll bread by the bakery department added the right blend of flavour and fragrance, a quintessential feature of any culinary campus. Talking about the festival, R Boomee Naathan, Chairman, Chennais Amirta International Institute of Hotel Management, said, "Holi is an ancient Hindu festival, but it is an inclusive festival which is also known as the festival of spring, colours, and love. Our campus caters to students from all over India. Hence, we make sure that we do not miss out on any festival and tradition that celebrates the goodwill and the culture of the country. Celebrating festivals like Holi also offers an opportunity for us to make our students understand the prominence of food and hospitality in our culture, tradition, and society." As part of the Holi celebrations, blowing of Chinese lanterns, water balloons, speeches on Holi, cultural events like classical dance, and pot breaking games were organised. (https://chennaisamirta.edu.in/) Chennais Amirta offers various diploma, UG and PG courses in Hotel Management, Catering and Hotel Administration, has branches in three metro cities - Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Holi was celebrated across all the campuses in these three cities. 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.) Pune (Maharashtra) [India], March 25 (ANI/PR Newswire): MIT Art, Design and Technology University under its flagship initiatives (https://mitfutureskills.org) MIT Centre for Future Skills Excellence, Institution's Innovation Council (IIC), MIT-ID Innovation Programme, the AIC - MITADT Incubator Forum, and CRIEYA, conducted the MIT-ADT University Hackathon 2022 to shortlist the teams that will represent MIT-ADT University at the National Level Smart India Hackathon 2022. Sixty-Six enthusiastic teams participated in this Internal Hackathon on March 22nd, 2022 and presented innovative ideas to overcome the issues faced by Industries, Public & Private Organisations, State & Union Governments and Non-Government Organisations. The hackathon saw a humongous response with 66 groups partaking, out of which 15 ideas were finalized by thorough scrutiny of each idea by 12 esteemed Jury members from domain expertise. The event was graced by the Chief Guest Yatin Tambe, Founder & Director, Friction Welding Technologies, Pune & Guest of Honour Uday Deo, Manager, Pimpri Chinchwad Start-up Incubation Centre, India. The hackathon started with the inaugural ceremony and continued with the presentations, prototype showcase, demos and evaluation rounds. It lasted nearly a day and took the 12 Jury members to evaluate the feasibility on various parameters and scrutinize the results to shortlist the top 15 teams, 9 for hardware and 6 for software editions respectively. Out of these 15 teams, 3 were also chosen as the overall winners of the MIT-ADT University Hackathon 2022. First prize of INR Twenty-Five Thousand was bagged by the team from MIT School of Bioengineering Sciences and Research. The Second prize of INR Fifteen Thousand was bagged by team from MIT Institute of Design and the third prize of INR Ten Thousand was won by team MIT School of Engineering. Rohan Nighojkar, Tata Consultancy Services, Sandeep K. Badade, CDK Global, Vinay Ghule, Principal Financial Group, Dilip Gadhave, Infosys Limited, Chandan Gade, Investment Management Professional, Durvankur Raut, Wipro Ltd., Sanjiv Singh, Prof. Dhimant Panchal, Dr Mohit Dubey, Dr Renu Vyas, Dr Nachiket Thakur, Prof. Harshit Desai, Dr Ganesh Pathak, Dr Virendra Bhojwani, Prof. Ashok Todmal, Dr Pooja Kulkarni, Prof. Suraj Bhoyar were the jury panel members of the hackathon. Smart India Hackathon is the world's largest open innovation movement and collaborates with some of the greatest minds in the country. Problem statements on domains like Agriculture, FoodTech, Rural Development, Blockchain & Cybersecurity, Clean & Green Technology, Disaster Management, Heritage & Culture, MedTech / BioTech / HealthTech, Renewable / Sustainable Energy, Robotics and Drones, Smart Automation, Smart Education, Smart Vehicles, Transportation & Logistics, Travel & Tourism are conveyed to the participants. Every group of 6 students is encouraged to come up with innovative answers which help solve the problem. Teams were shortlisted after thorough scrutiny based on the novelty of the idea, complexity, clarity and details in the prescribed format, feasibility, practicability, sustainability, the scale of impact, user experience and potential for future work progression. Chief Guest, Yatin Tambe shared his journey as an entrepreneur and encouraged the students to focus on the 'intent' behind every decision. He said that "Life is nothing, but a problem and living a purposeful life will solve this problem with our unique and innovative approach. Identifying pain areas and giving a solution is what engineers are here for." He also motivated the students to take up new challenges and embrace entrepreneurship over the other career options. He shared the mantra of work-life balance through his keynote address. Uday Deo pointed out that most budding entrepreneurs have innovative ideas, but they do not get a platform to channelise them properly. He deliberately complemented IIC-MITADT University for establishing a well-balanced ecosystem and bringing such ideas to reality. He was exhilarated to see such enthusiastic student groups and noted that having an idea and presenting it to the masses is in fact more gratifying than actually winning. He also lauded the vision and mission of (https://www.mituniversity.edu.in) MIT-ADT University in encouraging budding innovators & start-up enthusiasts. Executive President & Vice-Chancellor, Prof Mangesh Karad, (https://www.mituniversity.edu.in) MIT Art, Design & Technology University, said, "Talent of innovation and out-of-the-box thinking is the axiom of today's generation. Youth are now actively involved in the creation of new opportunities, the economic empowerment of vulnerable groups, and better systems, and play a pivotal role in high-quality education. Competitions & platforms like these give wings to these innovative ideas and promote problem-solving in the most efficient way." He wished all the teams aspiring to transform their brainstorming into a practical reality. For him, taking part and coming together with such innovative ideas is as good as winning. Prof Dr Anant Chakradeo, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, MIT ADT University was happy to see 415-plus students participating in the hackathon. He advised, "Such experiences are life-changing and prepare an individual in identifying and defining problems in the society. This reduces the time needed in formulating new solutions. Getting oneself prepared to face challenges and helping in being independent coincides with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat." He congratulated all the students for their innovative ideas and wished them luck in winning the Smart India Hackathon 2022. During the Valedictory & Prize Distribution Ceremony, Prof Dr Sunita Karad, Director MITCOM & ICT, appreciated the students for participating and challenging themselves to contribute to solving the problems in society in an innovative manner. Technology has greatly aided in increasing access to vast amounts of specifics and has aided in the implementation of innovations that have forever changed our lives. The young mind's imaginative potential, paired with the power of technology, is definitely proving to be a formidable force in the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals accomplishment. She applauded the intent of the budding technocrats in aiding problem-solving at such a young age. Prof. Dr Virendra Bhojwani, President, Institution's Innovation Council (IIC), proposed the vote of thanks. He was amazed by the number of students, especially from the first year, taking part enthusiastically and presenting their innovative ideas. He expressed absolute pleasure in witnessing students of all the diverse institutions of (https://www.mituniversity.edu.in) MIT Art, Design & Technology University coming together on a single platform. Prof. Suraj Bhoyar, Vice President, IIC & Project Director, (https://mitfutureskills.org) MIT Centre for Future Skills Excellence, delivered a welcome address and assured student participants to mentor them in incubation, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Along with Team IIC-MITADT University, he is confident to promote the spirit of innovation leadership and inquisitiveness to sensitize Gen-Z to consider entrepreneurship & start-ups as a viable career opportunity over the others. He promised more such events for tech enthusiasts in future. He also stressed why it's important to get equipped with exponential technologies like (https://mitfutureskills.org/pgd-in-ai-ml) AI, (http://mitfutureskills.org/pgd-in-ai-ml) IoT, (http://mitfutureskills.org/pgd-in-ai-ml) Data Analytics, (https://mitfutureskills.org/pg-diploma-in-robotic-process-automation) Robotics, (https://www.mituniversity.edu.in) Cyber Security, (https://mitfutureskills.org/pgd-in-cloud-computing) Cloud Computing, (https://mitfutureskills.org/post-graduate-programme-in-blockchain-technology) Blockchain, etc. Smart India Hackathon SPOC, Prof. Vilas Khedekar said that a few selected ideas were ready with the prototype and some would be further refined and modified with guidance from the industry veterans & start-up mentors to prepare the budding technocrats for the national level participation. He further reiterated that the Smart India Hackathon's methodology is a self-explanatory and pragmatic approach to learning and problem solving, and student's ability to discover solutions on their own will aid them in their future technical employment. Smruti Shelke and Suruchi Bhatt coordinated and compered the (https://www.mituniversity.edu.in) MIT-ADT University Hackathon 2022. Team IIC-MITADT University also organizes Faculty Development Programme on Innovation & Entrepreneurship under MOE's Innovation Cell, AICTE Mentor-Mentee Programme for Mentee Institutes in India from March 24 to 26, 2022. MAEER's Trust which is known to set strong precedence for the privatization of Engineering education in Maharashtra had taken a first mover's advantage by establishing the Maharashtra Institute of Technology (MIT-Pune), in 1983, which continues to remain the flagship institute of the group. MIT Art, Design and Technology University, Pune has been established under the MIT Art, Design and Technology University Act, 2015 (Maharashtra Act No. XXXIX of 2015). The University commenced its operations successfully from 27th June 2016. The University is a self-financed institution and empowered to award the degrees under section 22 of the University Grants Commission act, 1956. The University has a unique blend of Art, Design, and Technology as the core of its academics. Recently, MIT Art, Design and Technology University, Pune has accomplished the following accolades: - Ranked in Band Excellent for ARIIA 2021 by the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India. - Received 5 Star rating for exemplary performance by the Ministry of Education's Innovation Council, Govt. of India. - Conferred with Best University Campus Award by ASSOCHAM, New Delhi - Granted with Atal Incubation Centre under ATAL Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, Govt. of India MIT Art, Design and Technology University has been taking a holistic approach towards imparting education wherein the students are being motivated to build a complete winning personality which is "physically fit, intellectually sharp, mentally alert and spiritually elevated". The students are being encouraged to participate in yoga, meditation, physical training, spiritual elevation, communication skills, and other personality development programmes. Currently, we have 10,000+ students studying in various schools of higher education under the University viz. Engineering and Technology, Food Technology, Bioengineering, Arts, Design, Marine Engineering, Journalism and Broadcasting, Film and Television, Music (Hindustani Classical Vocal and Instrumental), Teacher Education, and Vedic Sciences. Photo: (https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1773708/MITADT_University_Hackathon_2022.jpg) Logo: (https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1479539/MIT_ADTU_Logo.jpg) This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PR Newswire) DISCLAIMER (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indias annual merchandise exports have hit $400 billion for the first time, achieving the target set by the government 9 days ahead of schedule. The milestone comes even as Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal warned that the Russia-Ukraine war could lead to some disruption in trade. The government is confident of clocking $410 billion of exports by March 31, as India has been shipping out goods worth more than $1 billion a day. Prime minister Narendra Modi was quick to hail the exporters. He praised the farmers, weavers, MSMEs, manufacturers and others for the success. The $410 billion figure would be far higher than the previous record of $330 billion achieved in 2018-19 and 41% higher than the previous financial year, when India exported goods worth $291 billion. Goyal said that to achieve the target, a detailed strategy was in place, including specific country-wise, product-wise and export promotion council-wise targets, monitoring and course correction. He said that higher engineering exports, apparel and garment export, indicate that the misconception of India being a major exporter of primary is gradually changing. India is now exporting more and more value-added and high-end products, he added. Engineering goods, petroleum products, gems and jewellery, chemicals and ready-made garments of all textiles were the top five exported from India. Exports of engineering goods rose 32% in the first 11 months of this fiscal compared to the last financial year. It remained the biggest export item. Within this category, top exports were iron and steel, aluminium and aluminium products, electric machinery and motor vehicles. Exports of petroleum showed the sharpest jump of 114%, driven by a rise in crude oil prices. Meanwhile, agriculture exports hit a record, driven by such as rice, marine products, wheat, spices and sugar, among others. Despite the record export figure, Indias merchandise exports to GDP ratio has been on a declining trend. It stood at 10.94% in FY21, falling from 11.07% the previous year and 12.2% in FY19. While this ratio will show an improvement this year, it will still be nowhere near the record seen more than a decade ago. While the surging trend in exports is praiseworthy, the momentum is likely to sustain with proactive measures like the signing of Free Trade Agreements and expansion of the flagship export promotion scheme RoDTEP to sectors like iron and steel and pharma. Watch video Irish Agri-Food companies of all sizes are being encouraged to apply for grant funding to explore and seize exciting opportunities to develop new markets in Africa. The Africa Agri-Food Development Programme (AADP), which this year marks 10 years of supporting Irish companies to realise their ambition of doing business in Africa, has launched its latest call for applications which remains open until 30th April. The AADP offers Irish Agri-businesses an opportunity to develop and harness the potential from innovative partnerships with companies in sub-Saharan African countries, providing matched funding grant support of up to 250,000 to Irish companies. The programme is a joint initiative between the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). The AADP has supported Irish companies to develop sustainable and rewarding commercial ventures in Africa that include agriculture value-chain add, animal and crop health products, horticulture, livestock genetics, dairy and cheese production facilities. The grants on offer help businesses to manage their financial risk and to use their expertise and resources to work on projects jointly with African companies to deliver a strong and positive impact. Commenting on the initiative, Minister of State with responsibility for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy said, "The AADP has a long record of success. It has encouraged Irish companies to invest in Africa. It has matched African companies with Irish partners, helping make their business propositions more sustainable. At a time when questions of food security are on our global agenda, the AADP allows Irish businesses interest in investing in Africa do so while at the same time building a really positive impact for the African agri-food industry." Minister of State at Department of Agriculture Food & the Marine, Pippa Hackett added, "A large part of the success resulting from this AADP funding, is the partnerships that have been created with local companies in Africa. By learning from each other, both partners have discovered opportunities that have delivered significant benefits, not only in supporting sustainable growth of the local food industry, and building markets for local produce, but also in supporting mutual trade between Ireland and Africa." Source: www.businessworld.ie City of London police has recently arrested seven teenagers aged 16 to 21 suspected to be part of the Lapsus$ cybercrime gang, per the BBC. Included in the arrested may be the still unnamed 16-year-old suspected to be Lapsus$' leader. The arrested teenagers were all released under investigation, and police inquiries are still ongoing. Lapsus$ 16-year-old Leader Arrest Details According to BBC's report, the 16-year-old alleged to be a Lapsus$ group leader was outed by rival hackers and angry business partners, who revealed his name, address, and social media pictures to authorities on a hacker website. The hackers then posted a timeline of the 16-year-old's hacking career which stated that he accumulated more than $14 million in bitcoin (300BTC) as his net worth after a few years. The timeline also mentioned that he is affiliated with Lapsus$, which has been extorting and "hacking" several organizations. The 16-year-old goes by the name "White" or "breachbase" in the hacker website he frequented. Authorities also revealed that he has autism and attends a special education class in Oxford. The boy's father told BBC reporters that he never heard anything about any of the hacks until recently and that the boy never talked about any hacking. The father did admit that his son is very good at computers and spends a lot of time on them. "I always thought he was playing games," the father said. The father then added that he, along with his wife, is going to stop him from going on computers. Authorities Previous Investigations of Lapsus$ The 16-year old was discovered by four researchers investigating the group and its attacks on behalf of the affected companies. According to Bloomberg's report, these researchers believe that the 16-year-old is the mastermind of the attacks but can't conclusively tie him to every hack the cybercrime group took responsibility for. Allison Nixon, chief research officer at cyber-security investigation company Unit 221B, mentioned that they had the 16-year-old's name since mid-2021 and that they identified him before he was doxxed. Read More: Elden Ring Publisher Bandai Namco Patches Out 'Endless Death Loop' Bug Unit 221B was working with another cyber-security company, Pal Alto at the time. After they identified the 16-year-old, both companies sent periodical heads-ups to law enforcement regarding the latest crimes. Nixon mentioned that they were able to track the 16-year-old through "a trail of activity linked through a nearly unbroken stream of the boy's online accounts." This trail was followed due to the 16-year-old failing to properly cover his tracks. Lapsus$' Hacking Spree Lapsus$ recently targeted various tech companies over the past few weeks. The cybercrime group's first target was NVIDIA in late February, with Samsung being its second victim in early March. For these incidents, Lapsus$ leaked NVIDIA's documents to guide people on how to remove the company's restrictions on GPUs with Lite Hash Rates that limits Ethereum mining, per iTech Post. Samsung, meanwhile, had its confidential documents containing the company's classified source codes, per a separate iTech Post article. The group then attacked video game developer Ubisoft, which prompted users to reset their passwords after the attack. After which, it targeted Microsoft, leaking the company's source codes for Bing, Bing Maps, and Cortana on Telegram. Then, in its latest attack, it targeted identity and access management company Okta, which affected the company's users. Related Article: Lapsus$ Mastermind Just a 16-Year-Old? Janssen Sciences Ireland, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, today announced an expansion of its biopharmaceutical supply chain facility in Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork. The 150m investment in the facility has the potential to create 180 new full-time jobs. Operating in Ringaskiddy since 2005, the Janssen site manufactures medicines for immunology and oncology patients,addressing critical needs in areas such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohns Disease, Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis and Multiple Myeloma. Today, as Ireland celebrates Daffodil Day,an estimated 2000 people living in Ireland suffer with Myeloma, a form of blood cancer which affects the white blood cells made in the bone marrow. Janssen is committed to improving the treatment landscape of diseases where there is still an unmet medical need. The new expansion will add to the existing global manufacturing capacity, allowing the company to reach patients with crucial biomedicines faster. Construction on the expansion started in early 2022, and is expected to take approximately two years to complete. Up to 300 people will be employed during the construction period. This investment project has the potential to create 180 new full-time roles in the areas of facilities, engineering, quality, manufacturing and regulatory affairs. The company currently has a workforce of more than 700 people at the Ringaskiddy site. Speaking at todays announcement, An Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar said, "This is really fantastic news, for Cork and for patients across the world who use the medicines made here. Janssen Sciences, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, is investing 150m in its Ringaskiddy facility, creating around 180 new permanent jobs, with a further 300 construction jobs to carry out the expansion. Im really proud of Irelands thriving life sciences sector. Investment like this demonstrates the strength of talent we have here. I wish the team the very best of luck and thank them for their continued commitment to Ireland." General Manager at Janssen Sciences, Gary Hartnett added, "This is a really exciting time for our team in Ringaskiddy, said , We will be adding 180 potential new roles as part of this announcement. It is an incredible opportunity to join a diverse workforce made up of the best and brightest minds, delivering cutting edge medicines that transform lives. The continued investment in our Ringaskiddy site is a real vote of confidence in the talent and dedication of our people, who I am proud to work with every single day as we strive to create a future where disease is a thing of the past." Source: www.businessworld.ie The Institute of Art, Design and Technology Dun Laoghaire (IADT) and NovaUCD welcomed the first entrepreneurs to its Enterprise Ireland backed New Frontiers programme this week. Enterprise Ireland has committed 1.6 million in funding over the next five years on a New Frontiers programme to support up to 265 entrepreneurs in the greater South Dublin area incorporating Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown and North Wicklow. The programme will see each participant receive financial support of 15,000 scholarship to cover full-time participation in the 6 month course, as they focus on moving their business from concept to market. IADT, in partnership with NovaUCD, will host the programme participants in the IADT Media Cube building and in NovaUCD. The launch of this Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers programme will commence with 13 participants selected as part of a competitive process from 56 applicants. They are working on early-stage business concepts ranging from fintech, medtech, digital media, innovation in healthcare and food products and software to help organisations embed diversity and inclusion. Speaking at the launch, Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers Lead, Orla Reynolds said, "Following many years of success with the New Frontiers programme, IADT is delighted to be the lead partner in this collaboration with NovaUCD. The New Frontiers team, mentors and facilitators are exceptional if you want to take the leap and focus on creating a successful business. The energy and camaraderie amongst your fellow participants fuels your drive as they understand the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. I cant wait to support our 13 participants on their journey." TD for the Dun Laoghaire Constituency, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill added, "It is a privilege to launch the New Frontiers programme here at IADT today, delivering this critically important programme to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. One of the striking elements of this intake is the diversity of sectors they are working on, from healthy eating to software to promoting diversity and inclusion. I wish all the participants the best of luck as they begin the programme." Source: www.businessworld.ie Actor Kim Ji-seok, left, and comedian Kim Shin-Young host Channel S' new travel show, "Map to Go Again" (direct translation). Courtesy of Channel S By Lee Gyu-lee Actor Kim Ji-seok and comedian Kim Shin-Young are hosting local network Channel S' new travel show, "Map to Go Again" (direct translation), which takes the viewers on a virtual trip around the world. The new show, led by the production team of KBS' popular traveling show, "Battle Trip," will feature various YouTubers, including those living abroad and those who specialize in traveling to different countries, sharing videos of their recent travels and their experiences. "This show will allow you to travel around the world from your bedroom. This is a new type of a show that is perfect for the coronavirus era," the show's producer, Kim Soo-hyun, said during the press conference for the show, Thursday. "The 'Battle Trip' production team has established know-how through the four years of its production. So we have a deep understanding of the viewers' curiosity and needs." The producer noted that the videos shot by actual travelers and YouTubers will offer realistic, up-close experiences of traveling. "After we decided on the countries that we want to cover for the show, we tried to scout a perfect fit (to feature in our show) in that country. We found YouTubers who reside in that country and chose the ones who can provide us quality footage," he said. "(The footage) is beyond our expectations. They did a really good job capturing the travels. Since the YouTube creators shoot from first-person perspectives of their experiences, the videos offer realistic and direct experiences." The show's hosts, Kim Ji-seok and Kim Shin-Young, shared that the show will provide information on the hidden spots of each country that are not familiar to travelers. "I'm usually curious about the good local restaurants and in the show, the locals introduce their personal choices," Kim Shin-young said. "The most unique thing about this show is that it shows honest reactions from travelers and lesser-known restaurants that only a local would know." Kim Ji-seok said that he learned a lot of new traveling spots through the show. "There's a difference between traveling to a city before and after the coronavirus pandemic. A lot has changed, and this show gives updated information (on each country)," he said. "And some of the YouTubers also share anthropological and historical context on the spots, while others share the real-time situation of that country." Expressing that he has been longing to travel abroad throughout the pandemic, he added that he hopes this show will offer a sense of being refreshed to those viewers who have been feeling stuck in Korea. The show premiered on March 17 and airs every Thursday at 8 p.m. Chinese FM visits Afghanistan, shows nation's role in easing humanitarian crisis By Zhang Han (Global Times) 09:00, March 25, 2022 Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday visited Afghan, becoming the highest level Chinese official to visit the country since Afghanistan Taliban came to power. Afghan Taliban's deputy spokesperson tweeted about Wang's arrival and said Wang will meet with acting foreign minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi. China Central Television (CCTV) later reported Wang's visit also includes a meeting with acting deputy prime minister of Afghan Taliban's interim government Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. According to a statement on website of Chinese foreign ministry, Wang talked about China's policy on Afghan issue - namely the "three respects" and "three nevers." "China respects Afghanistan's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, respects the independent choice made by the Afghan people, and respects Afghanistan's religious beliefs and customs. China never interferes in Afghanistan's internal affairs, never seeks any self-interest in Afghanistan, and never seeks the so-called sphere of influence." Wang stressed that as Afghan friends often say, China is the only major country that has not hurt Afghanistan. "We wish to continue the traditional friendship between the two peoples, develop relations with Afghanistan on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, help Afghanistan achieve true independence and development, and help Afghanistan master its future in its own hands," Wang said. According to Abdul Qahar Balhki, Afghanistan's foreign ministry spokesperson on Twitter, the two sides discussed the trade of dried fruits, issuance of visas, and primary work for mining, as well as Afghanistan's role in the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese observers believe one of the major themes of Wang's regional tour is to communicate with involved parties to prepare for the third foreign ministers' meeting of countries neighboring Afghanistan scheduled later this month in Beijing. As the host, China will exchange views with regional countries to make the upcoming meeting effective and conducive to substantial results in improving the situation in Afghanistan and jointly contribute to durable stability and security in the country, Zhu Yongbiao, director of the Center for Afghanistan Studies in Lanzhou University, told the Global Times on Thursday. Afghanistan did not attend the previous two meetings of regional foreign ministers, which were held in Pakistan in September 2021, and Iran in October, respectively. Muttaqi will attend the third meeting of this mechanism, a Taliban spokesperson announced earlier on Twitter. When world attention has focused on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan has been persistent, which requires the joint efforts of international society, experts said. The already grim situation was aggravated by the US seizure of Afghanistan's assets of $7 billion. The "blatant robbery" has outraged the world. Zhu said Wang Yi's visit may also cover topics including how China will continue to work with other countries to ease the humanitarian crisis and economic downturn in Afghanistan, and maintain exchanges on issues of global concern, including the risks of terrorism spillover. Discussions may include further humanitarian aid to the country and potential economic cooperation, Zhu said. Wang's low-profile visit started from a visit to Pakistan to attend the Organization of Islamic Cooperation meeting as a special guest. According to Indian media Economic Times, Wang will visit India on Thursday and Nepal after that. Chinese foreign ministry did not confirm Wang's trip to India. Wang's visit to India, if confirmed, could be the highest-level visit of a Chinese official to India since the COVID-19 pandemic and the border clashes. Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, believes the visit will continue the positive momentum achieved at the 15th round of bilateral commander-level border talks which concluded on March 11 and bring to light the further warming of diplomatic relations that were under the shadow of the clashes. China and India shares similar stances on the Ukraine crisis and an exchange of views between the two countries will serve as a stabilizer to the region despite some external country's efforts to stir up trouble, Qian said. The US has been pressuring India to drop the latter's defense and oil ties with Russia. Zhu dubbed Wang's regional tour as "shuttle diplomacy," showing China's important role in mediating between regional parties on issues of common interests. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Seen above is the entrance of KB Financial Group's regulor shareholders' meeting at its headquarters in Seoul, Friday. Yonhap By Lee Min-hyung KB Financial Group failed once again to appoint a non-executive director recommended by its labor union during its regular shareholders' meeting. All eyes have been on whether the lender would be able to introduce a union-backed outside director for the first time in Korea after KB's union recommended as its outside director Kim Young-soo, former vice president of the state-run Export-Import Bank of Korea. But shareholders of the nation's largest financial holding firm by market capitalization voted against the agenda, only allowing Gangnung-Wonju National University professor Choi Jae-hong to become the group's new non-executive director due to his digital expertise. Kim failed to win the trust of shareholders. Earlier, the Institutional Shareholder Services, a proxy adviser, recommended KB shareholders to vote against the agenda of Kim taking on the role, casting doubt over whether his overseas financial expertise will offer a meaningful contribution to KB's foreign business expansion. KB's union has recommended candidates for the group's outside director five times since 2017, including Kim. But they were all rejected by shareholders. Woori Financial Group also held its regulator shareholders' meeting on the same day and approved a series of key agendas, including the appointment of Woori Bank CEO Lee Won-duk as its new non-executive director. Woori shareholders also voted in favor of Woori's decision to appoint Song Soo-young, a partner at law firm Shin & Kim, as its new outside director. The financial firm also laid the foundation to ensure shareholder value. The company succeeded in changing part of its articles of association guaranteeing interim dividend offerings on a regular basis. "The shareholders' meeting has enhanced our management structure by embracing gender diversity in the board of directors, while at the same time, setting up a basis for strengthening our shareholder return policy," an official at Woori said. National Tax Service (NTS) Commissioner Kim Dae-ji, left, shakes hands with Jim Harra, First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of the U.K. HM Revenue & Customs, after their meeting in London, March 22. Courtesy of NTS By Yoon Ja-young Korea's tax agency has shared its digitalization strategy in taxation with its counterparts in the U.K. and Bulgaria and also agreed to coordinate closely with them to tackle offshore tax evasion. The National Tax Service (NTS) said its commissioner Kim Dae-ji had a meeting with Jim Harra, First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of the U.K. HM Revenue & Customs, in London, March 22. At the meeting, the chiefs of the tax agencies of the two countries agreed that exactly grasping incomes and setting up an income data hub are essential in getting rid of blind spots in social welfare as well as enhancing efficiency in budget spending. National Tax Service (NTS) Commissioner Kim Dae-ji, right, shakes hands with Rumen Spetsov, the head of the National Revenue Agency of Bulgaria, after their meeting in Sofia, Bulgaria, March 24. Courtesy of NTS FILE - Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson testifies during her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, March 23, 2022. Empathy is not a quality many senators want to see in the next Supreme Court justice. The ability to empathize with another's plight has become a touchstone for Republican opposition to Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) White Oak Elementary School school resource officer Jeremy Destefanos police car is parked Wednesday in the schools parking lot. The Bogue Town Council voted Monday to join with other western county towns to pay a portion of the SRO position for the 2021-22 school year. (Cheryl Burke photo) Nashville-based, Grammy award-winning string band Old Crow Medicine Show, best known by many for its hit song Wagon Wheel, will headline the 32nd Beaufort Music Festival in May. (Contributed graphic) Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and consider subscribing for only $7 per month to get access to more articles and news as it happens. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mary S. Moore Mary S. Moore, SVP operations & omnichannel buyer engagement, Juniper by IMC, and founder and owner of The Cook's Warehouse, has been appointed chair of the Carter Center's Board of Councilors for 2022. The board comprises 215 members, who serve as a leadership advisory group that promotes understanding among opinion leaders and the broader community of The Carter Center and its activities. "Mary has demonstrated a sincere commitment to our mission since she joined the Board of Councilors in 2008," said Paige Alexander, Carter Center CEO. "We look forward to working even more closely with her in this new leadership role." As Board of Councilors chair for 2022, Moore follows outgoing chair Shyam K. Reddy, chief administrative officer, general counsel and corporate secretary, BlueLinx Corporation, and past chair Dan Cathy, chairman of Chick-fil-A. Moore is a graduate of Georgia State University. In 2020, Moore joined the leadership team of Juniper and IMC with responsibilities for both digital operations and omni-channel buyer engagement. Prior to joining Juniper by IMC, Mary in 1995 founded and led The Cook's Warehouse, award winning gourmet stores and cooking schools, combining her love of cooking and business. Moore has received numerous awards and has been recognized as a successful businesswoman and leader in the culinary industry. Among her many civic roles, Moore is a member of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, governing board member of Woodward Academy, past chair of the Atlanta Community Food Bank and past president, Les Dames d'Escoffier International Board. ### Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope. A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide. Photo: The Canadian Press Flowers lay at the men's entrance of the Quebec mosque in Quebec City, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017. The Supreme Court of Canada is debating whether the gunman who killed six men in a rampage at a Quebec City mosque in 2017 can be sentenced to more than 25 years in prison without the chance of parole. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot Canada's highest court turned its attention to the constitutionality of consecutive life sentences for multiple murders on Thursday, hearing arguments about whether the gunman who killed six men at a Quebec City mosque in 2017 can be sentenced to more than 25 years in prison. Alexandre Bissonnette was originally sentenced to life in prison without being eligible for parole for 40 years after pleading guilty to six counts of first-degree murder and six counts of attempted murder. On appeal, Quebec's highest court reduced that to a life sentence without parole eligibility for 25 years. On Thursday, Supreme Court of Canada Chief Justice Richard Wagner questioned Quebec Crown prosecutor Francois Gaudin on whether the consecutive sentences he's seeking amount to a death sentence for Bissonnette, since the killer would be 77 when he becomes eligible for parole. "According to your argument, sir, this gentleman will never get out of prison," Wagner said. Gaudin argued that consecutive sentences totalling 50 years of parole ineligibility are the only way to reflect the heinous nature of Bissonnette's crimes. He said that in Bissonnette's case, the ideals of rehabilitation and reintegration into society should be "secondary objectives." When Wagner noted that the average age at which prisoners die is 61, Gaudin replied, "If in prison he takes charge of his life, there's a chance he'll be freed." He added, "I understand it's at the age of 77." In sentencing Bissonnette in 2019, a Quebec Superior Court judge rewrote a 2011 federal law that granted courts the right to impose consecutive sentences in blocks of 25 years for multiple murders, saying the law amounted to cruel and unusual punishment. While he did not strike down the section of law, Justice Francois Huot rewrote it to give himself the discretion to deliver consecutive life sentences that are not in blocks of 25 years. The Court of Appeal agreed that consecutive sentencing violated the charter but decided the lower court judge erred in granting the killer a 40-year sentence. It said the court must revert to the law as it stood before 2011, meaning the parole ineligibility periods are to be served concurrently, resulting in a total waiting period of 25 years in Bissonnette's case. A lawyer representing the Quebec government argued Thursday there is an "iniquity" when a murderer who kills multiple people is given the same sentence as someone who kills one. Once again, Wagner noted that the death penalty was abolished in Canada in 1976 and that most Canadians disagree with the idea of an prisoner being incarcerated for life. "Rehabilitation is part of our fundamental values in the matter of sentencing," he told government lawyer Jean-Francois Pare. Pare, meanwhile, argued that the right for a judge to order consecutive sentences was brought in to "better reflect the seriousness of the sentences and the increased severity of the sentences for a multiple murderer." When questioned by Justice Russell Brown, Pare recognized that a 50-year sentence without parole was "absolutely" the equivalent of a life sentence. But a judge makes a decision that is "just and proportionate," and if that's not the case, it can be appealed, Pare said. "That's the problem," insisted Justice Mahmud Jamal. "The sentence does not recognize the possibility of rehabilitation." Justice Suzanne Cote, for her part, noted that the judge has limited discretion when it comes to sentencing, because Parliament decided first-degree murder sentences should run in blocks of 25 years. Bissonnette pleaded guilty in March 2018 to six counts of first-degree murder and six counts of attempted murder after he stormed into a mosque in Quebec City and opened fire on Muslim men as they prayed. His murder victims were Mamadou Tanou Barry, 42; Abdelkrim Hassane, 41; Khaled Belkacemi, 60; Aboubaker Thabti, 44; Azzeddine Soufiane, 57; and Ibrahima Barry, 39. In addition to the men killed, five others were struck by bullets. In their submission to the top court, Bissonnette's lawyers argued the Court of Appeal had correctly applied the law when it reduced his parole eligibility to 25 years. Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - White House Social Media Director Dan Scavino walks across the South Lawn of the White House to board Marine One in Washington, Oct. 3, 2019, to join President Donald Trump for a short trip to Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and then on to Florida. The House committee investigating the Capitol riot has set a vote for next week to consider contempt of Congress charges for two aides of former President Donald Trump. The committee will meet Monday to discuss whether to recommend referring for potential prosecution Trumps former trade adviser, Peter Navarro, and Dan Scavino, the onetime chief of staff for communications. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) The House committee investigating the Capitol riot said Thursday that it had set a vote for next week to consider contempt of Congress charges for two aides of former President Donald Trump. The committee will meet Monday to discuss whether to recommend referring for potential prosecution Trump's former trade adviser, Peter Navarro, and Dan Scavino, the onetime chief of staff for communications. The meeting marks the latest effort by the panel to hold witnesses accountable whom it sees as uncooperative. The panel is investigating events leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection aimed at preventing Congress from certifying the results of the presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden. The committee subpoenaed Navarro for his testimony in early February, seeking to question the Trump ally who promoted false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election. Though Navarro sought to use executive privilege to avoid cooperation, the Biden administration this month denied claims from him and another onetime Trump aide, former national security adviser Michael Flynn. In a statement Thursday, Navarro called the committee vote an unprecedented partisan assault on executive privilege. The committee knows full well that President Trump has invoked executive privilege and it is not my privilege to waive. Navarro it was premature for the committee to pursue criminal charges against an individual of the highest rank within the White House for whom executive privilege undeniably applies. Navarro said the dispute seemed inevitably headed to the Supreme Court, and until there was a resolution, the House committee should cease its tactics of harassment and intimidation. A lawyer for Scavino, who was subpoenaed last September, did not immediately return a message seeking comment. In laying out the need for Scavino's cooperation with the investigation, committee chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, said it appeared Scavino was with Trump on Jan. 6 and may have materials relevant to his videotaping and tweeting messages that day. The committee previously voted to recommend contempt charges against longtime Trump ally Steve Bannon after he defied a congressional subpoena, as well as against Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows after he ceased cooperating with the panel. The full House then approved both contempt referrals. Bannon was later indicted by a federal grand jury and is awaiting prosecution by the Justice Department. The Justice Department has not taken any action against Meadows. A group of angry farmers and fishermen stage a protest to call on the government to withdraw its plan to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) during a public hearing held at the government complex in the central city of Sejong, March 25. Korea's envisioned joining of the mega free trade deal could boost its real gross domestic product (GDP) up to 0.35 percent, but it could cause substantial damage to the agricultural and fisheries sector, the industry ministry said Friday. Yonhap Korea's envisioned joining of a mega free trade deal in the Asia-Pacific region could boost its real gross domestic product (GDP) up to 0.35 percent, but it could cause substantial damage to the agricultural and fisheries sector, the industry ministry said Friday. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy made public its assessment during a public hearing earlier in the day on the country's push to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Korea is working to submit an official application next month to joining the CPTPP, which involves 11 nations, including Vietnam, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand, and accounted for around 15 percent of the world's total trade volume of $5.2 trillion as of 2020. According to government assessments, the new trade deal is expected to boost Korea's trade, production, investment and employment, which would increase the country's real GDP 0.33 percent to 0.35 percent. In particular, net exports in the manufacturing industry are forecast to rise up to $900 million per year on average over the next 15 years, and the yearly production volume would increase by around 1.82 trillion won ($1.49 billion), the ministry said. The multilateral economic platform is also expected to help Seoul ensure stable supply chains and strengthen its strategic ties with partner nations, it added. But the market opening is likely to cause the production in the agricultural sector to fall by around 85.3 billion won to 440 billion won per year for 15 years to come, and the envisioned growth in fisheries imports would also reduce local production by a value of up to 72.4 billion won annually, according to the ministry. For compensation, the government vowed to come up with various support measures, such as subsidies to the affected businesses, tax incentives, and financial backing for their research and development. But the agricultural and fisheries circles are strongly opposed to the move, and dozens of angry farmers and fishermen staged a protest at the venue of Friday's hearing to disrupt the event. "We expect considerable negative impacts on those industries through the agreement, and we are trying to listen to their voices to develop appropriate support measures," industry ministry official Chun Yoon-jong said. (Yonhap) Photo: The Canadian Press Victoria has moved a step closer to introducing a voluntary reconciliation fund that will give homeowners the option of contributing financially to local Indigenous nations later this year. A majority of city council committee members voted in favour on Thursday of supporting the fund, which will ask homeowners to voluntarily add between five and 10 per cent extra to their annual property tax bill when tax notices are issued in June. The proposal goes to a final council vote on April 7. Mayor Lisa Helps says the plan is for the city to collect the money and provide it to the Victoria-area Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, along with a $200,000 reconciliation grant the council has previously approved. The mayor says many non-Indigenous people in Victoria have expressed wishes to do more for reconciliation and the council considers a voluntary financial contribution as a meaningful reconciliation commitment. Council member Stephen Andrew spoke out against the fund at the committee meeting, saying people are free to make contributions to local Indigenous nations on their own and don't need to look to a city program. "I support reconciliation efforts," says Andrew, who has announced his candidacy for mayor in this fall's municipal election. "However, this motion is yet another foray by this council into what is plainly provincial and federal jurisdiction. To me, this is straight virtue signalling." Photo: The Canadian Press Cassidy Caron, president of the Metis National Council. Metis leaders and residential school survivors say a trip to the Vatican to meet the Pope is as complicated as the history between their communities and the Roman Catholic Church itself. "Weve always had faith," Angelina Crerar, 85, said in Edmonton in December. "Weve never ever given up, and we never ever will." The residential school survivor became emotional explaining how her faith continues to give her strength. It also pushed her to join the Indigenous group heading to the Vatican. Metis, First Nation and Inuit delegates are flying to Rome this weekend ahead of meetings with Pope Francis next week. Crerar struggled to find words to express how she feels both empowered and torn. During a news conference announcing delegates from Alberta, she explained the church played a role in tearing apart her family and damaging her community. When Crerar was in a residential school, she knew what was happening wasnt right. She wanted to tell the person in charge the one at the top. Now, almost 80 years later, she finally can. Metis history and the Catholic Church is intertwined and knotty, said Mitch Case, a historian, regional councillor with Metis Nation Ontario and an intergenerational survivor of residential schools. "Everything is always 10 times more complicated than we think it is," Case said. "And certainly the relationship between the Metis communities and the Catholic Church is even more complicated than most things." That history goes back far. A Catholic priest played a significant role in Metis leader Louis Riels founding of what would become Manitoba. Rev. Noel-Joseph Ritchot led the delegation Riel sent to Ottawa to negotiate the provisional government's entry into Confederation. Riel himself was Catholic but also wrote about his issues with the church. Later, Case explained, Catholic priests in Saskatchewan went against the Metis during the Red River resistance. Some priests ran information to soldiers, refused to hear Metis confessions and excommunicated those who took part in the resistance. Elsewhere in Ontario, Case said, Protestant churches and the government relocated Catholic Metis communities. That created significant division with Metis people because the Catholic Church did not help them reclaim the land they lost over those religious affiliations, he said. But a large number of Metis are still Catholic and faith remains important in their lives, he added. When Metis children were taken away to residential and day schools, "the faith in the institution was really, really shaken and damaged and tarnished," Case said. An estimated 150,000 Indigenous children were forced to attend residential schools. More than 60 per cent of the schools were run by the Catholic Church. That travesty is separate from the spiritual component many people still have, said Cassidy Caron, president of the Metis National Council. "It's the institution of the Catholic Church that needs to rebuild the trust with our communities, not God, not the Creator, not the spirit," she said. For the eight Metis delegates going to the Vatican, the trip is not about demanding an apology from Pope Francis for the churchs role in residential schools, Caron said. But they do expect one when he visits Canada in the future. "It is a trip to go and meet with the Pope to share the stories of our nations and to really open our hearts to (him) ... so that he can start really to understand who we are, where we come from," she said. She wants to share stories not only of survivors but also talk about how Metis people are revitalizing their culture and how the church can support those efforts. Metis delegates will have a one-hour meeting with the Pope on Monday as well as a group meeting attended by all delegates on Friday. Caron said she has heard a lot of skepticism about the delegation, but there should be. There haven't been positive commitments from the Catholic Church and the Vatican in the past, she noted. She expects the trip to mean different things to different Metis. For her, success won't necessarily come when she is standing in front of the Pope. "It will be the successes that come afterwards, those followups from the Vatican and from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, if we get those commitments ... to continue this journey forward." Gary Gagnon of the Metis Settlement of St. Albert in Alberta said he is overwhelmed and still working out his feelings about being a delegate. "We have our stories going there," he said during the news conference. "Some of these stories are cemented. They are already done. But there should be new stories coming back. "That's what I'm looking for the new stories." Photo: The Canadian Press B.C. Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth and Shackan Indian Band Chief Arnie Lampreau view damage caused by last summer's wildfires and November's flooding. The chief of a First Nation in British Columbia's Nicola Valley that was evacuated by both wildfires and floods last year says he wants more land for the community in a safer area. Chief Arnie Lampreau of the Shackan Indian Band told B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth and Transportation Minister Rob Fleming during their visit on Thursday that the threat of extreme weather is a constant concern. At the end of the day, I dont want to have to sleep with one eye open or have to be running again, Lampreau said. The Shackan Indian Band, based along Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge, is among several communities facing difficult questions about how best to rebuild after disasters that the government has linked to climate change. After a summer wildfire destroyed the nearby community of Lytton, B.C., a series of heavy rainstorms pummelled the area in November, causing the river to swell and whole sections of the highway to slump off the hillside. It was the effect of so-called atmospheric rivers that washed over southern British Columbia, destroying sections of all the major highways linking Metro Vancouver with the Interior and spilling over dikes to flood farmland in Abbotsford. The nation declared a state of emergency on Nov. 15 to implement an evacuation order for all 45 properties on its reserve. It was lifted in February for most residents. Lampreau said he often weighs the cost of building temporary structures and protections for the land against moving. He stood at a pullout Thursday on the side of the highway flanked by Farnworth and Fleming, who were making their first visit to the area more than four months after the floods. The chief pointed across the Nicola River to remnants of a bridge swept away in the floods. It leads to a section of Shackans reserve lands where seven households haven't been able to go home. Lampreau is among them, living in temporary housing at a Trans Mountain pipeline work camp. "That's one of the reasons why I brought you guys out here, you get to see the devastation," Lampreau told the ministers. "You've seen it from the air," he said, referring to a flyover they did of the area previously, "but when you come here, it's different." Farnworth said after the tour that the significant loss of land is "unacceptable." "The land issue is a big one and it's an issue they have been talking with the province, but also the federal government about," Farnworth said. Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations did not immediately return a request for comment. "We're working with the community, we're looking at different places that might be suitable," he said, adding that it is still "very early" in the process, which would also involve the federal government. Following the floods and washouts across southern B.C., the Transportation Ministry and its contractors worked quickly to restore connections through the Fraser Valley on Highway 1 and Highway 7, along the Coquihalla and on Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon. However, Fleming said restoring Highway 8 has been particularly challenging. "Highway 8 is the trickiest," he said. "Literally seven kilometres of it disappeared into the river. We've driven on some stretches of it today that had disappeared that have been rebuilt." He couldn't provide an estimate for a full reopening, but said more information would be released in the coming months in partnership with the federal government. Rebuilding it "right" will mean using traditional knowledge as well as engineering strength in a way that adds social and economic benefits to the community, he said. Meeting survivors and seeing landscape in person made the impact of the wildfires and floods hit home, Fleming added. "It's really real to see and meet with people who've lost their homes and lost all the things that were valuable to them," he said. The ministers arrived at the Shackan reserves as part of a tour that was also expected to include other First Nations made up of the Scw'exmx, meaning "people of the creeks." Photo: The Canadian Press President Joe Biden visited U.S. troops stationed near Polands border with Ukraine on Friday and was getting a first hand look at the growing humanitarian response to the millions of Ukrainians who are fleeing to Poland to escape Russias assault on their homeland. Biden's first stop was with members of the U.S. Armys 82nd Airborne Division, visiting a barber shop and dining facility set up for the troops, where he invited himself to sit down and share some pizza. The Americans are serving alongside Polish troops. He arrived Friday afternoon at the airport in Rzeszow, the largest city in southeastern Poland, where some U.S. troops are based. With the troops, he shared an anecdote about visiting his late son, Beau Biden, while he was deployed in Baghdad and going by his mothers maiden name so as not to draw attention to himself. The president jokingly razzed one service member about his standard-issue short haircut and seriously praised the troops, too. You are the finest fighting force in the world and that's not hyperbole, Biden said before sitting down on a folding chair to eat with the group. He later addressed a group of soldiers in more formal remarks, telling them the nation owes you big. Biden also borrowed the words of the late Secretary of State Madeline Albright to underscore their place in a fragile moment for the U.S. and its European allies. "The secretary of state used to have an expression. She said, We are the essential nation," Biden told the troops. I don't want to sound philosophical here, but you are in midst of a fight between democracy and an an oligarch." He will be in Warsaw on Saturday for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and others. The Polish leader was to welcome Biden at the airport on Friday, but his plane was delayed by a technical problem. The European Union says some 3.5 million Ukrainians half of them children have fled the country, with more than 2.2 million ending up in Poland. The U.S. Congress this month approved spending more than $13 billion on humanitarian and military assistance for Ukraine. The administration has begun allocating those funds. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will hear directly from the American troops and humanitarian experts about the situation on the ground and what further steps need to be taken to make sure that were investing U.S. dollars in the right place. Biden, who spent Thursday lobbying U.S. allies to stay united against Russia, speculated that what he sees in Poland will reinforce my commitment to have the United States make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine. Speaking in Brussels after meetings with other world leaders, Biden said he had visited many war zones and refugee camps during his political career and it's devastating to see young children without parents or men and women with blank looks on their faces wondering, My God, where am I? What's going to happen to me? He said Poland, Romania and Germany shouldn't be left on their own to deal with the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. This is an international responsibility, Biden said shortly after he announced $1 billion in additional assistance to help Ukrainian refugees. He also announced that the United States would take in up to 100,000 of those refugees. The White House has said most Ukrainian refugees eventually want to return home. Biden said the United States is obligated to be engaged and do all we can to ease the suffering and pain of innocent women and children and men" who make it across the border. He said, I plan on attempting to see those folks ... I hope I get to see a lot of people. Some refugees interviewed Friday at the train station in Przemysl, Poland, said they hoped to eventually return to Ukraine. They also weren't very hopeful about Biden's visit. For sure I do not have any expectations" about Biden, said a tearful Ira Satula, 32, from Kremenchug. Satula was grateful for all the support and Poland's warm reception. But home is home, and I hope we'll be there soon," Satula said. Olga Antonovna, 68, from Chernigov, said its really 50-50" that Biden will help enough. I think that we needed help a long time ago, long before, she said. Sullivan said Biden will give a speech Saturday on the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world. Photo: The Canadian Press In this double exposure photograph, a sign displays the price of a litre of regular-grade gasoline as people fuel up their vehicles at an Esso gas station in Vancouver on March 8. The provincial government is raiding the surplus at ICBC to provide rebates to drivers to offset skyrocketing gas prices. One-time rebates of $110 for personal drivers and $165 for commercial drivers will start to go out to drivers starting in May. In total, $395M worth of rebates are being distributed. Premier John Horgan said the robust financial position of ICBC, following the shift to no-fault insurance, has made the driver kick back possible. We brought in legislation to prevent future governments from dipping into reserves at ICBC to pad their budgets. What we're doing here and for the two previous COVID benefits, is giving money back to the policyholders, to people who finance ICBC, he said. Horgan said the rapid rise in gas prices is directly the result of the war in Ukraine. The Premier said they opted for a rebate rather than direct tax relief at the pumps due to the advice of UBC economists that said tax relief would be replaced by a price increase by retailers. He claimed Albertas reduction in gas taxes would equate to just $5 in savings a week for drivers. Prior to the rise in gas prices there was already a discussion taking place about what the government should do with ICBCs profits. Horgan was asked if that means the insurance provider is overcharging. It isnt about too many policy dollars in the pot, Horgan said. It was about having a positive year end as a result of investments that the corporation makes on behalf of policyholders. It was also suggested ICBC could afford a rebate as large as $125, but Horgan says the government is moving cautiously due to the massive drag the corporation previously had on the provinces bottom line. A litre of gasoline is currently being sold for 187.9 cents in Kelowna, 191.0 in Kamloops and 163.9 in Calgary. Photo: Lex Brukovskiy Lex Brukovskiy takes refuge in a bomb shelter in Chernihiv, Ukraine. A Canadian lobster fisherman attempting to drive Ukrainian war refugees to safety says the Russian shelling of Chernihiv has trapped him in the city for three days as food and water supplies decrease. Speaking from a bomb shelter in the badly damaged northern city, Lex Brukovskiy says he feels the shelling is a "dirty" tactic targeting innocent people trying to escape the conflict. He is driving a van with about a dozen passengers, including women, children and the elderly, that is part of a humanitarian convoy trying to ferry refugees to safety in the western part of the country. Brukovskiy told The Canadian Press there is a limited supply of food and water and the heating and electricity doesn't work. He says shelling has destroyed a bridge that crossed a river leading out of Chernihiv, adding that other routes fill up rapidly with convoys of refugees attempting to flee whenever the shelling briefly subsides. The lobster harvester raised money for humanitarian aid and left his fishing boat in Meteghan, N.S., two weeks ago to come to Ukraine a country where he spent his childhood and where most of his family lives. He said the situation for refugees in the city is growing increasingly desperate after a month of attacks. "We're stuck. We don't know what to do," he said in an interview. "We're hoping for the best. We're hoping somebody will negotiate some kind of corridor for us, or send some military to help us get out." Being born and raised in Canada, as a younger man I was always a proud Canadian. In the last 20 years, it has become harder and harder to be proud of our country. Unfortunately, in my opinion Canada has spiralled down in so many categories. As in many countries, the politicians who have been running the country have basically ruined a once, productive, hard working, progressive country. The level of incompetence in the different political partiesyes I blame all of them, not just the current joker running the showhas taken us to a place Im not sure we will ever recover from. It has gotten to the point where things have deteriorated so bad, my wife and I have decided to sell everything and move to Mexico. We know we will have many challenges learning a new culture, language and how to slow our lives down and enjoy life again. We will be leaving behind family and friends and can only hope for the best for all. I dont know how they will be able to afford the cost of living, as our politicians just keep taxing everyone to death. Im surprised (Prime Minister Justin) Trudeau hasnt passed a bill for collecting a death tax yet. Good luck to all, you are going to need it. Steve Winser, Penticton Photo: The Canadian Press The European Union set the stage for a stepped-up crackdown on big tech companies with an agreement on landmark digital rules to rein in online gatekeepers" such as Google and Facebook parent Meta. EU officials agreed late Thursday on wording for the bloc's Digital Markets Act, part of a long-awaited overhaul of its digital rulebook. The act, which still needs other approvals, seeks to prevent tech giants from dominating digital markets, with the threat of whopping fines or even the possibility of a company breakup. For instance, they face tighter restrictions on using people's data for targeted online ads a primary source of revenue for Google and Facebook while different messaging services or social media platforms would be required to work together. The new rules underscore how Europe has become a global pacesetter in efforts to curb the power of tech companies through an onslaught of antitrust investigations, stringent regulations on data privacy and proposed rules for areas like artificial intelligence. What we have been deciding about yesterday will start a new era in tech regulation," the European Union's lead lawmaker Andreas Schwab, said at a press conference Friday. The same day, however, the European Union reached a preliminary agreement with the U.S. that paves the way for Europeans personal data to be stored in the U.S. In its crackdown on tech giants, the EU also has another set of rules, the Digital Services Act, that aim to ensure online safety for users through stricter requirements to flag and remove harmful or illegal content or services like hate speech and counterfeit goods. Both are expected to take effect by October, EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager said. The European Consumer Organisation, or BEUC, welcomed the agreement on the Digital Markets Act, saying it would help consumers by creating fairer and more competitive digital markets. Digital rights group EDRi said it will narrow the power imbalance between people and online platforms." Tech companies were less enthusiastic. Apple said it was concerned that parts of the Digital Markets Act will create unnecessary privacy and security vulnerabilities for our users while others will prohibit us from charging for intellectual property in which we invest a great deal." Google said it will study the text and work with regulators to implement it. While we support many of the DMAs ambitions around consumer choice and interoperability, we remain concerned that some of the rules could reduce innovation and the choice available to Europeans," the company said. Amazon said it is reviewing what the rules mean for its customers. Meta, which also owns Instagram and WhatsApp, didn't reply to a request for comment. The Digital Markets Act includes a number of eye-catching, groundbreaking measures that could shake up the way big tech companies operate. They wouldn't be allowed to rank their own products or services higher than those of others in search results. That means Amazon, for example, wouldn't be allowed to list its own brand of goods ahead of rival offerings from independent merchants. Essential software or apps such as web browsers can't be installed by default along with the operating system, in the same way Google's Chrome comes bundled with Android phones. There's also a measure aimed at loosening Apple's stranglehold on iPhone apps through its App Store. A users personal data also couldn't be combined for targeted ads unless explicit consent is given. That would prevent Google from collecting information on YouTube viewing, online searches, travel history from Maps and Gmail conversations to build a profile to serve up personalized ads, unless users agree to each one. Messaging services and social media platforms must work with each other to avoid the domination of a few companies that have already established big networks of users. That opens up the possibility, for example, of Telegram or Signal users being able to exchange messages with WhatsApp users. Online services would have to ensure that users can opt out just as easily as they can sign up. That's "aimed at services where it's super easy to sign up boom, youre a customer but unsubscribe is hidden under three levels of menus," such as Amazon Prime, said Jan Penfrat, senior policy adviser at EDRi. They push it on to you with big, colorful buttons, but getting out of it is really difficult. Criteria for defining a gatekeeper under the rules have been tweaked to include companies that earn at least 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) in annual revenue in Europe in the past three years, have a market value of 75 billion euros, provide services in at least three EU countries, and have 45 million users and 10,000 business users each year in the bloc. Violations could be punished with whopping fines: up to 10% of a companys annual income. Repeat offenders could be fined up to 20% of worldwide revenue, which could amount to billions of dollars for wealthy Silicon Valley companies. Negotiators from the European Parliament and European Council, which represents the 27 EU member countries, reached the deal after months of talks. It now needs to be endorsed by the Council and the European Parliament. Photo: Pexels In the virtual world, people create or wear avatars, a character they wish to be in that world. However, as online users are finding out, contempt toward women and resulting inappropriate behaviour isnt confined to the real world; its happening in the virtual world as well. Its led two Canadians lawyers, Kevin Stenner and Mihai Beschea, to suggest that if an avatar is an extension of a person, then an abuse toward the avatar is an abuse toward the person. With the blurring of the lines between the virtual and physical world, it is time for our laws to be updated so that our avatars in the metaverse and our physical selves are protected by the same laws, they said. In a March 22 commentary, the lawyers said the avatar of a female beta tester was groped on Metas virtual reality platform, Horizon Worlds. Horizon Worlds is Metas Facebooks parent company first attempt at an expansive, immersive and multi-user VR world. Users create an avatar and then, using a virtual reality headset, explore and engage in that world. It was there, the lawyers said, that the female users avatar was groped. Dr. Jeremy Turner, a cognitive science instructor at Simon Fraser University, says there is a visceral nature to embodied interactions in social virtual reality. It gets even weirder when a cisgender straight guy wears a female avatar and gets quickly sexually assaulted by other guys it happened to me more than once in VR chat, Turner said. I would imagine its the same as being groped in real life. The experience felt very real. I felt horrible, he said. Oh, this is what women go through, he recalled thinking. Turner said VR interactions might be a good way for society to become sensitized to the kinds of sexual assault and violence people experience in everyday life. It certainly enhanced my empathy in a very direct way. Its instant. People are on you right away, he said. Some people think its OK to grope. Theres no social protocols. Norms are gone. The instructor noted there could be a teachable moment, perhaps a chance to learn how to be in someone else's shoes, by wearing an avatar different than one's self. Still, the lawyers think the laws should be examined. Sadly, misogyny towards women on the internet is nothing new, but this recent incident raises the question of if our current sexual assault laws (criminal and civil) are sufficient to cover and protect users of the metaverse from similar situations, Stenner and Beschea said. However, the suggestions that harm could result from virtual groping has already led to Facebook taking steps to deal with it. In February, Horizon vice-president Vivek Sharma announced a four-foot personal boundary between avatars. Earlier this month, Meta customized the feature to allow users to optionally turn the setting off or control when it's enabled. This builds upon our existing hand harassment measures that were already in place, where an avatars hands would disappear if they encroached upon someones personal space, Sharma said Feb. 4. Although many may shrug this off by saying, Whats the big deal? Its virtual, its a game, we staunchly disagree with this sentiment, Stenner and Beschea said. With the line between the virtual and physical worlds becoming blurred at a rapid rate, we need to ensure that our laws can meet the challenges of operating in a virtual world. They explained that the end goal of VR is to create an experience so immersive that it appears real. It is becoming increasing more difficult to determine where the physical world ends and the virtual world begins, they lawyers said. The purpose of the metaverse is to create a virtual environment that is an extension of the physical world, they said. So, if the metaverse is an extension of the physical world, any sexual assault in that virtual world needs to be treated as just that a sexual offence. Canadian law provides a two-part test for sexual battery: was the victim intentionally touched in a sexual manner and was it harmful or offensive? It is clear that unwanted groping or unwanted sexual conduct, whether in the physical or virtual world, is harmful and offensive. As such, the second part of the test is satisfied, the lawyers said. Then, the question becomes, was the victim touched? In our Horizon Worlds groping example, the victim was intentionally groped virtually, but was the victim touched, as defined in the legal sense of word, to constitute civil sexual assault? The courts could find themselves grappling with the interpretation of the word physical and if the physical application of force includes virtual touching. Then theres punishment. Should punishment be limited only to the users avatar by suspending their account or placing the user in some sort of virtual prison? the lawyers asked. Perhaps a financial consequence in the metaverse might be more significant than a traditional criminal one for crime occurring in the virtual space. Or should dealing with such behaviour be left to Horizon? We recognize that we are bordering on the realm of creating a dystopia, but the virtual world will have to grapple with issues of free will versus user safety, Stenner and Beschea said. Further, what kind of sexual interaction should be allowed in virtual worlds? Should such interaction be regulated between consenting adults? The groping incident explored above opens Pandoras box regarding laws, sex and violence in the metaverse, Stenner and Beschea said. It should be no surprise we are discussing this; as a society we have been grappling with these issues as they apply to social media, gaming, and the use of the internet. The metaverse is coming faster than we think, and we need to ensure our laws are ready for it, they said. Photo: Glacier Media A 22-year-old man, who was jailed for 10 years this week for his part in a gruesome New Westminster killing, still faces a series of child sex charges in Richmond. Carlo Tobias made the headlines earlier this week when he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for manslaughter - and accessory after the fact to murder - in the killing of New Westminster resident Ma Cecilia Loreto, whose body was found burning in a Burnaby park a year ago. According to court records, Tobias is alleged to have sexually interfered with a minor somewhere in Richmond between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30, 2020. Tobias, who is understood to live in Richmond, is also charged with sexual assault, invitation to touching and possession of child porn. A spokesperson for the BC Prosecution Service said Tobias next court appearance will be May 20 this year. The Criminal Code of Canada defines sexual interference as touching for a sexual purposedirectly or indirectly, with a part of the body or with an object, any part of the body of a person under the age of 16 years. Tobias and a 15-year-old, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, were originally charged with first degree murder and indignity to human remains after Loretos body was found in Greentree Village Park in the early morning hours of March 18, 2021. On Tuesday, however, Tobias pleaded guilty to manslaughter and acting as an accessory after the fact to murder instead. In a joint sentencing submission, Crown prosecutor Jay Fogel and defence lawyer Mathew Nathanson called for a 10-year prison sentence, meaning Tobias would have eight-and-a-half years left to serve. Loreto was killed inside her New Westminster home, where Tobias and the youth had lain in wait for her return from work on the afternoon of March 17, 2021. Tobias stepped out from behind a door he was hiding behind and punched 49-year-old Loreto in the face, knocking her unconscious, but Loreto was still alive. The teen, who will be tried separately, then stabbed Loreto twice with a kitchen knife. Tobias had not seen the knife prior to the stabbing, Fogel said. Tobias and the youth, who were known to each other and to Loreto, then wrapped her body up with blankets and tape. They later took Loretos body to the park, poured gasoline on it and set it on fire. Police found her body later that morning, after a nearby resident reported the fire. Four days later, Tobias confessed to his family and then turned himself in to Richmond RCMP. Gala Mendez, right, broadcasts her radio show "Shot de Soju" out of a studio at the Autonomous University of Nayarit with her friend Genesis Canela. Courtesy of Gala Mendez By Lee Hae-rin "Annyeonghaseyo! Bienvenidos, bienvenidas!" With Leenalchi's "Tiger is Coming" playing in the background, Gala Mendez greets her listeners in Korean and Spanish every Friday on her radio show "Shot de Soju" meaning "a shot of soju" in Spanish. Mendez, 24, has been producing and hosting the program on Radio UAN, the Autonomous University of Nayarit's own radio station, to introduce Korea to Mexicans and Spanish-speakers around the world. She has aired 27 episodes on the country's culture, current issues and traditions since last August. "'Shot de Soju' is like a little taste of Korea," Mendez explained on the meaning of the program's name in an interview with The Korea Times, Thursday. "I think soju is a beverage that unites people to enjoy a good time. When we were thinking about the name, we wanted our listeners to feel that way." As a communications major graduate, Mendez started the project with the help of three friends who are also interested in Korean culture: Genesis, Nataly and Vanessa. Mendez said her first contact with Korea was via the 2016 K-drama "Boys Over Flowers." Her interest in Korean culture led her to join an undergraduate program on Korean studies, where her Korean professor offered her a chance to start the project. Logo of Mendez's radio program, "Shot de Soju." / Courtesy of Gala Mendez Photo: Glacier Media Crysta Lynn David met up with some friends at a New Westminster nightclub on the night of March 20, 1992. It would be the last time she was seen alive. When her grandmother Edna Hickey couldnt get in touch with her, she contacted the New Westminster Police Department. Officers entered her suite and discovered the body of David, who had been sexually assaulted and strangled. Each March, Davids godmother Lorna Darby phones the New Westminster Police Department to see if there have been any developments in the case. There doesnt seem to be anything new, she said. In February, Vancouver police announced they had identified the remains of two children who had been murdered and found in Stanley Park in 1953. Darby hasnt given up hope that her goddaughters killer will be found. Those two bodies in Stanley Park, they identified them after so many years, Darby said. The grandmother, Edna Hickey, her one goal in life was to find out who murdered Crysta. Unfortunately she died without knowing that. I have just taken it upon myself to phone every year. According to Darby, David had been living with her grandmother in a home near Tipperary Park until March 1, 1992, when she moved into a small basement suite in the 1100 block of Fourth Avenue. On March 10, she turned 21 and less than two weeks later she was dead. It was so hard on Edna, she recalled. She didnt want Crysta to move out in the first place. Crysta was her baby not her baby, but she was so close to Crysta. But Crysta wanted her independence. Media reports from March 1992 stated David was last seen on the evening of Friday, March 20, 1992 at a former bar in downtown New West called California Dreamin, located in the vicinity of todays New Westminster SkyTrain station. She was found deceased in her residence five days later. The victim had arrived at the club at round 11:30 p.m. and is believed to have left at approximately 2:15 a.m., a New Westminster police officer told the Province newspaper at the time of her death. The victim sat near the nightclubs pool tables and was last seen talking to an unknown blond male towards the end of the evening. With March 2022 marking 30 years since Davids murder, Darby hopes someone may come forward with that may help solve the case. Where are they with it? Whats happening? Dont forget Crysta, she said, when asked if she has a message for police investigators. I am just hoping that after 30 years that maybe somebody else has a conscience of knowing something. Darby said Davids grandmother died in October 2013 never knowing who had killed her granddaughter, and Davids mother still longs for answers about her daughters death. New Westminster Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Sanjay Kumar said Davids murder is very much an active and open investigation with the departments major crime unit. Our detectives acknowledge that families of homicide victims will never forget the loss of their loved one, regardless of the passage of time and hope to one day receive news that a perpetrator has been identified and arrested, he said in a statement to the Record. Our major crime unit detectives havent forgotten about this case, and neither should the community. The New Westminster Police Department did not respond to specific questions from the Record about the case, such as whether there have ever been suspects in Davids murder and whether DNA has been a factor in the investigation. Police ask anyone who has information about Davids murder and has not yet spoken to police to call the NWPD at 604-525-5411. Photo: The Canadian Press Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos rises during Question Period in Ottawa, Thursday, March 24, 2022. Duclos held a press conference Friday to announce new support for health care. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos says the federal government will commit another $2 billion to help provincial health systems work through their surgical and diagnostic backlogs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The money, included in the newly tabled Bill C-17, follows a $4-billion top-up to the federal health transfer last summer and is expected to be a one-time payment, distributed equally based on population. Throughout the pandemic hospitals across the country had to delay non-emergency procedures to make way for urgent COVID-19 cases. That has led to delayed care for millions of Canadians, on top of already lengthy wait lists for many procedures and diagnostic tests. In a report released last month, the Ontario Medical Association estimated the pandemic had delayed 21 million patient services in that province alone, including surgeries for preventative care, cancer screenings and diagnostic tests. In addition, it said doctors are reporting that patients "who would have been diagnosed and treated sooner are coming in later and sicker" because of the pandemic. "These delays are a burden that can be very hard to bear for the affected patients, their families and their loved ones, as well as for the health-care workers caring for them," Duclos said. The Liberals promised an immediate $6-billion investment to address backlogs during the 2021 federal election campaign. Provinces have been asking for the federal government to provide an increased share of health spending on a long-term basis so they can make more sustainable changes to address the stress on their health-care systems. Duclos laid out what he called the federal government's vision for collaboration with the provinces and territories on health care, citing bilateral deals the government has made in child care and housing as an example. "We need to acknowledge that if we do not act quickly and decisively, the long-term survival of the universal and public health system Canadians cherish is at risk," Duclos said. "Canadians are not interested in a jurisdictional debate or a fiscal or financial fight." This collaboration will focus on five priority areas, the minister said: backlogs and recruitment and retention of health-care workers; access to primary care; long-term care and home care; mental health and addictions; and digital health and virtual care. Bill C-17 would also provide municipalities the authority to deal with transit shortfalls and improve housing supply and affordability, in partnership with the provinces and territories. The federal government already announced a transfer of $750 million, a one-time payment to help cities maintain service levels despite decreased transit ridership as a result of the pandemic. The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed concern over the increasing polarisation among political parties ahead of the no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan. In a joint statement, HRCP chairperson Hina Jailani, Secretary-General Harris Khalique, PFUJ President Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi said that in the charged political atmosphere there is a real danger of a violent clash among political parties in the run up to the National Assembly (NA) session convened on Friday to take up the vote of no confidence against the prime minister, The News International reported. According to the statement, breakdown of law and order and violent clash will not only undermine a constitutional political process inside the House but also play directly into the hands of undemocratic forces. Being nonpartisan, the PFUJ and HRCP believe in upholding principles of democracy, constitutionalism and parliamentary supremacy wherein the Parliament is allowed freely to perform its functions under the Constitution, The News International. "We have high hopes in the wisdom and sagacity of all political parties to heed the voice of reason and caution", the statement further said. The Opposition parties in Pakistan are jettisoning mutual hatred to oust Imran Khan as they submitted the no-trust motion in the National Assembly secretariat on March 8. Khan is set to face a no-confidence vote against him today. (ANI) Also Read: Pakistan: IMF asks Pak for changes in personal income tax Turkcimento starts to see impact of Russian-Ukrainian war following a challenging year 25 March 2022 Fatih Yucelik, chairman of the Board of Directors of Turkcimento, expressed that the Turkish cement sector has started to observe the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine crisis very heavily and fast. Mr Yucelik said, The meeting we held with Mehmet Mus, Minister of Commerce, last week on the Russian-Ukrainian crisis took place in a very productive and constructive atmosphere. Even if this crisis keeps on in the forthcoming period, the solution-oriented approach of the Minister, the instructions he gave during the meeting, and his statements regarding the measures that will be taken and yield hope for our sector. Turkish cement industry performance in 2021 The Turkish cement sector went through challenging times in 2021, particularly with the increases experienced in energy costs, in the process that started with the pandemic. In 2021 the production of the Turkcimento members increased by 9.2 per cent YoY to 78.9Mt, representing a total capacity utilisation of 71 per cent. Domestic sales, which represent around 77.5 per cent of output by Turkcimento members, advanced by 8.2 per cent to 60.2Mt in 2021. An increase in domestic sales was observed in all regions except eastern Anatolia. With the estimated data of plants that are not members of Turkcimento, domestic market consumption which was approximately 59.2Mt in 2020, increased to 62.7Mt in 2021, a rise of by 5.9 per cent. Total export volumes declined by 1.9 per cent to 30.8Mt, consisting of 18.3Mt of cement exports and 12.5Mt of clinker exports. However, total export values increased by 12.7 per cent YoY to US$1.256bn. The most important export markets for Turkish cement are the USA, Israel, Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana. Summary and outlook Mr Yucelik said, As the cement sector, we continued our activities in 2021 under difficult conditions, following 2020 in which we achieved a growth of approximately 23 per cent. We predict four per cent growth in our sector in line with the economic growth target in 2022. The assumption that 2023 is the beginning of a period in which the impacts of the pre-election uncertainties and the pandemic decline and that new investments will start from the 2H22 gives us hope for an increase in our domestic sales. We predict four per cent growth in our sector in line with the economic growth target in 2022. Despite this growth, we unfortunately do not expect that the sector will reach the level of 75Mt of domestic sales at the end of 2017, the year in which they started to contract. Published under This service applies to you if your subscription has not yet expired on our old site. You will have continued access until your subscription expires; then you will need to purchase an ongoing subscription through our new system. Please contact The Chanute Tribune office at 620-431-4100 if you have any questions An alleged test-firing of a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile from an undisclosed location in North Korea, March 24, is seen in this photo distributed by the North Korean government. Yonhap The United States has imposed fresh sanctions on five entities based in Russia and North Korea related to North Korea's missile program, the U.S. Department of State said Thursday (local time). The move came after North Korea launched its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in over four years Thursday (KST), lifting its self-imposed moratorium on long-range missile testing that had been in place since late 2017. "The United States today announced sanctions on five entities and individuals located in Russia and the DPRK, and one entity in the People's Republic of China (PRC) for proliferation activities under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a press release. DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the North's official name. Danville teenager charged in fatal hit-and-run now being held WITHOUT bond; Caswell County man to spend 20 years in prison on multiple counts of sex offenses involving a minor; Group building Mountain Valley Pipeline hopes third time the charm. A UTC student was found dead in an on-campus apartment on Wednesday. The student was found during a routine room-safety check. The Chattanooga Police Department's narcotics division is investigating the death, and no foul play is suspected. Here is a release from UTC's Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs Yancy Freeman: UTC Community, I am saddened to report the death of one of our students today, Wednesday, March 23, 2022. The student was found to be non-responsive in their on-campus apartment during a routine scheduled room-safety check. The UTC Police Department responded as well as the Chattanooga Police Department and emergency medical services. The death was confirmed by emergency medical professionals. The Chattanooga Police Department is currently investigating the death, but there is no foul play suspected. We will not release the name of the student to protect the privacy of the family and friends who are directly impacted by this death. Losing a member of our campus community is a tragedy, and University resources are available 24/7 to help students, faculty, and staff in need. UTC CARES can be reached at www.utc.edu/care or by calling (423) 425-CARE (2273). If you have been impacted by this student death, I would encourage students to seek counseling services from our Counseling Center located in the University Center, Room 338. Additionally, faculty and staff may use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), an employee benefit for counseling and other services. I want to take this opportunity to remind the campus community about the Community Member of Concern Form (www.utc.edu/coc). If you are concerned about the well-being of a friend, classmate, or colleague, please complete this form to alert our campus resource providers. UTC Mocs are a caring community, so please dont hesitate to use these resources for help. Newly released data from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development showed Tennessee recorded another month of lower unemployment in February. It marked the second consecutive month of decreased jobless numbers across the state. The February 2022 seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.4 percent was a 0.1 of a percentage point drop from Januarys rate of 3.5 percent. The new figure came in 1.6 percentage points lower than the 2021 rate of 5 percent. Tennessee employers created thousands of new jobs during the month. Between January and February, workers filled 19,000 nonfarm positions. The largest increases were in the construction sector, followed by the administrative, support, and waste services sector, and then the accommodation and food services sector. Between 2021 and 2022, nonfarm employment across Tennessee grew by 129,500 jobs. The largest increase came in the leisure and hospitality sector. The trade, transportation, and utilities sector had the second-largest increase, followed by the professional and business services sector. Unemployment across the United States also dropped slightly in February. The nationwide seasonally adjusted rate inched down by 0.2 of a percentage point to 3.8 percent. One year ago, the national jobless rate was 6.2 percent. A complete analysis of Tennessees February 2022 unemployment data, including industry-specific statistics, is available here. Jobs4TN.gov has tens of thousands of job postings from employers in and around Tennessee, including many work-from-home job opportunities. Tennesseans have access to both online and in-person job seeker services where career specialists can help them devise a back-to-work plan. They can access those services at their local American Job Center or the states workforce development websites. All the information needed to get started is available at www.TNWorkReady.com. The state of Tennessee will release the February unemployment data for each county on Thursday, March 31, at 1:30 p.m. CDT. As we prepare to elect judicial system candidates, please pay attention to the fact that the person elected to be judge or district attorney serves a special role in our society and is in office for eight years. The discussion by candidates for the bench are mute while the contestants for the district attorney are loud, limiting debate to who will be the toughest on television drama-based crime issues, not who will be the best lead prosecutor for our district. I ask the voters to be aware that the DA is the most powerful player on the stage because the power to decide who is prosecuted rests within his or her hands. You must find out which candidate can be trusted to administer equal justice under the law in a way that guarantees citizen protection, not selected enforcement based upon social status, race, gender or any other constitutionally forbidden criteria. The mission of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Please use the power of your vote to help us reach those goals. Thank you. Quenston Coleman, Past Vice President Chattanooga Branch NAACP Although he died in 1994 prior to the large local migration from California, New York, and other high tax locales in America to the once Scenic City of the South (Chattanooga), Lewis Grizzard made a correct prognostication in his repeat of an article in the Sunday edition of the Atlanta Journal Constitution that was published in 1998 by Longstreet (this cant still be their name?) Press that was edited by Gerrie Ferris titled Southern by the Grace of God. The migration patterns that brought northeasterners to Atlantas elite northern suburbs also sent people from other regions to spots around the metro area. These settling patternshave brought a new sense of place to dozens of Atlanta neighborhoods, influencing everything from local politics to the inventory at the corner grocery store. -page 1 of chapter 1 Born Right There are 178 pages of short articles that had to be repeats of his humorous columns that ran in syndication in 450 newspapers across the nation before his death stopped him from typing out his gut-busters on his manual Royal typewriter at the age of 47. In my 2022 goal to attempt to read (or re-read) all of his published books as a sequel to my 2021 hang gliding episode I often sit down looking for a good laugh by the sometimes Mark Twain of the South (although the good folks up in Jamestown in Frentress County claim Samuel Clements mother was with child when the family moved to Florida, Missouri and then on to Hannibal). The aforementioned paragraph constantly aroused in my mind a comparison of Atlanta to the perceived progressive town of my birth (now Gig City). In two consecutive articles LG addresses the topics of Georgian by Birth and Southern by the Grace of God which easily could be translated into the lives of any native born Chattanooga. Although I try to quote and rely primarily upon the written words and expertise of Moreland, Georgia with some not so subtle amateur remarks, I wish that LG was still here to put his spin and analysis of some things that often apply to other residents of the Dynamo of Dixie: (past tense) (1) The representative of the purchaser of the large apartment complex on Broad Street next to the not-so-fragrant smell of the chicken factory claims that we are in line to be the next Austin, Texas or Nashville, Tennessee, (folks before you jump on these band wagons, I suggest you look up their problems with expansion.) (2) The reduction of four lanes of traffic in some of the main entrance routes into the Downtown into two (one going each way) with bicycle lanes on each side of the street. I see a bicycle rider about once every three weeks on my way to and from work; (P.S. I did see a bike rider on 3-7-22 but he was on the sidewalk). (3) Since the City Mayoral elections are over, I can now comment that I have not seen our daily elected Chief of State of Choo Choo Town (remember that?) on the streets with his beach shovel and bucket of tar filling in potholes. (I can hopefully wait until the next election, but I dont know if the axle on my vehicle can!) (4) The announced crack down on speeders may result in brownie points to get more taxpayer money from NHSTA (National Highway Safety Transportation Administration) and GHSC (Governors Highway Safety Commission) but when you are vehicle number 9 behind a CARTA bus that stops frequently to pick up 2-3 riders and a tractor trailer rig from Ohio that missed the turn to get off of the freeway down in a single lane it is not a soothing experience. (5) Will the $343 million upgrade of the antiquated sewer system since shortly after WWI and 10 years of ignored provisions of the 20-year consent decree time limit be corrected and my property taxes be lowered? (6) Will the 40 x 50 two story houses on every vacant lot that can be acquired by developers and sold to the cash heavy refugees from California, New York, etc. further reduce the load on the sewer system and the proposed three additional sewage storage tanks be designed to enhance the beauty of other residential areas? I admit that by asking these questions I am well beyond my talents and literary ability. Wouldnt it be great if Lewis Grizzard, Jr. was still alive and could expand on any of these issues with his original and creative magic! (His genius would likely have the medicinal effect of shrinking the anatomy of a certain area of politicians posteriors)! * * * You can reach Jerry Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com) A Chatsworth, Ga., man has been sentenced to 13 years in state prison in the traffic death of a man he "incorrectly believed had stolen his wallet and cell phone." Billy Ray Burke, 38, of 2916 Smyrna-Ramhurst Road, entered a guilty plea on Wednesday to all charges in his indictment including homicide by vehicle in the first degree, serious injury by vehicle, driving under the influence and reckless driving. Pursuant to a negotiated plea agreement, Burke was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Jim Wilbanks to serve the 13 years in prison followed by 12 years on probation. Burke was represented by Micah Gates of the Public Defenders Office. District Attorney Bert Poston said, "On June 14, 2021, Burke drove his vehicle, a 2013 Hyundai Genesis, at speeds over 100 miles per hour on Smyrna-Ramhurst pursuing Adam Lamar Harrington who he incorrectly believed had stolen his wallet and cell phone. As Burke caught up to Harringtons 1999 Mazda pickup truck, going over twice Harringtons speed, it appears that he misjudged the distance and the speed difference, applying the brakes moments before impact. The collision caused Harringtons vehicle to literally cartwheel off the roadway, coming to rest in a tree. Harrington was ejected and died from injuries sustained in the collision. Harringtons passenger, James Aubrey Martin, remained in the vehicle and suffered serious life-threatening injuries including a broken neck. Burkes vehicle also left the roadway, striking a landscaping boulder and flipping completely over to land back on its wheels. Burke suffered less severe injuries, but did have to be hospitalized. "Previously, the two victims, Harrington and Martin, had been at Burkes residence and all had gone swimming in Burkes pool. Martin later described Burke as being extremely intoxicated. After Harrington and Martin left, headed north on Smyrna-Ramhurst Road, Burke apparently could not locate his wallet or cell phone and came to believe that Harrington had taken them. The cell phone later turned up at Burkes residence. It is not known if Burke ever located his wallet. The wallet was not found in Harringtons vehicle or at the crash scene. "Burke appeared intoxicated to deputies and troopers at the scene who also observed on odor of alcohol coming from him. Because of his injuries, no field sobriety tests were performed and he was transported to the hospital as soon as possible. Burke ended up at Erlanger and by the time blood was drawn for testing, several hours had passed and the test came back negative. Nevertheless, Burke admitted through is plea that he was under the influence of alcohol to the extent that it was less safe to drive, and that his high-speed pursuit constituted reckless driving and that both offenses caused the death of Harrington and serious injury to Martin. At sentencing, Burke stated to Harringtons family how sorry he was for what he had done. Burke had one prior DUI conviction from 2011." The City of Rossville is launching a banner project of "brighter colors for a brighter future." "For far too long, the City of Rossville has been associated with abandoned buildings and boarded up windows," officials said. "But now, change is on the horizon as local leaders and community members are actively working to improve the perception and appearance of the city they love. "If youve driven down McFarland Avenue or Chickamauga Avenue in the past week, you likely noticed the new, brightly colored banners lining both sides of the street. These banners arent just meant to add color and personality to downtown Rossville, but they represent a much larger vision that started over four years ago." In February 2017, Elizabeth Wells, Sally Morrow, Susan Wells and Margaret Smith began leading Rossville through the Thriving Communities Initiative, a program developed by the Thrive Regional Partnership. The program was facilitated by Bridge Innovate and initially funded by utilizing a grant from the Lyndhurst Foundation. Thriving Communities is a program intended to build economic and community development resources in struggling towns and cities. Ms. Wells, along with a group of volunteers, elected officials, and Public Works staff first set their sights on reviving the community park around the Rossville Duck Pond. The group raised $125,000 in donations of materials and labor to complete the phase 1 rehabilitation of what is now known as John Ross Commons. Donors for the project included Tennessee American Water Company, the Barn Nursery, EPB, Edwards Sod Farm and Yerbey Construction. Since that initial project, more recent phases have included improvements to the fencing around the ponds, new sidewalks and a solar-powered speaker box that narrates the history of John Ross with the press of a button. Over the next few years, Ms. Wells worked to get Rossville successfully designated as a Federal Opportunity Zone and included in Georgias Rural Tax Credit program. These programs provide significant tax benefits for anyone willing to invest in property and start or relocate a business inside designated areas of the city. In 2019, Susan Wells was appointed the interim director of the Rossville Downtown Development Authority, a board made up of community members and local business owners focused on revitalizing Rossvilles downtown area. Ms. Wells resigned her post in December 2021 and the Rossville City Council confirmed Tobey Hill as the new executive director. The RDDA is currently active and holds public meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at the Rossville Public Library. All these contributions have amounted to millions of dollars of investment into Rossville over the past four years, and many more millions of dollars worth of proposed projects planned for the coming years. The final chapter of Rossvilles Thriving Communities program was the development of city-wide street pole banners that were meant to pay respect to the citys industrial past and begin to restore community pride among residents and business owners. The RDDA worked with several local graphic designers, including the final design that was created by Tianna Weaver, to bring the spirit of Rossville to life through a series of eight banners that will now decorate the citys downtown corridor for years to come. "While there is still much work left to do before Rossville will realize its full potential, thanks to the contributions of Ms. Wells and a multitude of other community leaders, Rossville is well on its way to a brighter future," officials said. President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol / Yonhap President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol warned North Korea, Friday, it will gain nothing from provocations, a day after the North successfully test-fired a massive intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of striking the entire United States. "I sternly warn North Korea that there is nothing that can be gained from provocations," Yoon wrote on Facebook. "The Republic of Korea will safeguard freedom and peace by building a stronger security posture." Following the North's ICBM test Thursday, Yoon's transition team condemned the launch as a scrapping of the North's self-imposed moratorium on nuclear weapons and ICBM tests, a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, and a serious provocation threatening South Korea's security. "The transition committee strongly condemns such provocative acts that threaten peace in Northeast Asia, including the Korean Peninsula, and the world," it said in a statement. "We must respond strongly to North Korea's provocations by cooperating with the international community based upon the foundation of close coordination between South Korea and the United States," it said. The committee urged the U.N. Security Council to convene an emergency meeting and denounce the North's launch while take corresponding action. It also called on the Moon Jae-in government to defend the people's safety by devising firm political, diplomatic and military measures in response to North Korea's threats. (Yonhap) Caldwell Huckabay has qualified to run for judge of Hamilton County General Sessions Court, Div. 2. Attorney Huckabay released the following statement: "Today, I respectfully qualified to run for judge of Hamilton County General Sessions Court, Div. 2. Here is why I am running and I ask for your vote. "I am hopeful and all but certain that Judge Tom Greenholtz will receive the governors appointment to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, which he should. Judge Greenholtz is, by all accounts, clearly the most qualified person for that position and he will continue to serve Tennessee admirably. His elevation to the Court of Criminal Appeals will create a vacancy in Criminal Court, Div. 2. The widely held sentiment in the community is that Alex McVeagh is by far the most qualified person to replace Judge Greenholtz in Criminal Court. I wholeheartedly concur with that sentiment. He should be the next Judge in Criminal Court, Div. 2. Judge McVeaghs elevation to Criminal Court will create a vacancy in General Sessions Court, Div. 2 and I am running to be the person to fill that vacancy. "My wife Shelley and I have called Hamilton County our home for over 30 years. We raised our three children here and we have deep roots in our community. My family has always felt called to serve and I feel that calling strongly. As a former prosecutor in the District Attorneys office and, later, as a teacher here in Hamilton County, I have tried to make our community better and stronger. Serving Hamilton County as a General Sessions Court judge would be the honor of my professional life. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I am fair but firm, honest, just, and respectful. I can assure you that, if the voters give me the honor of serving as judge of Hamilton County General Sessions Court, Div. 2, I will make you proud every day." Contrary to some rumors on the subject, former child actor Amanda Bynes didnt get fired from the 2011 comedy Hall Pass. She candidly admitted to completely unprofessional behavior on the films set. But she also confessed she eventually walked off and left the opportunity behind altogether. Amanda Bynes | Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic Hall Pass was the kind of movie Amanda Bynes was hoping for When Bynes attempted to break away from the mold created by her days as a Nickelodeon icon and teen idol, she supposedly looked for roles closer to what fellow former child star Lindsay Lohan was getting around 2010. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Bynes hoped for a part like Hall Pass. It was a mature comedy with stars like Jason Sudeikis, Owen Wilson, and Christina Applegate in the leading roles. The raunchy movie took on the idea of marital hall passes. Bynes was to play a babysitter with a lusty interest in Wilsons character. But The White Lotus star Alexandra Daddario eventually replaced her. Stories from insiders suggested Bynes didnt remember her lines or get along with other cast members. But Bynes eventually spoke about her time on the set herself. And she fessed up to some erratic and unideal behavior, sharing it came due to drug use and a negative self-image. Amanda Bynes left Hall Pass by rushing off set Amanda Bynes Grabs Hall Pass Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis and Jenna Fischer star in the Farr http://www.movieweb.com/news/NEMdnUPNmXXKRN Movieweb (@movieweb) February 17, 2010 Bynes told Paper magazine she remembered literally tripping out when she first saw herself in scenes from Hall Pass. She thought her arm looked so fat because it was in the foreground or whatever. I remember rushing off set and thinking, Oh my god, I look so bad, she shared. She said it was the mixture of being so high that [she] couldnt remember [her] lines and not liking [her] appearance that prompted her to leave the film in the manner she did. Despite reports claiming filmmakers fired Bynes, she said she left. I made a bunch of mistakes but I wasnt fired, she explained. I did leave it was definitely completely unprofessional of me to walk off and leave them stranded when theyd spent so much money on a set and crew and camera equipment and everything. Amanda Bynes was in a conservatorship for more than 8 years Actor Amanda Bynes has been released from a court conservatorship that put her life and financial decisions in her parents control for nearly nine years. A Ventura County judge said Bynes has demonstrated she is competent to handle her own affairs. https://t.co/lNffmX3tpu The Associated Press (@AP) March 22, 2022 In 2013, Bynes mother won temporary conservatorship over the star. The judge made it full and permanent the following year. The former All That star, now 35, filed to end the nearly nine-year conservatorship in February of 2022. In March, the judge agreed to terminate it, stating Bynes had done everything the court asked. She released a statement via her legal team, according to People. Following todays decision by the judge to terminate my conservatorship, I would like to thank my fans for their love and well wishes during this time, she said. I would also like to thank my lawyer and my parents for their support over the last nine years. In the last several years, I have been working hard to improve my health so that I can live and work independently, and I will continue to prioritize my well-being in this next chapter. I am excited about my upcoming endeavors including my fragrance line and look forward to sharing more when I can, she concluded. RELATED: Amanda Bynes Conservatorship Terminated by California Judge She Vows to Prioritize My Well-Being in This Next Chapter How to get help: In the U.S., contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline at 1-800-662-4357. A chance meeting through Instagram became destiny for Below Deck Mediterraneans Anastasia Surmava. Surmava and model Will Higginson announced their engagement and she shared all the engagement (and wedding) details exclusively with Showbiz Cheat Sheet. The former yachtie connected with Higginson on Instagram a little more than a year ago while traveling in South Africa. Surmava recalled that Higginson took her friend out on a date first, but their connection was undeniable. After a night of hanging out with friends, she could tell they were no longer in the friendzone. He picked me up on a scooter on the way home, and he reached out and touch my leg, she recalled. This was after a week of hanging out, which I thought we were totally platonic. It was like, You like me. [laughs] And then, we hung out a few more times. And he just went in for the kiss. And since that moment, weve literally been inseparable. Engagement planning did not go as exactly planned Higginson and Surmava ended up traveling to Higginsons home in England. She met his family and he planned to return with her to the United States. He was supposed to come to the US once he got his work visa, she said. Which we thought would only take four to six weeks. But little did we know it ended up actually taking five months. So we were long-distance for about five months, but he finally got his work visa, and now he lives here in Vermont with me. And he does part-time in New York City, where his modeling agency is. Will Higginson and Anastasia Surmava | Photo courtesy of Anastasia Surmava Theyve been blissfully happy and yes they did talk marriage. But she had no idea he was going to propose during their weekend trip with friends. Two of my best girlfriends, they were in on [the proposal], she shared. They were helping him through the whole process. She laughed because Higginson was trying to be sly, telling her to pack a nice dress, but she dug in and refused. Ill bring jeans otherwise Ill be in sweatpants, she laughed. Meanwhile, all of her friends planned to dress up and have a big engagement celebration. Now I understand why he wanted me to bring a dress! she said. Two puzzle pieces clicked in together the Below Deck star shares Higginson had to shift a little for the proposal since Surmava refused to bring a dress to the getaway. She recalled how he brought her out to the balcony at the cabin and got down on one knee. He was shaking. I was shaking, she recalled. We were both so nervous. I think he had planned all these things he wanted to say in his head, but it all just came jumbled. Will Higginson and Anastasia Surmava | Photo courtesy of Anastasia Surmava RELATED: Anastasia Surmava Dishes About Behind the Scenes of Below Deck Med And we were both just like blubbering, she continued. And I was like, Yes! Yes! I think the first thing I said was, Are you serious? Honestly, I blacked out. Like, I had to re-watch the video, I couldnt even hear what he said. All I heard was, Will you marry me? And I said, yes. It was just such a blur and my heart was just racing. She added, But its funny because I didnt have any moments of nervousness, no doubt. It just felt like when two puzzle pieces, they just click in and its just flush and it feels right. Yeah, thats how it felt. Anastasia chose the perfect ring months earlier Surmava shared photos of the dazzling ring on Instagram. She actually picked out the ring herself. We accidentally went ring shopping months and months ago, she shared. We were in the mall and theres this really beautiful women-owned local store called Bella Lusso. We just really clicked with this woman, Shannon. And we ended up staying there for hours, putting together rings. Anastasia Surmava | Photo courtesy of Anastasia Surmava RELATED: Below Deck Mediterraneans Brooke Laughton Is Engaged and Reveals How She Met Her Future Husband (Exclusive) We were all having so much fun. And he was like, Im pretty traditional, and I thought that I would always pick your ring. But I really love that we did that together. So he knew what I wanted, but I just didnt know when it was going to happen, she added. The stone resembles a diamond, but being an environmental advocate, Surmava went with a kinder stone. Its actually lab-grown, she shared. Which is what I wanted because its a lot better for the environment and more affordable. And honestly, I held a lab-grown and a real diamond side by side and you really cant tell the difference. Theyre just more sustainable and theres no blood on my hands. The couple plans to marry this summer Higginson and Surmava plan to elope this summer and have their parents by their side when they exchange vows. Were going to elope, she said. His parents are coming to visit us in Vermont in July and we found a really beautiful little venue in the mountains. Were just going to have a really small elopement with just our parents. And yeah, just keep it really small because honestly, there are a lot better things that I could spend $50,000 on. Like a house. Will Higginson and Anastasia Surmava | Photo courtesy of Anastasia Surmava I think in a few years well probably have like ceremony and a party, but we just really want to focus on building our life first, instead of throwing a big wedding. So I think its just very nice to keep it intimate, small and we just want our parents there, Surmava added. RELATED: Below Deck Mediterranean: Hannah Ferrier Dishes About Wedding Plans Has She Set the Date? (Exclusive) Prince William and Kate Middletons Caribbean tour is well underway. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have visited Belize and are now in Jamaica. Already during their eight-day royal tour, theyve danced, dived, and attended a state dinner. Thanks to their itinerary body language experts and royal fans get more glimpses of the couple than usual. According to one expert, who has analyzed their movements so far, Kate and Williams body language, especially their flirty moments, signal what appears to be a shift in their relationship. Kate and Williams Caribbean tour body language shows an apparent shift in their team dynamic Kate Middleton and Prince William | Pool/Samir Hussein/WireImage William and Kate began their royal tour of Belize, the Bahamas, and Jamaica on March 19. Theyre there to celebrate Queen Elizabeth IIs Platinum Jubilee. Theyve offered ongoing glimpses of the subtler and more revealing signs of their relationship, body language expert Judi James told Express. Now we get to see them in unusual surroundings and without their children to distract them. Examining their body language thus far, James noted what seems to be a shift in their dynamic. Where Kate used to be less assured shes now more confident: We knew they worked well as a team, but the dynamics of that team do appear to have shifted slightly and even strengthened. Thanks to Kates increased levels of confidence as a solo royal performer. And her recently elevated status in the royal line-up now the queen is appearing in public less and Harry and Meghan have left the Firm altogether. James continued, saying the 40-year-old appears to want her more reserved husband to be more easygoing. What we can see between William and Kate here is a more active and uninhibited confidence from Kate, she said. She often seems to lead the poses or throw loving glances of humour or approval at William to encourage him to be more outgoing, too. James has also noticed non-verbal displays between Kate and William. Those moments where they are checking and tuning into each other as part of their well-synchronized double-act. A body language expert says Kate got flirty with William while playing the drums Kate Middleton and Prince William | Chris Jackson/Getty Images During Kate and Williams Caribbean tour the two have taken part in various activities. While playing the drums on a visit to Jamaicas Trench Town, the Duchess of Cambridge appeared to flirt with William. Kate has fun and encourages William to do the same, James said. Kate manages to sit at the drum looking upbeat and in the perfect party mood here, throwing her head back in an open-mouthed laugh while William looks awkward and more embarrassed, she explained. The couple share the joke happily, she said. Kate even adds to the build-up by leaning across to confide in him, looking flirty as she does so, adding to his expression of bashful good-humour. Kate and Williams Caribbean tour body language gives off vacation vibes The flirty moment between the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge isnt the only time on the royal tour theyve appeared relaxed. As James noted, their interactions while moving from one location to another seem to give off vacation vibes. The small chats between the couple as they walk out to a new venue and in the glare of the cameras also look like a rather romantic way of prompting a holiday mood between them, she said. Kate might give William admiring smiles, make playful eye contact, or put a hand on his back which James says points to intense, flattering interest. RELATED: Prince William and Kate Middleton Are Reportedly Trying to Avoid 1 PR Disaster That Affected Queen Elizabeth 37 Years Ago After Kurt Cobain died in 1994, Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl came to a crossroads. He received many job offers, but he did what nobody expected. Instead of being a drummer for the rest of his life, Grohl entered the recording studio and recorded an album of his own music. He played all the instruments but wanted to stay anonymous. What better way to throw everyone off by naming his one-man-band Foo Fighters? Although, on second thought, Grohl isnt sure Foo Fighters was the right name. Foo Fighters | Gie Knaeps/Getty Images Dave Grohl named Foo Fighters after a term allied pilots had for UFOs In an interview with Clash, Grohl explained how he named Foo Fighters. The name comes from the term World War II allied forces had for UFOs. Around the time that I recorded the first FF tape (that became the first record), I was reading a lot of books on UFOs, Grohl said. Not only is it a fascinating subject, but theres a treasure trove of band names in those UFO books! So, since I had recorded the first record by myself, playing all the instruments, but I wanted people to think that it was a group, I figured that FOO FIGHTERS (WW2 term for UFOs) might lead people to believe that it was more than just one guy. Silly, huh? During WWII, the allied forces coined Foo Fighters as a term for the strange phenomenon pilots spotted in the sky. At the time, they thought it was a German secret weapon. According to Radio X, the phenomenon was dubbed foo-fighters by Donald J. Meiers, a radar operator in the 415th Night Fighter Squadron. Meiers took the name from a comic strip called Smokey Stover. Smokey was a fireman, or foo fighter, who arrived at incidents in his Foomobile. Goliath writes that the groups record company, Roswell, also relates to UFOs. The town of Roswell, New Mexico, is famous for being the site of a supposed UFO crash in 1947. In 1996, Grohl and his then-wife, Jennifer Youngblood, made a cameo on The X-Files. Grohl must like UFOs. RELATED: MTV VMAs 2021: Global Icons Foo Fighters Honor The Rolling Stones Charlie Watts The Polices Stewart Copeland also inspired Foo Fighters name When Grohl came up with Foo Fighters, someone closer to Earth also inspired him. UFOs aside, Grohls main mission for the name was to throw everyone off the scent that hed recorded the album by himself. In 2021, Grohl told Howard Stern that The Polices drummer, Stewart Copeland, gave him the idea to name his solo career Foo Fighters. For that, Grohl initially wanted Copeland to induct the band into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This band started with this demo tape that I did I went into the studio for five days, I played all the instruments, I recorded 13 or 14 songs just for fun. I made cassettes, and I called it Foo Fighters because I didnt really want everyone to know it was me. Grohl continued, I thought maybe if I give someone a cassette, maybe they think its a band, theyll be surprised when they find out it was just one person and that it was me. Coming out of Nirvana, I didnt want to, like, say, Hey, I got a solo project! So I called it Foo Fighters. When I was young, someone gave me a record by an artist named Klark Kent. It was this kinda weird fringe thing It sounded a lot like The Police, because it was actually Stewart Copeland, the drummer of the Police. He made this record under the name Klark Kent. He didnt put his name on the record. When you first got it, you were like, Wow, whos Klark Kent? This is kinda rad! Then someone was like [whispering], Thats Stewart Copeland! Thats really the thing that inspired me. I think Stew would be a great guy to induct the band. And if youre ever hung about with Stewart, he can make a f***ing speech! RELATED: Kurt Cobains Daughter Frances Bean Cobain Wishes Godfather and REM Frontman Michael Stipe a Happy Birthday Grohl hates the bands name After recording Foo Fighters in 1995, the bands frontman slowly started putting his band together. However, as the band garnered success, Grohl started hating the name more and more. Grohl wishes he never named the band Foo Fighters. In 2014, he told 60 Minutes (per Rolling Stone), Had I imagined that it would last more than a month-and-a-half, I might have named it something else. Its the dumbest band name ever. Wed loved to hear what Grohl would have named the band instead. Either way, fans love Foo Fighters. RELATED: Showbiz Cheat Sheets Best Albums of 2021 In 2016, a wildfire ravaged Gatlinburg, Tennessee, near Dolly Partons childhood home. In its aftermath, the fire left hundreds of people without homes. Parton took swift action to help those impacted, raising an unprecedented amount of money and providing people with a shoulder to lean on. Parton provided the victims of the fire with a stipend to help them as they recovered from the disaster. Dolly Parton | David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images Dolly Parton grew up in a small home is in Tennessee Parton was born in Sevier County, Tennessee, and grew up alongside her 11 siblings. The family had little money, but Parton said they were happy. We didnt have any electricity except for the lightning bugs. If fireflies were out, wed catch them in a mason jar and put them in our bedroom, she explained in an appearance on The Nate Berkus Show. Most people have four rooms and a bath; we had one room and a path. We had the little outdoor shack outback. It was a good life, and I loved growing up in the mountains. We were really just people, and God and family meant everything to us. Parton had such fond memories of her childhood that she bought her childhood home and built a replica to stand at her Dollywood theme park. She donated money to help people impacted by wildfires At the end of 2016, wildfires destroyed roughly 15,000 acres of land in Eastern Tennessee. Parton quickly jumped in to help those affected. Dolly was on tour and she called in to say what can we do and how quickly can we do it? Dollywood Foundation CEO David Dotson told Blue Ridge Public Radio. Her hometown means so much to her. She always calls it her Smokey Mountain DNA. Parton launched the My People Fund, which promised to give $1,000-per-month stipends to people displaced by the fire. The fund gave families six months of financial support. Help those who lost their homes in the Tennessee wildfires. Donate to the My People Fund by visiting https://t.co/Uydp1gDCwJ . #mypeoplefund pic.twitter.com/xyvXoCeIE1 Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) December 1, 2016 We started the distribution in December right around the longest night of the year and I know it felt dark and lonely for so many, Parton said, per NPR. But here we are in spring, a time for renewal and a time for hope. I know the money helps but most of all I want people to know we will always provide you a shoulder to lean on. In the final month, the nearly 900 families assisted by the fund received a $5,000 check. Parton also announced a partnership with the Mountain Tough Recovery Team to provide an additional $3 million in the coming months. She launched the Wildfire Scholarship Fund, giving $4,500 scholarships to all junior and senior high school students who lost their homes in the fire. In total, the My People Fund gave $12.5 million to those impacted by the wildfires. She donated the remainder of the fund to the first responders. Dolly Parton still considers Tennessee her home Parton and her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, still reside in Tennessee. When speaking to Southern Living about what she likes about her home state, Parton gave a straightforward answer: Everything. My husband and I have a camper, she said. We travel around all the time. Every weekend. Usually a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We travel all over Tennessee. We try to see all the little, out-of-the-way places [where] other people dont go. Happy birthday to the Queen of Tennessee, Miss Dolly Parton pic.twitter.com/Yhh3t3ZlK3 VolShop (@UTVolShop) January 19, 2022 Though its been her home for her whole life, Parton still likes exploring and finding new parts of Tennessee to fall in love with. RELATED: Dolly Partons Family Cow Saved Her by Dragging Her Bloodied Through the Forest Comedian Bob Saget died in January, and fans and friends of the Full House star continue to honor him. A televised special of Sagets memorial at the Comedy Store is coming to Netflix, where fans can get an inside look at the touching tribute to Americas Dad. Heres everything we know so far about the memorial special. Bob Saget | Andrew Toth/FilmMagic Bob Sagets famous friends held a punk rock shiva memorial for him at The Comedy Store On Jan. 9, Bob Saget was found dead in his hotel room in Orlando, Florida, while on a stand-up comedy tour. The 65-year-old comedians cause of death was unknown for one month as officers conducted an investigation. On Feb. 9, Sagets family gave a statement to People revealing that the actors cause of death was head trauma, and no foul play was suspected. Saget is survived by his wife Kelly Rizzo and his three daughters, Aubrey, Lara, and Jennifer, whom he shared with his ex-wife Sherri Kramer. The authorities have determined that Bob passed from head trauma, the family shared. They have concluded that he accidentally hit the back of his head on something, thought nothing of it and went to sleep. No drugs or alcohol were involved. Sagets funeral took place on Jan. 14, but his loved ones continued to honor the former host of Americas Funniest Home Videos. Some of his famous friends got together on Jan. 16 and again on Jan. 30 for what comedian Jeff Ross described as an impromptu punk rock shiva at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. John Mayer, Darren Criss, Jim Carrey, Chris Rock, and Seth Green were among the attendees. Over 100 A-listers and family mourn Bob Saget at Los Angeles funeral https://t.co/UW4vPEKcDz pic.twitter.com/9KvaTxcjxL Page Six (@PageSix) January 15, 2022 Fans can see Bob Sagets Comedy Store memorial on Netflix in June 2022 There were a limited number of tickets to The Comedy Store, so very few fans got to see Bob Sagets star-studded memorial in person. But according to TMZ, fans will soon get the chance to see the punk rock shiva on their television screens. Mike Binder, one of the comedians closest friends, revealed that the event was documented and will be coming to Netflix in June 2022. Binder also said that the special will premiere at the Netflix Is a Joke Comedy Festival. John Stamos previously hinted at a TV special of his Full House co-stars memorial John Stamos, Bob Sagets former Full House co-star, previously hinted at a televised special of the Comedy Store memorial on social media. On Feb. 2, Stamos posted several photos from the event on Instagram, adding a lengthy and emotional caption about his late friend. Being respected In the stand-up comedy world was everything to Bob, the actor wrote. And the outpouring of love and respect that he got Sunday night at the @thecomedystore really proved that he was at the top of his game! He wouldve been so proud to see the celebration we put together for him. After naming some of the stars who put the memorial together, including Jim Carrey, Chris Rock, and John Mayer, Stamos wrote, So many family and friends- hopefully youll all get to see it someday. Mike Binder working on a special. He concluded the touching post by writing, But for now, the tributes and memorials are over. And we face, head-f***ing-on the harsh reality of going through life without Bob and his love and his laughter. Not going to be easy. RELATED: Full House Star Candace Cameron Bure Reveals Last Text Messages With Bob Saget Before His Death: We Got Into a Little Tiff As Prince William and Kate Middleton touched down in the Bahamas for the last leg of their Caribbean tour, they were greeted by a young Bahamian girl named Aniah Moss, who presented the Duchess of Cambridge with flowers. Overnight, Moss has become an internet sensation and has a message for classmates who bullied her. Prince William and Kate Middleton are greeted at Lynden Pindling International Airport by Bahamian girl, Aniah Moss, who gave the duchess flowers | Karwai Tang/WireImage The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were greeted in the Bahamas by Aniah Moss Moss stood at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas, holding flowers and smiling as she handed the bouquet to the duchess when the couple exited their plane. Express noted that during this visit that William and Kate are scheduled to attend an assembly at a primary school, compete in a sailing regatta, and participate in a cultural event featuring typical Bahamian food and music. But now all anyone wants to talk about is the 8-year-old who wore a beautiful pink dress, pearl necklace, and white gloves as she welcomed the royal couple to the island. Internet gushes over Moss Aniah Moss gives Kate Middleton a bouquet of flowers upon arrival in Nassau, Bahamas | Karwai Tang/WireImage After pictures were shared of Moss at the airport with the Cambridges, the internet lit up with countless fans gushing and complimenting Moss on her outfit, smile, and poise at such a young age. Bless this little darling, she is so beautiful and cute, one royal watcher tweeted. Another said: Aniah you look absolutely gorgeous! Especially your smile! Your new dress looks beautiful. I hope you remember your special day forever! A third wrote: This will be a moment she will remember forever. What a wonderful experience for her. PW & Catherine looked so delighted It wld [sic] have been touching for Kate [because] she works extensively with children! While a fourth person added: Aniah is lovely, such an elegant young lady! What a charming credit to The Bahamas. A fifth fan posted: What a beautiful child! She looks like a princess! Another tweeted: Ohh what sweet little lady with her beautiful smile & dress, pretty updo, gloves, tights & pearls. What a lovely welcome & start to the Bahamas leg of the Royal Tour! Thank you Miss Aniah! Finally, a commenter summed it up writing: This gorgeous little girl AniahMoss presented HRH Duchess of Cambridge with a beautiful bouquet on her arrival to the Bahamas and had quite a long conversation with Catherine and Prince William! She IS the welcoming committeewell done! Eight year old flower girl Aniah Moss welcomed the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to the Bahamas #RoyalVisitBahamas #royaltourcaribbean pic.twitter.com/8F1FwOnAHg Simon Perry (@SPerryPeoplemag) March 24, 2022 Moss says students at her school cant bully her anymore After her daughter met William and Kate, Moss mother was beaming with pride. I was so very proud of her, she stated, adding, Shes very docile so it was an honor to see her do it. Moss was asked by the ZNS Network what she will tell her friends at school now. She responded that she is going to tell her classmates: You guys cant bully me anymore. You guys cant tell me what to do. RELATED: Royal Commentator Blames Meghan and Harry for Derailing William and Kates Jamaica Tour Greys Anatomy is showing Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) in a new relationship. However, she has been taking it slow with Nick Marsh (Scott Speedman). The good news is that they took a big step before she made a career decision. [Spoiler alert: This article contains spoilers from the Greys Anatomy episode Put the Squeeze on Me.] Meredith and Nick reunited in Greys Anatomy Season 18 RELATED: Heres When Each of Merediths Kids Were Born on Greys Anatomy Season 18 started with Meredith going to Minnesota because of a job offer. Dr. David Hamilton (Peter Gallagher) revealed hed been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, and he wants to fund Merediths research on the illness to cure him. She agreed to be in Minnesota twice a week and have Amelia Shepherd (Caterina Scorsone) on her team. She also reconnected with Nick, who works at the same hospital. They started out having a few cute dates and eventually became physically intimate. But it still felt like their lives were separate until The Makings of You. The couple wanted to have alone time in a cabin, but Nicks niece was there with her boyfriend. This family time brought them closer, and Meredith tried to give him some advice. Meredith and Nicks lives are starting to merge on Greys Anatomy RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Why Meredith Sold Dereks Dream House Meredith and Nicks long-distance relationship might change after weeks of spending time together in hotel rooms in Minnesota. Put the Squeeze on Me showed Dr. Hamilton asked her in front of his staff to join his team permanently as director of the Grey Center and Chief of General Surgery since her operation on him was a success. Meredith was offended by the public pressure of it all. She talked to Nick and said her life in Seattle with her kids complicated the job offer. Nick mentioned meeting her kids and how they could have a life in Minnesota. Meredith accused Nick of being with her for grant funding, and he accused her of looking for problems in great situations. He told her to do what she wanted to do in the end. The episode ended with Nick meeting her kids. They told them they met when Meredith saved Nicks life. Fans predict what Meredith will decide Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey and Scott Speedman as Nick Marsh on Greys Anatomy | Liliane Lathan/ABC via Getty Images RELATED: Greys Anatomy: Which Song Plays Over Meredith and Nicks Love Scene and What Does It Mean? The show still hasnt revealed whether Meredith will pick up and move or stay in Seattle. But fans are making their predictions on Reddit. I think it will end up that Nick comes to Seattle instead, one fan predicted. While I wouldnt want Maggie to be the lead per se, I would not care if Ellen left the show at this point, another fan replied. To be perfectly honest, Id just prefer the show to end at this point and wrap as much up as possible. I love the show, and have been watching it since it started airing, but im [sic] done to be honest. That was actually very sweet. Nick, move to Seattle!!! another person wrote. It looks like fans arent worried about Meredith going anywhere. But theyll have to keep watching to find out for sure. Prince William and Kate Middleton have been on a Caribbean tour visiting Belize, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. However, their stop in Jamaica hasnt gone exactly as planned. Therefore, it was only a matter of time before the blame was placed on someone. Not many though suspected it would be put on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, but thats exactly what one royal commentator has done. Heres more on what has happened on the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges tour and why the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are being blamed for it. Kate Middleton and Prince William dressed in formal attire for a dinner hosted by the Governor General in Jamaica | Samir Hussein Pool/WireImage Protests erupted upon William and Kates visit to Jamaica Jamaica was just one stop on William and Kates eight-day tour. A palace spokesperson told People that the island was one of the Caribbean countries with which Her Majesty has had an extremely warm relationship following multiple visits throughout her reign. Those trips have helped to provide inspiration for many of the engagements that their Royal Highnesses will carry out during their tour. But the royal couple were met with protest as they arrived. Maziki Thame, a senior lecturer at the University of the West Indies, explained that Jamaicans have been seeking reparations from the monarchy for decades. This is not a new cause. The question is whether it will get any traction, she said in an interview with CBS News before questioning whether the British are ready to contend with their history. Commentator blames Meghan and Harrys Oprah Interview for derailing Will and Kates tour Oprah Winfrey Interviewing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for primetime special | Harpo Productions, Joe Pugliese via Getty Images So how in the world does any of this fall on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle? Well, according to Daily Mail columnist and commentator Dan Wootton, it has to do with what the Sussexes alleged about the monarchy being a racist institution during their interview with Oprah Winfrey. Express noted that Wooten opined that casting doubt on its senior members is now providing a significant boost to the fast-moving republican cause in Jamaica at the worst possible moment. Republicans across the Commonwealth would try to use the claims to bring the queens reign to an end in the monarchs twilight years. He added: Meghan wasnt pushed out of the royal family because of ethnicity and to even countenance such a fantasy is irresponsible. He then slammed the Duchess of Sussex, Jamaica, and media members for the damage shes caused to the Commonwealth and shame on the propagandists in Jamaica and the media using her fantasies to advance their republican cause. Jamaica will begin the process of removing Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State Prince William and Kate Middleton pose for a photo during their visit to the Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness office | Pool/Samir Hussein/WireImage During the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges visit, the prime minister of the island, Andrew Holness, made it clear to the future king and his wife that Jamaica planned to pursue its goals as an independent country. The completion goal is set for Aug. 6, which is the date of the countrys 60th Independence Day. Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Governor General, William addressed the U.K.s role in slavery. While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage, and fortitude, the prince said (per BBC). William went on to state that slavery was abhorrent, should never have happened, and forever stains our history. RELATED: Prince William and Kate Middletons Trip to Prince Harry and Meghans U.S. Turf Will Be Tricky, Royal Biographer Warns A general view of a United Nations Security Council meeting / Reuters-Yonhap The U.N. Security Council will hold a formal meeting this week to discuss North Korea's recent missile launches, the council's public schedule showed Thursday. The session is scheduled to open in New York at 3 p.m. Friday. South Korea said it plans to join the meeting to deliver its position on the North Korea issue, although it is not a member of the council. "We plan to attend the upcoming meeting as a directly interested party," the foreign ministry said. For our kraft lignin business, we are now looking for a Director Sales & Marketing, with global responsibility. Chemist as Director Sales and Marketing (m/f/d) Kraft Lignin Business Duties Greetings from your future manager "Welcome to UPM Biochemicals! We are excited to work with you on developing towards a Future Beyond Fossils. UPM Biochemicals is one of UPMs most dynamic new ventures and our global kraft lignin business is offering exceptional growth-opportunities. We are a dynamic team of enthusiasts for the limitless opportunities of the bioeconomy, and with you, we are ready to take UPMs success story to the next level." Christian Hubsch, Director, Sales & Marketing, Biochemicals Business What youll do Manage sales and marketing activities for the entire business line, globally Lead an experienced team of technical sales experts Develop our product portfolio Manage strategic partnerships Drive business development activities Steer branding and communication Requirements Who you are After receiving your PhD in chemistry /polymer chemistry or a similar degree, you started out in industry. Based on a strong foundation in technology, you have gradually acquired additional competencies in business and are now equally comfortable in both disciplines. 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The Biofore Company UPM Biochemicals GmbH Leuna Sachsen-Anhalt Leuna Augsburg Dorpen Hurth Plattling Europe North America Asia Europa Nordamerika Asien 06237 86150 26892 50354 94447 Two teams of physicists led by Peter Zoller and Thomas Monz at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, have designed the first programmable quantum sensor, and tested it in the laboratory. To do so they applied techniques from quantum information processing to a measurement problem. The innovative method promises quantum sensors whose precision reaches close to the limit set by the laws of nature. Atomic clocks are the best sensors mankind has ever built. Today, they can be found in national standards institutes or satellites of navigation systems. Scientists all over the world are working to further optimize the precision of these clocks. Now, a research group led by Peter Zoller, a theorist from Innsbruck, Austria, has developed a new concept that can be used to operate sensors with even greater precision irrespective of which technical platform is used to make the sensor. We answer the question of how precise a sensor can be with existing control capabilities, and give a recipe for how this can be achieved, explain Denis Vasilyev and Raphael Kaubrugger from Peter Zoller's group at the Institute of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Innsbruck. For this purpose, the physicists use a method from quantum information processing: variational quantum algorithms describe a circuit of quantum gates that depends on free parameters. Through optimization routines, the sensor autonomously finds the best settings for an optimal result. We applied this technique to a problem from metrology - the science of measurement, Vasilyev and Kaubrugger explain. This is exciting because historically advances in atomic physics were motivated by metrology, and in turn quantum information processing emerged from that. So, we've come full circle here, Peter Zoller enthuses. With the new approach, scientists can optimize quantum sensors to the point where they achieve the best possible precision technically permissible. Better measurements with little extra effort For some time, it has been understood that atomic clocks could run even more accurately by exploiting quantum mechanical entanglement. However, there has been a lack of methods to realize robust entanglement for such applications. The Innsbruck physicists are now using tailor-made entanglement that is precisely tuned to real-world requirements. With their method, they generate exactly the combination consisting of quantum state and measurements that is optimal for each individual quantum sensor. This allows the precision of the sensor to be brought close to the optimum possible according to the laws of nature, with only a slight increase in overhead. In the development of quantum computers, we have learned to create tailored entangled states, says Christian Marciniak from the Department of Experimental Physics at the University of Innsbruck. We are now using this knowledge to build better sensors. Demonstrating quantum advantage with sensors This theoretical concept was now implemented in practice for the first time at the University of Innsbruck, as the research group led by Thomas Monz and Rainer Blatt now reported in Nature. The physicists performed frequency measurements based on variational quantum calculations on their ion trap quantum computer. Because the interactions used in linear ion traps are still relatively easy to simulate on classical computers, the theory colleagues were able to check the necessary parameters on a supercomputer at the University of Innsbruck. Although the experimental setup is by no means perfect, the results agree surprisingly well with the theoretically predicted values. Since such simulations are not feasible for all sensors, the scientists demonstrated a second approach: They used methods to automatically optimize the parameters without prior knowledge. Similar to machine learning, the programmable quantum computer finds its optimal mode autonomously as a high-precision sensor, says experimental physicist Thomas Feldker, describing the underlying mechanism. Our concept makes it possible to demonstrate the advantage of quantum technologies over classical computers on a problem of practical relevance, emphasizes Peter Zoller. We have demonstrated a crucial component of quantum-enhanced atomic clocks with our variational Ramsey interferometry. Running this in a dedicated atomic clock is the next step. What has so far only been shown for calculations of questionable practical relevance could now be demonstrated with a programmable quantum sensor in the near future quantum advantage. The Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans is an emergency coalition initiative that supports Afghan newcomers already in the United States. Heres one story of one Montana group that formed to host a refugee family. To apply to become a certified sponsor circle, visit Sponsor Circles to learn more. Kent Annan, Director of the Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership Program at Wheaton College, interviewed HDL student Nancy Van Maren about her experience with the Sponsor Circle. How did you become involved with the humanitarian crisis of Afghan evacuees fleeing Kabul and coming to U.S. military bases? I got involved through my enrollment in the graduate program in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership at Wheaton College. The programs director, Kent Annan, learned of the need for volunteers to help welcome evacuees at US military bases and made the opportunity available to students who could move quickly with little information. Interestingly, just three weeks earlier, a group of us hosted a representative from World Relief, Matthew Soerens, to build support in our community for a refugee resettlement office. At the time, Kabul had not yet fallen, but Soerens expressed he was quite concerned about how the US departure would play out for Afghans. His concern sensitized me to the great, impending need, and I started reading everything I could about the situation. When you left after serving on the base, did you already have a plan in mind? Or what gave you the idea? It was sad and hard to leave the base because it seemed like my ability to help the people I had grown to love in some way had ended. I remember saying to a close friend on base that I wanted to host Afghans in my home for dinner more than anything, but that it was just impossible. The opportunity of creating a Sponsor Circle emerged in October when we heard about this new capacity-building program. One of our group members that was working with us for over a year to get a resettlement office here, heard the news piece and we jumped on it right away. We saw it as our opportunity to *be* a resettlement agency without having one herea way to both learn the ropes and to convince a resettlement agency we could do it successfully. Can you briefly explain how you explored this idea who did you talk with, how did you try to pull together the people you would need to move forward, what seemed like it would be easiest, and what seemed most daunting? I think our process was likely easier than many. Looking back, it went unbelievably smoothly. Our community group already had communication channels established, so all we had to do was find a time for busy people to meet. For the first Sponsor Circle meeting, I put together an agenda based on the application requirements found on the Sponsor Circle website. We went down the list of information that would be needed andremarkablypeople around the table called out which parts they would pull together. My primary role was to collect the information from all the contributors, follow up with questions, and compile it into an application, filling in holes as needed. We might have all had different ideas of what would be easiest and most challenging. When we began, I thought fundraising would be the toughest and didnt give much thought to translation, given that I had spent time with many translators on the base. It turns out I got that exactly backwards, by the way! Funds and other donations literally flowed in, and we werent able to identify a single Pashto speaker locally who could help us. Overall, though, the greatest limiter is housing: a community can only welcome as many Afghans as they can find affordable and appropriate housing for, and, ideally, that housing will have access to public transportation. How many people were part of your Sponsor Circle? Five people out of the group of 8 or so were official signatories to the application. Can you describe the process of preparation, what youve been focused on, what are the essential things that you have to get in place to be rightly ready for the family? The process of preparation began with our coming together over a year ago around a common interest. Our group is theologically and professionally diverse, and several members of the group of 8 are very well connected in our community. It was lovely to watch people giving from their strengths: housing, fund raising, language class preparation, access to legal expertise, fundamental resources, personal budget preparation, knowledge of benefits and the application process, cultural connections, and community awareness. To some extent, we each focussed on our areas of expertise or interest, and I just pulled it all together administratively. We have learned a lot from a non profit that supports Montanas only resettlement office in Missoula. We learned about welcome kits and language classes and the early needs of refugees from conversations with them. If I had to identify the single most impactful step of preparation, it would be the informational communications that have gone out to a large email list of already-intrigued community members. Through only a few updates, the circle of support has expanded exponentially. I have fielded dozens and dozens of phone calls and emails over the weeks of preparation, as have several others. We have created spreadsheets to track needs and match them up with volunteers, and we have worn out the airwaves with our communications with each othertrying to coordinate this BIG something new. Were excited that you and your community are seeking to welcome in this way. Well check in with you in a few months as you learn more about how its going and what youve learned. But before the arrival, as you prepare personally, what has been most important to your preparationthrough your time in the HDL program, other experiences in your life, spiritually? Two things come to mind: First, the class I took in the HDL program on refugees and forced migration provided detailed information about immigration, the refugee system, history, policy, processall of which has enhanced my credibility when speaking about this process and the need. I returned from the base with the passion to do something more, but I needed the concrete data and a facility of sharing it in order to drum up support in my community. Second, I have been reminded over and over and over again that this is the Lords work. We have marveled that we feel like spectators most days, as we watch people and material resources come together. We have witnessed hearts being softened and the community become welcoming, through no ability any of us possessed. Sometimes, even, we have received the meeting of a need at the same time we became aware of it Its a miraculous process that leaves me filled with gratitude and joy. Gods goodness is so apparent in this moment and in this space. To learn more about Sponsor Circles, visit the Community Sponsorship Hub . To learn more about the Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership graduate program at Wheaton College, which provides training for refugee work, visit our website Nancy Van Maren is in her last semester as an HDL student at Wheaton. Prior to enrolling in HDL, Nancy had a career in public policy and administration and has written and taught professionally. Currently, she and her husband live in Montana, which she hopes to keep as a home base in future humanitarian work. How are you doing? my professor asks me as I enter the empty classroom. Theyre bombing my city is all I can say. Oh no, they mutter. They remember where Im from. A portion of a poem by Abigail de Vuyst, age 18, American missionary kid from Ukraine American missionary kid and college freshman Abigail de Vuyst already missed her lifelong home of Ukraine while figuring out college classes in Michigan. Now she spends her days worrying about her friends. Are they safe in their cellars? Will they be able to get out? Its hard just sitting and watching everything happen, she said. Home is a complex concept for missionary kids (MKs)whose citizenship is in one country and whose upbringing is in another. The MKs world, even in the best of circumstances, is shifting sand, said MK advocate and author Michele Phoenix. And now? Were wrecked, said Annie Wiltse, a teacher at the international school in Ukraine that de Vuyst used to attend. She and her students had just 24 hours to pack for their evacuation. This is in some cases the only home that they have ever known. Records arent available for the number of kids living with their missionary parents in other countries, but World Christian Databases 2020 figures show there were an estimated 6,000 Christian missionaries in Ukraine and 425,000 foreign missionaries around the world. Some American missionary kids, feeling powerless, are stuck in the United States because of COVID-19 restrictions, others are waiting in Kansas for an unknown amount of time because of kidnappings in Haiti, and many kids who make the transition to colleges each fall are leaving home countries in turmoil. MKs grow up traveling the world, enjoying rich cultural experiences, and often staying connected to strong communities of faith. But even for those raised in countries not torn by war, thats not the whole story, experts say. Many experience losses, identity confusion, faith crises, and neglect. In fact, latest research indicates the level of trauma missionary kids experience is much highernearly doublethan that of kids who grow up in the United States. And yet their needs are often overlooked by missions agencies, local church partners, and even their own families on and off the mission field. It is a myth that children are naturally resilient, said author and MK advocate Lauren Wells. Resiliency has to be built and nurtured and cared for. Im a third-culture military kid myself, a parent of three MKs from our 14 years serving in Indonesia, and a journalist who has also written for an MK audience for the past couple of years since returning to the United States. I thought I understood well the difficulties they face. But my interview with Wells and research about MK trauma and neglect were eye-opening. Thankfully, there is a growing contingency in the missions community who are finally starting to pay attention to the critical needs of missionary kids. Experts, advocates, and supportersmany of them former MKs themselvesare offering guidance on how to address the unique problems MKs face. Not only must missions communities be willing to talk about difficult topics, but they must also make plans to provide longer-term intentional care, these experts say. And the global church has an important role to play in that effort. Too often, missionary families are seen as super Christians who are invulnerable to the negative consequences arising from their many sacrifices for the mission of God. And so, while missions agencies have a special responsibility to help MKs, local churches who partner with missionaries must also recognize that these kids are paying a high price for their parents commitment to Gods kingdom. Article continues below The church needs to be aware that missionary kids need to be cared for, not put up on a pedestal, Wells said. The trauma behind the smiles Missionary kids are just one type of third culture kid (TCK), a term coined by anthropologists John and Ruth Useem in the 1950s to describe kids who dont identify fully with the cultures of their parents and of the country where they live, forming instead a third culture. They experience frequent transition and are expected to move to their parents country of origin, also termed their passport country, to attend university. TCKs are known for the ability to interact well with various cultures and be bridge builders, but one question will stump them: Where are you from? There are so many different answers to that simple question, said author Dan Stringer, an MK who grew up in Nepal, Philippines, Democratic Republic of Congo, Canada, and the United States. Where was I born? Where are my parents from? Where do I know the best? Where do I currently live? Such transitions can be traumatic experiencesespecially when the losses include not only friends and a city but also a country, language, culture, foods, sounds, and smells. Which is why MKs and TCKs often show signs of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as adults, Wells said. Its a loss of a universe every time, said Phoenix. Now advocates have the research to educate parents and organizations. Preliminary findings from TCK Training show that TCKs adverse childhood experience (ACE) scores are higher than what American kids experience, said Wells, CEO of the organization, who led the research with Tanya Crossman. About 20 percent of adult TCKs report experiencing four or more ACE factorscompared to about 12.5 percent of the general US population. The differences are particularly surprising considering that most higher ACE scores from the States often come from a lower socioeconomic status, Wells said. Yet many TCKs grow up with comparative privilege. Just because things look really great does not mean theyre not exposed to an even higher level of developmental trauma, Wells said. The study, which will be published later this year, shows unsurprisingly that TCKs see a lot of death and poverty, Wells reported. But some of the traumas are unexpected. For instance, if theyve been left with a nanny who doesnt speak their languagea common practice seen as an opportunity for the language immersion it providessome TCKs may experience it as emotional neglect. From the childs perspective, the person whos supposed to be caring for my needs cant understand anything Im saying and there isnt anybody around who I can ask for that from, Wells said. Sometimes we can mitigate these traumas by educating on things like that. Family neglect was also measured in the study. About 32 percent of TCKs believed their parents didnt think they were special or important, while 24 percent felt that their families didnt support each other, Wells reported. In the recent past, various missions organizations required parents to send their children to boarding schools from age six on, and some parents still opt to do so for the quality of education. But for some TCKs, that can feel like abandonment by both their parents and God, advocates say. This problem is not limited to the United States. In fact, missionary kids are increasingly nonwhite and non-American, experts say. The Global South now collectively sends out more missionaries than the United States does, according to the World Christian Databases 2020 estimates. Article continues below Brazil is the second-largest sending country after the United States, with an estimated 40,000 outgoing missionaries. Brazilians often join an English-speaking team in other countries. Their kids may attend English-speaking international schools, which adds an additional language they must learn, said Alicia Macedo, who is the MK coordinator for the Brazilian Association of Cross-Cultural Missions. Regardless of where these kids are from, however, the problems they face are largely universal. When God is your employer For missionary kids, the answer to the question of who sent them overseas is much clearer: God did. That adds complexityand sometimes painto the MK experience. Many missionary kids have grown up in a culture in which negative feelings are dismissed. They feel lost in the bigger purpose of Gods mission, and their grief gets hidden away. God is not seen as a safe place for some, said Wells. The faith piece for MKs makes them unique because God is the instigator of all the greatness and all the painful parts of growing up cross-culturally in ministry, Phoenix said. Everything in their life is faith-related. I first talked to Phoenix when she was presenting at an education conference in Thailand. I was a homeschooling mom of MKs living in Borneo, trying to figure out how to better teach my struggling reader. She opened my eyes to some of these deeper struggles. Even when MKs report more positive faith and family experiences, advocates say, they still need the freedom to examine their beliefs. Ive been doing that from the beginning because Ive been making comparisons, said Rachel Kuo, an American MK who grew up in Hong Kong and Taiwan but made visits to the States. I would be baffled at the American church and wonder, Why is it so prosperous? Why does it meet in such big buildings? Some MKs have used their own processing as an invitation to the American church to see a bigger picture. Stringer, who wrote Struggling with Evangelicalism: Why I Want to Leave and What It Takes to Stay, uses the diversity of his Christian experiences to encourage American Christians in their faith. Ive experienced how much faith varies by geography, by race, he said. I know that were just one place on a big map. It helps me sift through what are the essential things that any Christian would value and what are the things that are unique to America. Many MKs who wrestle with trauma or abuse in missions, their sexuality or mental health, end up desconstructing their faith, Phoenix said. For instance, when Joshs family moved to East Asia when he was six, he lost all his friends in the US. (Joshs last name is being withheld for security reasons because of where his parents still serve.) It took him years to learn the language well enough to make local friends in his new home. Years later, he moved back to the States for college and struggled to find his place once again. And just as he was trying to adjust to his new life, he lost a close MK friend to suicide. He began struggling with depression and couldnt find support in the church. He blamed God and walked away from the faith. Of all the people who could actually claim to be Gods children, I feel like TCKs should have the best right to that because were a nomadic people group, traveling in his name, bringing his word and life to the nations, he said. And yet were the ones that are seemingly cast aside and not loved and not taken care of by the church body. Article continues below Another MK encouraged him, and he eventually returned to faith and the church. Now hes preparing to move with his wife to Spain to support MKs in the mission field. Their goal is to help MKs process traumatic experiences as kids before they harden into obstacles that must be overcome as adults. Hidden immigrants on deep journeys There are many ways for local churches to come alongside missionary kids in their networks. For instance, what if every congregation took the time to reach out to the missionary families they partner withasking specifically how they can support the children? Or what if churches hosted special events for these kids whenever their families returned for furlough or home assignment? It could be as simple as a family with similarly aged kids taking them out to lunch after service or bringing their teenagers to youth group or church camps. And in the age of social media, there are many ways to continue to stay in touch with MKs who are struggling abroad. As for MKs who return to the States for college and join a nearby church, it may take a different approachbeing willing to ask deeper questions and being prepared to hear difficult answers. Listening is hospitality, said Rachel Kuo. Ask how MKs are truly doing and what has been hard about their experiences, advocates say. But also set aside your differences and listen to people who come from another world of experience, Kuo urged. Another piece was mentioned by several of the people I interviewed for this story: MKs today are asking, How can missionaries and the churches supporting them reach out to prostitutes in Asia but not welcome well people who think and believe differently into their own lives? MKs journeys arent just wide, spanning the globe, but also deep, Kuo said. Theyre trying to find themselves when their families sit in the middle of big, complex conversations involving missions and colonialism, institutional racism, and human suffering. In fact, one of the times when TCKs need the most support from parents and their church communities is when they move to their passport countries, MK advocates say, especially since they often feel resentful about having to leave their home countries. For instance, these so-called hidden immigrants may look like Americans on the outside, but they dont feel like they belong here, said Josh. In foreign countries were given grace, Josh said. When you come back to the States, everybody treats you like an idiot because How could you not know that? Sometimes even the simplest things can reveal those differenceslike not knowing how an American bank or hospital works. Many MKs arrive in the States for college unable to drive. We need a lot more help than well ever admit, Josh said. In the US, MK Harbor Project is a network for people willing to help MKs with these kinds of practical things. Colleges are figuring out how to do this too. Some Christian colleges are finding ways to ask questions about international upbringing, said Tammy Sharp, director of MuKappa, which is an MK ministry on 20 college campuses. Some even hold a separate orientation for MK freshmen. Others are connected to ministries that house MKs who want to live with fellow MKs while they attend school. For her part, Kuo is inviting TCKs who attend the Urbana global missions conference this year to a special TCK lounge to wrestle with some of the things that are coming up. But mostly, its a place where they can feel like they belong. Belonging may be too much to ask right now for MKs fleeing the war in Ukraine. But Wiltse hopes that giving her students a voice will help them find their way. She wakes up early in Michiganby 3 a.m.to teach class to her students in Europe. She guides them through times of free writing. She brags about their advocacy for Ukraine. And she posts poetry that de Vuyst wrote for all the world to see. How are you doing? I sigh; I know I am safe with them. Its been a hard day. They help me process, Cry with me and pray with me. Abigail de Vuyst Rebecca Hopkins is a journalist living in Colorado. As Ukraine continues to be battered by Russia, Syrian refugees know what to pray for better than most. This is what happened to us, said refugee students at the Together for the Family center in Zahle, Lebanon. We dont want it to happen to others. Born in Homs, Syria, to a Baptist pastor, Izdihar Kassis married a Lebanese man and then founded the center in 2006. She shifted her ministry to care for her people when the Syrian civil war started in 2011. About 50 traumatized teenagers find counseling there every year, and 300 have graduated from the centers vocational programs. As the refugees discussed the horrible situation in Europe during the weekly chapel service, Kassis suggested intercession. The 40 children and 30 Syrian staff and volunteers bowed their heads. But one child wanted to be sure the Ukrainians would know of their solidarity. He went outside into the cold and snow of the Bekaa Valley, where most of Lebanons 1.5 million Syrian refugees take shelter. His sign proclaimed, Praying for peace. Image: Together for the Family Since the invasion, about 4 million of Ukraines population of 43 million have become refugees. Another 6.5 million are internally displaced. Yet 11 years since its civil war, most of Syrias 6.8 million refugeesout of a population of 20 millionstill live in limbo. Europe largely shut its doors, certainly in comparison to its warm welcome of those fleeing Russian aggression. Many have taken offense. There is the perennial double standard and selective outrage of global news media, Western governments (and, sadly, even Western Churches) when it comes to reporting on wars, conflicts and the plight of refugees, stated Vinoth Ramachandra from Sri Lanka, a senior leader with the International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES), affiliated with InterVarsity. If Ukrainians were not blonde and blue-eyed, would their plight have occasioned [this] outpouring of compassion? It is a fair question. Is European hypocrisyeven racismon full display? Arab Christians are not quick to judge. Born in Syria, Joseph Kassab today heads the Beirut-based Supreme Council of the Evangelical Churches in Syria and Lebanon. He notes the more than one million countrymen taken in by EuropeWestern Europe, primarily. Eastern nations, he said, are still recovering from the communist era and have not yet developed the same sense of human rights. There should be no discrimination, yet even this he understands. The early church struggled to open its mission to non-Jews. Racism is in every society, Kassab said. But Europeans have been more welcoming to the Syrians than many Lebanese. Being Muslim is a factor, said Elie Haddad, president of Arab Baptist Theological Seminary in Beirut. But also important is that most are rural, uneducated farmers. Legitimate or not, people are uncomfortable with difference. Europe is a bit hypocritical, but so is he. If a faculty member needs shelter, I will open my home, Haddad said. For a stranger, not so much. Image: Omar Haj Kadour / AFP / Getty Images One who did open his home is a Frenchman of Lebanese descent in Nice. A nurse at a local hospital, in 2018 Francois Nader was the only available Arabic speaker to assist a refugee family whose working-age son needed emergency kidney dialysis. He walked them through the necessary paperwork and for three months gave boarding to the recovering Syrian. Nader even offered him above-average wages for housework, providing informal work since French law forbade formal employment. Yet France today is permitting Ukrainians up to three years of residence and employment (per a European Union directive). And Nader, now in Bordeaux and married to a Russian with Ukrainian relatives, applauds. A simple phone call from authorities validated the legality of four refugees he now has in his home. A nondenominational Christian, he believes the gospel calls people to treat everyone the same. But not nations. Muslim values are totally opposite to ours, Nader said. It needs generations to have their mind adapt to the European way. The fear of terrorism is an issue. But so is adaptation. Muslims concentrate in the banlieues, ghettos that reinforce a separatism damaging to French society, he said. Meanwhile, Ukrainian tourists visit the Louvre, where their children behave, he said. On the tramway they sit quietly, reading books. It is a stereotype, and it is a little bit cruel, Nader said. Im sorry to say this, but it is also human. But is it biblical? God has created both similarity and difference, said Leonardo De Chirico, chair of the theological commission of the Italian Evangelical Alliance. According to Galatians 6:10, he said, it is proper to give preference. The principle of proximity calls us to give special attention to those who are near us, he said, in the faith, in the family, in the nation, and in our surrounding context. While this applies to ethnicity, it does not apply to culture or education, said De Chirico. All should be welcomed and helped to integrate. But where resources are limited and governments overwhelmed, it is not wrong to discriminate. The Bible even does so, he said, as the original Hebrew differentiates between aliens. The gerim (Lev. 19:3334) are to be treated justly like fellow Jews, but the zarim (Ex. 12:43) are barred from celebrating Passover. A modern distinction is between refugee and migrant. Freedom of movement is not absolute, said Marc Jost, general secretary of the Swiss Evangelical Alliance. I like diversity, but it entails risks that must be regulated. Cultural proximity led Switzerland to waive for Ukrainians the case-by-case examination required for Syrians. Jost rejects the privilege many wanted to give for faith and ethnicity, but Swiss authorities thought distinction necessary to weed out potential terrorists. Still, the difficulties of integration are real, and the government wanted to reduce the pull factor, especially for economic migrants seeking a better life. Those threatened by life and limb should be permitted with no discrimination. But many say such cases are the minority. Greece has accepted nearly 5,000 Ukrainians since the war began. Up to 30,000 could be accommodated, authorities said. The Mediterranean nation has been especially attentive to Mariupol, repatriating nearly 200 nationals from an area originally settled by Greeks in the sixth century B.C. But Greece already hosts about 42,000 refugees from various countries. Many others are turned away by boat. The Greek government stated that as it processes applications, 7 out of 10 applicants are not refugees. We should not equate migrants with refugees, said Slavko Hadzic, Langham preaching coordinator for the West Balkans, from Bosnia. Migrants can use legal means to apply for jobs. His nation has been criticized for inhumane migrant camps. But according to a 2020 report by Human Rights Watch, out of 18,000 asylum seekers, Syria was only the fifth-most-common nation of origin, behind Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Iraq. Churches helped them all, said Hadzic, as they should. But he criticized an idea heard frequently in Eastern Europe about the preservation of Christian civilization. While believers have a special responsibility to help all followers of Jesus, this does not include the nominal in faith. Whatever label a secular government puts on itself, he said, there are no Christian nations in the world. But it is good there is Christian heritage, said Samuil Petrovski, president of the Serbian Evangelical Alliance, and it should be protected against new waves of Western-imported identity politics. But as the government should bring light to dark places, it must not be at the expense of refugees or migrants, regardless of their religion, he said. The Bible teaches that assistance should be given to all who are truly in need. Hungary simply defines them differently. Prime Minister Viktor Orban calls his nation a Christian democracy, and the Catholic-majority country maintains a cabinet-level ministry to support persecuted Christians in the Middle East. But, while now saying Ukrainian refugees are coming to a friendly place, two months before the war Orban stated, We are not going to let anyone in. Eastern Europeans have held onto the heritage of Christendom longer than their Western neighbors. But it is an old Orthodox idearejected as heresy in 1872 by the Council of Constantinoplethat merges political nationalism with an ethnic church. And given Russias argument that Ukraine properly belongs to the Moscow patriarchate, over 1,100 Orthodox clerics and scholars condemned phyletism again. The battle is won in the hearts and minds of others, not in restrictive laws, even when created with good intentions, said Bradley Nassif, author of The Evangelical Theology of the Orthodox Church and a former professor of theology at North Park University. The best approach would be for the state to support the church without enacting laws and policies against religious minorities. Jost believes that to defend a nations Christian heritage, it must continually be demonstrated to benefit society as a whole. Human rights, he said, are derived from Christian ethics. But other evangelical leaders protested. De Chirico, from majority Roman Catholic Italy, said a Christian identity of a state is fraught with problems. Kassab said if the Middle East promotes its Islamic identity, it would multiply the misery of Christians. The state should protect the heritage and identity of all, said Tom Albinson, president of the International Association for Refugees, an affiliate of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA). There is good reason for communities to serve through networks and relationships of trust. And it is within the rights of a nation to protect its borders and to deport migrants. But it is not right to pit the migrant against the refugee. Many nations today are spending much more money and energy on finding ways to prevent refugees and asylum seekers from ever crossing their border than they are in protecting people who have been robbed of place and are among the most vulnerable people on the planet, said Albinson. This needs to be exposed and confronted for what it is. Mixed migration confuses the issue, and human traffickers prey on them all. Meanwhile the refugees among them are often treated as guilty until proven innocent. Having served eight years as the WEAs ambassador for refugees until last year, Albinson counsels nations to invest in the infrastructure necessary to process claims fairly. Currently 86 percent of the worlds refugees are hosted by developing nations, he said. And out of a total of 26 million, only 1 percent are resettled in any given year. The church, he counsels, should fill in the gaps. Government services and nongovernmental humanitarian agencies can offer help, but they are not able to strengthen hope, Albinson said. We are at our best when we care for those unlike ourselves, those who are strangers to us. And who is stranger to a Ukrainian than a Syrian? Mothers Day in the Arab world falls in March. Besides offering prayer, Together for the Family is collecting advice from Syrian wives and widows on how to deal with life when torn from husbands and sons. They will send cardsand the little money they can spare. Graduates from the centers carpentry program earn $2.25 per week. But due to the shortage in imported Ukrainian grain, their daily bread now costs 75 cents. The Lord has helped them here and lifted them up, said Kassis. They want to encourage Ukrainian women in the same way. Editors note: You can now follow CTs Ukraine-Russia coverage on Telegram: You can now follow CTs Ukraine-Russia coverage on Telegram: @ctmagazine (also available in Chinese and Russian ). [ This article is also available in espanol, Portugues, Francais, , and . ] The United States will accept up to 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing Russian aggression, President Joe Biden announced Thursday. Details of the plan are still being worked out, but both the US refugee resettlement program and the humanitarian visa program will be utilized, with an emphasis on reuniting families. The US hosts the third-largest Ukrainian diaspora in the world, after Russia and Canada. Biden also pledged $1 billion in humanitarian assistance for Ukrainians internally displaced by the war. World Relief, which has resettled 7,300 Ukrainian refugeesrepresenting 4 out of 10 admitted to the USover the past decade, welcomed the announcement. We are in close contact with many of these individuals, almost all of whom have loved ones now at risk in Ukraine, stated president and CEO Myal Greene in a press release, and were grateful that President Bidens announcement today seems to open up the likelihood of expedited family reunification and other avenues of protection. World Relief also noted its current work with local churches in Western Ukraine, Slovakia, Romania, Moldova, Poland, and Hungary. Editors note: You can now follow CTs Ukraine-Russia coverage on Telegram: You can now follow CTs Ukraine-Russia coverage on Telegram: @ctmagazine (also available in Russian Most Ukrainians who make the difficult decision to leave their homes are relatively safe in neighboring European countries, where most would prefer to stay, in part because they hope and pray to return soon to a safe, free Ukraine, stated Greene. But for those who have family in the US or for whom voluntary repatriation is impossible, some may prefer the option of resettlement to the US, where we are also eager to welcome and support them as they replant their lives. Valentin Siniy, president of Tavriski Christian Institute (TCI) in Kherson, told CT that Ukrainians are grateful to everyone who helps us in such a difficult period of our history. But he noted the length of time and uncertain process that any relocation to the US would require. More than 4 in 10 Ukrainian families have now been separated by the war. His evangelical seminary and its city are now under Russian control. We all have to learn how to live in a different reality, he said. Siniy has observed that governments often respond to refugees based on the level of hospitality that private citizens are already offeringand especially to the extent local churches have gotten involved. It is very important for the modern church to raise its bold prophetic voice in denouncing the evil that is present, such as war, and to encourage society towards virtues and human relations, he said. Over the past week, CT visited nine churches and church-run refugee centers in Poland, including in Warsaw, Krakow, and smaller cities near the Polish-Ukrainian border. Local pastors told CT they dont know of any evangelical church in Poland thats not involved in helping Ukrainian refugees in some way, whether hosting them, picking them up at the border, feeding and clothing them, finding longer-term accommodation, providing transportation to other cities or countries, or sending trucks and vans full of supplies to Ukraine. Id be surprised to know of any church that isnt involved, said Czeslaw Kushider, lead pastor of Nazaret Pentecostal Church in Przemysl, a city about a 20-minute drive from the Ukrainian border. His congregation has turned every room in the church building, including his pastors office, into sleeping areas for passing refugees, with volunteers working round-the-clock. Most evangelical churches in Poland are small, averaging about 80 to 100 members per congregation. But from the day the Russian military invaded Ukraine on February 24, causing now more than 2 million people to flee into Poland, churches were one of the first groups to respond, mobilizing at a speed and efficiency rivaling or surpassing government agencies and big humanitarian organizations. For example, Chelm Baptist Church, an 80-member congregation about a 30-minute drive from the border, was already hosting up to 200 refugees a day in its church building within the first weeka full week before city officials opened up a bigger government-run refugee center in Chelm. Within the first two weeks, this little Baptist church had already hosted more than 3,000 refugees with its small team of volunteers comprised of church members and neighbors. Part of the reason churches were able to move so quickly, Polish pastors told CT, is because these churches already have existing relationships with churches in Ukraine and other churches across Poland and Europe. Since most of the refugees are women and children, many worry about the risk of human trafficking but trust churches as places of refuge. For those who dont know where to go, churches from other cities and towns in Poland, or from countries as far out as Spain, connect with each other and help refugees transit from one church to another. Kushider, the pastor in Przemysl, said like many churches in the US his congregation has been divided amid the pandemic. But today, hes witnessing a unity within his church and others that he hasnt seen before. This challenge changed us. People are working together, he told CT. If someone had told us that we would be able to do what were doing now, we would have said thats impossible. But God surprised us and said With me, its possible, said Kushider. This experience has expanded our horizons of what we can do as a church together. However, many of these churches are also running out of resources. One pastor in Warsaw told CT his church used to operate its building about once a week. Now its running 24/7, and hes dreading the electricity and heating bill coming at the end of this month. Every Polish pastor CT talked to said they dont need more people from other countries flying into Poland, especially in large groups with volunteers who dont speak Ukrainian, Russian, or Polish. They need every space they can get for the refugees. Instead, what they need most is money to fund the already-existing efforts on the ground. They need money to pay bills and rent, and to fuel the cars and buses and trucks that deliver supplies and evacuate refugees. (Gas is one of the biggest expenses right now.) Polish pastors also urge Christians across the globe to pray. We never expected that 75 years after World War II, and 67 years after the collapse of Stalin, someone else would rise up with the same evil spirit, said Marek Kaminski, bishop of the Pentecostal Church of Poland. Pray globally. Fast globally. We need this war to be stopped. Image: Jeremy Weber This article will be updated. Sophia Lee reported from Warsaw, Poland. Jeremy Weber reported from Washington, DC. AME Church will no longer allow one person to count the money after nearly $100M goes missing Rev. Cedric V. Alexander, a retired pastor with the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Inc., has filed a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging that the denomination lost some 70% or nearly $100 million from its retirement plan through "foolish" and risky investments, which have hurt about 5,000 participants financially. The 49-page federal complaint was filed Tuesday in Maryland, where Alexander resides. The document alleges that Jerome V. Harris, the former executive director of the denomination's Department of Retirement Services, was "given sole authority to invest tens of millions of AMEC clergy's and other Church servants' retirement savings in a questionable and potentially unlawful purchase of undeveloped land in Florida, a promissory note to an Illinois installer of solar panels, and an even more foolish investment in a now non-existent capital venture outfit." And while all of this was happening, church officials kept reporting to the plan's beneficiaries that their retirement funds were safely flourishing as investments in annuities from Symetra Financial. "This suit is about a complete and total abrogation of these fiduciary responsibilities by Defendants, resulting in numerous breaches of duty and resulting in a single, unmonitored individual, Defendant Harris, controlling all Plan assets and investments," the complaint says. The Christian Post reached out to the AME Church for comment on the complaint. No one was immediately available. Alexander, who retired in September 2020 after more than two decades of service in the historically black church denomination, said from Jan. 1, 2021, through March 31, 2021, his retirement account showed a balance of $86,631.75. On Sept. 13, 2021, he requested a rollover of his funds from the church's plan to an individual retirement account. He was informed in October 2021 by Rev. James Miller, the newly elected executive director of the denomination's Department of Retirement Services, that his request could not be accommodated due to a pending audit and the church's retirement funds being frozen. Miller followed up with a letter in November telling participants in the retirement plan that the audit was taking longer than expected. On Dec. 14, 2021, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the denomination was investigating "possible financial irregularities" with its retirement fund investments. Everything came to head during a meeting of the denomination's general board on Jan. 31 when participants in the church's retirement plan were told that "more than $90 million of [the denomination's] $126.8 million [retirement fund] was missing, and no one connected with the Church, except its former Department of Retirement Services Executive Director, Defendant Harris, knew where the money and other plan related records went." "Those attending the January 31st meeting were told that despite repeated representations to Plan participants over the last two decades, the Plan's assets were not all invested in annuities provided by Symetra," the complaint notes. "Instead, the Council of Bishops, General Board, Department of Retirement Services, the chair of the Department, Bishop Green and the Trustees allowed a single individual, Defendant Harris, to exercise full decision making authority over the use of all Plan assets. Rev. Miller, Defendant Harris's replacement as Executive Director of the Department of Retirement Services, put it this way: 'never again will we allow one person to count the money,' essentially conceding that the Plan's other fiduciaries previously had completely abdicated their duties owed to the Plan and the Plan's participants, including Plaintiff Alexander and the other members of the Class." Others listed as defendants include Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr., the Trustees of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Ministerial Retirement Annuity Plan, the African Methodist Episcopal Church Ministerial Retirement Annuity Plan, the Department of Retirement Services, the General Board of the AME Church, the Council of Bishops of the AME Church and John and Jane Does 1 through 20. According to the complaint, the governing documents of the AME Church's retirement plan stipulate that it is governed by the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, which requires that management and investment decisions should be made solely in the interest of the participants. However, the legal filing claims Harris did not follow that guidance. An investigation revealed that Harris invested tens of millions of dollars "in high-risk, speculative and demonstratively imprudent investments in Motorskill Ventures Group (a now defunct venture capital outfit)." Investments were made in "Motorskill Ventures," "Motorskill Asia Ventures," and a separate investment in Financial Freedom Fund, LLC, which invested in additional Motorskill Ventures Group investments called "Motorskill Ventures 1" and "Motorskill Asia Ventures 1." Last June, the AME Church's investigative committee was informed by Motorskill Ventures Group "that these investments are worthless, the funds in which the Plan invested were terminated by Motorskill, and that the Plan will recover nothing from its investments." According to the complaint, the investigative committee could only verify $36.9 million of the church's retirement fund invested with Symetra. Another $1 million of value was identified in investment in another "speculative, high-risk investment in undeveloped real estate located in Key Marco Island, Florida." "Defendant Harris initially invested $1.5 million of the Plan's assets in the undeveloped land, reflecting a loss of $500,000 and providing merit to the pejorative phrase 'Florida land deal,'" the complaint noted. Harris is also accused of investing in Financial Freedom Fund, LLC, described as a manager of a private Real Estate Investment Trust that provides loans for commercial and residential construction. Money from the retirement funds was also used to provide a promissory note to an Illinois installer of solar panels called Day and Night Solar. "Upon information and belief, Defendant Harris would not have secretly moved tens of millions of dollars in Plan asset's out of Symetra annuity investments and invested them in a risky or fraudulent venture capital company Motorskill Ventures Group, Financial Freedom Fund, LLC, or invested an additional $1.5 million in a Florida land deal if he did not stand to benefit in some way," the complaint argues. It was also claimed that at the Jan. 31 meeting, the office of the executive director of the AME's Department of Retirement Services "had been emptied, with nothing in the office cabinets but 'empty files and paperclips.' Even the most current version of the Plan document could not be located." As a result of the situation, Alexander has not received any of his retirement benefits since 2020. "As of the date of the filing of this Complaint, Plaintiff has not received any of his retirement benefits, despite being retired, without much income, for well over a year. All other members of the Class similarly have had their pension payments halted and/or have been informed that they have only one-third of the amount or less in their individual retirement accounts than they had previously been told," the complaint says. Alexander's retirement account total has been reduced from $86,631.75 to $26,025.29, since the investigation, the complaint states. Other participants in the fund, says the complaint, have also seen a 70% reduction in the value of their retirement accounts. The denomination announced that the Department of Retirement Services had reported a material loss in a statement last October and that a "comprehensive audit and review" would be conducted by an independent law firm and accounting firm. AME vowed to make the report of the findings public upon receipt. In the first week of February, Alexander said he received a letter from the Department of Retirement Services informing participants of "troubling news" that "plan funds were frozen, and distributions delayed pending the investigative findings." The letter stated that federal investigatory agencies along with the outside consultants were "working on the matter." "The AME Church takes this crime seriously," a statement from AME said, according to The Wall Street Journal. "We are also committed to making every fund participant whole by restoring their full investment plus interest." North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, front, claps during a test-fire of what it says a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile, at an undisclosed location in North Korea, March 24, in this photo distributed by the North Korean government. AP-Yonhap North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test this week underscores apparent progress in its push for advanced, more reliable nuclear weapons delivery means targeting the United States, experts said Friday. The North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that at the behest of leader Kim Jong-un, the country successfully test-fired the Hwasong-17 ICBM, Thursday. It stressed his policy to bolster the "powerful nuclear war deterrence qualitatively and quantitatively." The missile flew 1,090 kilometers with a maximum altitude of 6,249 km for 67 minutes, according to the KCNA. The South Korean military has said the ICBM fired at an elevated angle traveled some 1,080 km at an apogee of over 6,200 km. Considering the specifics, the Hwasong-17 missile launch appears to represent progress in the North's ICBM program. Its previous ICBM test in November 2017 involved the Hwasong-15 missile, which Seoul officials said flew 960 km at a maximum altitude of around 4,500 km. Kim Dong-yup, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies, presumed that if launched at a normal angle, the Hwasong-17 could have flown more than 15,000 km a range that can hit the entire continental U.S. The so-called "monster" missile was first unveiled at a military parade in October 2020. It was put on a 22-wheel transporter erector launcher (TEL) compared with the 21-meter-long Hwasong-15, using the 18-wheel TEL. A Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is launched from an undisclosed location in North Korea, March 24, in this photo distributed by the North Korean government. AP-Yonhap The Hwasong-17 is thought to be longer than the United States' 18.2-meter-long Minuteman III ICBM, China's 21-meter-long Dongfeng-41 ICBM and Russia's 22.7-meter-long Topol-M ICBM. Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korea studies at Ewha Womans University, noted that the long flight range means the missile can carry a more powerful warhead, or multiple warheads if its range is adjusted to a shorter distance. "When a missile has a range of 10,000 km, it can strike the U.S. mainland. But the Hwasong-17 is said to have a range of 15,000 km," he said. "If the range is shortened, it may be able to carry a heavier warhead or more warheads for various operational functions." Americans are leaving church and most arent coming back: report In Matthew 11:29 of the Bible, Jesus calls for all those who labor and are heavy laden to come to Him for rest, a rest that the Church has promised new converts for centuries. A new report released Thursday by the American Enterprise Institute shows, however, that despite the proven benefits of belonging to a faith community, Americans are increasingly leaving organized religion with each subsequent generation and the majority arent coming back. In the report, Generation Z and the future of faith in America, Daniel A. Cox, senior fellow in polling and public opinion at the American Enterprise Institute, who also serves as director of the Survey Center on American Life, paints a complicated and diminished view of religion in American life. Much of the disaffection for religion today is largely driven by people who were once religious. There is a growing population of the religiously unaffiliated whose once religious parents raised them without religion. Young adults today have had entirely different religious and social experiences than previous generations did. The parents of millennials and Generation Z did less to encourage regular participation in formal worship services and model religious behaviors in their children than had previous generations, Cox wrote. Many childhood religious activities that were once common, such as saying grace, have become more of the exception than the norm. In line with the wisdom of Proverbs 22:6 which says, train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it, Cox noted that for as long as we have been able to measure religious commitments, childhood religious experiences have strongly predicted adult religiosity. With more parents raising their children with weak or no bond to a faith community, its a lot more difficult for them to be converted in adulthood. If someone had robust religious experiences growing up, they are likely to maintain those beliefs and practices into adulthood. Without robust religious experiences to draw on, Americans feel less connected to the traditions and beliefs of their parents faith, Cox explained. For nearly 30 years, notes Cox, research shows the share of Americans who identify as religious has consistently declined with each new generation. This pattern continues with Generation Z demonstrating less attachment to religion than the millennial generation did, he said. Generation Z, born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, is now the least religious generation yet, with 34% of them identifying as religiously unaffiliated. Among millennials, 29% identify as religiously unaffiliated, while Generation X stands at 25%. Only 18% of baby boomers and 9% of the silent generation identify as religiously unaffiliated. Its not only a lack of religious affiliation that distinguishes Generation Z. They are also far more likely to identify as atheist or agnostic, Cox said, noting that some 18% of the cohort identified as either atheist or agnostic. Only 4% of the silent generation, for example, identify as atheist or agnostic. Cox noted that one of the most significant changes in American religious culture has been the increasing rate at which Americans can now remain non-religious. Today, nearly two-thirds (65%) of Americans who report having no childhood religious affiliation say they still are unaffiliated as adults, rivaling that of established religious traditions, he wrote. In 2014, only 53% of Americans raised without a formal religious tradition retained their secular identity as adults. In 2007, that number was 46%. One explanation for the rise in retention rates among unaffiliated Americans may be that an increasing number of Americans are being raised in nonreligious households and holding onto those commitments into adulthood, Cox said. Some 29% of Americans who are unaffiliated were raised without religion. In 2014, this share was 21%. According to Cox, most Americans who abandon their childhood faith cant point to a single event that caused them to leave and characterize it as a gradual drifting away. Cox pointed to a number of factors that have impacted a diminished view of organized religion, including a breach of trust. Gallup has found that trust and confidence in organized religion have plummeted over the past two decades. In 2021, only 37% of the public reported having a great deal or quite a lot of confidence in religious institutions, a massive decline since 2001 when 60 percent reported feeling confident, he said. He further added that while only 35% of Americans overall believe religion causes more harm than good, among the disaffiliated who were raised in religious homes, 69% say religion causes problems more than it provides solutions. Some 63% of Americans who have always been religiously unaffiliated also believe religion causes more problems in society than it solves. And while more than half of Americans say raising children with religion is a benefit, 82% of the religiously unaffiliated disagree. Only 40% of Gen Z see raising children with religion as a good thing. Biden says the US will welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees The United States will accept up to 100,000 refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Joe Biden said Thursday as European nations welcome millions who have been displaced by the war. This is not something that Poland or Romania or Germany should carry on their own, Biden said during a news briefing in Brussels, Belgium. This is an international responsibility. In a Fact Sheet released Thursday, the Biden administration said that in addition to accepting Ukrainians after already taking in thousands of evacuees from Afghanistan, the U.S. will give $1 billion in humanitarian aid to European countries that are taking in and caring for an estimated 3 million war refugees. While we expect many Ukrainians will choose to remain in Europe close to family and their homes in Ukraine, today, the United States is announcing plans to welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing Russias aggression through the full range of legal pathways, including the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, the Biden administration said. In particular, we are working to expand and develop new programs with a focus on welcoming Ukrainians who have family members in the United States. The administration went on to note that the United States and the European Union are also coordinating closely to ensure that these efforts, and other forms of humanitarian admission or transfers, are complementary and provide much-needed support to Ukraines neighbors. Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit centered on providing aid to children and their families, released a statement on Thursday celebrating the announcement. This decision allowing the United States to welcome our neighbors affected by the violence is encouraging and will provide hope for those who have experienced unfathomable trauma and loss, said Chris Palusky, president and CEO of Bethany Christian Services. Bethany remains committed to serving vulnerable children and families in the U.S. and around the world as we work to help them find the support, security, and care they deserve. In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. has taken various measures to aid the invaded Eastern European nation and punish Russia for its aggression. Last month, Biden announced that he would reinstate sanctions he previously lifted against various entities in Russia, with them being expanded as the ground war began. We have purposefully designed these sanctions to maximize the long-term impact on Russia and to minimize the impact on the United States and our allies, Biden said at the time. Many of these measures are set to take effect on Saturday but do not include gas and oil imports made between Russia and the U.S., as well as European nations. On Thursday, the White House announced that the U.S., along with the EU were going to add additional sanctions on various figures in Russia, including measures aimed at several Russian elites, members of Russia's Legislature, the Duma, and defense companies. "Our sanctions on Russia are unprecedented in no other circumstance have we moved so swiftly and in such a coordinated fashion to impose devastating costs on any other country," stated the White House. Oscar winning actress Hilary Swank to star in Kingdom Story's 'Ordinary Angels' film Two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank is slated to star alongside Reacher breakout Alan Ritchson in Kingdom Story Companys Ordinary Angels, a film based on an inspirational true story. The film, which will be distributed by Lionsgate and is headed into production, is directed by Jon Gunn ("The Unbreakable Boy"), with the most recent draft of the script written by Gunn and Jon Erwin. Swank will play a struggling hairdresser who single-handedly rallies an entire community to help a widowed father (Ritchson) save the life of his critically ill young daughter. The film is set against the backdrop of the worst snowstorm in Kentucky history and is inspired by a true story. The 47-year-old actress won Oscars for her turns in "Boys Dont Cry" and "Million Dollar Baby." Shes also received two Golden Globes, a Critics Choice Award, an Independent Spirit Award, a Gotham Tribute Award and a SAG Award. Ritchson, an actor, writer, director and producer, stars as the lead in Amazons critically acclaimed series Reacher. Gunn said: Im thrilled to be working with Hilary and Alan. They are both actors with incredible range, who find humanity and vulnerability in every character they play. They are perfectly matched to bring this complex and inspirational true story to life. Kingdom Story Companys Kevin Downes said the company endeavors to bring inspiring true stories to life on screen, adding: Ordinary Angels spotlights one familys seemingly insurmountable struggles and the everyday people who helped them in remarkable ways. Hilary Swank and Alan Ritchson bring to life this heroic example of how one person can change a family and how that changes a community and gives rise, quite literally, to life and to hope. Ordinary Angels" is the latest inspirational film from Kingdom Story Company, the group behind I Can Only Imagine and American Underdog. The company is helmed by brothers Jon and Andrew Erwin, Downes and Tony Young, and in partnership with the studio Lionsgate. Later this year, the company will release Jesus Revolution starring Kelsey Grammer. The film is inspired by the true story of the national spiritual awakening that swept Southern California in the early 1970s. Grammer will portray Pastor Smith of Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, Greg Lauries mentor. The minister famously opened his church to all seekers and was instrumental in launching one of the largest spiritual revivals in the United States. The Erwin brothers, outspoken Christians themselves, previously shared why theyre drawn to true stories. We love true stories because that allows us to explore the real-life experiences and struggle that that person went through, Andrew Erwin told The Christian Post. The filmmaker added that sharing unfiltered true stories that highlight humanity gives context for the things that, for us as Christians, are so important. It gives power to the message; it gives power to these moments that are life-changing that dont feel like propaganda or trying to sell something. Its just inviting somebody to understand somebodys real-life story, he said. Jon Erwin noted that throughout the Psalms, David shares his flaws with brutal honesty, adding, You dont have to be perfect for God to use you. Those flaws are part of it, and thats who God chooses to use. Former Hillsong Dallas Pastor Reed Bogard resigned after he was accused of rape, investigation reveals Less than two weeks after Reed Bogard abruptly resigned as lead pastor of the now-defunct Hillsong Dallas in January 2021, an internal investigation commissioned by Hillsong Global showed that the married father of three was accused of rape by a junior female staffer with whom he had a monthlong affair while serving at Hillsong NYC years earlier. The former junior Hillsong NYC staffer who asked not to be publicly named in this report when contacted by The Christian Post, said she has been trying to move on with her life. She confirmed she participated in a deposition concerning the allegation but would not say anything more than what was already included in the report. I think at this stage ... Im not going to comment. Everything that you have in that deposition is obviously something that I did, and I said in the context of a legal deposition. I think I just want to leave it at that. The findings of the investigation conducted by the New York City law firm Zukerman Gore Brandeis & Crossman, LLP, are highlighted in a report reviewed by CP. The investigation was commissioned by Hillsong Global in October 2020, shortly after senior church officials first learned that the former junior staffer alleged that her first act of sexual intercourse with Bogard in his car after a late night out together was non-consensual. Hillsong leaders were made aware years earlier of a sexual relationship between the two parties, but an investigation was not conducted by the church at the time. Church leaders were led to believe the relationship was consensual and "consequences to both [parties] were meted out accordingly," investigators revealed. The report was submitted to George Aghajanian, general manager and a director of Hillsong Church Australia and its international entities, on Jan. 11, 2021. It shows that Hillsong Church Australia first learned of the sexual affair between Bogard and the junior staff member in the second half of 2014. The relationship began in September 2013 and continued through the beginning of January 2014. At the time, the Church did not conduct any meaningful inquiry into the details or circumstances of the affair, and no one with appropriate training was assigned to look into matters, investigators noted. When contacted about the report in February, Hillsong Church said Brian Houston, who resigned Wednesday after it was revealed that two women made serious complaints of misconduct against him in the last 10 years, was not aware of the rape claims against Bogard when he was chosen to lead Hillsong Dallas in 2019. Houston is currently facing criminal charges for allegedly concealing sex abuse committed by his father decades earlier. Brian Houston categorically denies he had knowledge of this serious allegation when Reed Bogard was selected as the Lead Pastor for Dallas, Hillsong Church said in a statement to CP. Hillsong Church has enormous compassion for the other party involved in this situation. We have been in regular contact with her and she has asked to remain anonymous. We ask that the media and all other parties respect and protect her privacy. As the coronavirus swept the world in late 2020, the church learned that the affair didnt start out consensually. The report states that the junior staffer "resurfaced the issue" in October 2020, six years after initially confessing to having a consensual relationship. More than six years later, on or about October 2020, Hillsong Church Australia learned of additional allegations concerning Ms. [redacted] and Mr. Bogards affair. Specifically, in discussions with certain leaders of Hillsong NYC, Ms. [redacted] asserted to them, apparently for the first time, that her sexual experience with Mr. Bogard, at least initially, had not been consensual, the report said in a summary. For the first time, Ms. [redacted] stated that at least in their initial sexual intercourse, Mr. Bogard had raped her. Investigators at Zukerman Gore said while it might be too late for Bogards accuser to seek civil damages against him or the church for what happened to her, a criminal complaint for rape might still be timely, though that would not be expected to implicate the Church itself. There was no indication from the investigation that the rape allegation was reported to law enforcement. In 2019, New York state extended the state statute of limitations for reporting second-degree rape to 20 years and third-degree rape to 10 years. Investigators noted in the report that: "It is difficult if not impossible to say with certainty whether the initial sexual acts between Mr. Bogard and Ms. [redacted] occurred notwithstanding an express, verbal objection ('No') uttered by Ms. [redacted] in the moment." Zukerman Gore Brandeis & Crossman, LLP, did not respond to requests for comment. Bogard, who now works as a director of business development for Keller Williams in Michigan, said he was done with all things Hillsong as well. I dont have any comment on that. Im not going to discuss anything. I have nothing to do with Hillsong anymore. I havent been a part of that organization for over a year, he said when contacted by CP. When Houston and his wife, Bobbie, announced they were pausing the Dallas campus in April 2021, they failed to mention that Bogard, 39, had been accused of rape. It was very disappointing to learn that, while some of you experienced the Bogards as dedicated pastors, many others have experienced leadership that failed to meet the commitments and standards of Hillsong Church, Brian Houston said, in part, at the time. I want to be the first to apologize to those who felt disappointed or hurt, and I pray that God does a swift work in bringing peace and healing. In addition to the allegation of rape, which allegedly took place one night on Manhattans Upper East Side in October 2013, details highlighted in the report show Bogard drinking heavily, using marijuana, and generally bullying staff while serving at Hillsong NYC prior to being promoted as lead pastor of Hillsong Dallas. Ben Houston, Brian Houstons son, who was leading Hillsong LA and serving as Bogards boss when the former junior staffer first revealed her sexual relationship with him to Hillsong senior leaders, told investigators that he had spoken with his father and members of the churchs global board about the relationship. Investigators reported that Bogard was "stood down publicly from the platform in Los Angeles for a period of either eight or twelve months," noting that "stories differ." Houston told the investigators that "the nature and extent of such discipline were handed down by top leadership in Australia," the report reads. "Thereafter, Mr. Bogard was returned to full Pastoral duties, and was eventually awarded a promotion to Lead Pastor in the newly created Church location in Dallas, Texas," the report adds. The board came up with a plan that Mr. Bogard would not be permitted to serve in leadership in any capacity for twelve months, he would not be on platform for 12 months and he would undergo counseling, investigators said. Both Bogard and his rape accuser offered varying accounts of their first sexual encounter which happened inside his car on Manhattans Upper East Side after they had a clandestine meeting at a local bar, investigators said. Ms. [redacted] stated that as soon as she and Mr. Bogard sat down at a table at the bar, they each ordered a drink. Ms. [redacted] recalls that right after giving their drink order, Mr. Bogard leaned in and tried to kiss her. Ms. [redacted] stated that she probably participated in the kiss. Ms. [redacted] and Mr. Bogard then talked about Mr. Bogards frustrations with his upcoming move to California, and how he was unhappy in his marriage, the report said. While this was happening, Bogards accuser told investigators that she felt very conflicted being at the bar with him because she felt like she had put herself in that position and had been asking herself, do I like him? In part, Ms. [redacted] now believes that she went to the bar to satisfy her own curiosity, investigators said. Bogard claimed that they arranged to meet at the bar around 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. The former Hillsong junior staffer said they stayed at the bar for about 45 minutes, having only one drink each. Investigators said Bogard disputed the level of drinking. Mr. Bogards description of the amount of drinking is very different. Mr. Bogards position is interesting because he seems to need to establish that he was too drunk to act responsibly as a way of soothing his conscience, yet he ignores or overlooks the fact that if Ms. [redacted], his subordinate, was similarly impaired, that she would have been incapable of meaningful consent in what happens after they leave the bar, investigators explained. The subordinate staffer recalls Bogard offered her a ride home, but the former pastor told investigators she asked for the ride home. The alleged rape Once they were in the car, things quickly got out of hand. Ms. [redacted] stated that when they got into the car (she in the front passenger seat and Mr. Bogard in the drivers seat), Mr. Bogard leaned across the arm rest and kissed Ms. [redacted]. Ms. [redacted] admits that she kissed Mr. Bogard back. Mr. Bogard then began to climb over the arm rest until he was bearing down on top of her in her seat. Significantly, Ms. [redacted] now discloses that at the time she said, no, I dont think we should do this, investigators said. Ms. [redacted] says that Mr. Bogard ignored her comment and continued his climb on top of her. He then reached down between the seat and the door and pulled the lever that released the seat back. Ms. [redacted] recalled the disoriented falling sensation of the seat back suddenly going back when shed not realized it was about to do so. Ms. [redacted] recalls that at around this point, Mr. Bogard undid his pants. Ms. [redacted] now reports that at this point, she said no. Mr. Bogard began to apply his hands to Ms. [redacteds] breasts. Ms. [redacted] reports that at this point, she froze. Mr. Bogard then asked Ms. [redacted] to take off her pants. Ms. [redacted] admits that she complied. Mr. Bogard then asked Ms. [redacted] to crawl into the back seat, an act which was facilitated because her seat back was now lying flat. Again, she complied. The two then had sexual intercourse. Bogard told investigators that he has no recollection of the accuser "saying 'no' at any time while they were in the car." After this encounter, Bogards accuser entered into a regular sexual relationship with him. She revealed that during the relationship she was sent a new employment contract with a non-disclosure agreement. When she asked about it, investigators noted: Mr. Bogard told her if you dont sign this contract, you dont work here. Investigators found that despite the nature of the case, the failure to adequately investigate it and the substantial passage of time since it happened, a jury would have likely found that Bogard had sex with the former junior staffer against her will. There can be no doubt that given the extreme power imbalance between the two, as well as the dont say no culture which permeated the New York Church at that time, there was ample opportunity for Mr. Bogard to take advantage of a systemic inability for Ms. [redacted] to have meaningfully consented at the time in question, the report noted. Without discounting the strength of a prosecution case due to the passage of time, it is likely that a jury, evaluating the interplay, would have found that Mr. Bogard acted without obtaining (or, under the circumstances, having any reasonable expectation of being able to obtain) actual consent by Ms. [redacted]. Along with the former junior staffer and Bogard, the following individuals were interviewed as part of the internal investigation: a former Hillsong NYC congregant; Shannon Kelly, a former creative director at Hillsong NYC; Amanda and Robert Fergusson, a husband and wife team of Bible teachers and key leaders of Hillsong Church; Jess Bogard, wife of Reed Bogard; Lauren Brooks (sic), a former creative producer at Hillsong NYC; Tolu Badders, chief operating officer and executive pastor at Hillsong Church NYC; Kane Keatinge, Hillsong NYC staff pastor; Carl Lentz, former Hillsong NYC lead pastor who was fired in November 2020 over leadership issues and moral failures, including being unfaithful to his wife; Laura Lentz and Ben Houston. The investigators further explained that it was concerning that Hillsong Church never considered the power imbalance between the two Bogard and his accuser once they were informed about the relationship. The fact that no Church leader appears to have even considered this issue is a cause for concern," investigators said. "An additional cause for concern is that even within the parameters of the sexual relationship between them, it appears that the sexual activities between the two frequently suggest that they were designed to reinforce the power imbalance between them. "In recounting various liaisons, Ms. [redacted] consistently talks about how Reed wanted to have sex, so we had sex, and similar comments, always indicating that Mr. Bogard was the initiator. Mr. Bogard even summoned Ms. [redacted] to his own apartment on his last day in New York for sex, even though the building where he lived was occupied by most of the senior leaders of the New York church and Ms. [redacted] would be exposed to coming and going there. Investigators noted that Bogards decision to force his accuser into signing an NDA was also another example of his abuse of power. No compelling legitimate reason was given by Mr. Bogard for why this demand was made in the middle of the affair. And this is yet another example of the abuse of power that seems to have permeated the entire relationship, they said. Bogard was also painted as a leader at Hillsong NYC who had a reputation for aggression, verbal abuse and unreasonable demands, which witnesses called UnChristian. Investigators said in their interview with him, Mr. Bogard did present as aggressive. Kelly told investigators that even if Bogard did not physically force himself on his accuser she did not have the ability to say no. Shannon stated that Mr. Bogard had an enormous amount of power and that Mr. Bogard was someone that if you said no to, it would be used against you in a lot of different ways. She stated people did not say no to Mr. Bogard, investigators said. Shannon stated that from the way Ms. [redacted] spoke about the relationship with Mr. Bogard, it was something Mr. Bogard put pressure on Ms. [redacted] to do, investigators added. Shannon observed that from her point of view, of all the people Mr. Bogard could have chosen, Ms. [redacted] was probably the most vulnerable. How US can be wise in handling Ukraine invasion Since the start of the Russian invasion, Americans have faced something not experienced in decades. Within Europe, the only example remotely similar to the Ukrainian invasion was in the Soviet incursions into Hungary in 1956 and Czechoslovakia in 1968. Those, however, involved the Soviet military putting down popular uprisings against those communist governments. In both cases, the United States did not become involved due to the risk of nuclear war with the Soviet Union. The popular uprisings appealed to the United States for support, but first President Eisenhower in 1956 and then President Johnson in 1968, decided not to become involved beyond statements condemning the Soviets. Particularly since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the United States has not had to face the serious potential of nuclear war in our military actions. In 1991, the United States used military force to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Then the U.S. used force against Serbia in 1999 to prevent ethnic cleansing in Kosovo. We then fought in Iraq and Afghanistan after 9-11. In none of those cases did the United States face a serious threat of nuclear war. The invasion of Ukraine takes us back to considerations from the Cold War and we must exhibit the wisdom of that time. Let me explain. First, in writing this article I am personally aware that the images coming from Ukraine are heartbreaking. The naked aggression against the Ukrainian people is infuriating for me to watch. As time has moved forward, we have seen the Russian militarys inability to conduct proper logistics, communicate, and combined arms maneuver. With these failures and ensuing battlefield losses caused by Ukrainians, Russians have quickly resorted to artillery and missiles against civilian targets. We have watched Ukrainian women and children killed while in hospitals and shelters. We have watched President Zelensky cry out for support to America and other NATO nations. Most Americans want to do everything possible to stop the bloodshed and help expel Russia from Ukraine. Many Americans now demand we do more, and even suggest no fly zones or even armed incursion into Ukraine. Before going into wise options to help Ukraine, its important to know the nuclear threat we face in confronting Russia. Most estimates put Russias nuclear arsenal beyond 6,000. Thats actually more than the U.S. arsenal by almost a thousand. The arsenals of other nuclear powers are in the low hundreds or less (China, for example, has around 300). Russia has developed and successfully tested nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles. These missiles travel at 10-20 times the speed of sound, and therefore likely beyond our anti-missile defense capabilities. In other words, we wouldnt be able to stop a number of nuclear missiles from hitting us. Russia already used this hypersonic capability against a warehouse near the Polish border, and Putin has made clear his willingness to escalate up to and including nuclear exchange. In the event of a nuclear war, Ukraine would likely be incinerated, and so failure to prevent that escalation would be the worst thing we could do in trying to help Ukraine. Right now, we are supporting Ukraine in multiple ways that are making a difference. First, we are sending substantial numbers of Javelin anti-tank missiles. These have been used to great effect, primarily because the Russians have failed to properly integrate dismounted infantry with their armor. I spent my career as an infantry officer. When I was Mech Infantry, we always operated as a team with Armor. Infantry dismounted to fight against enemy infantry like those using anti-armor devices (like Javelins). Armor would protect infantry from enemy Armor. Russian infantry is not dismounting, and so many Russian tanks and BMPs (infantry carriers) have been destroyed. We are also supporting Ukraine with other critical weapons, like anti-aircraft missile systems. We are providing resources to sustain the Ukrainians in the field. Finally, we are providing critical intelligence directly to the Ukrainian military. This is likely a reason so many senior Russian officers have been killed over the past few weeks. A no-fly zone would not only start a war between NATO and Russia that includes nuclear weapons, but it would likely not be as helpful as many assume. Most Russian strikes against Western Ukraine have been by missiles from the Black Sea, Russia, or eastern Ukraine. We could only put a no-fly zone in Western Ukraine, but that wouldnt stop these missile attacks. What we need to do is show patience with this current support. Additionally, we should focus substantial efforts to pressure China to stop supporting Russia. Chinese President Xi Jinping (and the rest of the CCP) should be held responsible for coordinating this invasion with Putin and continuing their support. If Putin didnt have Chinas backing, he could not have invaded, nor could he continue. Lastly, the Biden administration did a horrendous job in not deterring this invasion. The sanctions will help now, but they could have prevented the invasion if used beforehand. We desperately need new national security and new foreign policy teams. Ecclesiastes 7:9 tells us, Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools. In handling this invasion, we must show wisdom, self-control, and patience for our sake, and the sake of Ukrainians. Craig Groeschel's Life.Church to open 40th campus at new facility in Kansas Life.Church, the multi-site megachurch overseen by Pastor Craig Groeschel, will be opening its 40th satellite campus next week, with the new facility located in Kansas. Life.Church Derby, which is located around 12 miles from Wichita, will hold its official opening services on Sunday, making it the third Life.Church campus for the Wichita metropolitan area. Zach Hurley, pastor of Life.Church Derby, told The Christian Post that the other two local campuses serve different communities spread out over the metropolitan area. We recognize how important it is for people to be able to attend a church that is located in and invested in the community where they live, Hurley said. So, in addition to our West Wichita and East Wichita locations, we wanted to open a location to serve the people of Derby and the surrounding communities. Hurley stated that those planning to attend the Derby location are excited for this location to open and have a new way to reach their community, Hurley stated. There are so many people who need the love and hope of Christ, which is why we continue to be passionate about opening new locations, he added. In advance of the opening, Life.Church spread the word through personal invitations from volunteers and staff and pushed the event on social media. Originally launched in 1996 with a small group of people meeting in Edmond, Oklahoma, Life.Church has since ballooned into a multi-site megachurch with campuses in several states. In 2018, Life.Church opened its 30th campus in Rogers, Arkansas, and boasted approximately 85,000 weekly worship attendees across all of its locations. Were excited about it, said Bobby Gruenewald, innovation leader at Life.Church and creator of the popular YouVersion Bible App, in an interview with CP in 2018. We see a lot of people coming to Christ through the ministry, which is a big emphasis for us, but its an exciting time for sure. As with other Life.Church campuses, the Derby location will have its own pastor and staff. But the church will still mostly feature the preaching of Groeschel via livestream. While there are opportunities throughout the year for our local pastors to preach live, the majority of our weekend messages are from our Senior Pastor Craig Groeschel, noted Hurley. Every experience begins with high-energy worship led by our own worship pastor and a live band. And I also get to lead a team of incredible pastors who are excited about pastoring our neighbors in Derby. Later this year, Life.Church is expecting to open another new campus in Amarillo, Texas. Arizona lawmakers pass 15-week abortion ban as Supreme Court weigh's similar Mississippi law Arizona lawmakers have passed a bill that, if enacted, will ban most abortions after 15 weeks into a pregnancy, similar to a Mississippi law that the U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing this year. Known as Senate Bill 1164, the legislation was passed by the state House of Representatives on Thursday in a vote of 31 ayes to 26 nays, with three not voting. The legislation was approved by the state Senate last month. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, a pro-life Republican who has signed other abortion restrictions during his administration, is expected to sign SB 1164 in the near future. The bill would make it a class 6 felony for any physician to intentionally perform or attempt to perform an abortion that is not medically necessary when the gestational age exceeds 15 weeks. Supporters of the legislation include the Center for Arizona Policy, which argued that the measure was necessary to protect developed unborn human life. Preborn babies at 15 weeks gestation have fully formed noses, eyelids, and lips, as well as developing hearts, kidneys, and other organs. They suck their thumbs, and they feel pain, said Center for Arizona Policy President Cathi Herrod in a statement last month. At 15 weeks gestation, the preborn baby does flips, hiccups, and has regular sleep patterns, according to expert testimony. These babies deserve our protection; their mothers deserve the truth, and they are worthy of protection from the trauma, regret, and pain of abortion. Critics of the bill include the Arizona chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, which called on Ducey to veto what they consider a violation of bodily autonomy. Decisions about if and when to become a parent or have more children should be made by individuals, with support from their doctor and loved ones as needed, stated Jennifer Allen, executive director of the ACLU of Arizona. Taking options off the table for pregnant people regardless of their reason for seeking an abortion is an egregious attack on their bodily autonomy. We urge Governor Ducey to veto SB1164. The bills passage comes as the nation waits for the U.S. Supreme Court to rule on the constitutionality of Mississippis law restricting abortions after 15 weeks into a pregnancy. Last December, the high court heard oral arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, with pro-choice advocates saying the law is unconstitutional and pro-life advocates hoping it could alter abortion legal precedent that has equated abortion with a constitutional right. Many believe the case could lead to the overturning or weakening of the controversial Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade, a 1973 decision prohibiting states from passing laws restricting abortion before viability. If Roe v. Wade were overturned entirely, pro-choice advocates fear that old Arizona laws still on the books could be used to ban abortion completely in the state. According to the pro-choice research organization Guttmacher Institute, over two dozen states have laws on the books that could ban abortion entirely if Roe is overturned. Several states have enacted abortion restrictions in recent years. A law passed in Texas last year banning abortions once a heartbeat can be detected also faced legal challenges but has been in effect since last year. Instead of being enforced through government agencies, the law allows private citizens to sue abortion providers or others who assist in an illegal abortion for damages. Earlier this month, the Idaho legislature approved a modification to the states abortion law to allow family members to sue abortion providers who violate the law. The bill awaits a signature from Republican Gov. Brad Little. Hillsong Church pauses Dallas campus after completing investigation of former pastors Former Hillsong Dallas Lead Pastor Reed Bogard and his wife, Jess, were under investigation for leadership failures when they abruptly resigned in January, Hillsong Church Global Senior Pastor Brian Houston said Saturday while announcing a pause in the operation of the Texas campus. Early in our process, the Bogards decided to resign from Hillsong Church. We accepted their resignations and acknowledged the time that the Bogards spent establishing our Dallas location, Houston and his wife, Bobbie, told members of the church launched in 2019 in an email cited by The Daily Mail. It was very disappointing to learn that, while some of you experienced the Bogards as dedicated pastors, many others have experienced leadership that failed to meet the commitments and standards of Hillsong Church, the Houstons continued. I want to be the first to apologize to those who felt disappointed or hurt, and I pray that God does a swift work in bringing peace and healing. The Houstons said Reed Bogard, who along with his wife allegedly used church funds lavishly, had been suspended from his pastoral duties as complaints that he failed to uphold the standards of Hillsong leadership were being investigated. In announcing his resignation, Reed Bogard, 38, said he and his 35-year-old wife: Just really feel that its time to transition off of our staff and take some time to remain healthy, get healthy and to really see what this next season holds for us. Houston also agreed. Reed and I have been talking over a period of time, and we both agree that it would be a perfect time for them to come to a new season in their life, he said at the time. However, the leader of the Australia-based global megachurch assured members of the young Dallas congregation that they would eventually get new lead pastors, and they were not going to be forsaken. Several factors worsened by the coronavirus pandemic worked against the church in fulfilling that promise, the Houstons said. As we were establishing Hillsong Church in Dallas, the pandemic swept across the globe and quickly changed the shape of our growing church in the city, the Houstons explained. Many factors, all amplified by the pandemic, have resulted in the difficult decision to pause all operations at Hillsong Dallas for now. The Bogards resigned less than two months after former Hillsong NYC pastor Carl Lentz was fired last November over leadership issues and moral failures, including being unfaithful to his wife. Hillsong Church stated at the time that it launched an independent investigation "into the inner workings of Hillsong NYC/ East Coast" after hearing concerns from people affiliated with those churches. Former Hillsong NYC congregant Jenna Babbitt, 27, told The New York Post she provided childcare services for several pastors, including the Bogards, and revealed how church expense cards were used for personal items, like purchasing food for the kids in her care. The exploitation of free labor while these pastors are making bank is just crazy to me, Babbitt, who spent months working without pay for the Bogards, told the newspaper in January. Brandon Walker, 28, who helped the Bogards plant Hillsong Dallas, told the New York Post that he witnessed a lot of toxic activity, including $1,100 per day Airbnb rentals. There was a lot of eating out, a lot of Airbnbs very nice Airbnbs rented for guests and staff who were between homes, Walker alleged. Walker recalled one day while he was out with Jess Bogard and two of his friends, she bought them matching $100 jackets before taking them out to dinner at a pretty nice, pretty expensive Italian restaurant called North Italia. I think the bill was $600 to $700, Walker recalled. It was just, like, Wow. [She] just dropped over $1,000 for no reason. He also claimed that when money was used on volunteers, it was done manipulatively. I was paid once for one job, Walker said, recalling how Reed Bogart once gave him some $600 as a favor when he needed some cash. Thats a tactic a lot of these pastors use to keep their secrets, he charged. Buying us expensive gifts, giving us money, like, I got your back, so when I need you to have my back, this is something to remember. Most Florida Democrat voters support bill mischaracterized by LGBT activists as 'Don't Say Gay' A majority of Democratic primary voters in Florida say they support a bill passed by the state Legislature that would prohibit schools from teaching sexual orientation and gender identity to students in kindergarten through the third grade. Floridians for Economic Advancement, a political action committee that has supported candidates in both major political parties, released a poll that asked 701 Democratic primary voters for their thoughts about the states upcoming gubernatorial election on Tuesday. While the poll primarily focused on sampling public opinion regarding the Democratic gubernatorial candidates, it also asked respondents to weigh in on HB 1557, an act relating to parental rights in education that critics derided as the so-called Dont Say Gay Bill. The survey asked respondents a series of questions, including: Should students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade be taught about sexual orientation in the classroom by their teachers? Twenty percent of those surveyed responded somewhat no to that question, while 32% said definitely no. That adds up to a narrow majority (52%) of Democratic primary voters expressing some level of disapproval with teaching young students about topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity. By contrast, only 36% of Democratic primary voters in Florida thought that schools should teach students about such concepts. Eighteen percent selected Definitely yes as an option, while an additional 18% said somewhat yes in response to the question. The remaining 12% were unsure about whether teachers should teach young students about sexual orientation and gender identity. The poll demonstrates a stark contrast between the views of Floridas Democratic primary voters and the views of their elected representatives in the Florida Legislature regarding HB 1557. Not one Democrat in either the Florida Senate or the Florida House of Representatives voted to support the bill when it came up for a vote. While the poll conducted by Floridians for Economic Advancement only queried Democratic voters in Florida, The Daily Wire surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults of all political persuasions about HB 1557. The Daily Wire poll yielded similar findings, specifically that there is much stronger support among Democrat voters than Democrat politicians. The survey, released on March 14, asked respondents whether they agreed with the portion of the bill that declares, Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through third grade or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards. Sixty-four percent indicated agreement with the statement, while 21% disagreed. Broken down by party, support for the legislation was measured at 69% among Republicans, 62% among Democrats and 57% among independents. When asked if they thought it was appropriate or inappropriate for teachers and school personnel to instruct children in kindergarten through 3rd grade on various sexual orientations, nearly two-thirds of Americans (65%) described such instruction as inappropriate, while just 21% classified it as appropriate. Those questioned by The Daily Wire had similar feelings about whether it was appropriate or inappropriate for teachers and school personnel to instruct children in kindergarten through 3rd grade on gender identities, such as transgenderism. Sixty-six percent of respondents characterized lessons about transgenderism for young students as inappropriate, while 20% saw such teaching as appropriate. The Daily Wire poll also revealed that 79% of Americans thought that the responsibility for teaching topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity rested on parents as opposed to school officials, while just 7% felt that responsibility belonged to teachers. A supermajority of respondents (62%) believed that educators have an obligation to let parents know if their children identify as a different gender at school, while 19% disagreed. The conservative publication also assessed the impact of LGBT activists branding the legislation as the Dont Say Gay Bill. When presenting the legislation as the Dont Say Gay Bill as opposed to focusing on its components, 42% expressed support for the measure, followed by 33% who opposed it and 24% who remained unsure. The push to pass HB 1557 comes as parents and advocacy groups have expressed concern about the prevalence of lessons about sexual orientation and gender identity designed for young students in both private and public schools. In video footage from a conference spearheaded by the National Association of Independent Schools, obtained by Breitbart, a presenter is seen promoting curriculum that would introduce the concepts of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression to pre-k students. Many states, including Illinois, have implemented curriculum aligned with the National Sex Education Standards in their public schools. This framework asks students in kindergarten through second grade to define gender, gender identity, and gender-role stereotypes and discuss the range of ways people express their gender and how gender-role stereotypes may limit behavior. New York pastor warns parents about demonic content in Disney movie Turning Red' The senior pastor of New York Citys V1 Church, Mike Signorelli, has gone viral for warning parents of the demonic content in Disney Pixars Turning Red in a video that has since been removed from YouTube and Facebook. Turning Red tells the story of a teen who transforms into a giant red panda based on her mood swings in the midst of puberty. Signorellis Christian review of the animated film, now streaming on Disney Plus, was initially uploaded to his YouTube channel but has since been taken down. He believes his video was removed from social media because it featured scenes from the film. The video has already been banned on YouTube in all countries, which was kind of to be expected, he said. I took a risk. I just felt like I had a responsibility to share a theological perspective on this. His review video was titled Pastor Reacts To Turning Red - Is It DEMONIC? and garnered over 100,000 views. The caption read, Christian Review: should your kids watch Pixars new movie Turning Red? In the video, Signorelli, who holds an English degree and has taught journalism, uses clips from the Pixar film when describing the film as unbiblical. I believe that every parent not just a pastor, but a parent has a mandate to actually screen material because every single device you have in your home is a portal, either a window into the things of God or, unfortunately, things that I believe are demonic, Signorelli said in an interview with CBN News. The pastors video condemned the spiritual practices of ancestral worship and what he said looked like satanic rituals in Turning Red. Beyond the spiritual aspect of the animations, Signorelli pegged the themes in the film as a secular humanistic worldview that says there is no wrong or right anymore. We know in Hebrews 9:27, its appointed once to live and then to die, and we face judgment, and its strictly forbidden, in the Christian context, to communicate with the dead, he continued. And so, even within the first eight minutes, you have chanting, communication with ancestors, and immediately a red flag should start to go off. Do I want my kid to be exposed to this as a gateway and into maybe future adult interactions and beliefs with something that the Christian faith condemns? Signorelli insisted that he in no way wanted to become a viral meme of the Christian whos trying to cancel Disney. The father of two noted that he recognized the amount of hate that would come his way in his video. Signorelli slammed a line at the end of the film when the 13-year-old main character says, My Panda, My Choice, mimicking the pro-abortion mantra my body, my choice. Theres definitely a tipping point, and theres a moment where youre like, Theyve gone too far, Signorelli stated. Now, if you extract the spiritual aspect of this movie, just on the basis of the content being about menstruation and this coming of age, its not appropriate for children. Turning Red celebrates rebellion against parents, inappropriate dancing where the main character tells her mother she enjoys gyrating, and the film encourages children to embrace their bad stuff by making room and living with it, the pastor asserted. I think what happens is were so desensitized that, over time, things that used to be offensive to Christians, unfortunately, I think that weve become accepting of them, Signorelli maintained. And we ignore it, and thats really why I felt a burden to put the word out about this movie. President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol gets in a vehicle as he leaves his office in Tongui-dong, Jongno District, Friday. Joint Press Corps Further provocations expected ahead of April's joint military exercise between Seoul, Washington By Nam Hyun-woo President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol's leadership of being put to the test after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un gave his military the greenlight to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Thursday, marking a return to nuclear brinkmanship. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, the North fired the missile from a location near Sunan airport in Pyongyang. The missile traveled 1,080 kilometers before reaching a maximum altitude of over 6,200 kilometers, attributes which place the projectile in the category of ICBMs. The North's state-run Korean Central News Agency also confirmed on Friday that the missile was the Hwasong-17 ICBM and that its leader said Pyongyang should prepare for "a long-standing confrontation" with the U.S. It was seen as Pyongyang's most powerful ICBM to date and marked an end to the Kim regime's self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and ICBM tests, meaning inter-Korean and U.S.-North Korea relations have now rolled back to the status before Kim, President Moon Jae-in, and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in peace talks in 2018. The launch was also a sign that the Moon administration's peace efforts during the past five years were in vain. The latest provocation also tests the diplomatic skills of President-elect Yoon, who has been emphasizing South Korea's enhanced defense capability and stronger Seoul-Washington alliance as a deterrent to North Korea's threats. In this photo carried by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency on Friday, a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile is displayed before a test launch on Thursday. Yonhap "It was the 12th North Korean provocation and I warn North Korea that it will gain nothing from provocations," Yoon wrote on Facebook, Friday. "South Korea will strengthen its security preparedness to protect peace and freedom." Yoon's spokesperson, Rep. Kim Eun-hye of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), told reporters Friday that the launch contains "two messages for the U.S. and South Korea." China, Russia cool to US aim for more North Korea sanctions US will introduce new UNSC resolution to strengthen sanctions on North Korea BAI sides with president-elect in member nominations "I believe the North has sent a message to the U.S., as President Joe Biden's focus is now on Russia's invasion of Ukraine," Kim said. "Also, Pyongyang has long been taking steps to obtain a strategic advantage amid Seoul's power transition. When South Korea is inaugurating a new government, North Korea has been showcasing that it can wage a bold provocation." During his campaign, the President-elect pledged to strengthen a three-axis air defense system, comprised of the Kill Chain preemptive strike system, the Korean Air and Missile Defense and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation plan. Kill Chain refers to a South Korea-U.S. strike system of identifying North Korean launch sites, nuclear facilities and manufacturing capabilities and destroy them pre-emptively if a conflict seems imminent. Also, Yoon promised to set up additional U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) batteries on South Korean soil, in order to protect the country from North Korea's high-angle launch missiles and other artillery. The North bristled at those pledges and its radio outlet, Echo of Unification, described Yoon as a "warmonger." But Yoon continues to stick to a hardline approach on security issues. On Tuesday, Yoon said North Korea's latest test launch was "a clear violation of an inter-Korean military agreement reached on Sept. 19, 2018." In this photo carried by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency on Friday, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, center, walks around the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile on a launcher near Pyongyang, Thursday. Yonhap Against this backdrop, further provocations from North Korea are anticipated as the U.S. and South Korean militaries stage joint military exercises next month. April also marks the birth anniversary of North Korea's founder Kim Il-sung. And this leaves Yoon with no option but to take a hawkish stance towards Pyongyang, whether his administration wants it or not, according to experts. "Frankly, there are not many options left for the President-elect, President Moon and even the U.S. but to turn to a hawkish stance," said Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean Studies at Ewha Womans University. "Since the North announced its intention to stick to its own nuclear development plan earlier this year, it did not hesitate in ending the moratorium, meaning the regime will likely pursue its goal of producing various nuclear weapons regardless of outside pressure. The only way that looks effective is joining other countries to impose stronger sanctions on North Korea, but this is also connected to the North's relations with China." Park said sanctioning Pyongyang hinges on China's participation in the U.N. Security Council's efforts for North Korea sanctions, which is eventually dependent on Beijing-Washington relations and other countries demanding sanctions. The issue is further complicated by NATO members' claims that China is backing Russia's war against Ukraine. South Korea will attend a U.N. Security Council meeting on North Korea, scheduled in New York on Friday afternoon (local time), but chances are slim that China will join sanctions. The Security Council held five closed-door meetings regarding North Korea's missile threats, but failed to come up with an official or binding response, due to opposition from China and Russia. "From Yoon's perspective, the strengthening of South Korea's deterrence will be the first point, but he also has to think about a new paradigm in his North Korea policy, such as how South Korea can coexist with a nuclear-armed North Korea," Park said. In line with such anticipation, Yoon's spokesperson Kim also said the President-elect will keep his pledge on additional THAAD batteries, although "the process remains to be seen." California bill would create fund to help women from out of state seeking abortions Lawmakers in California have introduced a bill that would set aside taxpayer money to help women residing outside the state obtain abortions in the state as concerns about significant changes to the United States abortion law loom. Senate Bill 1142, introduced last week by Democratic Sens. Anna Caballero and Nancy Skinner, includes several proposed requirements for state agencies relating to the provision of abortion services in the state. Specifically, the bill would require the California Health and Human Services Agency, or an entity designated by the agency, to establish an internet website where the public can find information on abortion services in the state. Additionally, the bill will also establish an Abortion Practical Support Fund and require the commission to administer the Abortion Practical Support Fund for the purpose of providing grants, upon appropriation by the Legislature, to assist pregnant people who are low income or face other financial barriers with access to abortions in California, and for research to support equitable access to abortion. The legislation cites concerns about the possible overturning of Roe v. Wade, the U.S. Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide, as the justification for taking these measures. The bill warns that if such a scenario unfolded, people in over one-half of the states in the country, over 36,000,000 women and other people who may become pregnant, will lose access to abortion care. California is committed to building upon existing protections to the right to abortion and implement innovative and bold programs and policies to truly be a reproductive freedom state, the bill reads. For decades, abortion funds, abortion providers, and other community-based organizations have provided direct and indirect support to callers and patients with logistical and practical support needs. These funds assist patients seeking abortion services within California, patients traveling to California, and when patients need to travel outside of California for care, the legislation added. The legislation maintains that the unmet need for logistical and practical support for people seeking abortions is far greater than the resources that are currently available through Californias sole statewide abortion fund and, therefore, abortion providers and community-based organizations must currently independently fundraise to meet these needs. Skinner addressed her concerns in a statement released following Senate Bill 1142s introduction. The U.S. Supreme Courts conservative majority seems poised to do the unthinkable, she claimed. If the court overturns 50 years of settled law and takes away a womans constitutional right to an abortion, California will not stand idly by. With SB 1142, California sends a clear message to the rest of the nation: We are fully committed to ensuring that California women and those who may seek refuge here have access to all reproductive services, including abortion, she added. Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, a pro-abortion advocacy group, also praised the legislation. Barriers to abortion go beyond laws. Whether you are a resident of California or you are seeking care in California, barriers like travel costs, childcare, taking time off work, and other logistical concerns too often stand in the way of accessing abortion care, said PPAC President and CEO Jodi Hicks. SB 1142 is what we need to break down barriers. According to Hicks, Planned Parenthood supports SB 1142 because health center doors are open for any patient who needs services, and we want to ensure those patients are supported throughout the process and can easily access the information they need, when they need it. The effort to pass Senate Bill 1142 comes as the Supreme Court is slated to rule this year in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health. A decision in favor of the state of Mississippi, which is seeking to uphold the states 15-week abortion ban, would reverse or weaken the precedent set by Roe. The state of Texas has drawn the ire of abortion advocates after it passed a law last year banning abortions once a heartbeat can be detected, usually about six weeks into pregnancy. Despite legal challenges against it, the law was allowed to go into effect by the U.S. Supreme Court. As several states have passed laws in recent years placing limits on legal abortion, the California bill contends that the groups that typically provided support to women seeking abortion are heavily impacted by the increase in abortion restrictions across the country and the need for patients to travel to receive care. The proposed legislation predicts that [a]s more patients come from out of state, abortion fund organizations, abortion providers, and other community-based organizations that offer practical support will need financial support to meet the demand of people needing care. The Abortion Practical Support Fund that the bill would create would be administered by the California Health and Human Services Agency using funding provided by the state legislature. The commission would provide funding to nonprofit organizations that help women access abortion and public research institutions in California that conduct research on reproductive health, law, and policy, including research on abortion, contraception, and pregnancy. Nonprofit organizations can use the grants to pay for practical support services. Those services include direct assistance, such as airfare, lodging, ground transportation, gas money, meals, dependent childcare, doula support, and translation services, to help a person access and obtain an abortion. They also include abortion navigators, patient navigators, and community health workers services, case management support and other costs associated with running their businesses. Public research institutions can use the grants to identify unmet educational and health needs related to abortion services which take into account community preferences for types of abortion services and level of care. The grants can also be used to accurately assess the needs and preferences of people experiencing barriers to sexual and reproductive health, including abortion care or evaluate, track, and assess progress and impact of any program, policies, and innovations proposed as part of the recommendations of the California Future of Abortion Council. California is not the only state to introduce a left-leaning abortion bill in recent weeks. Earlier this month, the Colorado House of Representatives began debate on a bill that would remove all abortion restrictions in the state and explicitly ban unborn children from having rights under the laws of the state. Most US adults think country is moving in wrong direction morally, turning to family for guidance: study Despite their dwindling support for organized religion, a majority of Americans, including Christians and non-Christians, are concerned that Americas moral compass is pointed in the wrong direction and they're turning to family for guidance, according to a survey released by Deseret News. The "Faith in America" survey conducted Jan. 19-26 by The Marist College Poll and sponsored and funded in partnership with Deseret News, fielded responses from 1,653 U.S. adults. Only 40% of respondents in the survey reported attending religious services at least once or twice a month, which represents a sharp drop from the 52% who reported they regularly attended religious services in April 2011. Despite the drop in support for organized religion, however, more than half, 54%, of Americans say they still believe in God as described in the Bible. This includes 86% of all who practice a religion and about a third of individuals who report they do not practice a religion, the survey shows. Another 53% of Americans also report that they pray daily. When it comes to their thoughts on where the country is headed morally, most Americans also agree the nation is heading in the wrong direction. According to the survey, some 72% of Americans say the nations moral compass is pointed in the wrong direction, while only 22% say its pointed the right way. Among Christians, 74% agree that the nation is moving in the wrong direction morally, while 69% of those who dont practice a religion agree. Majorities of individuals who identified as Democrats, 51%, Republicans, 90%, and Independents, 77%, also agree. Religious service attendance has continued to trend downward over the past decade, despite over half of Americans saying they believe in God as described in the Bible or pray daily, Hal Boyd, executive editor of Deseret National, said in a statement to CP. With younger age groups less likely to attend religious services than their older counterparts, the downward trend of religious attendance is likely to continue. The survey shows older Americans are more likely to attend religious services at least weekly than their younger counterparts. Some 43% of adults aged 60 or older reported attending religious services weekly compared with 21% of those 18-29, 25% of those 30-44, and 27% of those 45-59. Researchers also found that while 65% of Americans do not think being religious is necessary to live a moral life, sentiments vary based on religiosity. Some 78% of those who do not practice a religion believe religion is not necessary to be moral, while 54% of Christians do not think being religious is necessary to live a moral life. Instead of looking to the church or religious leaders for moral guidance, the majority of Americans, including Christians, look to their family. Some 79% of Americans reported turning to their family for moral guidance, including 83% of Christians. Among people who arent religious, 74%, said they looked to their family for moral guidance. The second most popular source of moral guidance Americans cited is the rule of law followed by friends. Religious teachings, a religious leader from a place they worship and a well-known spiritual leader followed those three sources respectively. Younger generations are less likely than their older counterparts to believe that being religious is necessary in order to live a moral life, Boyd said. Americans actually find themselves looking to family more often than religious teachings when looking for sources of moral guidance. Would you stay and fight for America? When Russia invaded Ukraine, laying waste to the country, the response of many Ukrainians awed and inspired the world Ukrainians rallied in support for their country, taking up arms as their lives were put on hold. Grandmas, school teachers, and people of all walks of life volunteered to join the Territorial Defense Forces (TDF). However, the same desire to stay and fight might not be true of many American citizens if they were put in a similar situation. A recent poll from Quinnipiac asked whether respondents would "stay and fight or leave the country" if placed in the position Ukrainians are now in. A slim majority of 55% said they would stay and fight. The breakdown of the numbers is more discouraging. Among Democrats, 40% would fight while 52% a majority would flee. Similarly, more Americans aged 18 to 34 years old would leave (48%) than stay (45%). These numbers are more than a little disheartening. Many Americans seem to have the attitude that our country has far too many problems to pay any attention to the rest of the world. Some even believe that we are no longer a good country; that we do not have anything to offer other nations in terms of values. This is a mindset embraced by both ends of the U.S. political spectrum. The left cannot look past perceived racism, discrimination, and self-inflicted climate catastrophes. The right sees a country that has lost its soul why should America intervene in world affairs if we allow the killing of millions of babies in the womb? No nation is perfect; that is true. Yet, we should not seek to abandon the foundations of what is good just because we find flaws. As Americans we must not allow ourselves to fall into the same trap as the Cuban revolutionaries of the 1950s who joined Castro to fight Batista; they realized they had overthrown a monster but helped a bigger one rise in his place. America's ills deserve to be addressed, but they aren't the defining characteristic of our country. The values that Americans have fought and died for time and again from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War to World War II include freedom from slavery and tyranny, representative government, and self-determination. By remaining rooted in a Bill of Rights that protects fundamental freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition, and protecting citizens against unreasonable search and seizure, trial without indictment, and cruel and unusual punishment, America has nurtured a prosperous and peaceful society. These ideals not America's flaws define our country. An underlying animosity for our society is reflected in the Quinnipiac poll. Simply stated, it is asking why stay and fight if America isn't worth fighting for? American self-loathing is damaging not just for U.S. national security and the social fabric of our country, but for people around the world. Nigerian mothers of kidnapping victims think America has something to offer they beg for U.S. leaders to speak out. Hong Kong pro-democracy protestors believed America had something to offer they waved the American flag before the Chinese Communist Party suffocated the protests. We must believe America still has something to offer. In 1964, Ronald Reagan poignantly articulated the importance of America: "We'll preserve for our children this, the last best hope of man on earth, or we'll sentence them to take the last step into a thousand years of darkness." His words are as true now as they were then and we must believe it. America is worth preserving for ourselves, for those who will inherit it, and for those around the world longing for the freedom we take for granted. Originally published at the Family Research Council. Lori Gallo, the wife of a notable California cheese company CEO, is facing legal woes after allegedly crashing her Maserati in a suspected DUI. Gallo, 46, allegedly drove her Maserati down G Street in Merced at approximately 125 mph in January. According to a release from Merced police, Gallo side-swiped a Lexus in the same lane while trying to pass, and in the process, hit another car, a Honda, that was stopped at an intersection. Due to the impact of the crash, the Maserati and the Lexus fell into a ditch, while a fourth vehicle also sustained damage after hitting a tire that fell off Gallo's Maserati, police said. Three people were injured. TIMOTHY A. CLARY | Getty Images Ana Delvey must be recognized for one thing: she knows how to attract attention. The woman who inspired the series Invented Anna on Netflix and who pretended to be the heir to a multimillion-dollar fortune of a German tycoon, is currently being held in a prison in the state of New York awaiting deportation to Germany . Under the name of Anna Sorokin, she managed to fool friends, banks and hotels and live as if she were indeed a billionaire for at least five years. A week ago, the exhibition "Free Anna Delvey" was inaugurated in New York in which recreations of five of the paintings that the woman has painted during the confinement could be seen along with works by other artists that pay tribute to the scammer. The show was created and curated by Alfredo Martinez , a Colombian artist who spent a couple of years in prison for forging the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat After seeing some of Anna's paintings on her Instagram account, Martinez contacted her and together they began to plan the exhibition that lasted a week and that captured the attention of the public. The greater Houston area is one of the most ethnically diverse metropolitan areas in the country, according to the city of Houston. And this vast multicultural heritage has led to a unique fusion of flavors in Houston restaurants. Ask any local and theyll tell you Houston food is some of the best in the country. But deciding where to eat can be the hardest part of any trip to Houston. To make the decision easier, we've compiled a list of iconic Houston restaurants and dished on their specialties. Breakfast Klub This iconic Third Ward restaurant is the local go-to spot for chicken and waffles. Their signature menu items include the Wings & Waffle dish that features a large Belgian waffle topped with a circle of six fried chicken wings, powdered sugar and a fresh strawberry. Amy V. via Yelp Another popular dish is the Katfish & Grits, a seasoned catfish fillet with grits served with a choice of potatoes or eggs and toast or a biscuit. Native Houstonian Marcus Davis opened the restaurant in September 2001 and used the letter k in the spelling of the restaurant name and menu items to make the eatery more memorable. Due to its popularity, the restaurant also sells a line of branded consumer products including waffle and pancake mix and its signature seasoning and fish fry batter for visitors who want to cook at home. The Breakfast Klub is open seven days a week and breakfast is served from open until close, which is 2 p.m. Lunch is only served during the week starting at 11 a.m. Dont be scared by the lineits worth the wait. Niko Nikos For nearly half a century, Niko Nikos has been serving traditional Greek food in Houston. The Fetokakis family opened the restaurant in 1977 with a borrowed $350. Most of the recipes came from the kitchen of Eleni Fetokakis father, who lived just outside of Athens, Greece. (She was literally born in the back of her fathers restaurant in 1937.) Nawar F. via Yelp The most popular item on the menu is their gyrochopped lamb and beef with spices, tomato, onion and tzatziki sauce served in a pita. (Theres also a chicken gyro with onions, tomato, cabbage and roasted garlic aioli sauce.) The restaurant also serves GreekfastGreek spins of popular breakfast items like Baklava French Toast and a steak and egg pita. Visit any of the three locations including Montrose, Memorial/Spring Branch and Market Square. And be sure to try the expanded menu at their newest location on Memorial/Spring Branch, which has a dedicated bakery. The Original Ninfas on Navigation In 1973, Mama Ninfa Laurenzo opened a ten-table restaurant in part of her familys struggling tortilla and pizza factory. Inspired by tacos from Mexico, she started chargrilling skirt steak and making Tacos a la Carbon, which became known as fajitas. These are served on a homemade flour tortilla with pico de gallo, guacamole and chile con queso. She and her family later closed the factory to focus on the booming restaurant that became famous for Tex-Mex food with both a Mexican and Italian influence. Yaning L. via Yelp Ninfas is often credited with popularizing fajitas in Texas and across the country. After Ninfa passed away in 2001, Legacy Restaurants bought the eatery in 2005 and focused on continuing her legacy by ensuring everything is cooked to order. Aside from the original location in East Downtown, theres also a Ninfas Uptown in Tanglewood. Crawfish & Noodles One of the best places to try one of the most unique Houston dishesViet-Cajun crawfishis Crawfish & Noodles. The Chinatown restaurant serves up mudbugs in a spicy buttery sauce with garlic, onion, cayenne and lemon pepper that earned it a mention in The New York Times and other publications. The strip mall eatery is a destinationtravelers often come straight from the airport with luggage in tow to slip on a pair of plastic gloves and pinch, peel and suck down a bowl of crawfish. Aside from crawfish, another must-try dish is their salt and pepper blue crab. Bruce L. via Yelp Executive Chef and owner Throng Nguyen opened the restaurant in 2008 with a focus on uniting people through food. Born in Vietnam, he was self-taught and learned much from his grandmother. After migrating to the U.S., he worked in the casino business before opening the restaurant. In 2020, Nguyen was a finalist for the James Beard Foundations award for Best Chef: Texas. (The foundation subsequently canceled the 2020 awards, and no winner was chosen.) Nguyen was also a semifinalist in 2018 and 2019. A second location at the Houston Farmers Market is scheduled to open soon. House of Pies Texans wait in line for two things: barbecue and pie. The family-owned and operated House of Pies has been a stable in the Houston community since 1967. The booth-filled diner has five locations and serves up 40 varieties of pies (made with no preservatives) and cakes. (Dont worrythe long lines are only around the holidays.) The house specialty here is the Bayou Goo pie which consists of a bottom layer of sweet cream cheese with crushed pecans and a mixed filling of vanilla custard and chocolate topped with whip cream, chocolate shavings and powdered sugar. Crystal T. via Yelp Aside from pie, the restaurant also serves an all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner and is one of the best places for late-night food in Houstonthe Fuqua Street location is open 24 hours, and the Lake Woodlands Drive location is open 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Gatlins BBQ This family-owned Oak Forest barbecue restaurant opened in 2010 and became so popular it moved to a larger building in 2015. Gatlin's BBQ menu has all the savory Texas classicsbrisket, sausage, pulled pork and turkey. (Theres also beef ribs on Friday and Saturday.) One of the unique things on the menu is their chicken wings, which they started making in 2017 when the Super Bowl came to Houston. The wings are brined and rubbed before being smoked for three and a half hours. Then, they are quickly chilled before being dropped into a deep fryer and sauced with five flavor choicesoriginal BBQ, the house sauce, Thai chili, raspberry habanero and mild buffalo. Katrelle W. via Yelp The owners also pride themselves on their wide variety of sides ranging from collard greens to mac and cheese. Gatlins BBQ is one of the few barbecue joints to serve breakfast Monday through Saturday, starting at 7 a.m. The brisket biscuit is a must. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A pastors son and Conroe church worship leader was sentenced to prison Wednesday, convicted of victimizing a congregant by committing indecency with a child and online solicitation of a minor. Jonathan Ryan Ensey, 37, of Montgomery, was found guilty of both second-degree felony offenses by visiting Judge John Delaney in a two-day bench trial in Montgomery Countys 221st District Court. Delaney also handed down Enseys sentence, which was eight years on the solicitation charge and four years on the indecency charge, according to district clerk records. The sentences will be served concurrently, meaning he will serve eight years, according to the Montgomery County District Attorneys Office. Charging documents show Ensey, while a Living Way Church music director in August 2019, kissed and fondled the underage teen girl he knew since she was 9. Ensey, documents outline, sent girl multiple photos of himself nude and texted her sexually explicit messages that included expressed a want to hurt her. Ensey also asked the girl to send him explicit videos, requests she did not oblige, the DAs Office mentioned. The Texas Rangers started an investigation into Ensey after the victim told her father she and the man were in a relationship, according to a probable cause affidavit. The dad had found messages on the girls iPhone between her and Enseys proxy Instagram account, conversations indicating they were possibly sexually active, according to the affidavit. The girls family knew Ensey for all the many years they had attended the church and the father believed the worship leader was fully aware of his daughters age, the affidavit continued. In the two months prior, Ensey had been texting the youth, using his personal Instagram account to chat with her and sent her several nude photos of himself, an investigating Texas Ranger detailed in the affidavit. The girl told the Texas Ranger she and Ensey had met privately twice, once on the afternoon of Aug. 6, 2019 at a Lake Conroe marina and the following night at a convenience store on Texas 105 in Montgomery, according to charging documents. At the marina, Ensey kissed the girl in the backseat of his Toyota 4Runner and grabbed her breast and buttocks under her clothing, court documents reveal. There was sexual contact between the two inside Enseys SUV at the store parking lot, court records further disclosed. A court order yielded records for Enseys personal and proxy Instagram accounts and showed multiple sexually oriented messages and photos. The DAs Office pointed out there were thousands of messages exchanged between the defendant and the victim within a five-week span. I want to make you hurt so good, read one message from Ensey to the girl as he went on to describe a sexual encounter he wanted to have with her, court documents show. A follow-up message read, YeahI want to hurt you. Prosecutors pointed out further incriminating messages, releasing a photo he sent the girl with a caption appearing to imply a request for oral sex. Took this for you yesterday at the pulpit, read the caption accompanied by laughing emojis. Figured you might miss the viewalthough, thinking about you having this view reminds me of something else. Charging documents show Enseys apparent sexual grooming of the girl in other messages he sent her. Further revealed is the pastor at one point telling the girl he understands she is a minor, messaging her he does not want to weigh her down with adult problems. Licensed psychologist Danielle Madera testified in the trial, arguing Enseys messages and other actions demonstrated a textbook case of sexual grooming of a child, according to the District Attorneys Office. She contended Ensey used his powerful position and the influence of religion in his pursuit for sexual abuse, the DAs Office continued. This defendant used the childs faith to victimize her. He took advantage of this childs religious upbringing and twisted the profane with the divine to bend her to his lustful purpose, prosecuting Assistant DA Chris Seufert said in a statement. A church is supposed to be a safe place. Its not supposed to be a place where predators target your children. Ensey had become flirtatious with the youth for two years before his crimes, having made comments about her appearance, according to charging documents. He had also befriended the girls parents, the District Attorneys Office mentioned. Before going to law enforcement about the messages found on the girls iPhone, her parents went to their pastor, the DAs Office noted. The parents turned to the Texas Rangers when Pastor Randy Ensey, the defendants father, took no substantive action, according to prosecutors. Pastor Ensey testified at sentencing, asking for leniency for his son and refusing to agree the victim was in no way at fault, the District Attorneys Office pointed out. Prosecutors showed Pastor Ensey tried to have a Living Way Church parishioner and relative of the victim pressure the girl to have mercy on her abuser, the DAs Office detailed. The pastor also met with the girls current pastor and asked him to intervene similarly, the District Attorneys Office added. It breaks my heart to hear the victim of these despicable crimes blamed for her abuse, District Attorney Brett Ligon said in a statement. The defendants father, a man who is supposed to be a leader in this community, would not say it, but I will: none of this is the victims fault in any way, shape, or form. The only person responsible for these evil acts is Jonathan Ensey, and shame on anyone who says differently. Pastor Ensey could not be immediately reached for comment. The prosecution, which also included Assistant District Attorney Katherine Wiethorn, had asked for 15 years on each count and for the sentences to be served consecutively, the DAs Office mentioned. Both the defense and prosecution, Seufert explained, opted for a bench trial versus a jury trial. Seufert said a jurors could grant probation, where a judge could not. Jonathan Enseys defense attorney did not respond to a request for comment. jose.gonzalez@chron.com twitter.com/jrgzztx Leather jacket, sunglasses and a gigantic missile: North Korean state media announced the launch of Pyongyang's largest-ever intercontinental ballistic missile with an attempt at old school Hollywood flair on Friday. Leader Kim Jong-un walks towards the camera, flanked by generals, as they prepare to fire the giant Hwasong-17 missile Pyongyang's first ICBM test since 2017. Over suspenseful music, the camera cuts between two generals and Kim checking their watches, before, in slow motion, Kim whips off his sunglasses and gives a nod, prompting soldiers to move the enormous missile into position. The footage swiftly remixed into parodies on social media also focuses on the missile itself. A dramatic countdown scene leading up to the launch shows soldiers shouting "fire!" as the button for the test is finally pressed. Cheong Seong-chang of the Center for North Korea Studies at the Sejong Institute, said the style of the video shows Pyongyang's increasing confidence in its military capabilities. "They have gained confidence in their military power to the point where they feel comfortable making it into a movie and enjoying it," he told AFP. Kim's father and predecessor Kim Jong-il was an avid film fan who ordered the kidnapping of a South Korean film director and an actress in 1978 to help develop the North's cinema industry. Even now, the impoverished country pours significant resources into movies, although many of its productions are propaganda works extolling the ruling Kim family. While Friday's state media video displays clear foreign influence, the regime, in fact, punishes anyone found secretly accessing overseas content. North Korea last year introduced a new law that sought to stamp out any kind of foreign influence, punishing anyone caught with foreign films and clothing. Known as the Hwasong-17, the giant ICBM was first unveiled in October 2020 and dubbed a "monster missile" by analysts. It had never previously been successfully test-fired, and the launch prompted immediate outrage from Pyongyang's neighbors and the United States. The North is already under biting international sanctions for its weapons programs, and the UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting over the launch on Friday. (AFP) WASHINGTON - The proper response for elected officials censured by their colleagues for their public criticism is not to sue but to keep criticizing, the Supreme Court decided Thursday. The court unanimously threw out a lawsuit by a member of a community college board in Texas who said the formal reprimand he received from his colleagues was the kind of retaliatory action by a government body that the First Amendment forbids. But Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for himself and his eight colleagues, said members of Houston Community College's Board of Trustees were within their rights to censure member David Wilson, just as he had the right to criticize their past actions. "In this country, we expect elected representatives to shoulder a degree of criticism about their public service from their constituents and their peers - and to continue exercising their free speech rights when the criticism comes," Gorsuch wrote. He added: "The First Amendment surely promises an elected representative like Mr. Wilson the right to speak freely on questions of government policy. But just as surely, it cannot be used as a weapon to silence other representatives seeking to do the same." Wilson was more than just a vocal critic of his colleagues; he regularly accused fellow board members of corruption and, at one point, hired a private investigator to determine whether one lived in the proper district. The board in 2018 formally censured him for behavior "not only inappropriate, but reprehensible." Wilson sued, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit said the lawsuit could continue. Although there were other punishments involved, the Supreme Court took the case to decide the relatively narrow issue of whether a verbal censure amounted to retaliation forbidden by the First Amendment. "As it comes to us, too, the censure did not prevent Mr. Wilson from doing his job, it did not deny him any privilege of office, and Mr. Wilson does not allege it was defamatory," Gorsuch wrote. "At least in these circumstances, we do not see how the Board's censure could have materially deterred an elected official like Mr. Wilson from exercising his own right to speak." Gorsuch said that Congress has been censuring members since the 19th century and that "elected bodies in this country issued no fewer than 20 censures in August 2020 alone." Gorsuch said that didn't mean all censures are alike, and that such condemnation sometimes might not be acceptable, depending upon the recipient. "It may be, for example, that government officials who reprimand or censure students, employees, or licensees may in some circumstances materially impair First Amendment freedoms," he wrote. Or "when the government interacts with private individuals as sovereign, employer, educator, or licensor, its threat of a censure could raise First Amendment questions." But in cases in which the combatants are equal members of an elected board, "argument and counterargument" are the acceptable weapons for disputes, not litigation, Gorsuch wrote. The case is Houston Community College System v. Wilson. China determined to bring more stability and certainty to a turbulent and fluid world 09:02, March 25, 2022 By He Yin ( People's Daily Photo taken on March 1, 2022 shows an aerial view of the China-funded National Road No. 3 reconstruction and expansion project in Takeo province, southern Cambodia. (Photo/Li Lai) Lately, Chinese President Xi Jinping held virtual video summits and had video and phone calls with multiple foreign leaders to seek cooperation, promote development and safeguard peace in pursuit of common interests of the international community, showing Chinas sense of responsibility as a major country in building a community with a shared future for mankind. We need to shoulder our responsibility to bring more stability and certainty to a turbulent and fluid world, said Xi in a virtual summit with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on March 8. When speaking with Indonesian President Joko Widodo over the phone on March 16, Xi called on the two sides to keep the global market stable and supply chains unimpeded and promote the concrete implementation of the Global Development Initiative (GDI). China stands ready to work with all parties to uphold true multilateralism, stand for international fairness and justice, and safeguard the legitimate rights and common interests of emerging market economies and developing countries, he stressed in a phone conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on March 18. The year 2022 brings with it plenty of challenges. While the COVID-19 pandemic has yet to be conquered, the Ukraine crisis arose, further complicating the international situation that was already filled with uncertainties. Such a critical moment requires countries to pluck up their courage and shoulder their responsibilities. As a responsible major country, China has always moved on the right course of the historical trend, held high the banner of multilateralism and enhanced cooperation and solidarity with all peace-loving countries that pursue development to jointly address challenges and create a bright future for the entire world. China is an important force for maintaining world peace. Some major countries, trying to hold on to their hegemony, have resurrected Cold War mentality and stoked bloc confrontation, which has fueled instability and division in the world. China, however, believes that competition between major countries should not be the order of the day and zero-sum game is not the right choice. It calls on countries to follow the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, reject the notion of exclusive or absolute security, and stay committed to ceasing conflicts through negotiation, resolving disputes through dialogue, and increasing mutual trust through cooperation to jointly build a world of enduring peace. After the Ukraine crisis emerged, China has endeavored to facilitate dialogue for peace and stressed that all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution of the crisis should be supported, which shows a stark contrast with certain countries that try to add fuel to the fire and fully reflects Chinas philosophy of peaceful development. China has made active efforts to facilitate common development. The country believes that good development is sustainable and true development is development for all. While focusing on running its own affairs well and promoting high-quality economic development, it has actively developed global partnerships, continuously expanding the convergence of interests with other countries and tightening the ties for common development. China has pushed ahead with the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, with the number of countries and international organizations participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) reaching 180. The country has also proposed the GDI and endeavored to promote the building of an international consensus on global sustainable development. At present, some countries are using the Ukraine crisis as a pretext to implement sweeping and indiscriminate sanctions, dragging down the world economy that is already struggling under the pandemic, which harm various parties including themselves and inflict suffering on the people. For global stability and the work and life of billions of people, China has been doing its best for world peace and creating favorable conditions for global development. China supports Indonesia in playing its role as the president of the Group of 20 (G20), and its effort to host a successful 2022 G20 Bali Summit focusing on the theme of Recover Together, Recover Stronger, which reflects Chinas determination to forge synergy for common development. China is the mainstay of strengthening global governance. It believes that when faced with challenges of a global nature, no country can stay aloof or unaffected. The country has stressed that all countries must pull together in these trying times, enhance communication and coordination on COVID-19, climate change and other global issues, build maximum consensus, and pursue convergence of interests wherever possible. China remains steadfast in championing and practicing true multilateralism, advocates the universal values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom, and opposes hegemonism, power politics and bloc politics. It calls on all countries to safeguard the UN-centered international system and uphold the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter as they work together to make the global governance system fairer and more equitable. As the chair of BRICS this year, China is ready to work with various parties to maintain the development momentum of the BRICS cooperation mechanism and build a high-quality partnership that is more comprehensive, closer, more pragmatic and more inclusive, which is expected to further increase the voice of emerging markets and developing countries in global governance. Facts have proved that in a world of instability and transformation, China always serves as an anchor for stability and a force for good, and always stands on the right side of history. No matter how the international landscape evolves, China will continue to keep a global perspective, honor its responsibilities, and hold high the banner of peace, development and win-win cooperation to promote the building of a new type of international relations and a community with a shared future for mankind. It will work with all progressive forces in the world to pursue common development and march toward a shared future. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Google recently discovered coordinated attacks by North Korean government-backed hackers against U.S.-based organizations in the news media, IT, fintech and cryptocurrency industries, the company's cybersecurity unit said. Two separate North Korean groups exploited a vulnerability in the web browser Chrome in an effort to remotely install malware, Google's Threat Analysis Group said in a blog post Thursday. The earliest evidence of the exploit was on Jan. 4 and a patch was issued on Feb. 14, Google said. One campaign by the hackers targeted over 250 individuals in 10 different companies by posing as recruiters with fake job offers from Disney, Google and Oracle. Google said it suspected the two groups worked for the same entity but had different missions and used different techniques. The company said it notified all the targets of the attacks. The report came days after U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said North Korean hackers are working with Russian cybercriminals. "North Korea's cyber capabilities have been manifest in the world and they work with all kinds of cybercriminals around the world, including Russian cybercriminals," Sullivan said Tuesday at a press conference. He was responding to a question about a report from Harvard University's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs last week that drew a connection between the two countries' cybercrime operations. U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday warned American companies to be on heightened alert for cyberattacks by Russia in response to the heavy sanctions that have been imposed since its invasion of Ukraine. (UPI) A federal court jury in Springfield has convicted a man stopped in South Jacksonville in 2017 with more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana in his recreational vehicle. Muhammad Usama, 25, of Houston was arrested Dec. 31, 2017, at Loves Travel Stop after a Morgan County sheriff's deputy started talking to a man driving an RV with Idaho plates and grew suspicious about his story. About $5 million worth of marijuana was found inside the vehicle; it was one of the largest cannabis finds ever in Morgan County. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan / AP-Yonhap North Korea probably has "more in store" after successfully test-firing a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile this week, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Friday. As investigators continue to determine what caused the March 8 plane crash that killed MyMichigan Health President and CEO Diane Postler-Slattery and her husband, Donald, in northwest Florida, a preliminary report has been released by the National Board of Transportation. The report indicates that Donald Slattery had trouble finding the runway to Northern Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City while trying to land through low cloud cover. The single-engine Cessna 182 crashed at about 7 p.m. Crash debris was located one mile north of the airport's northbound runway in a densely wooded area. Photo provided/Midland Center for the Arts According to the preliminary report, a review of data provided by the FAA revealed that Slattery left Jack Barstow Airport in Midland and arrived at Warren County Memorial Airport in McMinnville, Tennessee around 4 p.m. central standard time. In Tennessee, a receipt showed Slattery fueled up to travel to Florida. The couple departed at 4:54 p.m. central standard time and arrived at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport after sunset. A review of air traffic control communications revealed that the flight was in contact with Tyndall Air Force Base. The controller cleared Slattery to land. A few minutes after the approach clearance Slattery confirmed that he was "established" on approach and the controller instructed him to contact the air traffic control tower. Slattery radioed the control tower and informed them he was inbound. The controller acknowledged and then provided the weather at the airport which included wind at 150 at 6 knots, visibility 2 miles and mist with overcast ceiling at 200 ft above ground level. The report found that dense cloud cover was obscuring the view of the airport and the controller warned Slattery as he attempted to land at 6:45 p.m. about an hour after sunset. Slattery stated, "well give it (a) try and see if we can get her down." The controller issued a landing clearance and offered to turn the approach lights up to the highest setting available. The controller warned Slattery that if he got beneath the overcast clouds, the approach lights would be bright. Slattery stated, "Affirmative, that would be good." The controller responded with "Roger." The approach controller warned Slattery several times that he was deviating from the normal flight path to the runway. An FAA review of flight tracking data shows the Cessna flying right and left of the runway centerline. About 40 seconds later, the controller stated, "Im receiving a low altitude alert. Check your altitude." Slattery replied, "Affirmative." The controller advised Slattery that the air force base noticed his flight track was deviating again and to use caution. The controller also stated, "There are other airports nearby with better weather conditions." "Alright well try this down to minimums and go-around if need be," Slattery said. About 12 seconds later the controller advised, "It appears you are drifting a little to the right." Then he commented. "It appears you are drifting well to the right." Slattery did not reply. The controller then alerted airport operations that the aircraft may have crashed. Photo provided/National Transportation Safety Board The graphic above shows the accident site, the final approach course represented as the yellow line, and the airplanes flight track represented in the magenta line. A review of the flight track in the final approach phase found that the airplanes course deviated left and right from the initial approach fix to the accident site, which was 1.55 nautical miles from the runway threshold. The airplanes altitude showed momentary descents and climbs while on the final approach. The wreckage was retained for further examination. Robert Katz, a Dallas-based flight instructor and 40-year pilot who tracks nationwide plane crashes, said he believes the clouds were low enough that Slattery was forced to use an instrument landing system while approaching. It is likely that Slattery "lost control of the aircraft," Katz said. Noting that the preliminary report suggests nothing was wrong with the plane, Katz also emphasized that the plane was more than 40 years old. He said maintenance for an aging plane is labor-intensive and often requires extra attention as well as a large budget to be able to operate it safely. The rate of the plane's descent also is telling. Katz believes Slattery struggled to keep control of the plane based on its flight pattern documented in the report, the rate of descent and the condition of the plane after the crash. The investigation into the crash continues. Medical workers guide visitors at a COVID-19 screening center in Gwangju, March 24. Yonhap Korea reported less than 400,000 new cases for the second day in a row Thursday despite the Omicron variant tightening its grip on the country. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) reported 339,514 new infections as of midnight, raising the total caseload to 11,162,232. Thursday's daily tally was down from 395,598, Wednesday, and 490,881, Tuesday, which was the second-highest daily caseload. The death toll came to 14,294, up 393 from the previous day, the KDCA said, for a fatality rate of 0.13 percent. The number of critically ill patients stood at 1,085, up four from Wednesday; and has remained over 1,000 for 18 straight days. Korea is experiencing the worst wave of the pandemic, surpassing the grim milestone of 10 million infections earlier this week. Nearly 9 million cases have been reported since early February. The daily caseload surged to an all-time high of 621,205 last Wednesday. The spread of the virus is feared to continue unabated amid relaxed social distancing measures and quarantine rules for overseas entrants. Earlier this week, the government eased some of its virus-related regulations to support retail and services sectors bearing the brunt of the pandemic's financial impact. (Yonhap) House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband, Paul Pelosi, recently purchased $2.2 million in Tesla stock, a congressional financial disclosure form shows. According to the form, Paul Pelosi, who owns and runs a San Francisco-based venture capital firm, purchased 2,500 shares of the electric car company's stock by exercising 25 call options at a strike price of $500 per share on March 17. The options were set to expire the next day. The purchase comes at a time lawmakers continue to discuss legislation that would ban members of Congress from trading stocks. Pelosi in particular has been at the center of the debate, given her status as House speaker and her husband's prolific trading. In January, Paul Pelosi purchased $2.9 million in stock in a number of companies including Disney, Apple, American Express and PayPal. Critics have argued that members of Congress, who receive confidential information and write policy that directly impacts large publicly traded companies, should be barred from stock trades. Pelosi was initially hostile to such a ban, but has since backpedaled and signaled some openness to the policy proposal. A hearing on possible legislation to ban members of Congress from owning stocks was scheduled for last week, but postponed after Rep. Zoe Lofgren, the chair of the Committee of House Administration, tested positive for COVID-19. In the weeks between the 2020 presidential election and the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, Virginia Thomas, the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, sent a barrage of text messages imploring President Donald Trumps chief of staff to take steps to overturn the vote, according to a person with knowledge of the texts. In one message sent in the days after the election, she urged the chief of staff, Mark Meadows, to release the Kraken and save us from the left taking America down, invoking a slogan popular on the right that refers to a web of conspiracy theories that Trump supporters believed would overturn the election. In another, she wrote: I cant see Americans swallowing the obvious fraud. Just going with one more thing with no frickin consequences. She added: We just cave to people wanting Biden to be anointed? Many of us cant continue the GOP charade. The contents of the texts were reported earlier by The Washington Post and CBS News. They were among about 9,000 pages of documents that Meadows turned over to the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The texts detailed Meadows interactions with Republican politicians as they planned strategies to try to keep Trump in office in the weeks before the riot. The committee obtained 29 texts between Thomas and Meadows 28 exchanged between Nov. 4 and Nov. 24, and one written on Jan. 10. The text messages, most of which were written by Thomas, represent the first evidence that she was directly advising the White House as it sought to overturn the election. In fact, in her efforts to keep Trump in power, Thomas effectively toggled between like-minded members of the executive and legislative branches, even as her husband, who sits atop the judiciary branch that is supposed to serve as a check on the other branches of government, heard election-related cases. Clarence Thomas has been Trumps most stalwart defender on the court. In February 2021, he wrote a dissent after the majority declined to hear a case filed by Pennsylvania Republicans that sought to disqualify certain mail-in ballots. And this past January, he was the only justice who voted against allowing the release of records from the Trump White House related to the Jan. 6 attack. Virginia Thomas has actively opposed the Jan. 6 committee and its work, co-signing a letter in December calling for House Republicans to expel Reps. Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger from their conference for joining the committee. Thomas and her co-authors said the investigation brings disrespect to our countrys rule of law and legal harassment to private citizens who have done nothing wrong, adding that they would begin a nationwide movement to add citizens voices to this effort. Many of Thomas postelection texts are rambling, with little attention to punctuation, and they run the gamut. She calls Nov. 3, Election Day, a heist, and repeats debunked conspiracy theories, including one pushed by QAnon that falsely alleged that voter fraud had been discovered in Arizona on secretly watermarked ballots. The texts show she was communicating not only with Meadows, but also with Connie Hair, the chief of staff to Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, who sued Vice President Mike Pence to force him to certify Trump as the victor of the 2020 election. The text traffic also suggests that Thomas was in contact with Jared Kushner, the former presidents son-in-law and adviser. Sidney Powell, the lawyer advising Trumps campaign team known for unleashing wild theories about voting fraud, comes up repeatedly. On Nov. 13, for instance, Trump included Powell in a tweeted list of his teams lawyers. That same day, Thomas urged Meadows to support Powell, and said she had also reached out to Jared to do the same: Just forwarded to yr gmail an email I sent Jared this am, she wrote. Sidney Powell & improved coordination now will help the cavalry come and Fraud exposed and America saved. When some of the presidents other lawyers began distancing themselves from Powell, Thomas warned Meadows not to cave to the elites. In one text exchange right after the election, she tells Meadow that he needed to listen to Steve Pieczenik, a onetime State Department consultant who has appeared on Alex Jones Infowars to claim, among other things, that the Sandy Hook school massacre was a false-flag operation. She also quoted language circulating on pro-Trump sites that said, Biden crime family & ballot fraud co-conspirators (elected officials, bureaucrats, social media censorship mongers, fake stream media reporters, etc) are being arrested & detained for ballot fraud right now & over coming days, & will be living in barges off GITMO to face military tribunals for sedition. She added: I hope this is true. Thomas and Meadows have been like-minded associates for years, and she bestowed an award on him at a 2019 gathering of conservatives. While Thomas already had access to the president, White House aides said her influence increased after Trump named Meadows chief of staff in March 2020. Meadows is no longer cooperating with the committee; a lawyer for Meadows, George J. Terwilliger III, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Nor did Thomas or the Supreme Court. Terwilliger has argued that Meadows cooperated as much as he could without violating Trumps assertions of executive privilege, and Meadows has filed suit against the panel to seek a court ruling to determine the validity of those assertions of executive privilege. Others challenging the committees subpoenas in court include John Eastman, a conservative lawyer and former clerk to Clarence Thomas who wrote a memo arguing that Pence had the power to reject Electoral College votes for President Joe Biden. Both cases could end up before the Supreme Court. A New York Times investigation published in February highlighted Virginia Thomas postelection activities, including her role on the board of CNP Action, a conservative group that worked to advance efforts to overturn the election even as she was texting Meadows. In one document, it instructed members to pressure Republican lawmakers into challenging the results and appointing alternate slates of electors: Demand that they not abandon their Constitutional responsibilities during a time such as this. In recently published remarks, Thomas downplayed her role at the group, but also said she had attended the Jan. 6 rally at the Ellipse in Washington. She added that she was disappointed and frustrated that there was violence that happened following a peaceful gathering. She also said she played no role with those who were planning and leading the Jan. 6 events. But those comments are undercut by her communications with Meadows, who was deeply involved in the planning of the Jan. 6 protests. In her one text to Meadows after the attack that the committee was able to obtain, she only briefly mentions what took place, and only after reiterating one of its animating ideas that Pence had betrayed Trumps movement. She writes of feeling that we are living in what feels like the end of America. Most of us are disgusted with the VP and are in listening mode to see where to fight with our teams. Those who attacked the Capitol are not representative of our great teams of patriots for DJT!! Amazing times. The end of liberty. Thomas has been a longtime political activist on the far right, and she and her husband have been a frequent presence at partisan political conferences. That has long led to calls for Clarence Thomas to recuse himself from cases in which his wife has an interest, but he has rejected such suggestions. He once said his wife worked 24/7 every day in defense of liberty, adding, We are equally yoked, and we love being with each other because we love the same things. Stephen Gillers, a law professor and judicial ethics expert at New York University, said that while Virginia Thomas is free to exercise her First Amendment rights, her texts crossed a line. The consequences of what shes done is that I dont think that Clarence Thomas can sit on any case involving, even remotely, the conduct of the election, the vote of Congress on Jan. 6, or any cases involving the Jan. 6 committees attempts to get information, including the committees efforts to get Eastmans emails, he said. He must recuse himself, and should have recused himself in the cases that have been heard up to now. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. If youre not an expert sommelier, shopping for wine glasses can leave you dizzy with confusion. Whats best for a red wine versus a white wine? Does it really matter? And do we need a separate glass just for rose?! Since this isnt our preferred wine-inspired headache either, our curators decided to get to the bottom of the perplexity surrounding wine glasses. We searched high and merlot for info to help you choose the best wine glasses for your home. Based on this guide to wine glasses from Total Wine, weve found options for every lifestyle & budget, so get ready to pop bottles or cans and imbibe in style. 1. Best white wine glasses: JoyJolt Layla European wine glasses JoyJolt Layla White Wine Glasses, Set of 4 amazon.com $27.95 Shop Now Crafted from durable, quality crystal in the Czech Republic, these dishwasher-safe white wine glasses were designed with elegance and simplicity in mind. The tapered shape helps to keep white wine at chilly temps, says Total Wine, which is also why its preferable to drink white wine out of wine glasses that have a stem; when using stemless glasses, your hand may heat up your vino faster than you plan to savor it. With 3,000+ positive reviews, these 4.5-star rated wine glasses are perfect for everyday use and exquisite enough for a special Saturday Sauvignon Blanc. 2. Best red wine glasses: Paksh Novelty Italian red wine glasses Paksh Novelty Italian Red Wine Glasses - 18 Ounce - Set of 4 amazon.com $37.99 Shop Now This set of red wine glasses has a 4.5-star rating from over 9,000 reviews now thats a magnum of satisfied customers! Total Wine recommends using red wine glasses with a wider bowl than white wine glasses for swirling purposes; red wines require more oxygen for enhanced aromatics and a smoother, full-bodied flavor. These Italian-crafted glass pieces incorporate this important feature, and quite beautifully we might add! Available in 15-ounce and 8-pack varieties, youll get the perfect size and quantity of these fine, Italian-crafted wine glasses, which yes, are dishwasher safe. 3. Best universal wine glasses: JBHO Hand Blown Italian Style Crystal Wine Glasses Hand Blown Italian Style Crystal White or Red Wine Glasses Set of 4-18 Ounce amazon.com $35.99 Shop Now Some wine drinkers stick to one variety, but if youre more of a bottle of white, bottle of red, perhaps a bottle of rose instead Billy Joel kind of wine drinker, a set of universal wine glasses may be all you need to get by. With a bowl wide enough for red wine to breathe and a tapered design that keeps white wine at cool temps, these break- and scratch-resistant universal wine glasses are perfect for pairing with any meal or to simply enjoy a glass of whatever your heart desires after a long, hard day. They make for easy clean-up too; these wine glasses safely go right in the dishwasher. 4. Best crystal wine glasses: Marquis by Waterford Marquis By Waterford Clear Crystalline amazon.com $48.71 Shop Now Price is per glass Waterford Crystal needs no introduction; theyve been a household name for over 200 years and are well known for their intricate, ornate designs. While most modern wine glasses are lead-free, lead is what gives crystal its pliability and allows designers to carve them out for that classic Waterford look. These Crystalline wine glasses have a lower lead-quality than pure crystal, and since these are the kind of glasses that will only get used on special occasions, the risk of lead poisoning is pretty minimal. Plus, theyll look beautiful in any display case alongside your best china! 5. Best stemless wine glasses: JoyJolt Spirits stemless wine glass JoyJolt Spirits Stemless Wine Glasses amazon.com $15.25 Shop Now For classic-looking stemless wine glasses, look no further than this highly-reviewed JoyJolt set; theyre simple, modern, and for those accident-prone wine drinkers, a much safer choice than glasses with wobbly stems especially after having a glass or two! Keep in mind that Total Wine recommends stemless wine glasses for red wine so your hand doesnt warm a nice chilled Pinot Grigio before you have the chance to enjoy it! For white wines, you might want to look into something more like the Yeti wine tumber which will keep your wine chilled to the last drop. 6. Best sparkling wine glasses: Elixir Glassware Champagne Flutes Elixir Classy Champagne Flutes - Set of 4 amazon.com $39.97 Shop Now Cheers! Salud! Mazel Tov! No matter how you say it, champagne is synonymous with celebrations and good cheer. Build your collection with these lead-free crystal champagne flutes, perfect for all of lifes special occasions. This set of 4 champagne flutes comes with a 4.5-star rating from nearly 1,700 reviews, one of which describes them as oozing with sophistication. The bad news? Bubbly not included. 7. Best luxury wine glasses: Chateau Baccarat XL glasses Chateau Baccarat XL Glasses, Set of 2 bergdorfgoodman.com $300.00 Shop Now If youre a serious wine-enthusiast, it makes sense that youd want to splurge on some high end stemware for when you come across the perfect Bordeaux or a vintage year youve been after. We love this Baccarat set of wine glasses because of its chic design and versatility; it has a large bowl for red wine aeration and a tapered shape helping concentrate aromatics while keeping white wine at the perfect temps. As youd expect, these French-made balloon goblets are hand-wash only. To browse luxury wine glasses further, check out the full Bergdorf Goodman collection with options ranging from Versace to Ralph Lauren. 8. Best budget wine glasses: Zuvo Red Wine Glasses Zuvo Red Wine Glasses - Set of 4 amazon.com $20.00 Shop Now The Zuvo red wine glasses 4-pack set comes with a wallet-friendly price tag and still has beautiful features for red and white wine enjoyment. Simply sleek and dishwasher safe, theyre perfect for everyday use. While theyre marketed as red wine glasses, most sets of wine glasses in this price range are stemless, so considering that and the somewhat tapered design, these are a great pick for universal use. Oh, and dont forget to stock up on wine at a savings from Total Wine to go with them! 9. Best dessert wine glasses: Luigi Bormioli Michelangelo Liqueur Glasses Luigi Bormioli Michelangelo 2.25 oz Liqueur Glasses - Set of 4 amazon.com $34.00 Shop Now According to Total Wine, dessert wines are sweeter than other traditional varieties and they pack a punch these wines often have a higher, more concentrated alcohol content. To perfectly deliver these delectable after dinner drinks, more petite wine glasses are needed. If youre the type to have sherry or port on hand at any moment, we love this set of Luigi Bormioli wine glasses, made in Italy with their gorgeous pulled stem accents. And hey, if youre having dessert wine, may as well whip up a batch of these chocolate merlot cupcakes well be right over. 10. Best decanter: Le Chateau Full Bottle Red Wine Decanter Le Chateau Red Wine Decanter amazon.com $49.95 Shop Now A decanter is a multi-purpose piece of glassware sure to uplevel any wine lovers collection of wine glasses. Decanters let your wine breathe and help separate the sweet nectar of fermented grapes from the sediment that can build up in a nice vintage bottle over time. Also, they just look nice! Add a touch of elegance to your dinner table with the Le Chateau red wine decanter which is a great value considering it holds up to 32 ounces and has over 4,500 positive ratings. And dont let anyone tell you decanters are only for red wine; if you want to decant a white wine, you do you. You can even decant liquor; just check out this uniquely playful tequila decanter from Total Wine! Hearst Newspapers participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Pamela Mahler is an E-Commerce Writer for Local Commerce at Hearst Newspapers. Email her at pamela.mahler@hearst.com. Marion, IN (46952) Today Occasional rain. Low 52F. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a half an inch.. Tonight Occasional rain. Low 52F. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a half an inch. Local CoreCivic making 'strides' to staff county detention facility mattbeck / Matthew Beck Chronicle Photo Editor The Citrus County Detention Facility in Lecanto. Strides are being made to get Citrus Countys privately-run jail and prison up to adequate staffing levels but theres still more to do. Concurring with staffs recommendation, county commissioners voted 5-0 Tuesday, March 22, to issue a $35,000 assessment against CoreCivic for continuing to fail filling required positions at the Citrus County Detention Facility in Lecanto. CoreCivic CoreCivic Their vote came after County Administrator Randy Oliver gave a status of the February staffing report published by the Tennessee-based company running the countys facility. Commissioners asked Oliver at their Feb. 22 meeting for a monthly update on if CoreCivic was abiding by its contractual obligations, but they didnt pry Tuesday into specifics of the shortfalls. County commission to get monthly staffing reports for detention facility After hearing concerns, Citrus Countys board of commissioners will start getting regular updates on whether the countys privately run jail and prison is being adequately staffed. I dont think its the boards prerogative to get involved in contract monitoring; we asked you to look into it, Commission Chairman Ron Kitchen Jr. told Oliver. Are they in compliance, or are they not? Kitchen Jr. Theyre making vast strides to come into compliance; they are not into compliance yet, Oliver responded. Theyre still down a number of officers but theyve increased it significantly, and I think the progress theyre making at this point is good. County administration on Feb. 15 levied a $77,500 assessment against CoreCivic for staff shortages and organizational issues documented back to March 2021. County fines detention facility manager for staff shortage A staff shortage at the Citrus County Detention Facility prompted county officials to start fining the company managing the local jail and prison. This assessment accounted for a daily fine of $2,500 for just throughout the month of January 2022 because the county gave CoreCivic a grace period to address its problems. These assessments, unless waived, are credited against CoreCivics purchasing requests to the county. Oliver told commissioners on Tuesday CoreCivic has bolstered its ranks since its initial penalty, including an adjustment in pay scales to make them more competitive. Oliver We think theyve made a lot of strides in the last month so we reduced the amount, he said about the second round of assessments, and they continue to make improvements, but theyve got some things they need to do yet. Managed since 1995 by CoreCivic formerly Corrections Corporation of America the Citrus County Detention Facility can house up to 760 inmates, who are either in local, federal or U.S. Virgin Island custody. U.S. Virgin Island inmates are serving sentences longer than a year. We are making strides and improvements to not only settle the staffing challenges in these unprecedented times, but also procedures, polices and how we service the community, Carlos Melendez, of CoreCivic, told commissioners. Its got our laser-focused attention. According to CoreCivics February staffing report, obtained Wednesday, 72.3 percent of the required staffing posts were filled. A prior Chronicle report from February stated CoreCivic informed the county then that 94 percent of the detention facility was staffed. We do not know where the 94 percent is coming from, Oliver told the Chronicle on Wednesday. Oliver said that, as of Monday, CoreCivic hired four additional correctional officers, had six more in the hiring process, and had 19 waiting to be interviewed. These numbers have not yet been independently verified, he said. Parents: Daughter's suicide at county detention facility was preventable Stephen and Peggy Finegan thought their daughter would be safe in the custody of the Citrus County Detention Facility a refuge from the triggers of her harmful mental health. Oliver said CoreCivic increased its starting hourly wage for a corrections officer at the detention facility from $14.81 to $18.93, and adjusted salaries for all other facility staff. My understanding is that they have some correctional officers that are reapplying because of the increase in compensation, the county administrator said, however, that is not reflected in the numbers yet. CoreCivic brought in 20 additional staff members from outside Florida, Oliver said, who are awaiting direction from the Criminal Justice Information Services with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) regarding their certification requirements. FDLE spokesman Jeremy Burns told the Chronicle Florida has an Equivalency of Training process to allow out-of-state corrections offices to become certified in the Sunshine State without having to complete the entire basic recruit training course. Generally speaking, he said, an out-of-state officer will qualify for an EOT if he or she has at least one year of full-time sworn experience with their latest separation date being within the past eight years, and he or she has completed training comparable to Floridas basic recruit training. Burns said if an out-of-state officer is approved for an EOT, they have to complete a 40-to-80-hour-long proficiency course at a certified training school before passing the state officer certification exam. Oliver said CoreCivic also selected Orlando Rodriguez to be the county detention facilitys new warden, succeeding acting Warden Jerry Wardlow. CoreCivic QUINN Wardlow was named acting warden Feb. 10 after Mike Quinn lost the job as a result of a CoreCivic investigation into the Nov. 2 death of inmate Valerie Bogle, of Crystal River. Warden, three others 'no longer employed' at county detention facility An internal investigation into the November death of a Citrus County Detention Facility inmate resulted in the unemployments of the facilitys warden and three other staff members. Rodriguez, dating back to June 1995, has been the assistant warden of four CoreCivic/CCA-run facilities and county jails including Hernando Countys and was also the warden of three CoreCivic/CCA facilities, according to his resume. CoreCivic Rodriguez CoreCivic, Oliver said, is using its sister company TransCor to augment the detention facilitys transportation needs for its inmates. Oliver said jails across the state have had to deal with a backlog of inmates waiting to be transferred to prisons, straining the system and causing a disservice to the inmates who dont accrue credit for time in jail after their sentencing. This backlog arose after staffing shortages within the Florida Department of Corrections (FDOC) led to the closure of two state prisons, Oliver said, and also because of the FDOCs now-rescinded order from Nov. 1 that restricted inmate-transfer rates from jails. Oliver noted CoreCivic and the detention facility was in 100 percent compliance with the Florida Model Jail Standards Annual Jail Inspection completed in November. We expect them to continue to make process to meet the contractual requirements, he said. Commissioners at their Feb. 22 meeting also tabled a vote to approve a separate and updated contract between the county, CoreCivic and the U.S. Virgin Islands to keep housing inmates from the U.S. territory at the county detention facility. CoreCivic spokesman Ryan Gustin told the Chronicle Thursday CoreCivic still intends to bring the contract up for approval. We just dont have a date yet scheduled for that, he said, adding no U.S. Virgin Island inmates have been transferred from the local detention facility as a result of the unapproved agreement. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis responds to questions from the media at the close of the legislative session. Nabeel Munir, ambassador of Pakistan to Korea, speaks during a ceremony commemorating Pakistan Day at a hotel in Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of Embassy of Pakistan in Korea By Kwon Mee-yoo The Embassy of Pakistan in Korea held a ceremony commemorating the country's national day Pakistan Day at a hotel in Seoul, Wednesday. Nabeel Munir, the newly-designated ambassador of Pakistan to Korea, noted that the event will be the beginning of a series of celebrations to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Pakistan this year. "It was on the historic day of March 23, that Muslims of South Asia, in 1940, adopted a Resolution calling for a separate homeland. This struggle culminated in the creation of Pakistan in 1947," ambassador Munir said. "On this day, we pay tribute to our great leader Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah under whose dynamic, principled and inspiring leadership, Pakistan was created. Today, we also pay tribute to the struggle and sacrifices of our founding fathers, and pledge to live up to their ideals." Pakistan is a country located at the crossroads of Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East and has a growing relationship with Korea through various exchanges including human resources. "While diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea were only established in 1983, contacts between the two peoples date back more than 18 centuries. Buddhism was brought to the ancient Kingdom of Backs by Monk Maranantha in 384 AD," the ambassador said. "Over the years, Pakistan-Korea relations have grown from strength-to-strength in all fields politics, defense, trade and investment, education, science, climate change and the list goes on." Pakistan also assisted Korea in evacuating Afghan collaborators from Afghanistan, through "Operation Miracle," when Kabul, the Afghan capital, fell under Taliban control last year. "Korean companies are actively engaged in investment in automotive, power and energy, chemicals and consumer goods sectors in Pakistan. New bilateral initiatives are being taken to further enhance collaboration in tourism, small and medium enterprises and human development," the ambassador added. Lee Sang-ryol, director-general for Asian and Pacific Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korea, welcomed the new ambassador beginning his assignment here with a grand celebration. "We have steadily strengthened our bilateral relations in various fields. Most notable is cooperation in the economic field. Korea's investment in Pakistan recently reached over $500 million, with many Korean companies contributing to Pakistan's socio-economic development in the areas of infrastructure building and chemical industry and so forth," Lee said, mentioning the M-2 Motorway connecting Lahore and Islamabad by a Korean construction company, which was the first highway built in South Asia. Rep. Lee Hack-young of the Democratic Party of Korea, who serves as president of the Korea-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, showed hopes for more cooperation between the two countries in the future as the guest of honor of the event. "Based on trust we have built over decades, we must pursue greater exchange and cooperation in all fields, both private and public. As Korea and Pakistan, and indeed the entire world, moves closer to the end of COVID-19, we must move forward especially when the stakes are high," Lee Hack-young said. Florida, US (34429) Today A few clouds. Low 68F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A few clouds. Low 68F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sorry, no valid subscriptions were found for this Publication. Please select from an option below to start a subscription. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 24 Hour Access President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping / Yonhap President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol called on Chinese President Xi Jinping Friday to cooperate closely for North Korea's denuclearization and the stable management of the political situation on the Korean Peninsula, his spokesperson said. Yoon made the call during a 25-minute phone conversation with Xi a day after North Korea test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile, raising tensions in the region to a new high. "Regarding North Korea's ICBM-class missile launch yesterday, President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol stressed that the people are greatly concerned over the rapid escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula and in the region caused by North Korea's serious provocation," Kim Eun-hye said in a written briefing. "(Yoon) called for the two countries to cooperate closely to realize the complete denuclearization of North Korea and for the stable management of the political situation on the Korean Peninsula," she said. In previewing the call, Kim had said it would be the first time for Xi to speak with a South Korean leader before they took office, suggesting the high importance Beijing placed on establishing a close relationship with the incoming government. During the call, Yoon and Xi agreed to communicate closely to set up a meeting between them at an early date after Yoon's inauguration on May 10, she said. North Korea earlier confirmed it successfully test-fired a new ICBM, called the Hwasong-17, on Thursday at the direct order of its leader Kim Jong-un, scrapping a self-imposed moratorium on long-range missile testing that had been in place since late 2017. China is North Korea's main ally and economic benefactor, and its cooperation is key to getting Pyongyang to dismantle its missile and nuclear weapons programs. Xi sent a congratulatory message to Yoon upon his March 9 election, saying South Korea is a "close neighbor and important cooperation partner." Xi congratulated Yoon again on Friday and Yoon thanked him while congratulating the Chinese president on the successful hosting of the National People's Congress earlier this month. "During today's phone call, President-elect Yoon and President Xi agreed to work to develop new South Korea-China relations on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties," Kim said, referring to the milestone this year. "President-elect Yoon also said he hopes to work together with President Xi going forward to advance South Korea-China relations with the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation," she said. Xi responded by characterizing the two countries as "close neighbors that cannot move away," saying the two sides should work to bring benefits to their countries and their peoples by promoting stable and long-term development in bilateral ties, according to the spokesperson. Yoon and Xi agreed on a wide range of issues, including activating high-level strategic communication to properly manage pending issues between the two countries and expand practical cooperation on supply chain issues, health, climate change, fine dust and other environmental matters, and culture. "They shared the view that reducing the distance between the hearts of the two peoples is an important foundation for the development of bilateral relations, and agreed to work together to that end," Kim said. Moreover, the two agreed to cooperate actively on regional and global issues in light of the two countries' increased statuses in the international community over the last 30 years, she said. Since his election, Yoon has also spoken with U.S. President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc. (Yonhap) Kangwon National University President Kim Heon-young / Courtesy of Kangwon National University Kangwon National University's new partnership with Wooseok considered key leverage By Ko Dong-hwan Korea's eastern Gangwon Province has long been known for its scenic beaches, ski resorts and unique mountain trails that attract hikers from all across the country. The province is now emerging as home to some of Korea's leading up-and-coming technologies. Three regulation-free zones designated in the province have allowed the region to test its edges in digital healthcare, liquid hydrogen and precision medicine since 2019. And with the world's growing demands for sustainable development and renewable energy resources in the face of the climate crisis, the province has attracted talent betting on those inevitable technological trends. Kangwon National University (KNU) President Kim Heon-young is one of those tech-savvy trend leaders. A former senior employee at carmaker Kia's central technological lab working on then-popular Sephia and still-popular Sportage, Kim has signed a deal recently with architecture firm Wooseok for joint research into extracting pure hydrogen from thermal decomposition of combustible waste. The school's professors teaching hydrogen-carbon technologies, construction fusion and energy engineering as well as Wooseok's chairman, advisers and the president of board of committee joined the signing. He said the deal from late February would allow the new partners to create high value-added technologies for production of hydrogen, a "new, highly anticipated energy source." "With Wooseok's high-temperature gasification technology and KNU's electrochemical hydrogen sequestration technology, I believe we will have a certain synergy," Kim, who holds a doctorate in machine design from Seoul National University, told The Korea Times. Under the deal, KNU and Wooseok will work on how to turn the country's waste into fuel energy, how to produce and sequester high-purity hydrogen from synthesis gas and how to capture and use carbon emissions. They share certain working theories in mind: completely burning plastic waste which hardly decompose when buried underground under 1,600 degrees Celsius to produce synthesis gas and use it as an energy source for fuel cells; or sequestering and refining hydrogen from that synthesis gas to use as hydrogen fuel. "Gasification-based hydrogen production can minimize emissions of unused carbon dioxide and also capture carbon emissions produced during gasification, contributing to the national efforts to reduce carbon emissions," Kim said. Kim, right, speaks while attending a school event in November 2021. / Courtesy of Kangwon National University Members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions hold a rally in Jongno, Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap 'Snubbed' umbrella union vows all-out protest against 'anti-labor' president-elect By Lee Kyung-min Korea's labor groups will no longer be able to thrive under the incoming Yoon Suk-yeol administration, whose management-labor dynamics is set to skew significantly in favor of businesses, according to market watchers and economists, Friday. President-elect Yoon was quick to meet with business leaders, Monday, to share their concerns about a number of pending issues, a demonstration of his pro-business priority. This was cemented further by the transition committee's characterization of labor group's street rallies as "a source of public distrust of the law enforcement authorities," Thursday. Labor groups have repeatedly demanded talks with Yoon, but their requests have not been returned. The series of new, dramatic changes in treatment bode ill for the country's unions, experts say, since their immense influence with the top policymakers and state-run entities during the Moon Jae-in administration will fade rapidly, along with their years of collective efforts to bypass and disregard management. All-out protest? Members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), one of Korea's two large umbrella unions alongside the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU), said Thursday they will protest against the Yoon Suk-yeol administration over the next five full years. "We will fight against the war declared by Yoon who is forcing workers to risk death, and overall deteriorated labor conditions including the minimum wage," the group said in a statement. The outcome of Yoon's meeting with business leaders only helps them guarantee greater corporate greed, the group added. "Is Yoon set to help chaebols make more money and exempt them from workers' death or critical injuries in industrial accidents? Policies in favor of chaebols under the guise of market principles and democratic ideas have resulted in the most polarized society. The Yoon administration is reverting to old labor practices whereby long hours of labor and major industrial accidents killed workers," the group said. The comment followed the announcement of the transition committee, Thursday, on ways to ease rules on the punishment of CEOs for critical industrial accidents. Under the law that took effect in January, CEOs of large firms will be subject to a minimum prison term of one year or a fine of up to 1 billion won ($843,000) in the event that they are found liable for any fatal industrial accident that occurs under their leadership. The FKTU said the president-elect should not rush to revise the relevant clauses, before ensuring how the new law has changed the business practices on labor sites. "Seeking revision less than a year after the law has been in effect is not the answer. The government should be making efforts to identify its role to help reduce the number of accidents," it added. Dankook University economist Kim Tai-gi said labor groups need to look beyond protecting their vested interests and seek to contribute to enhancing the public good. "The history of labor groups in Korea shows their collective power was used exclusively to strengthen their perks, with little regard for the public good," he said. "It is high time for them to adopt a productive mindset for mutual growth, rather than antagonizing the management for their political and financial gains." President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, left, walks out of the Korea Banking Institute building in Seoul, Friday. Yonhap By Kang Hyun-kyung The Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) of Korea expressed its concerns about President Moon Jae-in's request to appoint a BAI member at the end of his term, according to the Presidential Transition Committee. In a press release, the committee quoted the BAI as saying that BAI members are required to maintain a high level of political neutrality. Thus, the BAI chief recommending a commissioner nominee to the sitting president to fill vacant member posts in time of a leadership change could trigger unnecessary doubts or controversy. The reaction came as the transition team received policy briefings from the BAI on Friday. Members of the transition team called on the BAI officials to come up with measures that can to help the body be a transparent, fair and neutral entity. Currently two BAI member posts out of seven are vacant. Filling the two posts has emerged as a source of friction between President Moon and President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, who are still working on setting up a one-on-one meeting. Steps needed to tackle growing security threat North Korea has finally crossed the "red line" by test-firing a new inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) Thursday. Pyongyang said Friday it had successfully launched the Hwasong-17 ICBM the previous day on direct instructions from its leader, Kim Jong-un. Kim cited the need for North Korea "to be fully ready for long-standing confrontation with the U.S. imperialists," according to the North's official media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Kim made the remark during an on-site inspection of the missile test site. KCNA quoted Kim as saying, "The new strategic weapon of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) will make the whole world clearly aware of the power of our strategic armed forces once again." We express strong regret over the North's latest provocation, as Kim scrapped his moratorium on nuclear and ICBM missiles announced in April 2018. President Moon Jae-in convened a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) and strongly condemned the North's test-firing. On Friday, South Korea's unification ministry called on the North to immediately cease such provocative acts that destabilize security on the Korean Peninsula and return to dialogue soon. The North's move has also prompted the United States to impose new sanctions. The State Department said in a statement, "These measures are part of our ongoing efforts to impede the DPRK's ability to advance its missile program and they highlight the negative role Russia plays on the world stage as a proliferator to programs of concern." The Hwasong-17 ICBM, also called the "monster" ICBM, was first shown to the public on Oct. 10, 2020, during a military parade ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the North's Workers' Party. As the world's longest ICBM, it can be equipped with multiple warheads and a payload of 1,700 kilograms, with a flying range of 13,000 to 15,000 kilometers, to reach even the U.S. mainland. With the test-firing of such an ICBM, tensions surrounding the Korean Peninsula will likely grow further and it could also lead to a confrontation between North Korea and the U.S. The North's recent move will likely nudge South Korea and the U.S. to deploy strategic weapons such as fighter jets and submarines during the joint military exercises slated for next month. As President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol has vowed strong responses to the North's possible provocations, inter-Korean relations will continue to remain frozen. North Korea seems to have tried to make the most of the unstable international security situation following Russia's sweeping invasion of Ukraine. It is also seeking to build up its nuclear missile capabilities while the U.S. is preoccupied with the war in Ukraine. Further, it is utilizing the power transition period in South Korea to advance its nuclear abilities in preparation for future negotiations with the U.S. Yet, North Korea should realize that it cannot get what it wants by test-firing an ICBM. The Moon administration and Yoon's transition team should closely cooperate to tackle the growing security threat together. By Kim Jae-heun SPC Group will open its fourth Paris Baguette store in Indonesia later this month, the company said, Thursday. The bakery chain opened the third one in the Southeast Asian country on Wednesday. Paris Baguette, the largest bakery chain in Korea operated by SPC Group, opened its first store in Indonesia together with Erajaya Group last November. It only took four months for SPC Group to introduce its fourth bakery there, riding high on the popularity of Korean culture in the country. It plans to open over 10 stores within this year. SPC set up its third Paris Baguette store on the first floor of Pondok Indah Mall, in Jakarta, one of the top 5 premium shopping malls in Indonesia, which is visited by 100,000 people on a daily basis. The confectionery giant plans to operate the Pondok Indah Mall branch as a flagship store there. It will also offer dining menus like mushroom risotto and spicy seafood tomato pasta. SPC's private tea brand, Teatra, will also sell green-grape-flavored iced tea. The fourth store will open on the first floor of Summarecon Mall in Bekasi. "The taste and quality of Paris Baguette's food have become popular among Indonesians and we are expanding our business there rapidly. We plan to open more than 10 bakery shops in Jakarta and nearby core cities," a SPC Group official said. Meanwhile, SPC Group formed a joint venture called "Era Boga Patiserindo" together with local partner Erajaya Group last October. It plans to build a manufacturing facility in Indonesia as part of its global business expansion. Acupuncture -- a bridge of friendship between India, China Xinhua) 09:03, March 25, 2022 NEW DELHI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese acupuncture has become a bridge of friendship between India and China, with more and more Indians accepting the form of traditional Chinese medicine over the past few decades, experts said. Acupuncture, a technique to cure various ailments, was first introduced to India in 1959 by Dr. B.K. Basu in the eastern city of Kolkata, capital of West Bengal state, according to Dr. Mrigendranath Gantait, president of the Acupuncture Association of India. Over the past six decades it has spread to rural, semi-urban and urban areas in India, particularly in the states of West Bengal, Maharashtra and Punjab. While the state governments of West Bengal and Maharashtra have officially recognized acupuncture as a way of treatment, the Indian central government recognized it in the year 2019 as a "system of healthcare." Acupuncture is a complementary medical practice that entails stimulating certain points on the body, usually with needles penetrating the skin, to alleviate pain or help treat various health conditions. Efforts are also on to popularize it even more in the South Asian nation, experts said. Dr. Gantait told Xinhua that acupuncture has been a "strong bridge" of friendship between the two populous countries. Acupuncture therapy in India is related to the story of the Indian Medical Mission (IMM) that was dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Dr. Basu, as a colleague of Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis (widely known as Dr. Ke Dihua in China) and a torchbearer of the IMM, stayed in China for nearly five years during 1938-1943 as an IMM member, and later had worked for another 43 years for the IMM in India until his death in 1986. In 1958-1959, Dr. Basu stayed in China for six months to learn acupuncture before introducing the needle techniques to India. In 1973, Dr. Basu was invited to China to learn newly-developed acupuncture anesthesia. From the very beginning Dr. Basu tried to spread acupuncture to doctors by free teaching and disseminate science for broad masses of people. Dr. Basu, who established Dr. Kotnis Memorial Committee (DKMC) and the Acupuncture Association of India to preach the ideals of the medical mission, even donated his house and savings to the government of West Bengal state for the purpose of development of acupuncture. Under the leadership of the DKMC, free health service clinics have been set up where acupuncture is taken as the main treatment modality, because the cost of acupuncture treatment is very much low, and acupuncture is effective in many ailments. The DKMC has also produced many barefoot acupuncturists who run these clinics without taking any remuneration, according to Dr. Gantait. "Acupuncture has played a unique role to promote people's friendship between India and China," he said. "When Dr. Basu returned to India after learning acupuncture anesthesia, the Indian media described it as acupuncture diplomacy, and it was highly praised in the country. Dr. Inderjeet Singh Dhingra, who is an ace acupuncture practitioner in India's northern state of Punjab, runs a small acupuncture hospital in the industrial town of Ludhiana curing people with tiny needles. He said acupuncture can cure as many as 338 diseases, including body pains, gynecological problems, paralytic dysfunctions and arthritis pains. Each day, there are 60 to 70 patients coming to see the doctor in his hospital. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Hanwha Group Chairman Kim Seung-youn, right, and former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence pose for a picture after their luncheon at the Chosun Hotel in Seoul, Thursday. / Courtesy of Hanwha Group By Kim Hyun-bin Hanwha Group Chairman Kim Seung-youn met former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC) Chairman Kim Jang-hwan in Seoul, Thursday, where they discussed Korea-U.S. relations, the company said, Friday. The meeting took place as the former U.S. vice president was visiting Korea at the invitation of FEBC to give a lecture. Pence gave a lecture at the Chosun Hotel, Friday, under the theme "Strong Korea-U.S. alliance amid international turmoil," which was attended by around 300 people from various fields, including politics, economy, and education. The luncheon lasted for two hours, with the Hanwha Group chairman and the former U.S. vice president sharing their views on the latest international situation and stressing that cooperation between the two countries is crucial. He also pointed out that companies are having a difficult time due to international disputes and emphasized that global leaders need to come together to resolve issues facing the global economy. FEBC Chairman Kim Jang-hwan, who is a pastor, emphasized that politics, economy, and religion should work together towards peace on the Korean Peninsula. The luncheon was the first meeting between the Hanwha Group chairman and the former U.S. vice president, who joined the Heritage Foundation as a guest research fellow in February 2021. Meanwhile, Hanwha Hotels & Resorts managing director Kim Dong-sun, who is the youngest son of the Hanwha Group chairman, also attended the luncheon meeting, along with Karen Sue Pence, wife of the former U.S. vice president. GM Korea CEO Kaher Kazem. Korea Times file By Lee Kyung-min GM Korea CEO Kaher Kazem will be able to leave Korea after the justice ministry lifted a travel ban imposed on him by the prosecution, the company said Friday. "We are relieved by the decision. Kazem will leave the country whenever he deems fit," an official of the Korean unit of the U.S. carmaker said. The comment came a few hours after the ban was lifted, Thursday, clearing uncertainties over whether he would be able to lead the global carmaker's Shanghai office starting on June 1, as planned. The U.S. head office said on March 5 (local time) that Kazem was to join SAIC General Motors Corporation Limited, a joint venture between GM and SAIC Motor. "Kazem will be able to lead the GM's office in China the largest and the most important market accounting for over half of the firm sales volume total. He was promoted in recognition of his outstanding performance in Korea over the past five years," the official added. Thursday's unexpected decision removed factors that could threaten investment relations with China, a shared concern among the local automobile industry. Industry analysts said Korea could have been shunned further by foreign investors, many of whom associate the country with business conditions highly unfavorable to non-Koreans. The prosecution imposed the ban on three occasions since November 2019, when it opened an investigation into GM Korea and four of its officials, including Kazem. The four officials and the automaker were indicted in July 2020 for the illegal control and supervision of 1,700 irregular workers hired by GM Korea's subcontractors between 2017 and 2019. Prosecutors say the officials sent them to work at its plants in Incheon, Changwon in South Gyeongsang Province, and Gunsan in North Jeolla Province. GM Korea said Kazem will fully cooperate with the ongoing prosecution investigation, as has been over the past few years. "Kazem has never failed to appear before prosecutors and the court. The ban being lifted does not mean that he would make excuses not to come to Korea for questioning," the official said. The German government has raised the prospect of delaying the decommissioning of coal power plants, as the conflict in Ukraine prompts reconsideration of one of Berlin's cornerstone energy policies. Germany has set a target of turning off all its coal-fired power stations by 2038 at the latest, although the centre-left coalition would like to see the phase-out completed by 2030. That goal has not changed, the Social Democrats, Greens and Free Democrats said in a freshly negotiated position paper, although they outlined the possible suspension of coal plant closures until further notice, following a review by the Federal Network Agency. "We want to reduce gas consumption in electricity generation in the short term by keeping coal-fired power plants on safety standby for longer if possible," the document says. Germany is under pressure to reduce its gas imports from Russia, which accounts for some 55% of deliveries. (DPA) U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference in the framework of a NATO summit amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in Brussels, March 24. Reuters-Yonhap President Joe Biden and U.S.' Western allies pledged new sanctions and humanitarian aid Thursday in response to Vladimir Putin's assault on Ukraine, but their offers fell short of the more robust military assistance that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pleaded for in a pair of live-video appearances. Biden also announced the U.S. would welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees though he said many probably prefer to stay closer to home and provide an additional $1 billion in food, medicine, water and other supplies. The Western leaders spent Thursday crafting next steps to counter Russia's month-old invasion and huddling over how they might respond should Putin deploy chemical, biological or even a nuclear weapon. They met in a trio of emergency summits that had them shuttling across Brussels for back-to-back-to-back meetings of NATO, the Group of Seven industrialized nations and the 27-member European Council. Biden, in an early evening news conference after the meetings, warned that a chemical attack by Russia ''would trigger a response in kind.'' ''You're asking whether NATO would cross. We'd make that decision at the time,'' Biden said. However, a White House official said later that did not imply any shift in the U.S. position against direct military action in Ukraine. Biden and NATO allies have stressed that the U.S. and NATO would not put troops on the ground in Ukraine. The official was not authorized to comment publicly by name and spoke only on condition of anonymity. Zelenskyy, while thankful for the newly promised help, made clear to the Western allies he needed far more than they're currently willing to give. ''One percent of all your planes, one percent of all your tanks,'' Zelenskyy asked members of the NATO alliance. ''We can't just buy those. When we will have all this, it will give us, just like you, 100% security.'' A From left are NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, U.S. President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi and European Council President Charles Michel posing for a photo during a Group of Seven (G7) Leaders meeting in Brussels, March 24. EPA-Yonhap Biden said more aid was on its way. But the Western leaders were treading carefully so as not to further escalate the conflict beyond the borders of Ukraine. ''NATO has made a choice to support Ukraine in this war without going to war with Russia,'' said French President Emmanuel Macron. ''Therefore we have decided to intensify our ongoing work to prevent any escalation and to get organized in case there is an escalation.'' Poland and other eastern flank NATO countries are seeking clarity on how the U.S. and European nations can assist in dealing with their growing concerns about Russian aggression as well as the refugee crisis. More than 3.5 million refugees have fled Ukraine in recent weeks, including more than 2 million to Poland. Biden is to visit Poland, Friday, where energy and refugee issues are expected to be at the center of talks with President Andrzej Duda. Billions of dollars of military hardware have already been provided to Ukraine. A U.S. official, who requested anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, said Western nations were discussing the possibility of providing anti-ship weapons amid concerns that Russia will launch amphibious assaults along the Black Sea coast. Biden said his top priority at Thursday's meetings was to make certain that the West stayed on the same page in its response to Russian aggression against Ukraine. ''The single most important thing is for us to stay unified,'' he said. Finland announced Thursday it would send more military equipment to Ukraine, its second shipment in about three weeks. And Belgium announced it will add one billion euros to its defense budget in response to Russia's invasion. At the same time, Washington will expand its sanctions on Russia, targeting members of the country's parliament along with defense contractors. The U.S. said it will also work with other Western nations to ensure gold reserves held by Russia's central bank are subject to existing sanctions. With Russia facing increasing international isolation, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also warned China against coming to Moscow's rescue. He called on Beijing ''to join the rest of the world and clearly condemn the brutal war against Ukraine and not support Russia.'' But Stoltenberg, too, made clear that the West had a ''responsibility to prevent this conflict from becoming a full-fledged war in Europe.'' The possibility that Russia will use chemical or even nuclear weapons has been a grim topic of conversation in Brussels. Stoltenberg said that NATO leaders agreed Thursday to send equipment to Ukraine to help protect it against a chemical weapons attack. White House officials said that both the U.S. and NATO have been working on contingency planning should Russia deploy nonconventional weaponry. NATO has specially trained and equipped forces if there should be such an attack against a member nation's population, territory or forces. Ukraine is not a member. Stoltenberg said in an NBC News interview that if Russia deployed chemical weapons, that would make ''an unpredictable, dangerous situation even more dangerous and even more unpredictable.'' He declined to comment about how the alliance might respond. The White House National Security Council launched efforts days after the invasion through its ''Tiger Team,'' which is tasked with planning three months out, and a second strategy group working on a longer term review of any geopolitical shift that may come, according to a senior administration official. The official was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Both teams are conducting contingency planning for scenarios including Russia's potential use of chemical or biological weapons, targeting of U.S. security convoys in the region, disruptions to global food supply chains and the growing refugee crisis. Before departing for Europe, Wednesday, Biden said that the possibility of a chemical attack was a ''real threat.'' In addition, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told CNN this week that Russia could consider using its nuclear weapons if it felt there were ''an existential threat for our country.'' Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin on Thursday warned, ''Russia is capable of anything.'' ''They don't respect any rules,'' Marin told reporters. ''They don't respect any international laws that they are actually committed to.'' The Russian invasion has spurred European nations to reconsider their military spending, and Stoltenberg opened the NATO summit by saying the alliance must ''respond to a new security reality in Europe.'' The bolstering of forces along NATO's eastern flank will put pressure on national budgets. Trucks gather to protest against the high price of fuel on the outskirts of Madrid, March 24. Industries such as trucking and fishing are staging protests to push politicians to ease their financial pain. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has exacerbated a months-long energy crunch in Europe, which is dependent on Russian oil and natural gas. AP-Yonhap Service members of pro-Russian troops are seen atop of an armored vehicle with the symbols "Z" painted on its sides in the course of Ukraine-Russia conflict in the besieged southern port city of Mariupol, Ukraine, Thursday. Reuters-Yonhap About 300 people died in a Russian airstrike last week on a theater being used as a bomb shelter in the besieged Ukrainian city of Mariupol, the city's government said Friday, citing eyewitnesses. When the theater was struck March 16, an enormous inscription reading "CHILDREN" was posted outside in Russian, intended to be visible from the skies above. It was not immediately clear whether emergency workers had finished excavating the site or how the eyewitnesses arrived at the horrific death toll. Soon after the airstrike, Ludmyla Denisova, the Ukrainian Parliament's human rights commissioner, said more than 1,300 people had been sheltering in the building. Mariupol has been the scene of some of the worst devastation of the war, which has seen Russia relentlessly besiege and pummel Ukraine's cities. The misery inside them is such that nearly anyone who can is trying to leave and those left behind face desperate food shortages in a country once known as the breadbasket for the world. In the shelled city of Kharkiv, mostly elderly women came to collect food and other urgent supplies. In the capital of Kyiv, ashes of the dead are piling up at the main crematorium because so many relatives have left, leaving urns unclaimed. For civilians unable to join the flood of refugees from Ukraine, the days of plenty in the country are becoming just a fading memory, as the war grinds into a second month. With Ukrainian soldiers battling Russia's invasion force to a near stalemate in many places and the president urging people to remain steadfast, the U.S. and the European Union announced a move to further squeeze Russia: a new partnership to reduce Europe's reliance on Russian energy and slowly squeeze off the billions of dollars the Kremlin gets from sales of fossil fuels. In Ukraine, the war for hungry civilians is increasingly being counted in precious portions of food, and block of cheese now goes a very long way. Fidgeting with anticipation, a young girl in Kharkiv watched intently this week as a volunteer's knife cut through a giant slab of cheese, carving out thick slices one for each hungry person waiting stoically in line. Hanna Spitsyna took charge of divvying up the delivery of food aid from the Ukrainian Red Cross, handing it out to her neighbors. Each got a lump of the cheese that was cut under the child's watchful gaze, dropped chunk by chunk into plastic bags that people in line held open like hungry mouths. "They brought us aid, brought us aid for the elderly women that stayed here," Spitsyna said. "All these people need diapers, swaddle blankets and food." Unable to sweep with lightning-quick speed into Kyiv, their apparent aim on Feb. 24 when the Kremlin launched the war, Russian forces are instead raining down shells and missiles on cities from afar. The outskirts of Kharkiv were shrouded by foggy smoke Friday, with shelling constant since early in the morning. In a city hospital, several wounded soldiers arrived, with bullet and shrapnel wounds, a day after doctors treated a dozen civilians. Even as doctors stabilized the direst case, the sound of shelling could be heard in the surgery ward. Russia's military claimed Friday that it destroyed a massive Ukrainian fuel base used to supply the Kyiv region's defenses, with ships firing a salvo of cruise missiles, according to the Interfax news agency. Videos on social media showed an enormous fireball explosion near the capital. For civilians, the misery has become unrelenting. Kyiv, like other cities, has seen its population dramatically reduced in the vast refugee crisis that has seen more than 10 million displaced and at least 3.5 million fleeing the country entirely. In the capital, over 260 civilians have died and more than 80 buildings been destroyed since the start of the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged his country to keep up its military defense and not stop "even for a minute." Zelenskyy used his nightly video address on Thursday to rally Ukrainians to "move toward peace, move forward." "With every day of our defense, we are getting closer to the peace that we need so much... We can't stop even for a minute, for every minute determines our fate, our future, whether we will live." He said thousands of people, including 128 children, died in the first month of the war. Across the country, 230 schools and 155 kindergartens have been destroyed. Cities and villages "lie in ashes," he said. At an emergency NATO summit in Brussels Thursday, Zelenskyy pleaded with the Western allies via video for planes, tanks, rockets, air defense systems and other weapons, saying his country is "defending our common values." In a video address to EU leaders, meanwhile, Zelenskyy thanked them for working together to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia, including Germany's decision to block Russia from delivering natural gas to Europe through the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline. But he lamented that these steps were not taken earlier, saying there was a chance Russia would have thought twice about invading. While millions of Ukrainians have fled west, Ukraine accused Moscow of forcibly removing hundreds of thousands of civilians from shattered cities to Russia to pressure Kyiv to give up. Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's ombudsperson, said 402,000 people, including 84,000 children, had been taken against their will into Russia, where some may be used as "hostages" to pressure Kyiv to surrender. The Kremlin gave nearly identical numbers for those who have been relocated, but said they were from predominantly Russian-speaking regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine and wanted to go to Russia. Pro-Moscow separatists have been fighting for control for nearly eight years in those regions, where many people have supported close ties to Russia. (AP) Some of the best years of my life I miss those people. Good times and memories, but I have moved on. Not my best days, but I have made peace with them. Glad to be away from those people I dont miss the high school experience. 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Please let us know if you have any queries or concerns whatsoever about the way in which your data is being processed by emailing the Data Protection Manager at webmaster@marxist.com China always advances cause of global development 09:13, March 25, 2022 By He Yin ( People's Daily The Global Development Initiative (GDI) has received prompt response and support from the U.N. and nearly 100 countries since being proposed by China last September. The China-aided Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital starts operation on March 21, 2021. (Photo courtesy of the China International Development Cooperation Agency ) As COVID-19 severely impacts the process of global development, China is leading the international society to focus on and promote development, as well as calling on the world to jointly build a global community of development with a shared future. It exemplifies the wisdom and sense of responsibility of a major country at this critical historical juncture. As a Chinese saying goes, A man of wisdom adapts to changes; a man of knowledge acts by circumstances. The GDI's wide and prompt response stems from the fact that it addresses the common concerns of the international society and the people around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread in the world, and the Human Development Index experienced the first drop in 30 years. As a result of the pandemic, about 100 million additional people are living in poverty and over 800 million suffering hunger. The world development is getting even more unequal and unbalanced, necessitating urgent action by international society to narrowing the development gap. As another major initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping after the Belt and Road Initiative, the GDI "remobilizes" the world for global development cooperation and "reconfirms" the people-centered approach to human rights. It has mapped out a strategy for narrowing the North-South gap and addressing development imbalance, and has thereby given a boost to fulfilling the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The GDI has become tremendously attractive because of China's successful practice. Since the country initiated reform and opening up in 1978, it has always taken economic development as a major task and achieved remarkable progress. The country adheres to a people-centered development philosophy, and is constantly enhancing Chinese people's sense of happiness, fulfillment and security. Pursuing high-quality economic development, it also follows a new development concept featuring innovative, coordinated, green, open and shared growth. The country has eliminated poverty and built a moderately prosperous society in all respects as scheduled, which has further made it a successful example for the rest of the world. Prioritizing development and centering on the people, the GDI is committed to inclusive and innovation-driven growth, harmonious man-nature coexistence, and results-oriented actions. It carries distinctive Chinese characteristics. A member of a Chinese agricultural expert team aiding Africa instructs a local technician on agricultural production. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy in Senegal) Siddharth Chatterjee, U.N. Resident Coordinator in China, said the initiative explains to the world China's successful experience in building a moderately prosperous society. He believes China will make global development much more inclusive and balanced. China's broad-minded perspective has made the GDI widely appealing. China always believes that true development is development for all, and all countries should join, contribute to and benefit from global development. It's not right that only one country enjoys development while the rest can't, or a group of countries make progress while other groups don't. Since the GDI was proposed, it has been a public product that's open to the world. It aims at accelerating the implementation of the U.N.'s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advancing the common development of the world and making global development more balanced, coordinated and inclusive. On multiple bilateral and multilateral occasions, President Xi has expressed the hope that all relevant parties can join the GDI, and he has received active responses. At the Session I of the 16th G20 Leaders Summit, he said this initiative is highly compatible with the G20s goal and priority of promoting global development. He also said that the initiative has much to contribute to ASEAN countries efforts to meet their development needs and can be mutually reinforcing with ASEAN Community Vision 2025, while delivering a speech at a special summit to commemorate the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations. China's practical actions are making the GDI well implemented. What makes an initiative vital is its implementation. Since proposing the GDI, China has been adhering to "results-oriented" actions. It encourages the world to prioritize cooperation in areas such as poverty alleviation, food security, COVID-19 response and vaccines, development financing, climate change and green development, industrialization, digital economy and connectivity, among other areas. The Group of Friends of the GDI was launched in January this year and will focus its work on strengthening policy dialogue, sharing best practices and promoting practical cooperation. It is expected to inject important impetus into the implementation of the GDI. At bilateral and multilateral levels, China is proactively aligning the GDI with development strategies of relevant countries and regions. So far, the initiative has been docked with the Pacific Roadmap for sustainable development and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent by Pacific island countries. African countries also synergized the GDI with the African Union's Agenda 2063. Development bears on the hopes and the very survival of the peoples of all countries. It embodies the expression of their dignity and their rights. Facing challenges, the mankind must hold tight the key of development. China is willing to work with all parties and actively implement the GDI to ensure that no country or individual is left behind and no aspiration is overlooked. It will make new contributions to building a world of common prosperity and building a global community with a shared future for mankind. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) The majority (67%) of African PR professionals believe the reputation of PR in business and society has improved since the beginning of the pandemic, according to PRCA Africas inaugural research. The State of the African PR Industry Report conducted by Reputation Matters examined the perception of PR, attitude towards ethics, developing talent, and the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in the future. The study, which surveyed more than 550 practitioners from 27 countries across Africa, paints a picture of a vibrant, growing industry that has emerged in a position of strength despite the disruption from the past two years. In fact, 33% of respondents said their strategic counsel is valued more than ever by business leaders, and a further 27% said they feel valued at board-level. However, the pandemic has created significant challenges for the African PR industry, with 36% of respondents having had their employment affected. And despite the growing overall optimism, 62% believed reduced budgets still posed the greatest threat to the PR industrys future. The importance of ethical, effective communications has never been more evident than today as the world grapples with disinformation across various media. Encouragingly, the majority of PR practitioners feel the profession is viewed as ethical. 13% of respondents said they had been asked to act unethically within the past 12 months. Other Key Findings: The research revealed the scale of the challenge facing the industrys attempts to adopt more rigorous measurement and evaluation methods to prove the power of its work. Troublingly, the universally discredited Metric Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) remains the most common form of measurement. Nearly half (47%) of PR professionals say that they will be back in the office full-time once COVID-19 restrictions are fully lifted. Many will spend at least some of their time working from home, while a small number are still unsure. Poor measurement and evaluation, and reduced budgets, are the biggest concerns on threats to the PR industry in the immediate future. While recruitment and retention, and technology and innovation, are also substantial risks. Digital and social media is a clear leader in terms of increased importance during the past two years. It was closely followed by reputation management and crisis management, both of which have been particularly relevant during the pandemic. Read PRCA International Director Melissa Cannons conversation with Samuel Bekele, Joint East Africa Chair and the CEO of consultancy Spotlight, and Soni Kayinamura, Joint East Africa Chair and the Founder and CEO of Clarity. PRCA Africa Chair Jordan Rittenberry said: The pandemics impact has been felt differently in different parts of Africa, and elsewhere in the world, but what all geographies have in common is a heightened appreciation of the value of good communications. Whether through public health campaigns promoting COVID-19 safety measures, to reassuring crisis communications from companies facing unexpected incidents, those organisations able to effectively connect with key audiences and stakeholders have been more effective and resilient during the pandemic. Meanwhile, those without proper comms capacity have suffered. These trends are confirmed in this report, with the majority (67%) of African PR professionals feeling that the perception of PR has improved since the start of the pandemic. This, and 33% of respondents saying that business leaders are increasingly reliant on PR counsel, with another 27% feeling valued by their board, shows that the future is bright. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires At the Global Forest Summit, CBA and AstraZeneca (www.AstraZeneca.com) officially announce partnership to establish first Living Lab programme in Ghana, part of AZ Forest. Collaboration to build ecological and community resilience, through reforestation, woodlots and agroforestry. 10-year community-based project in Atebubu and Wiase, Bono East Region in Central Ghana, near Lake Volta and the Digya National Park. AstraZeneca has announced a partnership with the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance (CBA) and local partners to establish the first Living Lab in Ghana. This community-led project aims to plant 4.5 million trees by the end of 2025, with the aim for over 3 million surviving trees, and establish circular business models for local communities. In projects co-designed with local stakeholders, the programme will restore 2,500 hectares of dry and savannah forest and demonstrate the benefits of biodiversity regeneration to the local economy, through the creation of local jobs and training programmes. This initiative is a new addition to the AZ Forest programme which aims to plant and maintain 50 million trees worldwide by 2025, while making a positive contribution to communities and local economies. The natural forested land in the Atebubu and Wiase districts in central Ghana has been subject to degradation and habitat change due to heavy encroachment by farmers and tree cutting for charcoal. Local communities face challenging economic conditions and a deteriorating natural environment. Integrating both traditional knowledge and innovative farming methods, the projects in Atebubu and Wiase place the local communities at the heart of landscape restoration. The programme will combine natural forest restoration, agroforestry and woodlots, benefiting people, society and planet, through: Enhanced biodiversity, improved soil and local air quality, protected watersheds Improved livelihoods through employment in tree nurseries and the timber value chain The creation of nature-based business models for smallholder farmers Project planting began in August 2021, with an initial trial of 100,000 trees. Further planting will take place over the next four years, beginning in May this year. Jason Snape, Head of Environmental Protection, AstraZeneca, says At AstraZeneca, we are committed to helping to restore forests for the health of people, society and the planet. The Living Lab in Ghana is a unique public-private partnership working with local communities to build social and ecological resilience, while inspiring action towards a circular bioeconomy. As part of our AZ Forest programme, we are proud to support the restoration of biodiversity and local livelihoods. Marc Palahi, Circular Bioeconomy Alliance Chair, said: With the support of AstraZeneca, we have co-designed and are implementing forest actions based on sound scientific evidence and inclusive dialogue, creating public-private-community partnerships to foster ecological and community resilience in central Ghana. Barbara Nel, African Cluster (SA, SSA, FSA) Country President at AstraZeneca, said: Our commitment to Africa extends beyond our medicines and health access programmes. Through our AZ Forest programme in Ghana, in partnership the CBA and in collaboration with government, we are firmly committed to supporting a healthy environment and improving socioeconomic development and livelihoods for Ghanaians. AstraZeneca has been working with stakeholders in Africa for over three decades to ensure that more patients in Africa have access to high quality healthcare, from prevention and screening programmes to supporting early intervention, treatment and disease management. Launched in 2020, the Africa PUMUA Initiative (breathe) is committed to redefining paediatric and adult asthma care in Ghana. PUMUA focuses on local health system strengthening, health worker capacity building, awareness and education activities, and equitable access to AstraZenecas respiratory medicines for patients. In 2021, the programme activated 800 nebulisation stations in Kenya, Ghana, Cote dIvoire, Ethiopia and Senegal. Healthy Heart Africa (HHA) is AstraZenecas innovative programme committed to tackling hypertension and the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) across Africa. HHA is active across Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Senegal. Cote dIvoire, Uganda and Ghana, with plans to launch in Rwanda, and as of 2021, delivered over 23 million screenings cumulatively. Since launching in Ghana in 2019, HHA has conducted over 1.1 million blood pressure screenings in the community and in healthcare facilities; trained 179 healthcare workers to provide education and awareness, screening and treatment services for hypertension; and identified over 258,000 elevated blood pressure readings. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Comme annonce il y a quelques semaines, le gouvernement va presenter et faire voter ce projet de loi lors des premieres seances parlementaires de 2022. Cabinet has agreed to the introduction of the National Flag, Arms of Mauritius, National Anthem and Other National Symbols of Mauritius Bill into the National Assembly. The main object of the Bill is to consolidate and update the laws with regard to the national symbols of Mauritius, such as the Arms of Mauritius, the National Flag of Mauritius and the Seal of Mauritius. The opportunity is being taken to give legal effect to the National Anthem of Mauritius (Motherland) and to the National Flower of Mauritius (Trochetia boutoniana) and to declare the Mauritius Kestrel (Falco punctatus) as the National Bird of Mauritius. The Bill provides for better protection and use of the national symbols of Mauritius. The Bill also provides that whenever Government intends to declare a new national symbol of Mauritius, a resolution to that effect shall be made by the National Assembly, following which the President, may, by Order, designate the national symbol. Thereafter, the Prime Minister may make such regulations with regard to the new national symbol so designated. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Lehigh Valley Health Network has plans to build a small hospital in Lower Macungie Township capable of providing emergency and inpatient care, a network spokesperson told The Morning Call. Preliminary plans include a small state-licensed and federally accredited hospital and a medical office building at 3369 Route 100, LVHN spokesperson Brian Downs said. He said the hospital would provide more convenient and faster access to emergency and inpatient care for the community and the medical office would offer various outpatient services. Advertisement Hospital plans have taken on great interest among state officials, especially since Brandywine Hospital less than 40 miles from the LVHN site recently closed. Much of the interest centers around fears about lack of coverage in rural areas, but critics warn expansions in already-covered areas could drive up prices. The proposed project was already granted conditional use approval by the Lower Macungie Board of Commissioners on Jan. 20. It would be on the site of a former Weis Markets building that is less than 2 miles east of a St. Lukes University Health Network-operated urgent care. Advertisement There is a development plan for Lower Macungie as part of our strategy to work with our neighbors to bring more doctors to communities where the need is the greatest and where there is demand for our services, Downs said in an email. During the January meeting, Peter Lehr, an attorney with law firm Norris McLaughlin who represented the applicants, said the plan is to demolish the former Weis building and divide the property into two lots. He said one lot would have a 22,000-23,000-square-foot, single-story hospital, and a roughly 10,000-square-foot medical office building would be built on the other lot. The hospital emergency department would have 10 inpatient beds and 11 emergency exam rooms. Embree Development Group, a Texas company, is handling the site application and developing process for LVHN. Lower Macungie is the third most populous municipality in Lehigh County and its neighbor Upper Macungie Township is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Pennsylvania. Downs said he could not comment on whether population growth in the area was a motivating factor behind LVHNs plans. Downs said LVHN could not provide further information about the project but would provide more updates once it moves through the approval process. Maury Robert, a Lower Macungie commissioner, said the proposed project is going through a land development approval process and site plans have been submitted. The LVHN proposal comes as the viability of hospitals, in general, has become an issue for state government. Lawmakers are weighing actions to deal with a dire shortage of nurses. The Wolf administration and lawmakers agreed to use hundreds of millions of dollars in federal aid to retain and recruit nurses and others who provide bedside care in hospitals. And the nonprofit Tower Healths recent, controversial closure of two hospitals in Chester County triggered an outcry among patients, doctors and lawmakers. Advertisement Meanwhile, the proposed Lower Macungie hospital would be the sixth hospital in Lehigh County equipped for emergency and acute care and would be the first new one in the county since LVH-Cedar Crests completion in 1974. Lehigh Valley Republican Sen. Pat Browne said the LVHN proposal was part of a trend toward micro hospitals. These, he said, will have emergency rooms and provide acute care and other services, as well as additional but smaller bed capacity in a less physical capital-intensive environment than a traditional, full-size hospitals. Using technology like robotics also reduces the need for bed capacity, Browne said. This model will allow for the demand for service to be met to a greater degree while promoting lower cost and greater financial sustainability, Browne said. Patrick Keenan, a spokesperson for the consumer-oriented Pennsylvania Health Access Network, saw it differently. He said hospital expansions in places where hospitals already exist drive up the cost of care. Advertisement It can also squeeze smaller hospitals out of the market, which hurts competition and also drives up prices, Keenan said. And, increased competition in health care does not always help consumers; in many instances, it makes care more expensive. Rep. Melissa Shusterman, a Democrat from Chester County, said the consequences of hospitals popping up or closing are enormous. Not only does community health care access improve or suffer, but big demographic shifts are unleashed. Lots of physician assistants, technicians, doctors move into the area or in the case of a closing leave the area. Shusterman and two other Democrats have pitched the idea of requiring state government approval for any sale of a hospital or hospital system, as well as more transparency about pricing. Even though nonprofits run many hospitals, Shusterman said, Who owns the nonprofits? She said she could not speak to the Lehigh Valley hospital market. But it has become clear to her, she said, that hospitals are businesses. Advertisement In order for them to survive, they have to have something that drives people to them. A specialty like a strong emergency room, breast cancer help, a neonatal unit, Shusterman said. The Republican chair of the House Health Committee, Rep. Kathy Rapp of Warren County, said she knew little about the Lehigh County hospital scenario but said the proposal sounded like the result of a free market where a health care network saw a need to move in. This is good news for people in the community, to have a new facility, she said. Rapp called the Shusterman concept of state approval for hospital sales unnecessary. She questioned the concept of state government weighing the buying or selling of a private business. Liam Migdail, a spokesperson for the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania,, said hospitals are licensed by the state. Those that participate in the federal Medicare and Medicaid programs must undergo other scrutiny or accreditation. Migdail said the association would not comment on the Shusterman proposal because a formal bill has not yet been filed. Advertisement Morning Call reporter Leif Greiss can be reached at 610-679-4028 or lgreiss@mcall.com. Mayor Matt Tuerk addresses a crowd at the America on Wheels museum for a presentation on the Vision 2030 first and sixth ward neighborhood plan. (Lindsay Weber) Allentown officials have a comprehensive plan for the citys 1st and 6th Ward neighborhoods that includes building more housing, improving after-school programs and fostering small business growth. Advertisement The neighborhood plan, presented Thursday, is the culmination of more than a year of meetings, focus groups with residents and community surveys. Its part of the citys Vision 2030 initiative and outlines five categories for growth housing and neighborhood character, economic development, services and amenities, living systems, accessibility and connectivity. Advertisement The plan includes improving housing stock, bolstering healthy food access and creating welcoming spaces for visitors and residents. It also included a proposal created with students from Harrison Morton Middle School and Sheridan Elementary for a small park at an empty lot at 411 Ridge Ave. and safer pedestrian access surrounding the schools. City officials had the meeting at the America on Wheels museum to receive feedback. Mayor Matt Tuerk said the wards are the heart of Allentown and the citys goal is to achieve a vision of the neighborhood that reflects what residents want. People want clean streets, they want safe streets, they want green areas, they want local businesses that they can shop at, they want to be able to walk, they want a place that feels like home, Tuerk said. They want their city to care about them. The 1st and 6th Wards, bordered by the Lehigh River to its east and Jordan Creek to its west, are densely populated with an average of 3.57 residents per household. Its one of Allentowns poorest neighborhoods with a poverty rate of 31%, according to 2019 data. (The citys poverty as a whole is 25.7%.) The neighborhoods population is 61% Latino, also above the citys average of 54%. Each of the plans major goals has its own subset of action items the city wants to take to achieve it. For example, to create welcoming spaces within the neighborhood, the city wants to conduct a comprehensive parking study and create better signage on streets. Advertisement Yamilett Gomez is an advocate and longtime resident of the wards. Shes happy to see the citys efforts to engage with youth, but wants to hold the city accountable on its promises. Weve been forgotten about down in the 1st and 6th Ward, Gomez said. Dont forget about us. Weve been brushed under the rug for too long. Darian Colbert, executive director of Cohesion Network, an Allentown nonprofit that aims to uplift marginalized communities, grew up in the city and graduated from Dieruff High School. Colbert organizes monthly community block ambassador meetings in the ward neighborhoods, where residents identify and work on initiatives such as welcoming new neighbors, collaborating with local businesses and improving public safety. First Call Daily Leading local stories delivered on weekday mornings > He said his neighborhood group hasnt been involved in the citys plan, and hopes to see the communitys priorities reflected when the plan become reality. You can have a theory written down, but practicing out that theory will look entirely different, Colbert said. Advertisement Ariel Parker, a social worker at Harrison-Morton on Second Street, said she thinks the neighborhood needs a flagship store, like a major grocer or retail outlet, to attract visitors. But she worries that the plans for a major riverfront development nearby could push out the wards low-income residents. Something like [a flagship store] would bring people in from the rest of the community to do the small business stuff, because I feel like we have the restaurants and things, Parker said. I also worry about low-income people, because [development] is going to push people out. Allentown planning and zoning director Irene Woodward said that the neighborhood plan is 90% finalized, and feedback from Thursdays meeting will fulfill the final 10%. Tuerk said once neighborhood plans are finalized, the city will use them as a guiding document to inform future city legislation, initiatives and yearly budgets. The 1st and 6th Ward plan is the first of several neighborhood plans the city will present over the next few years. Morning Call reporter Lindsay Weber can be reached at 610-820-6681 and liweber@mcall.com. When Manuel Rodriguez pleaded guilty in 2020 to settle allegations he had lied about his address in Monroe County to get elected as constable, he agreed that he would not hold elected office in Pennsylvania or any other state, according to court records. In November, Rodriguez ran unopposed and was elected constable in South Whitehall Township after moving in with his sister earlier last year, he said. Advertisement The case in Monroe County, where detectives used cellphone records to support allegations Rodriguez actually lives in the Bronx, and his subsequent election in South Whitehall illustrate a lack of checks and balances for constables, who are considered independent contractors with no chain of command. Critics say that while constables provide a vital service to the district courts, many elected to the positions never get certifications needed to work for the courts and some take advantage of a lack of oversight to push the boundaries of a constables powers. And with little public attention on constable elections, those looking for a position need only to find a vacant seat and establish residency. Advertisement I think a motivation for a lot of people to get elected who dont do anything with it afterward is to have a gun and a badge with the implication that you are a law enforcement officer, said Joshua Stouch, a full-time constable in Montgomery County and legislative director of the Commonwealth Constables Association. Without regulation or oversight, bad apples do sneak through, said state Rep. Tracy Pennycuick, a Montgomery County Republican who is proposing legislation to prevent registered sex offenders and anyone else convicted of a crime serving as constables. When you add in the ability to carry a gun and quasi law enforcement powers, do you want someone like that knocking on your door with a warrant? Pennycuick said. Investigations by the Lehigh County district attorneys office have revealed at least two people elected to constable offices in November with a criminal record or facing changes whose residences are also in question. After The Morning Call published an article in December detailing Nicholas C. Douglas criminal history, the district attorneys office filed a motion to prevent him from taking office. The Michigan man has convictions for theft, fraud and impersonating a police officer and did not live at the St. John Street address he claimed on election paperwork. In January, a judge disqualified Douglas from holding office. [ READ MORE: Judge disqualifies Allentown constable-elect who was convicted of impersonating a police officer ] On Monday, the district attorneys office filed a complaint against Steven A. Wiggs, who was re-elected in November as a constable in Allentowns 16th Ward. Prosecutors said a nine-month investigation showed he never went to the South Woodward Street address where he claimed to live in election paperwork, including his petition to be on the ballot, financial interest statement and oath of office. According to the complaint filed in Lehigh County Court, investigators installed cameras outside the South Woodward Street house and another address on Vernor Street. The cameras showed Wiggs was never at the South Woodward Street address but visited Fernor Street where he parked and sometimes slept in his three police cars. Investigators also followed him to an address in Newark, where they said he actually lives. Advertisement A woman who answered the door at the Woodward Street home last month told a Morning Call reporter that Wiggs does not live there. The owner of the home told investigators Wiggs is a former neighbor who moved away about two years ago and asked to use the address for constable business. Wiggs said he has lived at the South Woodward Street address for more than two years. I think you spoke to someone at the wrong time wrong mindset, he said last week before ending a phone call. He didnt respond to a message after the complaint was filed. Court records show that he used an address next door to the one on his most recent election forms. Records show that in 2015, when he was elected as a write-in candidate in the 16th Ward, Wiggs was also on the ballot as a Democrat in the 12th Ward. Wiggs faces charges in New Jersey that he brought a handgun with three illegal large-capacity magazines to a Newark courthouse and that he impersonated a police officer. Wiggs was also charged twice in 2018 with weapons offenses and impersonating a police officer in Philadelphia but the charges were dropped. His lawyer in the New Jersey case did not respond to a request for comment and there is no trial date in the case. Wiggs public Facebook page includes pictures of him in a tactical vest with the word Police across the front in large yellow letters. Video Wiggs posted this month shows his car stopped on Interstate 95 in Philadelphia with red and blue emergency lights flashing as, Wiggs said in the video, he provides assistance to a stranded motorist. In other videos, Wiggs asserts that his office is equivalent to that of a sheriff or the state police. After his arrest in Philadelphia, state police issued a bulletin concerning officer safety noting that Wiggs made comments on his Facebook page expressing anger over what he called a personal vendetta against him by state police. The Morning Call obtained the November 2018 Pennsylvania Criminal Intelligence Center bulletin from a source who did not want to be identified because of its confidential nature. It noted his arrests in Philadelphia and that Wiggs is known to work as a security guard or as a bouncer in the city. It warned law enforcement officers to use caution if they have contact with Wiggs. Rodriguez pleaded guilty to a summary charge of disorderly conduct to settle the allegation he lied about his address and also a charge of perjury in which detectives alleged he lied in a district court trial over improper tinting on his windows. Rodriguez spoke briefly with a Morning Call reporter in January but did not respond to follow-up contacts asking him to answer questions about his agreement not to hold elected office. Advertisement According to a complaint, Monroe County detectives began investigating Rodriguez in May 2019 after receiving information that he did not live at the apartment in Delaware Water Gap listed on his ballot petition and other paperwork he filed to seek reelection. The manager of the apartment complex confirmed that while Rodriguez leased the apartment, it was occupied by lawyer Joseph Maher. A detective used public records to find an address for Rodriguez in the Bronx and obtained a copy of the lease signed by Rodriguez. Investigators also obtained nearly a years worth of cellphone records that showed Rodriguez spent more than three-quarters of the time in New York and only 2% of his time near the Delaware Water Gap apartment. They showed Rodriguez was in Monroe County only 53 out of the 352 days examined. Detective Brian Webbe said the case was combined with an earlier perjury charge and Rodriguez was permitted to plead guilty to a summary charge with the condition that he no longer hold elected office. Loose cannons Constables, although not unique to Pennsylvania, are a throwback to the states colonial system of government, which itself was an extension of English rule. Constables were elected peacekeepers in a time when there were no paid police officers. The idea was that you elected somebody local that you trusted, that you knew had a good head on their shoulders, said Eric Winter, a Berks County lawyer who represents constables. They were a banker or baker or a blacksmith and when they were needed, they came out and did their job. And although the modern role of constables is more focused on executing warrants and serving legal papers for the states district courts, they are still law enforcement officers with statewide authority who are permitted to carry guns and make arrests when they witness breaches of the peace. Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin said that while many constables are good at the job and do the work theyre elected to do, others who claim to have the same authority as local and state police are problematic. Advertisement Many of them are loose cannons, Martin said. In October, Martin issued a 10-page memo to provide guidance to Lehigh County police chiefs in response to concerns regarding questionable activities and statements by state constables. It stated constables are not police officers and only certified officers employed by a police department have authority to investigate crimes or stop vehicles. It said that while constables can detain people if they witness breaches of the peace, they must call and wait for a police officer. Constables must also identify themselves as such and not police officers, the memo said. Wayne County District Attorney A.G. Howell said he encountered issues with a group of constables who believe they can do more than what the law authorizes constables to do. He issued a memo in January similar to Martins outlining the limits of constables authority. My primary concern is if they get into a matter and do something beyond the scope of what theyre permitted to do it could hamper an investigation or a prosecution down the road, Howell said, noting that if a person is improperly detained or property is illegally searched, any evidence could be thrown out in court. Pennycuick said shes also working with Berks County Rep. Barry Jozwiak, who has proposed legislation to eliminate constables through attrition and shift the responsibilities of constables along with the revenue they collect to county sheriffs departments. If they dont work in their office for a period of six months, its considered vacated, Jozwiak said of the proposed bills provisions. Jozwiak notes the legislature eliminated constables in Philadelphia in 1970. Advertisement Some people say its time to reform the system. I say the office of constable is a vestige that isnt needed in the 21st century, he said. Jozwiak has introduced similar legislation in the past, but it died in committee. Stouch, from the constables association, said he agrees that if the constables cant be modernized and professionalized, they should be eliminated. I dont say that lightly. Thats my career Im talking about, Stouch said. The lack of action from legislators has been frustrating, he said. A tragic event is going to need to occur to get the House or Senate to act and provide meaningful legislative reform, Stouch said. Advertisement Tragedies have occurred in recent years. In 2016, a Perry County constable attempting to serve eviction papers shot and killed a 12-year-old girl after her father pointed a rifle at the constable. The constables shot passed through the fathers arm and struck the girl. The father was convicted of homicide for his daughters death. In 2014, two Lehigh County constables attempting to serve warrants for unpaid traffic and parking tickets shot at a Whitehall Township man as he backed his car out of a garage, paralyzing him. Former Constable Howard Altemos, who fired the shot that struck the man, pleaded no contest to reckless endangerment. Altemos, who is no longer a constable, and Constable Carlos Bernardi, who was re-elected last year, settled a civil lawsuit for $550,000. In Northampton County, Richard Seeds was one of three constables who shot and killed three dogs in 2003 while looking for a man with unpaid parking tickets. Seeds and the other constables settled a lawsuit with the dog owners and others in the home for $320,000. Seeds, who has also faced scrutiny for pointing a gun at a 14-year-old suspected in a bicycle theft and for excessive force against a prisoner, was reelected in November to a constable post in Bethlehem Township. Constables must have certification from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to do work for the courts, such as serving warrants or eviction papers. While they must also receive firearms certification to carry a gun while working for the courts, constables are exempt from the requirement to have a permit to carry a concealed weapon and may carry a gun in Pennsylvania without completing the training. Without certification, constables may still serve as peacekeepers, keeping order at polling places or other public events. Records obtained through a Right-to-Know request from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency show that only nine of the 26 constables elected in November in Lehigh County were certified to do work for the courts and carry a gun. In Northampton County, 15 of the 69 constables elected in November were certified to work for the courts and carry a gun. Advertisement The PCCDs 2020 annual report on constable training said about 64% statewide had completed basic certification and less than half had completed firearms training. The records show Rodriguez is not certified, having resigned his certification in 2020, on the month he pleaded guilty. Wiggs was certified until Feb. 12, when his insurance coverage expired, a PCCD official said, but Wiggs has since restored his certification, according to the agencys online database. John Pfau, manager of training services at PCCD, said in years when there is a large turnover in constable offices, such as 2021, it usually takes most of the year for those who intend to become certified to complete the courses. The number of constables completing training, however, is declining, he said. Two factors have also reduced the amount of work available for constables, Pfau said. The option to pay fines online with a credit card and the increased use of virtual court appearances during the pandemic mean fewer people are issued warrants for failure to pay fines or appear in court. Those factors also mean that constables are collecting less money through the $5 training surcharge assessed on every constable service, which has not changed since 1994. The revenue collected declined 22% between 2010 and 2020, according to the PCCD report on training. As a result, the PCCD reduced the amount of annual training required and eliminated optional training programs. Since 2020, it also requires constables to pay about $2,600 for basic certification and firearms certification. Pfau said that has also reduced the number of newly elected constables who seek certification but it has also reduced a drain on the programs resources from those who take training courses but never do work for the courts. Advertisement After the last big election for constables in 2015, PCCD ran 14 basic training classes. We tracked those guys and very few of them went to work for the courts and contributed to the training fund, Pfau said. Stouch said one draw to the office of constable is that once certified, they are covered by the federal law that allows qualified law enforcement officers to carry a concealed weapon anywhere in the United States. If you are certified, it becomes a national concealed carry permit, Stouch said. Last Call Daily Get top headlines from The Morning Call delivered weekday afternoons. > Rodriguez was arrested in New York in 2006 and charged with illegal possession of a weapon after police questioned him about sitting in what appeared to be an unmarked police car with out-of-state plates, according to court records. Rodriguez testified in a hearing that whatever forms of identification he showed the officers, they said they were fake. The officers also told him the warrants he was in New York to serve were fake. He successfully argued to have the charge dismissed, citing the federal 2004 Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act, which permits qualified police and retired police to carry concealed weapons in any state. The New York County Court found that because Rodriguez was carrying out official business as a constable, he was legally carrying his gun, according to court records. Advertisement While Wiggs was certified to carry a gun while doing court work when he was arrested and charged in December 2019 in Essex County, New Jersey law prohibits the possession of large-capacity magazines even for off-duty police. Wiggs was at the courthouse on personal business, court records say. He is also charged with falsely stating that he was a police officer and showing sheriffs officers a Monroe County identification badge with the words Northeast Regional Counter-Terrorism Task Force. The charges are still pending and no trial is scheduled. The New Jersey case is the third time Wiggs has been charged with impersonating a police officer and unlawful possession of a weapon. State police initially charged Wiggs in Philadelphia County Court with operating a vehicle illegally with red and blue lights, which are only permitted on police vehicles under the state vehicle code. According to court papers, troopers encountered him several times stopped behind disabled vehicles on I-95 with the emergency lights on. Wiggs was found guilty last year in Perry County of using red and blue emergency lights on his car, court records show. When Wiggs arrived at the courthouse to answer the charge in April 2018 he was carrying his firearm and wearing an unofficial constables uniform even though his certification had lapsed. State police later charged him with firearms violations and impersonating an officer, based on statements he made during the hearing on his traffic citation. He was charged a second time with firearms violations and impersonating a police officer after he arrived for a hearing on the first set of charges carrying a handgun. The charges were later withdrawn and Wiggs sued in federal court alleging the troopers had engaged in malicious prosecution and wrongful arrest, but lost. Morning Call reporter Peter Hall can be reached at 610-820-6581 or peter.hall@mcall.com. As a former law enforcement officer, Sen. Mike Regan wants people to know why he has come around to thinking legalizing adult-use cannabis in Pennsylvania is the way to go. Every year, billions of dollars flow out of Pennsylvania into the hands of the murderous drug cartels, he said in the opening line of a political campaign-style video he posted on YouTube. The nearly three-minute video goes on to show graphic images of the ravages of the drug cartels a dead body in trunk, a bullet-riddled windshield, an effort to revive a lifeless man, and a charred vehicle with a sorrowful soundtrack of man describing how his family members were burnt and shot up allegedly by drug lords. Advertisement I wanted people to see I havent lost my mind. I wanted people to see that I am approaching this from a law enforcement perspective" - Sen. Mike Reganhttps://t.co/fRuQihmXiT Jan Murphy (@JanMurphy) March 24, 2022 Regan, R-Cumberland/York counties, along with Rep. Amen Brown, D-Philadelphia, plan to introduce legislation this spring in their respective chambers to add Pennsylvania to the list of 18 states that have legalized recreational marijuana. Being a Republican advocating for this issue puts Regan among a minority of GOP state lawmakers but he is hoping that his novel way of explaining his rationale for supporting legalizing pot will provide more of them with food for thought. His video was produced using money from his senatorial campaign fund, he said. No taxpayer dollars were used in its production. Advertisement I wanted to make sure people knew that I am approaching this from a law enforcement perspective, Regan said. It really has in my mind nothing to do with smoking marijuana. Its acknowledging the fact that people are using it illegally and spending $4 billion a year out of Pennsylvania to the cartels. From his decades of experience as a former U.S. marshal and research, the senator said he knows illegal marijuana purchases are happening all over the state and the criminal justice community is turning a blind eye to it. Cops arent arresting. Prosecutors arent prosecuting. And the money is going to the worst criminals in history, he said. I wanted people to see I havent lost my mind. I wanted people to see that I am approaching this from a law enforcement perspective. Former Superior Court Judge Cheryl Allen, who serves as an attorney for the conservative Pennsylvania Family Institute in Harrisburg, derides the video as not showing a complete or accurate of the negative effects of marijuana. She said it fails to address the addictive nature of marijuana use and the long-term cost to our citizens including the impact it has on young people both medically and cognitively, the potential of leading to stronger illegal drugs, and making highways less safe. The crime, murder and violence that has accompanied illegal marijuana trafficking is without question wrong. However, no wrong can be corrected by another wrong. Legalizing recreational use of marijuana is wrong for Pennsylvania, Allen said. Dan Bartkowiak, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Family Institute, was equally as critical, accusing the senator of using fear, the lure of quick riches and unsupported claims to pitch a dangerous substance as a positive. Bartkowiak, along with Sen. Judy Ward, R-Blair County, recently blasted Regan for holding hearings that presented only one-side of the cannabis legalization issue. And now, a one-sided video. This wouldnt be a surprise if it came from a lobbyist but we shouldnt see it from our public servants, Bartkowiak said. Regan knows he wont be able to convince everyone that legalization is the path forward in Pennsylvania even though surrounding states have legalized or appear to be moving in that direction. He said the money that will flow to those other states from cannabis purchasers could be put to use in the commonwealth. Advertisement He has had law enforcement, health care professionals and people inside the Capitol approach him after speaking in venues about the issue and tell him he changed their minds about it. Gov. Tom Wolf and Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, both Democrats, are among those who have been advocating for recreational marijuana legalization. He said many police officers have lost their lives in a marijuana-related investigation. Yet, the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association stands firmly opposed to legalization, saying its about raising revenue for the state that will come at a cost to public safety. Cartels are either directly or indirectly responsible for the deaths of police officers every year, Regan said. Its almost like Im not explaining it right. How do you not get this? How are you not understanding the fact that we cant subsidize domestic terror. So many crimes, so many issues come right back to the drug trade. Numbers are showing many already have come around to supporting cannabis legalization. More than 600,000 Pennsylvanians hold medical marijuana cards. An October 2021 survey from Franklin & Marshall College found 60% of Pennsylvania voters back adult-use legalization. Thats the highest level of support for the issue since the firm started polling people about it in 2006. Beyond that, prosecutors are now publicly saying legalizing it could reduce violent crime. Warren County District Attorney Robert Greene has told police officers in his county the only marijuana-related DUIs hell prosecute are ones where the driver shows outward signs of impairment. In the video, Regan further points out within my own county of York, an estimated 25% of murder cases handled by the DA are marijuana deals gone bad. Critics further argue that legalizing cannabis is not going to eliminate the black market on drug sales. Advertisement Regan recognizes that but said it will put a hurting on it since marijuana is the cartels best money-maker. Further, decriminalizing marijuana as legislators have proposed alone isnt the answer, Regan said. He added that only further empowers the gangs, organized crime and drug cartels. Last Call Daily Get top headlines from The Morning Call delivered weekday afternoons. > Harrisburg, Steelton, Carlisle, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and other Pennsylvania municipalities have already moved to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana, but a new study by the Marijuana Policy Project, a pro-legalization group, noted Pennsylvania still has among the strictest marijuana drug laws in the country. Regan and Brown have indicated that their forthcoming bill will address decriminalization as well as include social equity provisions for applicants disproportionately harmed by pots prohibition. The senator admits his bill is still taking shape and is about 80% complete but he made the video to start getting people to wrap their heads around it. His video goes on to point out the thousands of new jobs to be created from this new industry and new revenue as much as $1 billion a year by the Independent Fiscal Offices estimate could be generated in Pennsylvania to support law enforcement, roads and bridges and bettering our communities instead of billions going to those who are destroying our communities. The video concludes with him asking the public to contact their state senator and representative to support this bold initiative and let them know that you support legalized adult-use marijuana in Pennsylvania. 2022 Advance Local Media LLC. Advertisement Visit pennlive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A former North Whitehall Township man identified as a suspect in a 1969 cold case killing in San Diego has been convicted by a California jury of first-degree murder. John Sipos, 76, was arrested Oct. 24, 2020, and charged with killing Mary Scott, a 24-year-old go-go dancer who was found strangled in her apartment. Sipos served in the Navy in San Diego at the time of the murder, and investigators used forensic genealogy and a DNA sample taken from a bandage retrieved from Sipos garbage to identify him as the suspect in the case. Advertisement The jury deliberated for less than a day after a 1 -week trial where the original police officers and a detective who investigated the murder testified. Other witnesses included those who saw Scott before her death including the friend who found her raped and beaten to death in her apartment after she didnt show up for work the following day. Deputy District Attorney Chris Lindberg said the victims family was gratified by the verdict. Scott was the mother of two daughters, whom she sent to live with family in Louisiana before her death. Lindberg also thanked the jury for its effort and attention to the complicated evidence in the case. Advertisement The case came together based on two bodies of evidence developed decades apart. Scotts broken and battered body told the story of a violent break-in and sexual assault. The bodily fluids that Sipos left behind and the advances in DNA technology eventually told investigators who did it, Lindberg said. Those two things allowed us to go forward and prosecute this case successfully, he said. Sipos attorney, a San Diego County public defender, did not respond to an email Friday. Last Call Daily Get top headlines from The Morning Call delivered weekday afternoons. > Sipos will be sentenced under the law as it was in 1969, when the penalty for murder was 7 years to life in prison. He was not charged with rape because the statute of limitations on that count has expired. Sipos sentencing is scheduled April 22. News reports from 1969 say Scott was found apparently strangled in her apartment, which was about a mile from her workplace, the Star and Garter Cafe in uptown San Diego. Neighbors heard screaming in her apartment around 2:30 a.m., according to a Los Angeles Times article, but did not investigate. The San Diego district attorneys office said detectives exhausted all leads in the case and it went cold until 1999 and 2001, when there were advances in DNA technology, although no suspects were identified at the time. In 2020, detectives assisted by the FBI team that solved the Golden State Killer case compared the DNA evidence against genealogy databases and identified Sipos as a possible match. In July 2020, FBI agents went through Sipos trash and found the bandage that provided a DNA sample that matched the blood found on Scotts body, according to court records. Scotts younger sister, Rosalie Sanz, persuaded police to take another look at the case after reading about DNA and forensic genealogy, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported at the time of Sipos arrest. Advertisement Sipos, a retired hospital administrator, maintained his innocence, denying involvement in the murder or that he knew Scott, according to attorney John Waldron, who represented him before he was transferred to a jail in California. Morning Call reporter Peter Hall can be reached at 610-820-6581 or peter.hall@mcall.com. China, U.S. need to cooperate on Russia-Ukraine conflict despite differences: Chinese diplomat Xinhua) 10:32, March 25, 2022 WASHINGTON, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Washington and Beijing can and need cooperate to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict despite their different approaches, the Chinese embassy in Washington has said. "I believe that China and the U.S. can cooperate on the Ukraine issue," Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the embassy, told reporters at a virtual press briefing on Wednesday. Liu said although China and the United States have different positions on and approaches to the Ukraine issue, the two sides "need to cooperate." To forge that cooperation, Liu said that the "blame game" should stop and the "accusations" should be solved, and that China has been telling the United States that instead of imposing unilateral sanctions -- which China opposes to -- they may need a better way to reach out to all parties. "The immediate outcome" must be "to solve the crisis now, because we have to stop the loss as soon as possible, and we don't want the situation to escalate to the extent that we cannot control," he said. The conflict should be ended in such a way where Russia and Ukraine come to "the middle way" and reach an agreement through negotiation, he said. "They have their concerns," Liu added. "If the concerns have been addressed, I think they could end the military action, and then they go back to the negotiating table." (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) A recent rash of dirt bike and all-terrain vehicle riders in Allentown streets has prompted a crackdown from city and regional officials. During a news conference Wednesday, city officials announced the creation of a regional task force, made up of local police chiefs, Lehigh County directors and state representatives, to tackle the quality-of-life issue through education, enforcement and legislation. The groups first meeting is set for April 4. Advertisement So far this year, city police have fielded 140 calls complaining about illegal dirt bikes and ATVs, according to Chief Charles Roca. [ Allentown forms task force to tackle dirt bike and ATV riders causing quality of life issues on Lehigh Valley city streets ] The announcement came two days after city police issued a news release detailing the arrests of two people over the past week. Both were charged in connection with riding ATVs or dirt bikes on city streets. Police also seized and impounded three dirt bikes and one ATV. Advertisement ATVs and most dirt bikes are illegal to ride on city streets. Legal dirt bikes, based on the size of their engine, must be registered and insured. But this issue isnt unique to the Lehigh Valley. Heres how other cities and states have responded to surges of dirt bikes and ATVs: Reading Last year, City Council passed two ordinances after a surge of dirt bikes and ATVs appeared on city streets. The new laws allow police to destroy the seized off-road vehicles, but also created an appeal process for residents to prove ownership, according to a Reading Eagle report. Fees for towing, impounding and reclaiming a vehicle include: To reclaim an impounded ATV, snowmobile or dirt bike: $50. Towing/relocation fee for ATV, snowmobile or dirt bike: $120. Storage fee for ATV, snowmobile or dirt bike: $25 per day. Philadelphia Illegal dirt bikes and ATVs have been a longstanding issue for Philadelphia police, who confiscate and destroy hundreds of the vehicles each year, according to a recent 6ABC report. State Rep. Amen Brown, who represents the 190th District, has called for legislation that would deter riders. New York City In July, city police announced they had seized at least 565 vehicles in the previous three months, according to an ABC report. In the first quarter of 2021, there were eight deaths and more than 350 injuries caused by people operating vehicles illegally on streets and sidewalks. Advertisement The same day, officials announced a 4-year-old boy was in critical condition after being hit by a dirt bike in Queens. Albany, New York City officials held a news conference Wednesday about the illegal vehicles after an incident last week, during which riders reportedly surrounded a fire truck, preventing it from moving, according to a WNYT report. Police there have also created a task force. This is not a rural playground. This is not some obstacle course for people to use and abuse, Mayor Kathy Sheehan said. The message today is very clear. Do not come here and ride your ATV and dirt bike, because you are not only putting yourself and our residents in danger. It will cost you $3,000 when we take it from you. Columbus, Ohio Last summer, police announced that after a monthlong investigation, 11 people had been arrested or issues a summons and the same number of ATVs or dirt bikes were seized or impounded, according to a WBNS report. Investigators also recovered two stolen dirt bikes or ATVs and five firearms. These vehicles are not toys, and our streets are not your playground, said LaShanna Potts, the citys assistant police chief. We will find you, and we will seize your vehicle. Baltimore Last Call Daily Get top headlines from The Morning Call delivered weekday afternoons. > Dirt bikes and ATVs have also been an issue in Baltimore, where the buzzing of dirt bikers zipping through the streets is becoming louder than the cicadas, according to the citys Fox News affiliate. Advertisement The Baltimore Police Department continues to address the illegal use of dirt bikes in Baltimore, police spokesperson Lindsey Eldridge said. ... Additionally, the department is working to educate local gas station owners on preventing illegal dirt bike fueling. Gas stations that willingly allow dirt bikes and other unregistered vehicles to fuel at their stations are subject to a $1,000 fine or imprisonment for no more than 90 days. Police there started a dirt bike task force in 2016, but it has since been dissolved, according to an NPR report. The head of the task force said in 2018 that it confiscated hundreds of dirt bikes and that 90% of suspects were convicted. Boston Between May and November, Boston Police Departments auto theft unit impounded 108 ATVs and dirt bikes, according to a WCVB report. But the concern dates to at least 2015, with records showing arrests and confiscations of off-road vehicles. New Jersey New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy in January signed into law a bill that authorizes municipal officials to address certain unlawful operation of ATVs and dirt bikes through seizure and, in some circumstances, destruction of vehicles. Under the law, a first offense is punishable by a $500 fine, plus towing and storage costs. Second and subsequent offenses can garner a $750 fine in addition to towing and storage costs. If the registered owner fails to claim the vehicle within 30 days of impound, it may be sold at public auction. Morning Call reporter Molly Bilinski can be reached at mbilinski@mcall.com. Authorities are seeking the publics help in the investigation of a two-vehicle crash on Route 33 early Thursday in Northampton County. The crash, which took place about 1:25 a.m. Thursday, killed Darrell, 42, and Alexis Robinson, 39, and their 16-year-old daughter, Tahlia Robinson, according to Northampton County Coroner Zachary Lysek. The family lived in Blakeslee, Tobyhanna Township. All three were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which was in Bushkill Township between the Belfast and Wind Gap exits. Advertisement Police said Friday the crash along north Route 33 involved the Robinsons 2017 Toyota RAV 4, and a 2007 Freightliner M21 box truck driven by a 32-year-old man from Oak Ridge, New Jersey, whom police did not identify. . Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Fast Lane Towing. Northbound traffic was detoured at the Belfast exit and was cleared about eight hours later, police said. Advertisement This fatal crash remained under investigation by state police, the county district attorney and coroner offices, and PennDOT.. No one answered the door Friday at the Robinsons house. Photo taken on March 23, 2022 shows a view of the ports of Auckland, New Zealand.(Photo by Zhang You/Xinhua) WELLINGTON, March 25 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand dairy companies Yashili and Fonterra are optimistic about China's market potential after the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest trade deal, came into effect on Jan. 1, 2022. Wei Song, CEO of Yashili New Zealand Dairy Co., Ltd, told Xinhua: "China is a big consumer of dairy products and has strong market potential. New Zealand is recognized as a golden milk source and one of the largest dairy exporters in the world." "After RCEP came into effect, the certification and customs procedures are simplified and more convenient. The customs clearance time is shortened. It is more conducive to the circulation of goods between China and New Zealand, which greatly reduces the cost of enterprises," Song said. "On the other hand, consumers can also receive high-quality products faster." Song said that the past years witnessed continued revenue growth for the company despite the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting the supply chain severely, raising the input costs and squeezing the margin of most New Zealand exporters. Dairy export has been playing a crucial role in New Zealand's economy, especially in the past three years. According to figures released by Statistics New Zealand, although the overall volume of dairy export kept stable in the past three years, the value of dairy export to China kept rising significantly, from 5.3 billion New Zealand dollars (3.69 billion U.S. dollars) in the year of 2019 to nearly 7.3 billion New Zealand dollars (5.09 billion U.S. dollars) in 2021. New Zealand Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O'Connor estimated in an earlier statement that RCEP enforcement plus the upcoming entry into force of an upgraded free trade agreement between the two countries would directly benefit New Zealand's rural exporters to China, and is expected to result in additional savings of 180 million New Zealand dollars (125 million U.S. dollars) per annum at current export volumes. Fonterra, the biggest New Zealand company as well as a global dairy giant, also highlighted the advantages of RCEP enforcement. Justine Arroll, Fonterra general manager of trade strategy, told Xinhua that RCEP and New Zealand-China FTA delivered a high-quality market access outcome for the dairy industry. In addition, "RCEP contains some useful trade facilitation and transparency measures and a common rulebook for New Zealand exporters in the region. More broadly, RCEP is a positive step forward for trade liberalization in the region, and underscores the commitment of members to regional and multilateral trade rules," she added. Fonterra next aims to promote its products by using the power of local social media as the company continued to see firm demand for dairy in the Greater China market, according to its latest interim reports. "This year marks the 50th anniversary of China-New Zealand diplomatic relations. Over the years, China and New Zealand have had close economic and trade relations. In this context, the implementation of RCEP will bring more possibilities to deepen and expand China-New Zealand relations," Song said. The decrease in import tariffs brought about by the entry into force of RCEP will help companies, such as Yashili New Zealand, to reduce the cost of exporting goods, make prices more competitive and drive the dairy industry to increase exports to China, he added. Photo taken on March 23, 2022 shows a view of the ports of Auckland, New Zealand.(Photo by Zhang You/Xinhua) Photo taken on March 23, 2022 shows a view of the ports of Auckland, New Zealand.(Photo by Zhang You/Xinhua) SYDNEY, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A new report from Australia's largest bank, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), has shown optimism about a boom in manufacturing as the nation and its supply chains emerge from the effects of the pandemic. According to the Manufacturing Insights report released on Thursday, 58 percent of onshore manufacturers expect revenues to increase over the next 12 months. The survey of 300 key players in Australia's manufacturing industry showed businesses are optimistic about growth and building resilience to supply challenges posed by the pandemic. "It is pleasing to see that most manufacturers adapted well to the persistent supply chain disruptions, rising operating costs and labor shortages, and now expect higher revenues and profit in the year ahead," said Mark Couter, executive general manager of Commercial Banking at CBA. The report also showed that 98 percent of larger companies, those with a turnover of over 200 million Australian dollars (about 150 million U.S. dollars), felt they had dealt with the impacts of the pandemic well. The same was true for just over 70 percent of companies under this threshold -- showing uneven levels of confidence. "The vast majority of manufacturers have proved to be resilient despite many experiencing a drop in revenue or profit," said head of Consumer and Diversified Industries in CBA Business Banking division Jerry Macey in the report. And as manufacturers ready themselves for growth, 42 percent noted they intended to grow their workforces over the next 12 months. This optimism will be put to the test by ongoing supply and labor shortages. A 2021 supply chain report from the Australian Industry Group showed that over half of Australian businesses expected their supply would continue to be disrupted into 2022, with just 17 percent of 346 private businesses, feeling more optimistic than the previous year. Louise McGrath, head of Industry Development and Policy at the Australian Industry Group, told Xinhua it would likely be a while before onshore manufacturing could return to pre-pandemic levels of production. "The biggest challenge and constraint on growth for Australian manufacturers presently is securing sufficient skilled and semi-skilled labor to meet expected demand," said McGrath on Friday. ISLAMABAD, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The economists in Pakistan called the United States to remove additional tariffs, sanctions, and other suppressive measures against China in accordance with the phase-one economic and trade agreement between the two countries. Produced by Xinhua Global Service WASHINGTON, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Washington and Beijing can and need cooperate to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict despite their different approaches, the Chinese embassy in Washington has said. "I believe that China and the U.S. can cooperate on the Ukraine issue," Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the embassy, told reporters at a virtual press briefing on Wednesday. Liu said although China and the United States have different positions on and approaches to the Ukraine issue, the two sides "need to cooperate." To forge that cooperation, Liu said that the "blame game" should stop and the "accusations" should be solved, and that China has been telling the United States that instead of imposing unilateral sanctions -- which China opposes to -- they may need a better way to reach out to all parties. "The immediate outcome" must be "to solve the crisis now, because we have to stop the loss as soon as possible, and we don't want the situation to escalate to the extent that we cannot control," he said. The conflict should be ended in such a way where Russia and Ukraine come to "the middle way" and reach an agreement through negotiation, he said. "They have their concerns," Liu added. "If the concerns have been addressed, I think they could end the military action, and then they go back to the negotiating table." Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Kyrgyz Parliament Speaker Talant Mamytov via video link at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, held talks with Kyrgyz Parliament Speaker Talant Mamytov via video link on Friday. Noting that China appreciates Kyrgyzstan's firm support on issues related to China's core interests and major concerns, including those related to Taiwan, Xinjiang and Hong Kong, Li said China will continue to support the development path independently chosen by Kyrgyzstan. Li said that the two sides should continue to carry out anti-pandemic cooperation, promote cooperation in medicine, health care and other fields, and jointly build a community of health between the two countries. The two sides should expand practical cooperation, better synergize development strategies, expand the scale of economic and trade cooperation, jointly build a high-quality Belt and Road, and continuously deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, he said. Noting that China and Kyrgyzstan are a community of shared interests and security, Li said that the two countries should strengthen exchanges and cooperation, actively carry out joint actions and take preventive measures. He called on the two sides to firmly prevent violent and terrorist forces and safeguard the security and stability of the two countries and the region. Li stressed that legislatures of the two countries have long maintained friendly exchanges, which plays an important role in the development of bilateral relations. The legislative bodies should have further communication at various levels, share legislative experience in agriculture, the digital economy and other fields, and work toward closer coordination on multilateral occasions to safeguard international fairness and justice, he said. Mamytov offered congratulations on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kyrgyzstan and China. He noted that through the joint efforts of both sides, the two countries have established a bilateral relationship featuring mutual trust, mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation. Mamytov thanked China for its valuable support for Kyrgyzstan in the fight against COVID-19, and said the Kyrgyz Parliament is willing to strengthen exchanges with the NPC and make positive contributions to the promotion of bilateral cooperation. Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Kyrgyz Parliament Speaker Talant Mamytov via video link at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) Afghan children read books beside a mobile library bus in Kunduz city, northern Afghanistan, on March 7, 2022. A mobile library bus navigates around northern Kunduz province of Afghanistan, promoting book reading among youth and children. (Photo by Khaibar Momand/Xinhua) KUNDUZ, Afghanistan, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A mobile library bus navigates around northern Kunduz province of Afghanistan, promoting book reading among youth and children. The library bus has a librarian and driver on board, and is stocked with 1,800 books in Dari, Pashto and English, with topics ranging from science, culture, stories, politics and history. Abdul Qahar Hisaabi, director of Kuhandazh Institute of Higher Education, which sponsored the mobile library bus, told Xinhua that the culture of book reading in Afghanistan has been negatively affected by the two-decade conflict and war, as well as by the Internet and smartphones. Most people are now looking for E-contents instead of reading printed books inside a library, Hisaabi said. "By offering mobile library services, our aim is to help the students of Kuhandazh institute, students of other private and state-run universities as well as the school children to have access to books in an easy way in Kunduz city and urban districts," said Hisaabi. Since the withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces in August, 2021, the economic situation has further deteriorated in the country. Most universities and public school students came from low-income families who can hardly afford books, said Hisaabi. "The library bus service is a good opportunity for students," he said. "We have one bus for now, but I am hopeful, we will improve the free services," he said, adding that the bus has been navigating around Kunduz for two years. "A society in which its people study and earn knowledge, will definitely achieve prosperity and comfort," Naqibullah Mumand, a visitor of the bus, told Xinhua. "I normally visit this mobile library to read and learn about culture, society and history. I like to read storybooks and English books," Somya Naqshbandi, a student, told Xinhua. "I am very happy for having the opportunity to read books just outside my school. And I am thankful to those who encourage us to read and support us to have access to the free library," she said. In the national capital of Kabul, similarly, a local organization offers free mobile library services as five colorful buses have been navigating around the city with an around 5 million population, giving kids the chance to read, play and enjoy their childhood. Afghan children read books beside a mobile library bus in Kunduz city, northern Afghanistan, on March 7, 2022. A mobile library bus navigates around northern Kunduz province of Afghanistan, promoting book reading among youth and children. (Photo by Khaibar Momand/Xinhua) Afghan children read books in a mobile library bus in Kunduz city, northern Afghanistan, on March 7, 2022. A mobile library bus navigates around northern Kunduz province of Afghanistan, promoting book reading among youth and children. (Photo by Khaibar Momand/Xinhua) Facts about Russia-Ukraine conflict: UN General Assembly adopts resolution on humanitarian situation in Ukraine Xinhua) 10:33, March 25, 2022 BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues on Friday as relevant parties are working to broker a peaceful solution. Following are the latest developments of the situation: UN member states on Thursday adopted a resolution on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution received 140 votes in favor and five votes against, while 38 countries abstained. The text strongly encourages the continued negotiations between all parties, and again urges the immediate peaceful resolution of the conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine "through political dialogue, negotiations, mediation and other peaceful means in accordance with international law." - - - - Ukraine set up seven humanitarian corridors on Thursday to evacuate civilians, the government-run Ukrinform news agency reported, citing Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk. At a media briefing, Vereshchuk said 45 buses are set to evacuate civilians from the besieged city of Mariupol in Donetsk, adding that the evacuation will continue in towns and villages in the southern Zaporizhzhia region and the central Kiev region. - - - - A Chinese military spokesperson Thursday denounced the claim that China had prior knowledge of Russia's military operation in Ukraine as disinformation. The spread of such disinformation by the United States is intended to shirk responsibility and smear China, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense. "We believe that to resolve the current crisis, we must uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and respect and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," said Wu. It is crucial to adhere to the principle of indivisible security and accommodate the legitimate security concerns of the parties involved, Wu added. - - - - The U.S. Department of Defense was directly involved in developing biological weapon components in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday. Documents received from Ukrainian employees working at the laboratories were studied by Russian experts and have shown that Ukrainian biological projects were directly developed and approved by the Pentagon, the ministry's spokesman Igor Konashenkov said during a briefing. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) KAMPONG SPEU, Cambodia, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia inaugurated on Friday the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 linking Kampong Speu and Kandal provinces in the kingdom's southwestern region. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Wu Guoquan, economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, presided over the inauguration ceremony, which was attended by some 700 people. The 37.9-km asphalt road was constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation under a concessional loan from the Chinese government. Hun Sen said National Road No. 51 is a strategic road connecting National Road No. 5 in Kampong Speu province and National Road No. 4 in Kandal province. "This road will play an important role in facilitating travel and transport of goods because it hosts many factories and large-scale enterprises as well as residential projects," he said. The prime minister expressed his profound gratitude to China for financing the project, saying that transport infrastructure was the key element to boost economic growth and reduce poverty. Speaking at the event, Wu said pragmatic cooperation between China and Cambodia has continuously borne new fruits, highlighting that in recent months, some China-aided projects such as roads, bridges, stadiums and hospitals have been put into use. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, our pragmatic cooperation has produced more fruitful results which truly reflect the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia," he said. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen speaks at the inauguration ceremony of the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia, on March 25, 2022. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) KAMPONG SPEU, Cambodia, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Connecting Kampong Speu and Kandal provinces in southwest Cambodia, the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 is playing an important role in facilitating travel flow and transport of goods. Built by the China Road and Bridge Corporation under a concessional loan from the Chinese government, the 37.9-km-long and 12-meter-wide asphalt road was a strategic route linking National Road No. 5 in Kampong Speu and National Road No. 4 in Kandal. Locals said in the past, the road was bumpy and very difficult to travel due to large potholes and it was very dusty in the dry season and slippery and inundated during the rainy season. "Previously, it took almost the whole morning or afternoon to travel at this distance, but now, it takes 30 to 40 minutes only thanks to the good-conditioned road," Muth Sokleang, a vegetable vendor along the road, told Xinhua on Friday. "This Chinese-built road is really important to help facilitate travel and transport of goods and agricultural products such as rice, bananas, mangoes and vegetables from farms to markets," the 39-year-old woman said, adding "It also helps save both time and money." Chhem Thath Thay, a 21-year-old resident along the road, said since the road has been constructed, land prices in the surrounding area have skyrocketed. "Thank you, China, for constructing this road that has brought us new hope," he told Xinhua. "The road will not only help improve the livelihoods of local people, but also contribute to deepening the bond of friendship between the people of the two countries." Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Friday, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his profound gratitude to China for financing the project, saying that transport infrastructure was the key element to boost economic growth and reduce poverty. "This road will play an important role in facilitating travel and transport of goods because it hosts many factories and large scale enterprises as well as residential projects," he said. "Although COVID-19 has disrupted us, it cannot prevent our development, particularly the development projects undertaken by China." Meanwhile, the prime minister stressed the importance of the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade deal, saying that both pacts are a new booster for Cambodia's trade growth. Wu Guoquan, the economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, said pragmatic cooperation between China and Cambodia has continuously borne new fruits, highlighting that in recent months, some China-aided projects such as roads, bridges, stadium, and hospitals have been put into use. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, our pragmatic cooperation has produced more fruitful results which truly reflect the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia," he said at the event. Wu said the China-Cambodia community with a shared future during the pandemic has set a model for building a new type of international relations. "We will continue to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and make good use of the CCFTA and RCEP to push our bilateral trade volume to a new high," he said. Cambodian Transport Minister Sun Chanthol said the road has improved both transport infrastructure and livelihoods of the people in both provinces. "It is another new achievement and a valuable gift from the governments of Cambodia and China to the people in Kampong Speu and Kandal in particular and to the people across the country in general," he said. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen cuts the ribbon at the inauguration ceremony of the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia, on March 25, 2022. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) Aerial photo taken on March 25, 2022 shows the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua) BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Humans started to domesticate cereals about 10,000 years ago, producing more grains to support larger populations. Now, a Chinese study has revealed the genetic basis of the yield increases in maize and rice, two important sources of human calories. Scientists from China Agricultural University (CAU) and Huazhong Agricultural University identified a gene called KRN2 that differs between domesticated maize and its wild ancestor, teosinte. This gene put a cap on the kernel row number in maize, but human selection suppressed its expression and resulted in an increased grain number through an increase in kernel rows, according to the study published on Friday in the journal Science. The researchers subsequently found that a gene in rice called OsKRN2 shows a similar pathway, according to the study. The field tests showed that the suppression of those two genes in maize and rice increased grain yield by about 10 percent and 8 percent, respectively, with no apparent trade-off in other agronomic traits. Li Jiansheng, the paper's co-corresponding author and CAU professor of plant genetics and breeding, said the discovery of key genes related to yields laid the foundation for breeding better seeds and safeguarding China's food safety. NEW DELHI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Friday that China and India should stick to their own development paths and join hands to safeguard peace and stability both in the region and in the world. Wang made the remarks at a meeting with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. He proposed a three-point approach to achieving that end. First, both sides should view bilateral relations with a long-term vision. Second, they should see each other's development with a win-win mentality. Third, both countries should take part in the multilateral process with a cooperative posture. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- In the spring of 1997, Huang Tongshuai, an 11-year-old at the time, saw a group of adults talking around a well in his village, located in an area called Xihaigu in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Out of curiosity, he went close to see what was happening. He learned that those "adults from Fujian" planned to help the villagers dig more small round wells. He had no idea that the lives and fates of numerous villagers would change after that. Among the group of people was Xi Jinping, then deputy secretary of east China's Fujian Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), who was in charge of a "pairing-up" poverty alleviation program between Fujian and Ningxia. That trip was his first visit to Xihaigu, an arid land once labeled the "most unfit place for human settlement" by visiting experts from the United Nations in the 1970s due to drought and fragile ecological environment. When he visited Xihaigu again after almost two decades in 2016, Xi still remembered one household he visited: "It was completely destitute, with hardly anything of value. I saw a small bundle of wild vegetables suspended by a rope from the ceiling. It was perhaps the family's only valuable item. Water was so scarce that the villagers could hardly have showers." During the trip, Xi noted that water shortages were the primary cause of poverty in Xihaigu. To address the problem, Xi called for efforts to make good use of water -- "waters from the sky, on earth and underground." For over 20 years, Fujian helped Ningxia build around 15,000 wells and cisterns, providing drinking water for 300,000 people. The wells are known to residents as "life-saving wells." Xi also pushed for a relocation project, which saw whole communities from Xihaigu move from their barren, inhospitable ancestral lands to a new area at the foot of Helan Mountain nourished by the Yellow River. Xi named the area "Minning," a portmanteau of the abbreviations of Fujian and Ningxia. Thanks to policies such as relocation of communities, grazing bans, and the regreening of farmland, Ningxia's forest coverage rate increased from 1.5 percent in 1958 to 15.8 percent in 2020, with the forest area exceeding 820,000 hectares. During his visit in 2016, Xi, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, met with Xie Xingchang, a villager of Minning. Xie happily told Xi that improvements happened in his family every day over the past two decades. Xie still remembered the first day when the building of the village started. "I gleaned some corn cobs and sorghum ears from nearby farms. I took them back and showed them to my fellow villagers, telling them that we will have water, and we will be able to grow crops." Xi has always placed a high value on the ecological conservation and governance of water resources in the country. In 2020, in another visit to Ningxia, Xi stressed the need to actively develop water-conserving agriculture and refrain from water-wasting irrigation. The planting structure should be adjusted to better protect the water resources here, Xi said, noting that the people in Ningxia have long been blessed by the Yellow River. Xi has called for ensuring a blue sky, green mountains and clear rivers all across China, so that children will live in an enjoyable environment. "This is a very important part of the Chinese Dream," Xi said. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has raised its funding budget to 33 billion yuan (5.2 billion U.S. dollars) in 2022, up 6.8 percent over last year. A major funding source in China for basic research and frontier exploration, the NSFC financed 48,800 programs in 2021, with a total investment of more than 31.2 billion yuan, the science foundation said Thursday. Li Jinghai, head of the NSFC, said the science foundation will bolster funding support in the fields of basic science, technical science, life sciences and medicine and interdisciplinary studies, with a particular focus on research involving COVID-19 and carbon emissions. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe on Friday held talks via video link with Turkmenistan's Minister of Defense Begench Gundogdyev. China is ready to work with Turkmenistan to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, continue to strengthen strategic communication, and deepen practical cooperation between the two militaries in all fields, Wei said. Turkmenistan will continue to firmly pursue the policy of friendly cooperation with China, and strengthen cooperation in trade and defense with China, Gundogdiyev noted. CHONGQING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- As an individual residential community is but a small plot of the urban area, many may be surprised to learn that He Shuaishuai, a PhD graduate from the University of Oxford, decided to dedicate herself to becoming the planner of one little-known community in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. He majored in heritage conservation and urban revitalization in college. After graduation, she was invited to Chongqing's Shapingba District via a local talent introduction program in 2017. She became one of Chongqing's first 13 community planners last year, also the city's only female taking up the novel career. As part of the city's public welfare service efforts, He now serves the Zhongxinwan Community in Shapingba District, helping explore solutions to better renovate and revitalize the community. Zhongxinwan used to be the residential area of the city's Special Steel Factory, where over 90 percent of its residents were factory staff and their families, said Peng Rongfu, a 69-year-old resident in the community. The factory was once regarded as Chongqing's steel industry leader and the "mother" of heavy industry in southwest China in its heyday. However, it went bankrupt in 2005. "The factory was like a miniature society, which even had its own cinema, kindergarten, hospital and media center," Peng recalled. "However, problems with the old buildings now are gradually emerging, such as poor drainage." Since He took over the planning work of the community, she has been visiting the community on a weekly basis, chatting with residents and learning about the history and current problems of the community's buildings. "I'm not just a community planner, but also a keen listener to the opinions of the residents, discoverer of hidden problems in the community and communicator of the parties involved," said He. She has also tried her best to preserve the community's memories while giving it a facelift. In late February, she helped hold an art exhibition themed on the community's past and future, with numerous old items and photos concerning the steel factory on display. The old memories can help boost local residents' sense of belonging and attract them to the community, while engaging the residents in the community renovation projects can improve their living conditions and construction efficiency, according to He. Li Yipin, 64, the former deputy head of the factory's television station, was attracted by the exhibition. "The nostalgic photos are so rare in this modern society of rapid development," Li said, adding that he still remembers how he enjoyed the performances by the factory's workers during the Spring Festival in the past. For He, such feedback from the residents makes her feel her efforts are worthwhile. "I used to devise plans for vast areas spanning several square km, and communities were just dots on my layouts. However, I find the community is so important for its residents, as it is a homely area carrying their specific memories and emotions," explained He. This year, Chongqing plans to enroll more than 200 community planners just like He, providing services for its 36 districts and counties and promoting the revitalization and upgrade of the city's living environment. GENEVA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- People-centered development should be at the heart of the global community's approach to tackling inequality, China's permanent representative to the UN Office in Geneva Chen Xu has said at the ongoing 49th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted economic and social development, and particularly the livelihoods of people in developing countries, he said on Friday. This has exacerbated inequality, bringing severe challenges to global development. "We are of the view that development contributes significantly to the enjoyment of human rights. The international community needs to work together to speed up the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and achieve more robust, greener and more balanced global development," he added. States should remain committed to people-centered development, he said; specifically, this means addressing uneven development among countries so that no individuals are left behind. States should also practice multilateralism, establish global development partnerships, and support the UN in its coordinating role in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Developed countries should extend more robust and targeted support to developing countries, the ambassador said. China welcomes various development initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative, the African Union's Agenda 2063, ASEAN Community Vision 2025, and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, he noted. "We call upon all stakeholders to strengthen cooperation to achieve common development, promote the enjoyment of human rights, and bring about a better future for people around the world," he concluded. All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. A slew of gadgets went on sale this week and many remain discounted as we head into the weekend. A number of Apple devices are on sale right now, including the AirPods Pro for $175, the iPad mini for $459 and the new iPad Air with the M1 chipset for $570. Elsewhere, Amazon's Fire HD 8 table is half off, while Sony's excellent WH-1000XM4 headphones remain discounted to $278. Finally, today is Tolkien Reading Day, and both Amazon and Kobo are celebrating by discounting many of Tolkien's works in e-book format, including the entire The Lord of the Rings series. Here are the best tech deals from this week that you can still get today. AirPods Pro Billy Steele / Engadget Apple's AirPods Pro are on sale for $175, which is 30 percent off its usual price. We gave the buds a score of 87 for their solid sound quality, strong ANC and hands-free Siri capabilities. iPad Air (2022) Nathan Ingraham / Engadget The latest iPad Air is $29 off right now, bringing the 64GB model down to $570 and the 256GB version down to $720. The new M1-powered iPad earned a score of 90 from us for its super-fast performance, long battery life and improved front camera. iPad mini Apple's latest iPad mini is on sale for $459, which is $40 off its normal price. We gave the small tablet a score of 89 for its lovely display, refined design and excellent battery life. 12.9-inch iPad Pro Chris Velazco/Engadget The base 202112.9-inch iPad Pro with 128GB of storage is $150 off right now thanks to an automatically applied coupon. That brings it down to $950, its best price yet, and you can also snag the 512GB model at its lowest price of $1,250, too. We gave the M1-powered iPad Pro a score of 87 for its gorgeous display, Center Stage cameras and powerful performance. Fire HD 8 Valentina Palladino / Engadget Amazon's Fire HD 8 is half off right now, bringing it down to $45. We gave the cheap tablet a score of 81 for its slimmer design, decent performance, USB-C charging and hands-free Alexa capabilities. Fire Kids Pro tablets Amazon All of Amazon's Fire Kids Pro tablets are down to record low prices. All of these slabs come with a suite of parental controls, a two-year warranty, a protective case and one year of Amazon Kids+. Both the Fire 7 Kids Pro and the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro are half off and down to $50 and $70, respectively, while the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is 30 percent less than usual and down to $140. Sony WH-1000XM4 Our current favorite pair of ANC headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM4, are down to $278 right now. That's $72 off their usual price and close to an all-time low. They earned a score of 94 from us for their powerful ANC, immersive sound quality and multi-device connectivity. Bose QuietComfort 45 The Bose QC45 headphones are on sale for $279, which is their all-time-low price that we saw last Black Friday. We gave the cans a score of 86 for their excellent sound quality, strong ANC and comfortable fit. Tile Bluetooth trackers A number of Tile trackers are up to 20 percent off at Amazon. You can pick up the 2022 Tile Mate Essentials pack for $68, a two-pack of Tile Stickers for $45 or a single Tile Mate for only $20. These tiny gadgets attach to your belongings so you can keep track of them using Tile's companion mobile app. Google Nest WiFi A two-pack of the Google Nest WiFi system is on sale for $189 across the web. That's only $10 more than the pack was during the holiday shopping season last year, so this is a solid sale. We gave the mesh WiFi system a score of 84 for its minimalist design, simple installation process and built-in Google Assistant smart speaker. Samsung T7 Touch (1TB) The T7 Touch portable SSD in 1TB is on sale for $130 right now. This palm-sized drive works with most devices thanks to the duo of cables it comes with, and it supports 1,050 MB/s read speeds, 1,000 MB/s write speeds, AES 256-bit encryption and Dynamic Thermal Guard. Amazon Fire TV Cube The Fire TV Cube is back down to a record low of $70, or 42 percent off its normal price. We gave it a score of 84 when it came out for its 4K streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR+, speedy performance and hands-free Alexa controls. Tolkien Reading Day sales Harper Collins / Kobo March 25th is Tolkein Reading Day, and you can find many of the famed fantasy author's works on sale at Amazon and Kobo. Both retailers have the entire The Lord of the Rings series in e-book format for $3 per title, plus other works including The Silmarillion have also been discounted to $3. New tech deals 55-inch Sony A90J Bravia XR OLED 4K TV Sony's 55-inch Bravia XR OLED set is $600 off right now, bringing it down to $2,200. In addition to deep blacks and the improved contrast that comes with OLED TVs, this set also supports XR Motion Clarity, HDMI 2.1, Acoustic Surface Audio+ and Alexa voice commands. Eero 6 A few Eero WiFi bundles are on sale right now, including the Eero Pro three-pack, which is down to $314 for Prime members (or $337 for everyone else). The Eero 6 Pro tri-band system is 20 percent off and down to $479, and you can pick up an Eero beacon for only $79. ThermoWorks ThermoPop ThermoWorks has knocked 30 percent off its blue and yellow ThermoPop instant-read thermometers, bringing them down to $24.50 each, and all proceeds go to Ukraine refugee assistance efforts. Simultaneously, the company's warehouse sale slashes up to 60 percent off a bunch of products, including the classic Thermapen, the Dot thermometer and the Smoke X4 long-range BBQ thermometer. NordVPN NordVPN's latest deal knocks 72 percent off a two-year plan, bringing it down to $79, and it includes anti-malware protection, too. In addition to a solid VPN, you'll get the company's Threat Protection feature that works independently from the VPN to block trackers, malware and intrusive ads. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. Its time to talk about all of those other new Apple gadgets. This week, Engadget Deputy Editor Nathan Ingraham joins Devindra to dive into Apples Studio Display, a nice looking 5K monitor thats really only meant for the Mac faithful. Also, they discuss why the new iPad Air is a fabulous tablet, and explore what could be the best 5G laptop for RV nomads. Stay tuned to the end for a chat with Dan Erickson, the creator of the excellent Apple TV+ series Severance. Listen above, or subscribe on your podcast app of choice. If you've got suggestions or topics you'd like covered on the show, be sure to email us or drop a note in the comments! And be sure to check out our other podcasts, the Morning After and Engadget News! Topics Apples confounding Studio Display 1:28 The M1 iPad Air, however, is great 16:05 Snap buys brain interface company NextMind 28:37 Apple acquired UK banking startup Credit Kudos 33:27 The saga of the LA Tesla jump TikTok stunt 40:23 Ask Engadget: The best setup for retiree trailer life 44:54 Working on 52:40 Pop culture picks 55:58 Interview with Severance creator Dan Erickson 1:02:44 Video livestream Credits Hosts: Devindra Hardawar and Nathan Ingraham Producer: Ben Ellman Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien Livestream producers: Julio Barrientos Graphic artists: Luke Brooks ANKARA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday held a phone conversation to discuss the situation in Ukraine. The two leaders discussed the situation on the ground and the stage of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, according to a statement issued by the Turkish presidency. Erdogan told Zelensky that he once again had emphasized Turkey's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity at the NATO leaders' summit, which was held in Brussels Thursday, said the statement. The Turkish president said he had told the leaders of NATO members about Turkey's "active and principled policy, and the effective diplomatic efforts comprehensively." "Turkey has put into practice all the help it can in this process," Erdogan told Zelensky. Earlier in the day, Erdogan said he would make a phone conversation with the Ukrainian president, and with Russian President Vladimir Putin this weekend or early next week, to inform them about his discussions at the extraordinary NATO summit. "I may probably talk with Putin either this weekend or early next week," the semi-official Anadolu Agency quoted Erdogan as saying. "As we will evaluate the meetings at the NATO (summit), I will tell him 'Now you should be the architect of a step to be taken for peace' for the next process. We should find a way to end this by suggesting him 'Make an honorable exit'," Erdogan said. Moscow and Kiev were close to an agreement on four issues including Ukraine's neutrality, partial disarmament, security guarantees, and the use of the Russian language in Ukraine, the Turkish president told journalists on his flight from Belgium to Turkey. But the Russian demands on the future status of Crimea and Donbass continue to be the most important disagreement in negotiations, he said. Last week, Erdogan renewed his offer to bring the leaders of Russia and Ukraine together in Turkey for final decisions on these topics. Chinese built national road inaugurated in SW Cambodia Xinhua) 13:53, March 25, 2022 KAMPONG SPEU, Cambodia, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia inaugurated on Friday the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 linking Kampong Speu and Kandal provinces in the kingdom's southwestern region. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Wu Guoquan, economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, presided over the inauguration ceremony, which was attended by some 700 people. The 37.9-km asphalt road was constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation under a concessional loan from the Chinese government. Hun Sen said National Road No. 51 is a strategic road connecting National Road No. 5 in Kampong Speu province and National Road No. 4 in Kandal province. "This road will play an important role in facilitating travel and transport of goods because it hosts many factories and large-scale enterprises as well as residential projects," he said. The prime minister expressed his profound gratitude to China for financing the project, saying that transport infrastructure was the key element to boost economic growth and reduce poverty. Speaking at the event, Wu said pragmatic cooperation between China and Cambodia has continuously borne new fruits, highlighting that in recent months, some China-aided projects such as roads, bridges, stadiums and hospitals have been put into use. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, our pragmatic cooperation has produced more fruitful results which truly reflect the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia," he said. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) TASHKENT, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has discussed regional security, countering terrorism, separatism and extremism in the member countries, the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO RATS) said on Friday. At a meeting held in the Uzbek capital Tashkent on Friday, the SCO member countries approved India's proposal to hold on its territory this year a joint anti-terror drill of the competent authorities of the SCO member states, the SCO RATS said in a statement. The SCO RATS Council meeting was attended by representatives of its member countries - India, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, according to the statement. The SCO RATS Council also supported the proposal of Kazakhstan to conduct a joint border operation "Friendship Border - 2022," it said. The parties exchanged views on the level of interaction between the competent authorities of the member states, and identified joint measures to respond to modern challenges and threats to security from international terrorist organizations, the statement said. An agreement was reached to hold the next meeting of the SCO RATS Council on Oct. 14 in New Delhi, capital of India, it added. CHANGCHUN, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan on Friday demanded stringent measures, including mass nucleic acid testing and thorough contact tracing, to contain the spread of COVID-19 in northeast China's Jilin Province. Sun, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while addressing a meeting on COVID-19 prevention and control in the city of Jilin. Highlighting the complex, arduous and enduring nature of COVID-19 control work in Jilin, Sun said a raft of comprehensive measures should be taken in the next three to five days to ensure at-risk groups are identified and placed in isolation so as to curb the community spread of COVID-19. Over the past few days, the vice premier inspected communities, hospitals, nursing homes, nucleic acid sampling sites and testing facilities. Sun urged a more swift response to adapt to the transmission of Omicron variants. Work is needed to guarantee the supply of daily necessities and meet the people's needs for medications and medical treatment, she said. High-quality screening should be conducted on a daily basis, and all those who test positive should be sent immediately to designated or temporary hospitals, Sun said. Children are seen in front of a ramshackle shelter at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) SANAA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi militia on Friday claimed responsibility for fresh cross-border drone and missile attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, the third such attack in less than a week. "A number of bomb-laden drones targeted the oil refineries in Ras Tanura and Rabigh, as well as the Aramco oil facilities in Jazan and Najran ... A barrage of wing missiles targeted Aramco oil facilities in Jeddah and the Saudi capital Riyadh," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. "We also launched several ballistic missiles at other vital Saudi targets in Jazan, Dhahran Al-Janub, Abha, Khamis Mushait," the Houthi spokesman said, vowing to launch more attacks to break the blockade imposed by the Saudi-led coalition forces on the Yemeni ports under the Houthi militia control. Meanwhile, a statement from the Saudi-led coalition forces said that "a total of 16 hostile attacks by the Houthi militia hit energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and we exercise restraint in order to make the Yemeni consultations a success," the Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV reported. The meeting is slated to be held in Riyadh next week, convening Yemen's political parties to discuss a comprehensive political solution to end the country's seven years of civil war, which the Houthi militia has refused to join. Earlier this week, the Houthi militia launched two other attacks against the same energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, using barrages of drones and missiles. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. The Saudi-led Arab coalition intervened on March 26, 2015 to support the Yemeni government. A child carries a bottle of water at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Children play at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Children play at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) A child collects water at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Children play at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Children sit in front of a tent at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) People renovate a tent at the Dharawan camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) near Sanaa, Yemen, on March 25, 2022. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) ADDIS ABABA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU) on Friday hailed the Ethiopian government's decision to declare a ceasefire in war-ravaged northern Ethiopia. In a press statement, the Chairperson of the AU Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat said he welcomed the declaration of an indefinite humanitarian truce by the Ethiopian government. The AUC Chairperson also said he welcomed the announcement by the "regional government of Tigray" to observe the humanitarian ceasefire. "The AUC Chairperson calls on the donor community and humanitarian agencies to redouble their efforts to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Tigray and all affected regions, including Amhara and Afar regions," the statement said. Mahamat also said he will continue to advocate for a negotiated permanent comprehensive ceasefire, and for parties to engage in dialogue toward this goal. On Thursday, the Ethiopian government announced an indefinite humanitarian ceasefire in its conflict with fighters aligned with the rebel group, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The TPLF announced early on Friday it will "cautiously" agree to the humanitarian ceasefire. The TPLF which currently de-facto rules Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, and the Ethiopian National Defense Force backed by allied forces have been engaged in a nearly 17-month-long conflict that has reportedly left tens of thousands of people dead. The Ethiopian parliament designated the TPLF as a terrorist organization in May 2021. WINDHOEK, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Namibia will host its annual Crayfish Festival from April 29 to May 1 at the coastal town of Luderitz after a two-year break due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Friday. The festival was postponed in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the event attracts huge crowds but since the restrictions on gatherings have been eased, the festival will resume. "It will be bigger and better and of a higher standard of quality as has never been seen before in Luderitz so we are looking at attracting a larger pool of visitors with the hope that some might find investment opportunities in our town," said Luderitz town spokesperson Elwin Gaoseb. According to Gaoseb, the festival enables the town to position itself as a major tourism and investment destination in Namibia. It provides a platform for small and medium enterprises to showcase their products and services. The annual festival holds a significant place in the country's fishing industry and since its inception in 2008, has grown from strength to strength, cementing the quiet coastal town as a sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists. CANBERRA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Australia's national science agency has released a roadmap on the research required to guarantee a smooth transition to renewable energy sources. The report, which was published by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) on Friday, found that aging infrastructure and increasing electricity system complexity loom as major challenges to Australia's integration of renewables. It identified nine key topics that should be prioritized for research including inverter design, planning, stability tools and methods and architecture. John Ward, director of CSIRO Energy Systems Research, said the report could help pave the way to Australia's energy market becoming emissions-free. "Across the energy system we are seeing a significant increase in renewable-generated electricity, combined with an increase in electricity requirements such as in transport, buildings, manufacturing and mining," he said in a media release. "Australia has some of the world's highest levels of rooftop solar, which means this integration challenge extends throughout our electricity system -- from the largest generators through to efficiently integrating 'distributed energy resources' (such as solar and electric vehicles) into our homes and businesses," he said. "The role of research throughout this transition is vitally important and Australia has the opportunity to lead the charge," he said. The roadmap was produced in collaboration with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). According to the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources almost one quarter of Australia's total electricity generation -- 24 percent -- was from renewable sources in 2020. "The pace and scale of this transition is extraordinary. It demands new approaches to power system operations including tools, technologies, processes and platforms, which complement network planning, and market and regulatory reforms," Michael Gatt, executive general manager operations of AEMO, said on Friday. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues on Friday as relevant parties are working to broker a peaceful solution. Following are the latest developments of the situation: UN member states on Thursday adopted a resolution on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The resolution received 140 votes in favor and five votes against, while 38 countries abstained. The text strongly encourages the continued negotiations between all parties, and again urges the immediate peaceful resolution of the conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine "through political dialogue, negotiations, mediation and other peaceful means in accordance with international law." - - - - Ukraine set up seven humanitarian corridors on Thursday to evacuate civilians, the government-run Ukrinform news agency reported, citing Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk. At a media briefing, Vereshchuk said 45 buses are set to evacuate civilians from the besieged city of Mariupol in Donetsk, adding that the evacuation will continue in towns and villages in the southern Zaporizhzhia region and the central Kiev region. - - - - A Chinese military spokesperson Thursday denounced the claim that China had prior knowledge of Russia's military operation in Ukraine as disinformation. The spread of such disinformation by the United States is intended to shirk responsibility and smear China, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense. "We believe that to resolve the current crisis, we must uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and respect and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," said Wu. It is crucial to adhere to the principle of indivisible security and accommodate the legitimate security concerns of the parties involved, Wu added. - - - - The U.S. Department of Defense was directly involved in developing biological weapon components in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday. Documents received from Ukrainian employees working at the laboratories were studied by Russian experts and have shown that Ukrainian biological projects were directly developed and approved by the Pentagon, the ministry's spokesman Igor Konashenkov said during a briefing. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A month has passed since Russia launched a "special military operation" in Ukraine. The United States has not only failed to take practical measures to de-escalate the situation, but continued to "fan the flames" through weapon assistance and sanctions. The root cause of the outbreak of the conflict, analysts believe, is the continuous eastward expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) led by the United States. To maintain its hegemony, the United States has never hesitated to sacrifice the interests of other countries, including its European allies, which has long caused dissatisfaction among all parties. U.S. MIND BENT ON HEGEMONY Russia's concern that NATO is expanding to its borders has never been heeded by the United States, "which is only interested in maintaining its hegemonic status in Europe, and which has been steadily retreating from that collaborative policy which the West committed itself to after the Cold War," William Jones, Washington bureau chief of the U.S. publication Executive Intelligence Review, told Xinhua in a recent interview commenting on the situation in Ukraine. After the Soviet Union disintegrated, the United States, a self-proclaimed "Cold War winner," has kept squeezing Russia's development space through the eastward expansion of NATO, which not only did not disappear with the Cold War but has increasingly gained strength to become a military bloc that engages in bloc confrontation under the leadership of the United States. In recent years, NATO has also wooed Ukraine to join, which eventually crossed Russia's strategic bottom line. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly warned NATO against deploying its troops and weapons to Ukraine, saying this represents a red line for Russia and would trigger a strong response. In December, Russia presented the United States and NATO with a set of proposals for binding Western security guarantees. Since then, Russia has conducted intensive dialogues with the United States, NATO and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe on security issues, but no substantial result came out of them. Analysts say the United States is the real initiator of the Ukraine crisis. Till now when Russia and Ukraine are deeply mired in the conflict, the United States is still trying to reap economic and political benefits from this crisis. Shares of U.S. military companies have risen sharply recently. Former Pentagon analyst Franklin Spinney said the U.S. Military-Industrial-Congressional Complex stands to benefit from the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as it ramps up defense spending for what could be a protracted affair in Europe. While Washington has made huge bucks from its military industrial complex, it continues to demonize Russia's security threat to Europe and discourage the latter's pursuit of strategic autonomy so as to consolidate its hegemony. MANY COUNTRIES SUFFERING CONSEQUENCES European countries are bound to bear the brunt of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, since it is seen as one of the largest conflicts in Europe over decades. On one hand, a multitude of Ukrainian evacuees were flocking to other parts of the continent, with knotty problems arising from the mass evacuation; on the other hand, the crisis has also dealt a significant blow to the international trade of energy and agricultural products, threatening the global economic recovery. Obviously, the whole international community will have to pay for this conflict, which broke out owing to Washington's inflaming tensions. According to data updated Wednesday by the UN Refugee Agency, more than 3.67 million Ukrainian people have been displaced. As the situation continues to worsen, the figure is estimated to surpass 4 million. Filippo Grandi, head of the refugee agency, described the Ukraine conflict as "the fastest growing refugee crisis in Europe since World War II" in a recent tweet. "The combined speed and scale of this movement is unprecedented in recent memory," noted the agency's spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh. The inrush of Ukrainian evacuees of this magnitude may put a strain on the countries accepting them and trigger political and economic problems. In late February, Slovakia has declared a state of emergency in connection with the mass influx of Ukranians. Meanwhile, the crises of energy and food security stemming from the Ukraine conflict also gave Europe a headache. Europe, as a major importer of Russian energy, has been feeling the repercussions of Western sanctions on Russia, given the skyrocketing energy prices in the continent. As the grain supply from Ukraine, widely known as the "breadbasket of Europe," is cut in the short term, and possibly in the long term if the hostilities drag on, the military conflict is expected to further push up food prices. Earlier this month, Jean Pisani-Ferry, a senior fellow at the Brussels-based economic think tank Bruegel, published a blog post assessing the significant economic policy consequences of the Ukraine conflict on the European Union. He estimated that the corresponding short-term direct budgetary cost for the bloc and its members could represent 175 billion euros (193 billion U.S. dollars), or about 1.25 percent of GDP in 2022. "Europe is facing a rethink of its Weltanschauung (world view), its priorities and its policy framework," said the French economist. Following a meeting of the International Monetary Fund Executive Board in early March, the organization cautioned against "very serious" economic consequences of the Ukraine crisis. "Should the conflict escalate, the economic damage would be all the more devastating. The sanctions on Russia will also have a substantial impact on the global economy and financial markets, with significant spillovers to other countries," it warned. FOR PEACE, AGAINST COERCION Instead of sanctions, which carries a hint of the Cold-War mentality and the United States has kept imposing on Russia together with some European countries and even attempting to lure and coerce more into, countries including China have championed peace talks as a way out. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on March 19 that China has always advocated for peace and opposed war, which is not only a tradition rooted in the country's history and culture but has also been its foreign policy. China will continue to make its judgment independently and in an objective and fair manner based on the merits of the matter, Wang said when briefing journalists on the exchange of views between the heads of China and the United States on the Ukraine issue during a video call that took place on March 18. China will never accept any external coercion and pressure, and opposes all groundless accusations and suspicions against China, he added. Wang's words has been echoed by many countries, which oppose unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a phone call with Putin on Feb. 24 said that the differences between Russia and NATO "can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue," and called for an immediate cessation of violence and "concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue," according to a statement on the website of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on March 6 slammed Western envoys based in Islamabad, who had released a joint letter on March 1, urging Pakistan to support a UN resolution condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine, the New Delhi-based television news channel NDTV reported. "What do you think of us? Are we your slaves ... that whatever you say, we will do?" the prime minister said at a political rally, according to NDTV. "We are not in any camp," he said, adding that Pakistan would remain "neutral" and work with those trying to end the conflict in Ukraine, NDTV reported. Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi in a phone conversation with Putin on March 9 emphasized the importance of "prioritizing dialogue and diplomatic endeavors for swiftly settling the crisis politically to curb the deterioration of the crisis and to preserve the stability and security of the two countries," the Egyptian presidency said in a statement. South Africa aligns itself with the UN calls for de-escalation, dialogue and a return to diplomacy, and stands ready to support "genuine multilateral efforts to end the conflict and achieve a lasting peace in the region," said South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on a national assembly plenary on March 17. The president cited a view by scholars as saying that the conflict could have been avoided if NATO "had heeded the warnings from among its own leaders and officials over the years that its eastward expansion would lead to greater instability in the region." Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said in an interview with Nikkei that he sees "double standards" in the Western response to Russia's military operation in Ukraine, the news outlet reported on March 17. Zimbabwe does not support the imposition of unilateral coercive measures or unilateral sanctions of any kind on any UN member state for the situation in Ukraine, as this is contrary to the UN Charter, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade said in a statement on March 4. "Unilateral sanctions have never worked to resolve any situation," it added. "Possibly lost in all the headlines is that it is not the entire world against Russia," said a recent article by The Boston Globe, adding that most of Asia, Africa and South America are either still working with Russia or trying to project an image of neutrality. Many non-Western countries "don't trust the West's willingness or ability" to manage the economic consequences of the conflict in ways that protect the interests of non-Western states, a columnist wrote on Monday in The Wall Street Journal. A CHIMANIMANI man (42) fatally kicked his 12-year-old daughter for refusing to borrow a chicken from a neighbour. Thomas Pofana of Mutingwende Village under Chief Ngorimas area recently appeared before Chipinge magistrate, Mr Alfred Chinembiri facing murder charges. He was not asked to plead and was advised to apply for bail at the High Court. He was remanded in custody to today (Friday). Prosecuting, Mr Isaac Tangwena said on March 5, Pofana sent his now late daughter, Nyarai, to borrow a broiler chicken from a neighbour, Mrs Sarah Taruona. Nyarai refused. Pofana left home in the company of his two sons and went to Mrs Taruona to borrow the chicken. He later returned home in the evening and found Nyarai sleeping on the mat. He asked Nyarai why she was sleeping before supper was ready and she did not respond. Pofana kicked her once on the left hip. He kicked her again on the left side rib and she fell on two stones that were in the kitchen. Pofana was restrained by his wife, Ms Netsai Chopana, from further assaulting Nyarai, said Mr Tangwena. He said the following day, Nyarai indicated that her leg was painful and could not walk. On March 7, Nyarai came home from school late and complained of difficulties in walking as her leg was painful. On March 9, Nyarais condition deteriorated and Ms Chopana took her to the hospital. While on their way to the hospital, Nyarai collapsed and died. Post mortem results revealed that she had blood clots on the left side of her ribs where Pofana had kicked her, said Mr Tangwena. Manica Post A HARARE woman landed in the dock yesterday after she allegedly stole US$16 000 which her husband had given her for safekeeping. The money... Chinese scientists identify yield-related genes in maize, rice Xinhua) 13:53, March 25, 2022 BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Humans started to domesticate cereals about 10,000 years ago, producing more grains to support larger populations. Now, a Chinese study has revealed the genetic basis of the yield increases in maize and rice, two important sources of human calories. Scientists from China Agricultural University (CAU) and Huazhong Agricultural University identified a gene called KRN2 that differs between domesticated maize and its wild ancestor, teosinte. This gene put a cap on the kernel row number in maize, but human selection suppressed its expression and resulted in an increased grain number through an increase in kernel rows, according to the study published on Friday in the journal Science. The researchers subsequently found that a gene in rice called OsKRN2 shows a similar pathway, according to the study. The field tests showed that the suppression of those two genes in maize and rice increased grain yield by about 10 percent and 8 percent, respectively, with no apparent trade-off in other agronomic traits. Li Jiansheng, the paper's co-corresponding author and CAU professor of plant genetics and breeding, said the discovery of key genes related to yields laid the foundation for breeding better seeds and safeguarding China's food safety. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) TWO opposition parties, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA), yesterday cried foul over what they termed attempts by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) to confuse their members through use of blurred ballot papers in todays by-lections. The ballot papers for the National Assembly were printed by Fidelity Printers and Refiners while those for local authorities were printed by Printflow both State-owned entities. The parties claimed that the ballot papers were so faint that their symbols and some candidates portrait pictures were hardly visible, a situation they said worked in favour of the ruling party, Zanu PF. UZA Mbizo parliamentary candidate Gladys Mutunami filed an urgent High Court application seeking an order compelling Zec to reprint the ballot papers for her constituency, saying her picture was hardly recognisable. At the time of going to print, the matter had not yet been set down for hearing. The court application adds to the chaos that has marred the run-up to the elections, including political violence, the banning of Nelson Chamisas CCC rallies and questions over the credibility of the voters roll. Addressing a Press conference in the capital attended by Mutunami, CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said her party was participating in the polls under protest. What we want to encourage our voters is to make sure they locate the CCC logo, look for it, it might take time, but please be patient and take time to look for it. Let us go out in our numbers and vote, the ballot papers may be a challenge to read or see, but take time to look for the CCC candidate, even if they are a challenge to read, look for it, Mahere said. She added that they were participating in the polls to test Zecs capacity to conduct credible elections. We cant test the system without participating. We want to emphasise that if we dont participate we wont have a leg to stand on in terms of holding Zec to account and in terms of implementing some of the legal challenges that we have. So make no mistake, everybody has to come out to vote, our participation in the election is not an endorsement of the unconstitutional conduct by State institutions, especially Zec. Its going to create a platform for us to challenge using the process and remedies that are available. We want to make sure that we have a leg to stand on. Early this week, CCC claimed that Zec had changed its party symbols on the ballot papers and complained that the use of black and white voting material would confuse its members. But Zec has insisted that it is under no obligation to produce colour ballot papers. Twenty-eight parliamentary and 105 local government seats are up for grabs following the deaths and recall of MDC Alliance legislators and councillors. In her court challenge, the UZA candidate accused Zec of abrogating its duties on the conduct of elections as enshrined the Electoral Act and the Constitution. In the circumstances, I shall set out a case for a compelling order, to compel Zec and (Zec chairperson Priscilla) Chigumba to reprint the ballot papers and ensure that her photo image is recognisable, she submitted. Mutunami cited Zec, Chigumba, CCC candidate Settlement Chikwinya, Eventhough Brave Mapfumo (MDC Alliance), Vongaishe Mupereri (Zanu PF), Lovemore Chibukwe (United Democratic Alliance) as respondents. She is represented by Ephraim Ndhlovu of Mabundu and Ndhlovu Law Chambers. Unlike others, the distortions on my photo image appearing on the ballot papers make it difficult to even recognise my gender. The whole picture makes my recognition extremely difficult as compared to the other candidates appearing in the ballot papers, she said. Meanwhile, Zec yesterday expressed concern over the alleged harassment of its staff by MDC Alliance candidates at Mhizha Primary School in Highfield East constituency, Harare. The party accused Zec staff of attempting to tamper with voting material ahead of the polls, but the election management body said there was nothing amiss in its officials conduct. The commission has reported the matter to the police for investigation. The commission wishes to reiterate that there is a polling station opening procedure which is done before opening of the polling station, where all election material is checked and verified by the polling officers. Newsday Daphne and the Duke may be happily married, but luckily for Lady Whistledown, the ton is never short on relationship drama. The second season of Netflixs hit Bridgerton, returning Friday, finds eldest Bridgerton brother Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) ready to settle down or whatever his version of that looks like with a wife like he was literally born to do. With his eye set on newcomer Edwina Sharma (Charithra Chandran), Anthony finds himself squaring off against her older sister Kate (Sex Education alum Simone Ashley), who only wants whats best for her sister, or so she says. Advertisement Set to another soundtrack of orchestral remixes of Madonna, Alanis Morissette and Rihanna, this years smut-fest is again the story of those who have and those who want. And at the top of that food chain is not the Queen of England, but rather the towns anonymous gossip writer, who to viewers is no longer anonymous. But while Penelope Featheringtons secret identity was spilled at the end of last season, shes managed to keep her byline confidential from everyone else. That doesnt mean shes still the same stealthy sleuth she was last time we saw her, Nicola Coughlan promised. Advertisement Nicola Coughlan returns as Penelope Featherington in the second season of Bridgerton. (LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX/LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX) Shes definitely grown up somewhat. Shes gone through some very adult things: shes lost her father, shes betrayed her cousin. Shes definitely matured a little bit, the 35-year-old Irish actress told the Daily News. Shes also sort of realizing how powerful she is. Theres a level of arrogance to her that we didnt see last time, like, I can do all this stuff and theyre all obsessed with me. [ How Bridgerton wrote off Rege-Jean Page for its second season ] Penelopes arrogance has made her reckless, but self-aware. At times, she pauses to consider the consequences. She usually charges ahead anyway. She knows when she has to make a difficult decision or write about something that she doesnt want to write about, she now gets it a bit more, Coughlan said. And yet, at the same time that shes realized the power of the pen, Penelope still shamelessly seeks reassurance from best friend Eloise (Claudia Jessie), who somehow has not figured it out even as the Queen sends her on a mission to unmask Whistledown. Newcomer Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley) catches the eye of eldest son Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey). (LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX/LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX) Every time Claudia and I shot that wed be like, Oh God, this is terrible. She is so bad. Why is she saying this? Shes poking the hornets nest! Coughlan said with a laugh. She loves the danger of it a little bit. For Coughlan, it makes sense: the most overlooked daughter from a family constantly ridiculed around town would need to be reminded that she matters. That shes smart and clever and important. The only way for her to prove that, unfortunately, is to spread whispers. [ New Netflix drama Bridgerton is a search to unveil the local gossip columnist ] While Whistledown takes people down, Penelope has finally found a good use of her writing prowess, trading letters with Bridgerton brother Colin halfway around the world. He still doesnt see her like she wants to be seen, but at least shes not invisible, because in print, she is smart and clever and important. Advertisement Whistledown, again, gives Penelope that self-assurance, even if no one knows her name. Penelopes a super smart kid with no street smarts, Coughlan said. The Bridgerton clan, including last seasons heroine Daphne (Phoebe Dyvenor), face their everchanging social standing. (LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX/LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX) Shes lulled herself into a false sense of security thinking, I can really control things if I need to. I can pull this string. But thats not really the way the world works. Shes putting herself in an awful lot of danger this time round. In the second season of Bridgerton, too many people are hunting the town narc. Penelopes delicate balance between her two worlds seems destined to collapse, even as she grows bolder and louder. Shell be slightly hardened. This season is her pride-comes-before-the-fall season, Coughlan told The News. Shes becoming herself but shes got to realize shes really screwed upand its going to cause her to screw up even more. A gulp of blue Gatorade straight out of the bottle led cops to an ex-con who posed as an Amazon worker to force his way into the home of an elderly Staten Island couple, court records show. Erik Shaw and an accomplice who is still being sought knocked on the couples door dressed as Amazon employees wearing blue surgical masks on Aug. 23, 2020, records show. When the male victim opened the door, the fake Amazon employees men flashed a gun and pushed their way inside. Advertisement The victims werent identified in court papers. Eric Shaw in a December 2015 mugshot. (NYS Criminal Justice Services) After the feisty homeowner fought with the intruders, they zip tied him to a kitchen chair and covered his head with a pillowcase, the court records show. Advertisement The mans wife got the same treatment when she walked into the kitchen, with the robbers demanding she fork over money from a local bank where she worked. The woman insisted the bank money wasnt kept in her house, prompting the clueless Shaw and his partner to vow theyd wait in their home until morning so the wife could grab cash from the bank. The woman tried to explain she was only a teller and had no access to the banks vault, the court papers show so the desperate thieves instead grabbed the couples Italian jewelry, cash from the husbands laundromat business and their iPhones. Before fleeing, Shaw and his partner in crime poured bleach all over the home in a lame attempt to wipe away any trace of their presence, the documents show. But a thirsty Shaw made a crucial mistake. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > He took a long swig of a blue Gatorade from the victims refrigerator and then left it on a counter as he and his pal fled. When searching the home for evidence, investigators found the Gatorade bottle and tested it for DNA. The genetic test results came back to Shaw, who was convicted of armed burglary, robbery, attempted rape, sodomy, attempted murder and criminal possession of a loaded firearm after he shot and crippled a Bronx woman in 1992. Advertisement Shaw was behind bars until March 2015 he was 46 at the time when he was put on parole until August 2021. His victim in the 1992 crime, Charlene Thomas, 65, died in November 2015. The city medical examiner deemed her death a homicide after determining she died of complications from the gunshot wound. Shaw was not charged in the homicide, records show. At the time of Thomas death, Shaw lived in Far Rockaway as a registered sex offender. A 25-year-old Brooklyn man shot during last weekends surge in gun violence has died, police said Friday. Kyle Lewis succumbed to his wounds at Brookdale University Hospital Thursday from the gunshot to his upper body and left thigh, police said. Advertisement He was hit at 1:10 p.m. last Saturday during an argument with three men on E. 92nd Street near Ditmas Avenenu in East Flatbush. Two 9mm shell casings were recovered at the scene but there have not been any arrests. Advertisement Police said two of the suspects were dark-skinned, one was wearing a red top, the other a white top. It wasnt clear what lead to the violence. Lewis lived more than a mile away from the shooting, police said. He was one of 29 people shot last weekend across the city. One other man died of a gunshot wound over the bloody weekend following a confrontation in a Bronx coffee-and-donut shop. The NYPD had earlier in the week rolled out the first phase of officers assigned to the newly-formed Neighborhood Safety Unit, which is tasked with getting guns off the streets. A long-time Brooklyn musician who worked with New York hip-hop legends Busta Rhymes and Grandmaster Melle Mel was gunned down during an apparent Thursday night robbery at his apartment building, police said. George Sanchez, 43, was found in a stairwell between the Bensonhurt buildings second and third floors shortly after 11:30 p.m., and was pronounced dead 40 minutes later at Maimonides Hospital, police said. Advertisement He was shot in the left side of his chest, with two men seen fleeing the scene on Bay Parkway near W. 12th St. a in a four-door sedan, said cops. No arrests were made. George Sanchez was found shot in his Bensonhurst, Brooklyn apartment building on Thursday. Borough native Sanchez, known to friends as Bishop, was so loving, so respectful as an artist, said Latin Grammy Award-winning friend Violete Galagarza, a choreographer. He wasnt the type to show off. He was so happy in the music world. Advertisement While the buildings superintendent said he was initially told that Sanchez was shot in an argument over a parking space, police said they were working the theory that the killing was a robbery gone bad. He was a really good guy. Everyone loved him, said super Charles Ramos, who recalled hearing the gunshots and rushing downstairs to find the NYPD already on the scene. George Sanchez was shot and killed in his Bensonhurst, Brooklyn apartment building on Thursday, March 24, 2022. The victims online bio said he was a self-taught guitarist who launched his career in 1996, eventually working with artists like Rhymes and seminal rapper Melle Mel of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Sanchez also launched his own clothing line, Brooknam, sold through his website, and created videos for himself and other artists, according to his bio. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > The super said Sanchez kept a recording studio in his apartment after moving into the building about seven years ago and regularly helped stage neighborhood music festivals. Two men shot the victim in the upper body just before 11:30 p.m. in the apartment building on Bay Parkway near W. 12th St. in Bensonhurst. (Theodore Parisienne/for New York Daily News) A longtime friend offered his recollections of growing up in Sunset Park alongside Sanchez, with the pair attending the High School of Performing Arts together. He was the most talented person I knew, said the friend, a videographer who identified himself as Oz. He could do everything. He could make a beat, he could rap over the beat. He could shoot the video, he could edit the video. He could do the flyer for the video. He was on another level. The two pals had just spoken on the phone before the fatal shooting, he recalled. Advertisement He was a funny kid, always drawing, said Oz. Just a really cool guy. He pushed me to do my best, because thats what he did. The victim was found in a stairwell between the buildings second and third floors, according to the NYPD. (Theodore Parisienne/for New York Daily News) Galagarza recounted her story of the last time she saw the victim, with Sanchez performing at an annual Lehman College musical event. He was so passionate on stage with his guitar, she said. Just seeing him in his zone, and representing Latinos I was feeling so proud. A suspected gunman and ex-con has been arrested for slamming into the back of an off-duty NYPD cops car and firing off shots at the vehicle Wednesday later hiding the weapon in a teddy bear, federal prosecutors said. The officer, on his way to work at Harlems 30th Precinct, was waiting at a traffic light approaching the Macombs Dam Bridge in the Bronx about 6:30 a.m. when Jamar Baker, 26, hit the cops back bumper, the complaint from the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York said. Advertisement Jamar Baker allegedly pointed a gun out the drivers side window and fired off two shots, striking the cops passenger side tire and front bumper. He then drove off in his Ford Explorer firing a parting shot at the cop. (Barry Williams/for New York Daily News) When the officer turned right onto the bridge to cross into Manhattan, Baker rammed the bumper a little harder. The off-duty cop stopped his car, and Baker allegedly pulled up alongside him, snarling: What are you gonna do, fa--ot? then spit in his direction. Both men continued on into Manhattan, and as they neared the corner of Edgecombe Ave. and W. 155th St in Harlem, Baker sideswiped the cops car. Advertisement Jamar Baker allegedly pointed a gun out the drivers side window and fired off two shots, striking the cops passenger side tire and front bumper. He then drove off in his Ford Explorer firing a parting shot at the cop. (Barry Williams/for New York Daily News) Baker, who lives in the Bronx, pointed a gun out the drivers side window and fired off two shots, striking the cops passenger side tire and front bumper. He then drove off in his Ford Explorer firing a parting shot at the cop, the complaint alleges. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > At 8:20 a.m., police pulled over the Ford, which has New Jersey plates, in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Baker, along with his five-month-old baby and the babys mom, were taken to Harlems 32nd Precinct. At 8:20 a.m., police pulled over the Ford, which has New Jersey plates, in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Baker, along with his five-month-old baby and the babys mom, were taken to Harlems 32nd Precinct. (Luiz C. Ribeiro/for New York Daily News) At the precinct, an unnamed witness said Baker arrived at her home in New Lots to take her kids to school on Wednesday morning, but that he was acting strangely, appeared jittery and told her: Theyre after me. Cops investigating the New Lots home found a .380-caliber gun stuffed inside a teddy bear in a babys crib a pistol that matched the shell casings found at the scene. Cops investigating the New Lots home found a .380-caliber gun stuffed inside a teddy bear in a babys crib a pistol that matched the shell casings found at the scene. (Obtained by Daily News ) Baker served about five years in prison after he was convicted in a 2014 robbery conspiracy. He is currently on federal supervised release. He was charged with possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony and possession of ammunition after having been convicted of a felony for the Wednesday shooting charges that could land him behind bars for up to 10 years. Cops investigating the New Lots home found a .380-caliber gun stuffed inside a teddy bear in a babys crib a pistol that matched the shell casings found at the scene. (Obtained by Daily News ) U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said Baker will face federal time for the crime after it was determined the recovered pistol and ammunition were manufactured out of state. For no apparent reason, Jamar Baker allegedly decided to pick a fight with an innocent driver heading to work, Williams said in a statement. Little did he know, the victim we allege he harassed and shot at is an NYPD officer who was on his way to the precinct to begin his shift. The random attack and senseless criminal behavior not only put the officer in danger, but we also allege Mr. Baker hid the weapon inside a childs toy, and put it back in the childs crib. While Mayor Adams sees no comparison between the broken windows policing of the 90s and his current crackdown on surging crime, others believe the similarities are hard to ignore. Yes, the mayor acknowledged Friday, police officers will target lower-level crimes as they did back in the day. But no, the approach does not mark a return to the oft-criticized Giuliani-era approach to crime-busting, he insisted. Advertisement Whats not going to happen in the city: Youre not going to walk into Duane Reade, take whatever you want and walk out, he said at a Brooklyn news conference. Youre not going to jump over the counter and take codeine and other drugs and then walk out. Youre not going to drive motorcycles through the streets, pulling people out and assaulting them because of a traffic accident. Youre not going to openly inject yourself with drugs. Youre just not going to do whatever you want in the city. Advertisement Mayor Eric Adams (Theodore Parisienne/for New York Daily News) While the mayor was adamant in disputing any link to the past, others see hints of the old days. Whatever you call it, its absolutely back to the future, said Eugene ODonnell, an ex-police officer and professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. ... Its really called policing. People are clearly fed up with the conditions on the subway, on the streets. Bronx attorney Neil Wollerstein said the mayors plan indeed harked back to the bad old days. Its the same thing, but youre just sugar-coating it with another name, said Wollerstein. I think its almost an act of desperation to get things back under control, to get the crime stats down. Then-mayor Rudolph Giuliani introduced broken windows policing to the city after his 1994 arrival in City Hall as the NYPD cracked down on squeegee men, turnstile jumping, panhandling and prostitution. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > While citywide crime figures dropped, the approach eventually disappeared amid assertions that minorities were disproportionately targeted. Questions were also raised about the link between the policy and the reduction in crime. The New York Daily News front page on March 24, 2022. (New York Daily News) But the mayor said equating his plan with the 1990s approach was way off base before taking credit for many of the NYPD reforms that critics are now accusing him of reversing. It never ceases to amaze me how we create our own narratives, the mayor said. I never used the term broken windows. No one in the police department used the words broken windows ... We are not going back to the policing that I fought to change. All that youre hearing right now about police reforms, those are all my reforms. Advertisement Im the one who advocated for what you are seeing in policing. Adams noted that advances in technology had also dramatically changed his old job over the last quarter-century, with officers now working in a different environment. We wont go back to abusive policing, he said. Were going to analyze video footage to determine if an officer is violating the law. We didnt have that ... when I was a police officer and a sergeant and a lieutenant. We have it now. Were going to use it to make sure that were not going backward, but (that) the city is also not going backward with crime. That is the key here. Attorneys for accused wife killer Barry Morphew claimed both prosecutors and law enforcement officers provided false testimony in a new motion filed to dismiss the case against their client. Suzanne Morphew was last seen alive on May 10, 2020, as she was leaving her home in Chaffee County in Colorado for a bike ride. Her disappearance triggered a widespread search that remains unsuccessful. While the mother-of-two has not yet been found, her estranged husband, Barry, was charged in September with counts of tampering with physical evidence and an attempt to influence a public servant as well as murder. Advertisement In a 9-page motion filed in Fremont County court, Morphews defense team said he would not be able to receive a fair trial given law enforcement personnel testified falsely and the prosecutors presented this false testimony in pleadings and at pretrial hearings. It specifically accuses officers of lying about the reason Morphew was arrested on May 5, 2021 and then falsifying the Colorado Bureau of Investigation report to support the arrest. Barry Morphew (AP) Investigators also allegedly omitted crucial evidence in the case, including DNA from an accused sex offender, according to the court documents. A sample collected from Suzannes glove box came through a database as a partial match for a suspect in Arizona. Advertisement Authorities reached out, but he refused to cooperate and lawyered up. The matter was never addressed during the preliminary hearing nor was it disclosed in the 131-page arrest affidavit, which a judge kept under seal until finally clearing its release in September. The motion also suggests CBI agent Joseph Cahill, once a co-lead investigator in the case, was booted from the probe because he would not testify regarding the CODIS matches according to [District Attorneys] script which was crafted to mislead the court as the significance of the CODIS matches. Suzanne Morphew (Chaffee County Sheriff's office) CODIS refers to the agencys Combined DNA Index System. This conduct is not just and cannot be rationalized to Mr. Morphew or his daughters, the motion reads. To force Mr. Morphew to continue to carry this boulder up the trial mountain weighed down by the ultimate consequence of being sentenced to life imprisonment without parole if wrongly convicted; by his daughters emotional welfare; and by his financial resources, in the face of endemic misconduct orchestrated by the prosecution, is wrong. Morphew has long maintained his innocence in his wifes disappearance. The only individual Boeing employee criminally charged in connection with the deadly crashes of the manufacturers 737 MAX aircraft was found not guilty Wednesday. Mark Forkner, 50, was accused of lying to federal investigators about a faulty flight-control system. But a jury took less than two hours to acquit him on all four counts of wire fraud. Advertisement As a company, Boeing admitted wrongdoing and paid a $2.5 billion settlement to the federal government in January 2021. But no individuals were accused in connection with the crashes that killed 346 people in 2018 and 2019 until Forkner was charged in October 2021. In this Sept. 30, 2020 photo, a Boeing 737 MAX jet, piloted by Federal Aviation Administration chief Steve Dickson, prepares to land at Boeing Field following a test flight in Seattle. (Elaine Thompson/AP) Forkners attorneys said he was a scapegoat and thanked the jury for being so smart, so fair, so independent, that they saw through it. Advertisement The crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019 were both caused in part by a flight-control system, known as the MCAS, in 737 MAX planes. Forkner was the lead test pilot on the planes before they were sold to airlines. The feds focused on a 2016 message from Forkner to his colleague, Patrik Gustavsson, in which he wrote I basically lied to the regulators (unknowingly). But defense attorneys successfully argued that Forkner was talking about a flight simulator and not the infamous MCAS. The system was initially designed to operate in high-speed situations. According to Forkners defense team, Boeing engineers made a late-stage decision to activate the MCAS in certain low-speed situations as well. But Forkner was unaware of that change, the defense argued. Both flight tragedies happened minutes after takeoff, at lower speeds. After the March 10, 2019, crash in Ethiopia, Boeing 737 MAXs were grounded worldwide for almost two years. The planes were cleared to fly again in the U.S. in December 2020. With News Wire Services A 7-month-old girl died after being attacked by a dog in east Georgia earlier this week, authorities said. The infant, identified as Serenity Garnett, of Grovetown, was being watched by her great-grandmother, Migdelia Guadalupe, when she was attacked by the dog on Tuesday. Advertisement Guadalupe, 56, was also injured after attempting to rescue the girl. Serenity Garnett (GoFundMe) Local television station WRDW-TV reported that Guadalupe had multiple lacerations and puncture wounds on her arms. Her injuries are not considered to be life-threatening and she continues to recover at a hospital. Advertisement According to an incident report released by the Columbia County Sheriffs Office, the great-grandmother was renting the property in Martinez, a suburb of Augusta, Ga. Breaking News As it happens Get updates on the coronavirus pandemic and other news as it happens with our free breaking news email alerts. > The dog, an American Bulldog Great Pyreness mix, belongs to a woman who co-owns the property with her brother. Deputies responded to the scene around 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday. When they arrived at the residence, Columbia County Fire and Rescue personnel was already rendering aid to the victims. The baby was taken to a nearby hospital and was confirmed dead at 6:45 p.m. State law requires any animal that bites a person to be confined and observed for 10 days. According to The Augusta Chronicle, the dog is now being held in quarantine at Columbia County Animal Services. The babys aunt started a GoFundMe campaign to cover her funeral expenses. Our sweet baby girl Serenity Rose gained her wings at only 7 months old due to an animal attack, Kenda Crawley wrote in part. Every penny will go towards funeral expenses for burying our baby girl, she added. More than 250 people have donated as of Friday morning, for a total of $13,410. Fund run by Biden's son involved in financing biolabs in Ukraine: Russian Defense Ministry Xinhua) 13:54, March 25, 2022 MOSCOW, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The investment fund Rosemont Seneca, currently managed by Hunter Biden, the son of U.S. President Joe Biden, funded the Pentagon's military biological program in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday. The fund has resources in the amount of at least 2.4 billion U.S. dollars, said Igor Kirillov, chief of the Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Forces of the Russian Armed Forces. The U.S. Agency for International Development, the George Soros Foundation, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were also involved in the funding and development of these programs, he added. "The incoming documents have allowed us to trace patterns of interaction between U.S. government agencies and Ukrainian biological facilities," he said. The official added that the defense ministry has official documentation proving that 30 Ukrainian laboratories were involved in military biological activities. According to Kirillov, 16,000 biological samples have been exported to the United States and its allies from Ukraine. For example, he said, 4,000 blood samples were taken from servicemen in Lviv, Kharkov, Odessa and Kiev to study the prevalence of antibodies to hantavirus. "This large-scale screening of the natural immunity of the populations was probably carried out to select the most dangerous biological agents for populations in certain regions," he explained. He added that dangerous pathogens and their transporters were also exported from Ukraine. The U.S. government has not made any response to the claim yet. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) A Nebraska congressman was convicted Thursday of lying to federal investigators. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry told the FBI that he never received any money from foreign sources. In reality, he took $30,000 funneled from a Nigerian billionaire, Gilbert Chagoury. Advertisement Fortenberrys defense team argued that the FBI targeted their client and that he simply forgot a phone call. U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) arrives at the federal courthouse for his trial in Los Angeles on March 16, 2022. (Jae C. Hong/AP) A nine-term Republican in Nebraskas 1st District, which includes Lincoln and the Omaha suburbs, Fortenberry will be sentenced June 28. Advertisement The feds said in 2016 Fortenberry knowingly took the $30,000 from Dr. Elias Ayoub, who had originally received the relatively small donation from Chagoury and passed it along to Forternberry. Chagoury was hoping for Fortenberrys continued support of In Defense of Christians, a nonprofit organization supporting Christians in the Middle East that Fortenberry had donated to in the past. In 2019, Fortenberry told the FBI that hed never received any international donations. But Ayoub was cooperating with the feds and had recorded a 2018 phone call with Fortenberry where he explicitly said the money came from foreign sources. Fortenberrys defense said he didnt remember the phone call when he was talking to the feds. But the jury didnt buy it and deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Fortenberry. The congressman promised to appeal. With News Wire Services A man was killed after his parachute failed to open as he jumped from a high-rise apartment building in California, police said. The fatal fall unfolded around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday in the University City neighborhood of San Diego. Police said the mans 16-year-old daughter watched as her 48-year-old father leapt from the roof of the the 23-story Palisade UTC luxury apartment complex, near the UTC mall, police said. Advertisement Its not just one life lost, its another that is completely devastated, Capt. Scott Wahl said. Our heart goes out to her and the rest of his family. The fatal fall unfolded around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday in the University City neighborhood of San Diego. Police said the mans 16-year-old daughter watched as her 48-year-old father leapt from the roof of the the 23-story Palisade UTC luxury apartment complex, near the UTC mall, police said. (Google Maps) Authorities were called to the scene by a witness who described hearing a loud pop like a gunshot, and then spotted the man on the ground and bleeding, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. Advertisement Responding Officers and paramedics gave the man CPR, but he died before he could be taken to a hospital, officials said. His name has not yet been released. At the time of his ill-fated BASE jumping attempt, he was wearing a helmet and equipped with a parachute, which did not function properly. Were unclear as to whether the parachute malfunctioned or if it just didnt have enough time to open up properly and deploy, Wahl added. BASE jumping, which is illegal, consists of parachuting from fixed objects. Its an acronym for the types of ledges people leap from: buildings, antennae, spans and earth, such as cliffs. With News Wire Services Multiple Muslim Americans were harassed by border patrol officers and repeatedly questioned about their religion while returning from international travel, according to a lawsuit filed Thursday. Three men Abdirahman Aden Kariye, Hameem Shah and Mohamad Mouslli filed the lawsuit with the American Civil Liberties Union against the Department of Homeland Security. Advertisement Just as border officers may not single out Christian Americans to ask what denomination they are, which church they attend, and how regularly they pray, singling out Muslim Americans for similar questions is unconstitutional, the lawsuit said. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Shutterstock/Shutterstock) Kariye said the persistent questioning every time he entered the country has caused him to fear leaving the U.S. at all. During a 2020 incident, a Customs and Border Patrol agent threatened to make things harder for Kariye if he didnt cooperate, according to the suit. Advertisement The suit says the questioning and detainment violated the mens First Amendment rights against religious discrimination. Religious questioning by border officers is unconstitutional, and its past time for the government to be held to account, said Ashley Gorski of the ACLU in a press release. This invasive questioning serves no legitimate law enforcement purpose. The men said they were quizzed about their religious practices, how often they prayed and whether they were Sunni or Shia. The lawsuit also asks the federal government to expel all records from the detention of the three men. The ACLU said Muslims have been harassed by Homeland Security officers as part of a broader 20-year practice. Kariye, an imam in Bloomington, Minn., said hes had five different discriminatory incidents since 2017. Mouslli, from Gilbert, Ariz., has dealt with four similar incidents since 2018, the suit said. Shah, a resident of Plano, Texas, said he was detained at Los Angeles International Airport in 2019. What I experienced at the hands of CBP when coming back to my own country still haunts me, Shah said. I thought that being an American meant that I and others are free to practice any religion that we choose. A teen boy died after he was tossed from a new drop tower ride at ICON Park in Orlandos tourism district, authorities said. The 14-year-old plunged from the Orlando FreeFall attraction shortly after he boarded it Thursday night, the Orlando Sentinel reported. The 430-foot tall FreeFall is billed as the worlds tallest free-standing drop tower. Advertisement Orange County sheriffs deputies arrived on the scene at 11:12 p.m. and discovered the boy unresponsive. The child was rushed to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children where he was pronounced dead a short time later, the sheriffs office said. The boy was identified Friday as Tyre Sampson, who was visiting central Florida from Missouri with a friends family. Advertisement A 14-year-old boy fell to his death from a ride at an Icon Park in Orlando, Fla. The ride, called the FreeFall, is on the right side of this picture. (Stephen M. Dowell/AP) Orange County Sheriff John Mina said authorities are working to determine how and why Tyre fell. It appears to be just a terrible tragedy, Mina told reporters Friday. We will see moving forward what that results in. We cant imagine the pain and anguish that his family must be going through, Mina said. Our victim advocates have been in contact with the family and helping them through this ordeal. Breaking News As it happens Get updates on the coronavirus pandemic and other news as it happens with our free breaking news email alerts. > Video obtained by Click Orlando reportedly captured passengers on the ride pointing out issues with a seat restraint. The ride then began its trek up the tower before someone then can be seen falling from the ride. John Stine, sales director with the Slingshot Group of Companies, which owns the Orlando FreeFall, said in a statement they were cooperating with authorities. We are devastated that this happened, and our hearts go out to the family, Stine added. The Orlando FreeFall, which opened in December, can hold up to 30 people. Riders, strapped in and facing out and downward, are transported to the top of the tower in a passenger vehicle that drops back to the ground. Ritchie Armstrong, CEO of Slingshot Group, described the ride owned and operated by his company in an interview in January. Advertisement It falls down free, detached from the tower, reaching speeds of up to 75 miles per hour before this beautiful magnetic braking system gives them a nice, smooth, slow stop, straight back down to the ground, Armstrong told the Orlando Sentinel. The ride has been closed indefinitely. About 300 people were killed in the Russian airstrike last week on a Mariupol theater that was being used as a shelter, Ukrainian authorities said Friday in what would make it the wars deadliest known attack on civilians yet. Meanwhile, in what could signal an important narrowing of Moscows war aims, the U.S. said Russian forces appear to have halted, at least for now, their ground offensive aimed at capturing the capital, Kyiv, and are concentrating more on the fighting for control of the Donbas region in the countrys southeast a shift the Kremlin seemed to confirm. Advertisement This image made available by Azov Battalion, shows the drama theater, damaged after shelling, in Mariupol, Ukraine, on March 17. (AP) Col.-Gen Sergei Rudskoi, deputy chief of the Russian general staff, said the main objective of the first stage of the operation reducing Ukraines fighting capacity has generally been accomplished, allowing Russian forces to focus on the main goal, liberation of Donbas. The seeming shift in Moscows stated military objectives after weeks in which Vladimir Putin denied Ukraines right to exist as an sovereign country and appeared bent on capturing many of its cities and toppling its government could point to a possible exit strategy for Russia, which has suffered fiercer resistance and heavier losses than anticipated. Advertisement In fact, the Russians are no longer in full control of Kherson, the first major city to fall to Moscows forces, a senior U.S. defense official said. The official said the southern city is being contested by the Ukrainians in heavy fighting. The Kremlin denied it had lost full control. The Donbas is the largely Russian-speaking eastern part of the country where Russian-backed separatists have been fighting Ukrainian forces since 2014 and where many residents have expressed support for Moscow. Its Donetsk and Luhansk regions are recognized by Russia as independent. Firefighters battle a fire following a Russian attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Friday. (Felipe Dana/AP) In Mariupol, the bloodshed at the theater fueled allegations Moscow is committing war crimes by killing civilians, whether deliberately or by indiscriminate fire. For days, the government in the besieged and ruined port city was unable to give a casualty count for the March 16 bombardment of the grand, columned Mariupol Drama Theater, where hundreds of people were said to be taking cover. The word CHILDREN was printed in Russian in huge white letters on the ground outside to ward off aerial attack. In announcing the death toll on its Telegram channel Friday, the city government cited eyewitnesses. But it was not immediately clear how witnesses arrived at the figure or whether emergency workers had finished excavating the ruins. President Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said Friday the theater bombing was an absolute shock, particularly given the fact that it was so clearly a civilian target. He said it showed a brazen disregard for the lives of innocent people. The scale of devastation in Mariupol, where bodies have been left unburied amid bomb craters and hollowed-out buildings, has made information difficult to obtain. But soon after the attack, the Ukrainian Parliaments human rights commissioner said more than 1,300 people had taken shelter in the theater, many of them because their homes had been destroyed. The building had a basement bomb shelter, and some survivors did emerge from the rubble after the attack. Advertisement A man recovers items from a burning shop following a Russian attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Friday, March 25, 2022. (Felipe Dana/AP) This is a barbaric war, and according to international conventions, deliberate attacks on civilians are war crimes, said Mircea Geoana, NATOs deputy-secretary general. He said Putins efforts to break Ukraines will to resist are having the opposite effect: What hes getting in response is an even more determined Ukrainian army and an ever more united West in supporting Ukraine. While the Russians continue to pound the capital from the air, they appear to have gone into a defensive crouch outside Kyiv, the senior U.S. defense official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the Pentagons assessment. They dont show any signs of being willing to move on Kyiv from the ground, the official said. A member of the Ukraine territorial defense unit prepares to go to the front line in Yasnogorodk, on the outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine, on Friday. (Rodrigo Abd/AP) The official also said the U.S. has seen indications that Russia is beginning to draw on Russian soldiers in Georgia for deployment to Ukraine. Britains Ministry of Defense said Ukrainian forces are counterattacking and have been able to reoccupy towns and defensive positions up to 22 miles east of Kyiv as Russian troops fall back on their overextended supply lines. In the south, logistical problems and Ukrainian resistance are slowing the Russians as they look to drive west toward the port of Odessa, the ministry said. Advertisement The Russian military said 1,351 of its soldiers have died in Ukraine and 3,825 have been wounded, though it was not immediately clear if that included pro-Moscow separatist forces fighting in the east or others not part of the Defense Ministry, such as the National Guard. Earlier this week, NATO estimated that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in four weeks of fighting. Breaking News As it happens Get updates on the coronavirus pandemic and other news as it happens with our free breaking news email alerts. > For civilians, the misery is growing more severe in Ukrainian towns and cities, which increasingly resemble the ruins that Russian forces left behind in their campaigns in Syria and Chechnya. In the village of Yasnohorodka, some 30 miles west of Kyiv, Russian troops who were there earlier in the week appeared to have been pushed out as part of a counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. The tower of the village church was damaged by a blast, and houses on the main crossroads lay in ruins. Loud explosions and bursts of gunfire could be heard. Damage is seen inside a Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Yasnogorodk, a rural town where the Ukrainian army stopped the advance of the Russian army, outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine, on Friday. (Rodrigo Abd/AP) You can see for yourself what happened here. People were killed here. Our soldiers were killed here. There was fighting, said Yasnohorodka resident Valery Puzakov. Tens of thousands of people have left Mariupol in the past week, most of them driving out in private cars through dozens of Russian checkpoints. Advertisement Unfortunately, nothing remains of Mariupol, said Evgeny Sokyrko, who was among those waiting for an evacuation train in Zaporizhzhia, the closest urban center to Mariupol and a way station for refugees. In the last week, there have been explosions like Ive never heard before. In Kyiv, ashes of the dead are piling up at the main crematorium in the capital because so many relatives have left, leaving urns unclaimed. And the northern city of Chernihiv is all but cut off after Russian forces destroyed bridges, leaving people without power, water and heat, authorities said. ALBANY Gov. Hochul took heat Thursday from a pair of primary opponents with very different ideas about her proposed bail changes. Long Island Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.) took to the State Capitol to rip the governors budget priorities and again argued that he would go further in rolling back the states bail and discovery laws to appease police unions and prosecutors. Advertisement Her plan is a completely half-baked, phony-baloney plan, he said during a press conference. Theres a major problem here, and it requires a comprehensive plan, not a leaked plan being negotiated behind closed doors. Suozzi railed against Hochuls 10-point plan, leaked to the press two weeks before the budget deadline of April 1, and said it lacks the teeth needed to really crack down on rising crime in New York. Advertisement The centrist Democrat noted that almost all other states granted judges more discretion when setting bail and said he supports imposing a dangerousness standard to allow jurists the power to remand those accused of a crime if deemed a threat to others. Moderate Dems, including New York City Mayor Adams and Republicans, have argued in favor of a dangerousness standard since the Legislature approved sweeping reforms in 2019 that essentially did away with cash bail. New York Governor Kathy Hochul (Darren McGee/Darren McGee- Office of Governor) Meanwhile, the citys Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, also challenging Hochul in the June Democratic primary, rallied Thursday outside the governors Manhattan office with criminal justice advocates demanding the laws be left alone. Gov. Hochuls attempt to roll back the critical bail reforms won in 2019 demonstrates her willingness to cave into fearmongering and fallacies while ignoring the facts, Williams said. She has said in her own words that bail reform worked, and had nothing to do with a rise in violent crime. Advocates voiced apprehension over the plan, which includes measures making more crimes bail-eligible and granting judges more discretion in deciding if a person should be detained pretrial based on their criminal history and repeat offenses. Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-N.Y.) (Alex Brandon/AP) The blueprint, which has received a less than warm welcome in the Legislature, would also grant police the ability to deny a Desk Appearance Ticket and arrest someone who has received a DAT within the previous eighteen months. The plan would also affect the states Raise the Age laws by allowing judges to keep a minors case in Criminal Court if gun possession is involved. New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams (Luiz C. Ribeiro/for New York Daily News) They are trying to go after people because of past enforcement, and thats discriminatory and just not right, said Roger Clark, an activist with VOCAL-NY. Prosecutors want to go back to the days of trial by ambush by withholding evidence and using bail to coerce guilty pleas. The governor should not go along with that. Advertisement Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Yonkers) both expressed reservations about rolling back the sweeping reforms meant to address racial and economic disparities in the justice system. While their conferences are open to discussions, both legislative leaders said that little time remains before the budget bill needs to be ready before the fiscal deadline next week. Members want to have the discussion and not feel rushed, Heastie said. Mayor Adams pointed fingers at state legislators Friday for dragging their feet on allowing the city to set its own traffic safety laws, but also admitted that his administration and the NYPD, in particular must do a better job at cracking down on reckless drivers amid an uptick in pedestrian fatalities. Joined by street safety advocates and local lawmakers, Adams issued the clarion call to the state Legislature during a press conference at an intersection in Flatbush, Brooklyn, where 18-year-old Isaiah Benloss was fatally struck by a speeding driver in the early morning hours of Aug. 18, 2020. Advertisement The family of Isaiah Benloss is pictured as Mayor Eric Adams leads a coalition of administration officials, legislators, and advocates urging Albany to give New York City control of critical tools to tackle the spike in traffic violence. (Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office) Under current restrictions, the city can only keep its red light and speeding cameras on between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. and Adams slammed that policy as unbelievable. A real crisis is that the law requires that we turn off the cameras at a certain time period. Who are we protecting? Were protecting the speeders. How about protecting Isaiah? Adams said, standing alongside Benloss mother who clutched a framed photograph of her late son. Advertisement On the flipside, Adams said the NYPD has a role to play in ensuring traffic safety as well and admitted the department isnt doing enough at the moment. We have to do a better job, Adams said, referencing statistics showing that the NYPD has so far this year only issued 80,000 summonses for traffic violations compared to 183,000 summonses by the same point in 2019. The family of Isaiah Benloss is pictured at the corner of Ocean Avenue and Beverley Road in Brooklyn, New York on Friday, March 25, 2022. (Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office) He suggested the decline in summonses is a result of the NYPD focusing most of its resources during the pandemic on combatting gun violence, but added: We want to get our traffic enforcement personnel involved and send a real message out to all our police commanders that public safety includes vehicle crashes and we have to get engaged and thats the message Im going to get to the police commissioner. Adams and some city-representing state lawmakers have pushed for years to scrap the time restrictions on the citys street safety cameras in favor of allowing them to operate 24/7. Nonetheless, the issue has not gained traction in the state Legislature. It makes no sense that the city cannot control its own destiny on these streets, Brooklyn State Sen. Andrew Gounardes, whose aunt died after she was hit by a car in the city, said at Fridays press conference. Why should a senator or an Assemblymember from Plattsburgh or West Chazy, New York, or anywhere outside of these five boroughs have any say on when a camera can be on? He added: It makes no sense. The corner of Ocean Avenue and Beverley Road in Brooklyn, New York, on Friday, March 25, 2022. So far this year, 27 pedestrians have been killed in traffic incidents three more than the same date in 2021, the data shows. Last year, in turn, ranked as the citys deadliest year for traffic fatalities since former Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Vision Zero in 2014. (Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office) Data from the Department of Transportation paints a grim picture of the state of traffic safety in the Big Apple. Advertisement So far this year, 27 pedestrians have been killed in traffic incidents three more than the same date in 2021, the data shows. Last year, in turn, ranked as the citys deadliest year for traffic fatalities since former Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Vision Zero in 2014. The de Blasio initiative had as its stated goal to bring annual traffic fatalities in the city to zero by 2024. We could achieve that goal, Adams said, and were going to move towards that goal. With Clayton Guse Mayor Adams conceded Friday that his team shouldve done a better job at vetting the record of an education adviser he fired earlier this week after the Daily News exposed her anti-gay beliefs. Speaking at an unrelated press conference in Brooklyn, Adams said Rev. Kathlyn Barrett-Laynes homophobic screeds did not surface during his administrations internal screening process before she was appointed earlier this week as a member of his Panel for Educational Policy. Advertisement The information did not come up in the vetting, Adams said, and I thank whomever we received it from in the press that shared it with us, and I just made the determination that the writing was not in line ... and I made the decision. New York City Mayor Eric Adams holds a roundtable meeting with members of the transgender people of color community at City Hall in lower Manhattan, New York on Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Ed Reed/NYC Mayor's Office) Barrett-Layne, who runs the Reach Out and Touch Ministries on Staten Island, was removed from the education panel within hours of being hired Tuesday after The News reported that she expressed extreme anti-LGBTQ views including equating homosexuality to pedophilia in several books she wrote. Advertisement LGBTQ advocates welcomed Adams swift axing of Barrett-Layne, but have also questioned how he justifies giving her the boot while letting three other Christian pastors with histories of anti-gay views keep their jobs in his administration. Asked about that dichotomy Friday, Adams suggested hes letting the three other pastors all of whom are men stay on because theyve apologized for their past rhetoric. The three that youre talking about are longtime public figures that I had an opportunity throughout the campaign and after to sit down and speak with them, and I was clear that they apologized for their comments, Adams said. The mayor declined to say if he gave Barret-Layne an opportunity to apologize before axing her from the panel, which serves as the governing body of the Department of Education. Kathlyn Barrett-Layne (Kevin Coughlin) Among the three pastors who remain in Adams administration is former Bronx Councilman Fernando Cabrera, who praised Ugandas anti-gay laws as godly during a trip to the country in 2014. In a written apology issued after he was hired as Adams senior faith adviser last month, Cabrera claimed he was unaware at the time he made those comments that Ugandas government had made homosexuality a crime punishable by imprisonment. Barrett-Layne, who was among nine appointments Adams made to the education panel, declined to say if she believes Adams decision to fire her was hypocritical given that Cabrera and the two other pastors remain in their posts. I have no opinion at this time, Barrett-Layne said when reached by phone Thursday before hanging up. No one had to ask President Biden twice to grab a slice and share a few minutes of quality time with Americas heroes. The commander-in-chief visited some U.S. troops in their temporary headquarters in Rzeszow, Poland and invited himself to lunch. Advertisement Who brought the pizza? Biden said with a beaming smile. Dont stop eating because of me. Well, if youre starting to eat, Im going to sit down and have something, he added. Advertisement President Joe Biden visits with members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2A Arena, Friday, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) Biden, who makes no secret that he enjoys meeting regular folks, ate a slice of pepperoni and jalapeno pepper pizza while chatting with the camouflage-clad members of the 82nd Airborne Division. Thank you for what youre doing, he said. Thank you, thank you, thank you. As your commander-in-chief, I mean that from the bottom of my heart. Lingering with one soldier after another, Biden shook hands and put his arms around the men and women. He grabbed soldiers cell phones to snap selfies, sometimes spurring more troops to photobomb the images. US President Joe Biden (R) eats a pizza as he meets with service members from the 82nd Airborne Division, who are contributing alongside Polish Allies to deterrence on the Alliances Eastern Flank, in the city of Rzeszow in southeastern Poland, around 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the border with Ukraine, on March 25, 2022. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) He joked about when he visited Iraq and couldnt find his late son, Beau Biden who served in the Deleware Army National Guard, because he had changed his name tag to his mothers maiden name to avoid attention. At a formal speech a few minutes later, Biden heaped praise on the troops, saying that they represent the very best of the American people. You dont even have to be here. Every single one of you stepped up, said Biden, noting that fewer than 1% of Americans serve in the military. The other 99% of us, including me, owe you. We owe you big. President Joe Biden visits with members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2A Arena, Friday, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) The military base is just 60 miles away from the Ukrainian border, where the war is raging. Showing off his trademark empathy, Biden told the men and women sitting on plastic folding chairs that their diversity and strength offer hope to the Ukrainian people as they fight for their homeland. Advertisement The Ukrainian people have a lot of backbone, a lot of guts, he said. They take a lot of inspiration from you. With News Wire Services WASHINGTON (AP) The House committee investigating the Capitol riot said Thursday that it had set a vote for next week to consider contempt of Congress charges for two aides of former President Donald Trump. The committee will meet Monday to discuss whether to recommend referring for potential prosecution Trumps former trade adviser, Peter Navarro, and former White House communications aide Dan Scavino. Advertisement White House trade adviser Peter Navarro speaks with reporters at the White House in Washington, D.C. on June 18, 2020. (Alex Brandon/AP) The meeting marks the panels latest effort to hold witnesses accountable whom it sees as uncooperative in its investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection, when pro-Trump rioters stormed the Capitol in hopes of blocking Congress from certifying the results of the presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden. The committee subpoenaed Navarro for his testimony in early February, seeking to question the Trump ally who promoted false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election. Though Navarro sought to use executive privilege to avoid cooperation, the Biden administration this month denied claims from him and another onetime Trump aide, former national security adviser Michael Flynn, saying an assertion of executive privilege was not justified or in the national interest. Advertisement White House Social Media Director Dan Scavino walks across the South Lawn of the White House to board Marine One in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 3, 2019, to join President Donald Trump for a short trip to Andrews Air Force Base, Md., and then on to Florida. (Andrew Harnik/AP) In a statement Thursday, Navarro called the committee vote an unprecedented partisan assault on executive privilege. The committee knows full well that President Trump has invoked executive privilege and it is not my privilege to waive. Navarro it was premature for the committee to pursue criminal charges against an individual of the highest rank within the White House for whom executive privilege undeniably applies. He said the dispute seemed inevitably headed to the Supreme Court, and until there was a resolution, the House committee should cease its tactics of harassment and intimidation. A lawyer for Scavino, who was subpoenaed last September, did not immediately return a message seeking comment. In laying out last fall the need for Scavinos cooperation with the investigation, committee chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, said it appeared Scavino was with Trump on Jan. 6 and may have materials relevant to his videotaping and tweeting messages that day. The committee previously voted to recommend contempt charges against longtime Trump ally Steve Bannon after he defied a congressional subpoena, as well as against Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows after he ceased cooperating with the panel. The full House then approved both contempt referrals. Bannon was later indicted by a federal grand jury and is awaiting prosecution by the Justice Department. The Justice Department has not taken any action against Meadows. Feature: Chinese-built road facilitating travel flow, goods transport in SW Cambodia Xinhua) 14:42, March 25, 2022 KAMPONG SPEU, Cambodia, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Connecting Kampong Speu and Kandal provinces in southwest Cambodia, the Chinese-built National Road No. 51 is playing an important role in facilitating travel flow and transport of goods. Built by the China Road and Bridge Corporation under a concessional loan from the Chinese government, the 37.9-km-long and 12-meter-wide asphalt road was a strategic route linking National Road No. 5 in Kampong Speu and National Road No. 4 in Kandal. Locals said in the past, the road was bumpy and very difficult to travel due to large potholes and it was very dusty in the dry season and slippery and inundated during the rainy season. "Previously, it took almost the whole morning or afternoon to travel at this distance, but now, it takes 30 to 40 minutes only thanks to the good-conditioned road," Muth Sokleang, a vegetable vendor along the road, told Xinhua on Friday. "This Chinese-built road is really important to help facilitate travel and transport of goods and agricultural products such as rice, bananas, mangoes and vegetables from farms to markets," the 39-year-old woman said, adding "It also helps save both time and money." Chhem Thath Thay, a 21-year-old resident along the road, said since the road has been constructed, land prices in the surrounding area have skyrocketed. "Thank you, China, for constructing this road that has brought us new hope," he told Xinhua. "The road will not only help improve the livelihoods of local people, but also contribute to deepening the bond of friendship between the people of the two countries." Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Friday, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his profound gratitude to China for financing the project, saying that transport infrastructure was the key element to boost economic growth and reduce poverty. "This road will play an important role in facilitating travel and transport of goods because it hosts many factories and large scale enterprises as well as residential projects," he said. "Although COVID-19 has disrupted us, it cannot prevent our development, particularly the development projects undertaken by China." Meanwhile, the prime minister stressed the importance of the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade deal, saying that both pacts are a new booster for Cambodia's trade growth. Wu Guoquan, the economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, said pragmatic cooperation between China and Cambodia has continuously borne new fruits, highlighting that in recent months, some China-aided projects such as roads, bridges, stadium, and hospitals have been put into use. "Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, our pragmatic cooperation has produced more fruitful results which truly reflect the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia," he said at the event. Wu said the China-Cambodia community with a shared future during the pandemic has set a model for building a new type of international relations. "We will continue to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and make good use of the CCFTA and RCEP to push our bilateral trade volume to a new high," he said. Cambodian Transport Minister Sun Chanthol said the road has improved both transport infrastructure and livelihoods of the people in both provinces. "It is another new achievement and a valuable gift from the governments of Cambodia and China to the people in Kampong Speu and Kandal in particular and to the people across the country in general," he said. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) Justice Clarence Thomas stepped out of the hospital on Friday and into a political maelstrom. Thomas, a three-decade conservative veteran on the Supreme Court, was diagnosed with an infection and hospitalized for a week. But his greatest headache could stem from another source: the public disclosure that his wife pushed the Trump White House in 2020 to fight hard to overturn President Bidens election victory. Advertisement Ginni Thomas has said she briefly attended former President Donald Trumps fateful, falsehood-filled Jan. 6 rally, but did not participate in the violent attack on the Capitol that followed. Her Jan. 6 revelation made waves when it came to light this month, raising questions about her husbands decision not to recuse himself from cases related to the election. Virginia Thomas (left) and her husband, Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas (right) (AP) But those questions reached new decibels after The Washington Post reported Thursday that Ginni Thomas sent text messages in 2020 to Mark Meadows, then the White House chief of staff, pressing him to help Trump overturn the election and accusing Democrats of attempting the greatest Heist of our History. Advertisement Help This Great President stand firm, Mark!!! she implored, according to The Post. Her torrent of texts 21 in total, according to The Post met commitments from Meadows that he would carry on the fight, and underscored her close ties to the Trump White House. A lawyer and conservative activist, she has claimed that she and her husband bifurcate their careers. But Rep. Mondaire Jones, a New York Democrat, responded to the texts by tweeting that Justice Thomas association with a clearly deranged Ginni Thomas calls his own judgment into question. It is terrifying that he serves on the Supreme Court. US President Donald Trump watches as Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas swears in Judge Amy Coney Barrett (out of frame) as a US Supreme Court Associate Justice during a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House October 26, 2020, in Washington, DC. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) Justice Thomas is perhaps the Supreme Courts most conservative member. And in January, he dissented from an otherwise unanimous Supreme Court decision that rejected a bid by Trump to halt the release of White House documents related to Jan. 6. The courts ruling opened a stream of records sought by the House select committee probing the Capitol assault. The House panel had already received some 2,000 text messages from Meadows, including the messages he is said to have traded with Ginni Thomas. Federal judges are instructed to recuse themselves from cases in which their impartiality might be questioned. But Supreme Court justices clothed in immense constitutional power can make their own calls about disqualifying themselves from cases. There are only nine justices, and if a justice recuses him or herself, theres not somebody else to step in, said Bruce Green, a Fordham Law School professor and expert on judicial ethics. In general, the justices dont want to take themselves off cases. FILE - Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, left and his wife Virginia Thomas, right, leave the the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington after attending funeral services of the late Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia, on Feb. 20, 2016. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP) Thomas has received criticism for years over his wifes work, and he has sometimes ignored calls from Democrats to skip cases. But the Jan. 6 case struck many observers as an extreme breach of judicial ethics. Advertisement Justice Thomas conduct on the Supreme Court looks increasingly corrupt, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said in a statement on Friday. Justice Thomas needs to recuse himself from any case related to the January 6th investigation, and should Donald Trump run again, any case related to the 2024 election. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) echoed Wydens demand, adding on Twitter that the nation deserves an explanation and that the Supreme Court needs a Code of Ethics. It was not clear if Thomas knew about his wifes messages to Meadows when he dissented in January. And it was unclear how the justice might handle future cases concerning the 2020 election, which Biden won by 74 votes in the electoral college and by more than 7 million votes in the popular vote. (L-R) Associate Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas sits with his wife and conservative activist Virginia Thomas while he waits to speak at the Heritage Foundation on October 21, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) The Supreme Court did not immediately respond to a request for Thomas comment on Democrats recusal demands. Green described the unearthed texts as embarrassing for the justice, but said he did not think Thomas would necessarily have a duty to disqualify himself from ruling on future cases involving the 2020 or 2024 elections. If there are cases where his wife has a pretty tangible interest which I think she did with respect to whether her texts get turned over to the House committee then I think he should recuse himself, Green said. Otherwise, I dont know that he has an obligation. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.V.) said he will vote to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to become the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court. The backing of the key moderate Democrat clears one of the final significant obstacles to her confirmation as soon as before Easter. Advertisement After meeting with her, considering her record, and closely monitoring her testimony and questioning before the Senate Judiciary Committee this week, I have determined I intend to vote for her nomination to serve on the Supreme Court, Manchin said in a statement on Friday. Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson arrives to meet with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. (Alex Brandon/AP) Ticking off Jacksons resume as a respected federal judge, Manchin praised her as exemplary. Advertisement Judge Jackson is supremely qualified and has the disposition necessary to be the next Supreme Court justice, Manchin added. If Jackson can win the support of all 50 Senate Democrats, she will win confirmation because Vice President Kamala Harris could cast a tie-breaking vote. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), another moderate, has not yet announced her support, but few expect her to balk. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, March 3, 2022. (Mariam Zuhaib/AP) Jackson also hopes to win the votes of perhaps a couple of Republicans, including Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), who voted to confirm her to an appeals court post just last year. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has clearly indicated his vote in the negative. After studying the nominees record and watching her performance this week, I cannot and will not support Judge Jackson for a lifetime appointment to our highest court. While the Senate minority leaders opposition was not unexpected, his declaration will probably lead many fellow Republicans to follow suit. The committee vote is expected on April 4, followed by a vote in the full Senate by April 8 when Congress is scheduled to leave town for an Easter recess. Democrats can confirm Jackson without any GOP support in the 50-50 Senate, in which Vice President Kamala Harris would cast the tie-breaking vote. WASHINGTON A coalition of 32 public interest groups wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee this week, targeting the pending appointment of corporate lawyer Jennifer Rearden as a judge for the Southern District of New York. Rearden, a partner at law firm Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, has sparked the groups opposition because of her firms hard-nosed work on behalf of well-heeled clients, often including major tobacco and oil companies. One judge branded the firms tactics as legal thuggery. Advertisement The letter cites her controversial casework: helping Uber and other ride-hailing companies weaken rules meant to help disabled people, fighting a discrimination case by a disabled AIDS patient against the LeFrak Organization, and a case that let city charter schools pay workers below the prevailing wage. Reardens record litigating cases defending housing discrimination, seeking to overturn worker protections, and challenging improved access to transportation for wheelchair users makes her unsuitable for this appointment, says the letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Richard Durbin (D-Ill.). Advertisement Jennifer Rearden, a corporate lawyer being considered as a judge for the Southern District. (Jeff Weiner) The TLC case especially angered Joseph Rappaport, the executive director of the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled, which fought for a rule to guarantee e-hail ride companies had enough vehicles to transport disabled passengers. It wasnt as much as we wanted, but it was a compromise and a good start. But Uber couldnt put up with that, and nor could Jennifer Rearden, Rappaport told the News. This is not a case where somebody is defending a beleaguered client who otherwise would go defenseless. This was an aggressive move on the part of Uber and Lyft and other companies to kill a very simple rule that would have made it easier for people who use wheelchairs to get around New York City. He noted the contrast between Rearden and President Bidens current Supreme Court nominee, Ketanji Brown Jackson, who was once a public defender who did extensive legal work for indigent clients. Rearden doesnt fit this description, Rappaport said. Im sure her firm has done pro bono work, but this is not pro bono work... She represented a very well-financed company that was pushing back against a good program that would have made it easier for disabled people to get around town. According to the question she filled out to accompany her nomination when Trump first selected her, Rearden first expressed an interest in being a judge in 2016 to Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). According to federal election records, Rearden has donated nearly $40,000 to Gillibrands political campaigns, including more than $24,300 since 2016. Shes also ponied up for Rudy Giuliani and Chris Christie, the latter of which her firm represented in the Bridgegate scandal. The high-powered lawyer was also vetted by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumers office before Trump named her. Biden renominated her in January. Schumers office did not comment on the new push to block the appointment while Gillibrands office stood by the pick. Advertisement Jennifer Reardens extensive knowledge of federal law and record of accomplishment will make her a tremendous asset to the Southern District of New York, said Gillibrand spokesman Evan Lukaske. Sen. Gillibrand was proud to recommend her to the president and expects she will receive a swift confirmation. The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on Rearden and several other nominees earlier this month, where none of the issues raised by the progressive groups came up. The committee has not yet voted on the nomination. The 32 groups opposing Rearden include such venerable advocacy organizations as the New York Public Interest Research Group, New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, and Housing Works are hopeful the Senate Judiciary Committee or the White House reconsiders. President Biden has committed to nominating judges that represent the best of America and whose legal experiences have been historically underrepresented on the federal bench, including those who are public defenders, civil rights and legal aid attorneys, and those who represent Americans in every walk of life, says their letter. Based on a review of her own litigation record and her firms representation of corporate interests opposed to the interests of everyday Americans, we believe Reardens confirmation would accomplish the opposite of the presidents laudable aspiration. Sorry, Lord Vladimir. Amid his countrys bloody assault on Ukraine, Russian president Vladimir Putin tried to play the role of victim Friday by trotting out the cancel culture cliche and invoking the name of Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling. Rowling wanted no part of it. Advertisement In a speech delivered Friday, Putin reportedly told viewers in Russia that sanctions against his nation are unfair. They canceled Joanne Rowling recently the childrens author, her books are published all over the world just because she didnt satisfy the demands of gender rights, he said. They are now trying to cancel our country. Im talking about the progressive discrimination of everything to do with Russia. Advertisement J.K. Rowling appears at the world premiere of the film "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" in Paris on Nov. 8, 2018. (Christophe Ena/AP) Rowlings position on transgender issues has caused considerable backlash among fans and actors associated with the Harry Potter franchise. Her books continue to be available on Amazon and shes active on Twitter, where she responded to Putin Friday. Critiques of Western cancel culture are possibly not best made by those currently slaughtering civilians for the crime of resistance, or who jail and poison their critics, Rowling wrote. [ J.K. Rowling reveals past traumatic experiences in response to transphobic allegations ] Critiques of Western cancel culture are possibly not best made by those currently slaughtering civilians for the crime of resistance, or who jail and poison their critics. #IStandWithUkraine https://t.co/aNItgc5aiW J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) March 25, 2022 Putins forces wrapped up their first month of violence against civilian populations in Ukraine on Friday. While their ramped-up assaults have reportedly become less discriminant, the Russian military has by most accounts underperformed substantially while the Ukrainian resistance is said to have regained ground in recent days. Breaking News As it happens Get updates on the coronavirus pandemic and other news as it happens with our free breaking news email alerts. > Love from Ukraine! tweeted one of Rowlings supporters. She responded And love back to you. And love back to you https://t.co/IpLD3ilAkK J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) March 25, 2022 Earlier this month, Russian Director of the Foreign Intelligence Service Sergei Naryshkin used rhetoric similar to that invoked by Putin to whine that his country is being treated unfairly because it chose to invade a neighboring nation. We are talking about attempts to destroy our state its cancellation, as it is now customary to say in a tolerant liberal-fascist environment, he said. [ J.K. Rowling fires off more transphobic tweets, gets called out ] Footage from right-wing media outlets like Fox News where the cancel culture trope is used ad nauseam is frequently recycled by Russian state television to support Putins war efforts. Advertisement If you take the United States, only Fox News is trying to present some alternative point of view, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said last week. Rowling wrote about children trapped in orphanages as the hidden victims in the war on Ukraine Friday. The author worth a billion dollars by some accounts announced in that post that she would be matching donations up to 1m made to her Lukos childrens charity to help kids in the war-torn nation. A Medicaid pharmacy carve-out threatens health Buffalo: The COVID-19 pandemic proved that public health is fragile. Its critical that we preserve systems that provide quality health care at an affordable price. Unfortunately, legislative efforts in Albany threaten these vital social safety nets, putting the health of nearly 5 million New Yorkers at risk. (Steve Heap/Getty Images/iStockphoto) The New York Medicaid programs pharmacy services allow many providers, including Ryan White recipients and Federally Qualified Health Centers, to offer patients lower prescription drug costs. This often includes people of color, refugees, people living with HIV/AIDS and the LGBTQ+ community. A proposal to separate or carve out pharmacy services from Medicaid made its way into former Gov. Cuomos budget in 2020, but thanks to strong opposition from the public and many advocacy groups, the carve-out was delayed until April 2023. As we approach this deadline, we must act to protect New Yorks Medicaid beneficiaries before its too late. Advertisement A carve-out will disrupt prescription drug coverage for Medicaid patients and their families, forcing them to switch prescriptions, pharmacies and medical routines, putting their health at great risk. We cannot place an added burden on New Yorks most vulnerable people. Also, New York taxpayers would be saddled with a tremendous financial burden. Similar measures in other states have pushed Medicaid patients toward higher-priced medications, sticking taxpayers with the higher costs. In New York, this and other factors would cost taxpayers a staggering $1.5 billion in increased costs over five years. Our representatives in Albany would be wise to reject the proposal. Paul Thomas, pastor, Bethel AME Church, and Mitchell Taylor, bishop and senior pastor, Center of Hope International Public funds Brandon, Ore.: Hey Daily News, re your editorial concerning Gov. Hochul and the Buffalo Bills (The bill for the Bills, March 23): Where do these snake-tongued politicians get off saying that they will not negotiate in public? Why not? Whose money does she think it is? Its the peoples money our tax dollars! We, the public, have every right to know how our money is being handled and negotiated. I get the feeling that she thinks tax dollars are in her personal wallet. William DAndrea Advertisement And the winner is... Monroe, N.J.: Bravo to the Republicans on the Judiciary Committee for oh, the drama, the angst, the outrage at the hearings for Supreme Court justice nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson. As they try to catch the spotlight for possible presidential runs, GOP senators put on dramatic skills worthy of an Oscar award. We had Sen. Ted Cruz using markers on charts (remember how well that went over!), showing off his math skills and holding up books, illustrating his literary prowess. Sen. Josh Hawley took sensational liberties with the facts of Jacksons sentencing practices, almost begging her to explain the law to him very emotional indeed! But the award has to go to Sen. Lindsey Graham for his melodramatic walk out of the proceedings. You could almost hear the organ music wail as he made his departure! Once again, the Republicans play to the melodrama to focus on their needs and not the good of the country. Katherine A. Moloney Triggered Brooklyn: Its a sight to behold: members of the most powerful social and political class in America, white men, terrified at the prospect of an intelligent, strong Black woman on the Supreme Court. Herman Kolender Dubious claims Flushing: Many thanks to Voicer Joseph Dupont for providing us with secret information about the nefarious activities of the CIA et al in their quest to undermine the Ukrainian genocide that is currently underway. Please crawl back under the rock from which you emerged and tell your keepers to keep up the good work in the art of making up fairy tales for the amusement of the gullible. Lester Simon Gasbag The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > Barefoot Bay, Fla.: President Biden stated on TV that all Americans should drive a Prius. Did he realize that the Prius is made by Toyota, a non-union company? Did he realize that a plug-in Prius only gets 25 miles on battery, then the gas engine kicks in? Why doesnt he drive an all-electric car back and forth to his home in Delaware? Is his government helicopter a plug-in electric version? I heard that Air Force One burns seven gallons of fuel a second. When will that be converted to all-electric? Richard Moran Endemic phase Bronx: To Voicer Steve Howell: First of all, you are not a spoiled brat if you dont wear a mask or get a vaccine. Masks do not stop the spread of the virus and people are still getting COVID while fully vaccinated and boosted. Its a virus. You cant stop it. Lets move on. Timothy Sullivan Fat stance Port Jefferson Station, L.I.: Puhleeze, Voicer Fatima Cody Stanford! You left out, The Devil made me do it from your excuse-filled reason we have so many way-overweight people. There is a small percentage of people who have mental health issues re eating, but they are extremely few. Most extra-sized people just eat too much food, especially high-calorie junk foods. Simple body physics: If you intake more calories than you burn, you will gain weight. Stop eating high-calorie food, eat in moderation and you will see weight loss. Grow up and take responsibility for yourself. Bob Cavaliere Personal choices Brooklyn: Criminals are in and out multiple times. How about Jumaane Williams or DA Alvin Bragg either put up the bail or do the time for them? No one is forcing them to break the law. If they spent their energy looking for a job instead of trying to get on Instagram with a gun and a handful of money they stole, they wouldnt have the time to get in trouble. Idle time is the devils workshop. Leighton Perkins Big job New Rochelle, N.Y.: Greetings to newly appointed NYC Transit President Richard Davey. May your stay be long and productive. However, I offer this greeting with some advice. Transit has lost a large segment of experienced and talented personnel over the past several years and bus and subway riders have suffered from those losses. Please do all that you can to retain the experienced personnel who remain. They will be instrumental in supporting you as you work to improve services for millions of riders on North Americas largest mass transit system. Get out and ride from White Plains Road to the Rockaways and onto Staten Island. You will see what front-line workers and riders experience every day. A fresh set of eyes on an existing problem never hurt. Observe but dont make a press event of your trips. Good luck! Charles Seaton Advertisement Investment opportunity Manhattan: To Voicer Heward Johnson Jr.: I worked with chronically mentally ill adults and children for nearly 40 years. I totally agree that the community should be protected from people who commit violent acts. This problem is complex but everyone, not surprisingly (or wrongly), wants immediate solutions where there are none. Mental health services, inpatient and outpatient but especially the former, have diminished considerably over many years, contributing to the homelessness problems that often dovetails with emotional instability. In fact, as you propose, there are legal ways to mandate treatment but its not difficult to evade these services. There need to be many more inpatient mental health beds available where violent folks can be treated, as well as many more outpatient services that are combined with supportive housing programs, vocational and educational services, etc. Of course, this requires money, not to mention people being open to these services being in the community. Michael Udolf A little variation Sayville, L.I.: I dont get all the people who are against daylight saving time. Many people, at least once or twice a month, go to bed way past an hour later than usual go to a show, sporting event, party, bar, etc. Never a peep. If they need to, they sleep later. Whats the big deal? One day a year and you know its coming. People just love to complain. Leave things as there are. Its a nice ritual; breaks up the monotony. Michael Hooker Dear Former Gov. Cuomo: Ive seen you sticking your feet back in the waters of public life with some high-profile speeches and ads. It reminded me of something. Today marks the two-year anniversary of your March 25, 2020, directive forcing nursing homes to admit COVID-19-positive patients at a time when, lacking the proper resources such as basic staffing, PPE and infection control processes, the homes were not adequately equipped to do so. Advertisement Can we talk about that, please? I know youd rather attack Attorney General Tish James for what you view as a political hit job. But the nursing home mandate is painful and personal to me, because I believe it led directly to the death of my father, Norman Arbeeny. My father was in Cobble Hill Nursing Home in Brooklyn for reasons unrelated to COVID, and less than 24 hours after we took him home, he became sick. He passed away before his COVID-19 test came back positive. Because he died at home, his death was never included in the nursing home death toll, even though that was clearly where he contracted the virus. Instead of admitting the March 25 directive which the Health Department reversed was a mistake, so that we could all learn and grow, you and your administration proceeded to falsify nursing home death numbers. State Comptroller Tom DiNapolis newly released audit shows the multiple ways your Health Department intentionally hid the true number of deaths from the public and failed to account for approximately 4,100 lives lost due to COVID-19 in nursing homes. DiNapoli said, Our audit findings are extremely troubling. The public was misled by those at the highest level of state government through distortion and suppression of the facts when New Yorkers deserved the truth. Advertisement Dr. Howard Zucker, left, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, listens to Gov. Andrew Cuomo discuss the state's preparedness for the spread of coronavirus during a news conference on March 2, 2020 in New York. (Mark Lennihan/AP) It is clear from the comptrollers report that playing with the numbers made New Yorks performance look better than other states while helping boost your reputation as a bold pandemic warrior and ultimately sell copies of American Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic. Not that so many were sold. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > Yet when my family was denied answers by your administration, we spoke up loudly and demonstrated. Your spokesman accused us of being right-wing agitators. Do you really stand by that? Even though our feelings were hurt, we invited you to our fathers family home in Brooklyn multiple times, to discuss our beloved father and the way for families like us to receive empathy from our governor. We only wanted closure and to make sure something like this could never happen again. It didnt happen. Instead of visiting my family in Brooklyn this anniversary month, you visited a church in Brooklyn to complain about being a victim of cancel culture. You apologized for being unaware that your behavior towards the women who accused you of sexual misconduct was politically incorrect. But you still havent frankly apologized for the nursing home debacle. Maybe then, as you say God isnt finished with you yet, the surviving families are not finished with you yet. To add insult to injury, on your church visit, you called the attorney generals report on your conduct a politically motivated sham. Thats ironic, because the real sham was your July 6 Health Department report that the comptrollers audit found to be full of politically motivated lies and inaccuracies. The pot shouldnt call the kettle black without being at least a little bit embarrassed. My family, along with others, had a deeply emotional meeting with Gov. Hochul in her office in October 2021. We all cried together. She was empathetic and apologized for your mistake. Kudos to her. I couldnt help but think that this should have been you. It could still be you. Come meet our family at our fathers home. Come and let us know that while you cant undo your March 2020 directive, you truly and deeply care for the grieving family members and for all those that were lost instead of issuing comments such as, Who cares [where they died]? They died! which displayed a terrible lack of empathy and compassion. The truth, Gov. Cuomo, is you obviously cared where they died because you and your staff purposefully misled the public about it. Arbeeny is a Cobble Hill resident. He and his brother Daniel lost their father, Norman Arbeeny, who contracted COVID-19 while in a nursing home. For more than two years, seasoned Manhattan prosecutors, working with two grand juries, investigated Donald Trumps finances, coming to the firm conclusion that the former president has committed numerous crimes. But when prosecutors Mark Pomerantz and Carey Dunne recommended an indictment earlier this year, Alvin Bragg, the newly elected Manhattan district attorney, rejected their advice. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Donald Trump. (Gardiner Anderson and AP /for New York Daily News) There is no reason for Braggs cold feet to be the end of the efforts to prosecute Trump and perhaps his confederates because New York Constitution and state statutes provide a simple way to revive this moribund criminal investigation. And there is nothing Bragg can do to stop it. Advertisement All Gov. Hochul needs to do is exercise her authority under Article 63, Section 2 of New Yorks executive law to remove Bragg and appoint state Attorney General Letitia James to take over the case. Although such action is rare, the governors authority to replace any county district attorney with the state attorney general is nearly unfettered, New York states highest court held in 1997. That case arose because Gov. George Pataki removed Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson from prosecuting a murder case. A similar action was taken a half-century ago following the Knapp Commission investigation into New York Police Department corruption. Advertisement Richard Briffault, a Columbia University law professor whose specialty is constitutional law, told me that the governors authority to take the case away from Bragg is beyond dispute. It is clear under the state Constitution, state law and state judicial precedent that the governor has the power to direct the state attorney general to take over criminal cases like this, Briffault said after reviewing the relevant law and judicial rulings. Asked for comment, Hochuls spokesperson has not responded. John Moscow, in the last century a legendary white-collar prosecutor under then-District Attorney Robert Morgenthau, said that Hochul should promptly appoint James to take control of the case. His view, like mine, is based on Pomerantzs resignation letter. Published Wednesday in The New York Times, it essentially says that despite what the veteran prosecutor insists is a strong, provable case, Bragg feared losing at trial. In his resignation letter, Pomerantz wrote: Donald Trump is guilty of numerous felony violations of the Penal Law in connection with the preparation and use of his annual Statements of Financial Condition. His financial statements were false, and he has a long history of fabricating information relating to his personal finances and lying about his assets to banks, the national media, counterparties, and many others, including the American people. The investigating team harbors no doubt about whether he committed crimes he did, Pomerantz wrote. We have evidence sufficient to establish Mr. Trumps guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and we believe that the prosecution would prevail, Pomerantz continued. Whatever the risks of bringing the case may be, I am convinced that a failure to prosecute will pose much greater risks in terms of public confidence in the fair administration of justice. As I have suggested to you, respect for the rule of law, and the need to reinforce the bedrock proposition that no man is above the law, require that this prosecution be brought even if a conviction is not certain. Advertisement The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > No former president has ever been prosecuted or even indicted for crimes, making the political stakes for Bragg significant. Perhaps he worries about looking like hes embarking on a partisan crusade. But district attorneys take an oath to seek justice, not to protect their own political fortunes. James is already pursuing a parallel civil case and has filed court papers making it clear that her team has solid evidence of financial misconduct by Trump. She also loaned attorneys to the Manhattan prosecution team. The order appointing the attorney general has to be carefully written, Moscow cautioned. He said it would need to be worded to give broad authority to investigate all criminal matters involving Trump, the Trump Organization and Trump employees and agents. That would likely include the former presidents three oldest children, Don Jr., Ivanka and Eric, all of whom worked for the Trump Organization. But in my view as a Trump biographer and law lecturer at Syracuse University College of Law who has followed the man for more than a third of a century and documented many of his illicit financial dealings, to drop this case would be a tragedy and an offense to the notion of equal justice for all. Many people are in prison today for much less serious offenses than Trump has committed and were convicted on much less substantial evidence. The Pomerantz letter focused on falsifying business records, which can be a felony punishable by a year in prison. But James could bring a broader case under New York States anti-racketeering law. Lets hope that Hochul does her duty, so we learn the facts in a trial. Advertisement Johnston is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and editor-in-chief at DCReport.org. His latest Trump book is The Big Cheat. Cleavage, legs and lots of glitter. Thats what fashionistas and stylists are expecting Sunday when the stars dress up and walk down the red carpet at the 94th Academy Awards. After two years when much of the world has lived in sweatpants and awards ceremonies have been virtual or subdued, its time for Tinseltown to live up to its nickname. Advertisement I think that after two years of lockdowns, there will be a need to make a statement, New York-based fashion designer Jasmine Chong told the Daily News. Itll be exciting to see the energy displayed on the carpet. Even if something is in a more pared down silhouette, itll be glittering. Actress Nicole Kidman arrives for the 90th Annual Academy Awards on March 4, 2018, in Hollywood. (VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) Last years awards show, delayed until April, saw a scaled-down red carpet at Union Station in Los Angeles. Advertisement Stylists expect this years show, to be held at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, to take a dramatic turn. They are dying to get out ... if the red carpets from the last few weeks are anything to go by, you can see that there is plenty of pent-up glamour and unworn dresses waiting for the big finale on Sunday, said New York-based fashion and style expert Zanna Roberts Rassi. What should we expect to see? Skin is in, Rassi said, adding that Barely-there looks have featured heavily on celebrities and on the runways of late. ... We are seeing corsetry making a big return, so with that said, here comes the return of shoulders and cleavage. Best actress and supporting actress nominees Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Kirsten Dunst will be the most closely watched stars, the stylists said. Penelope Cruz attends the 92nd Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on Feb. 9, 2020 in Hollywood. (KEVORK DJANSEZIAN/Getty Images) Fashion designer and television personality Richie Rich told The News that hes looking forward to seeing what Cruz, nominated for best actress in Parallel Mothers, and best supporting actress nominee Dunst, for Power of the Dog, will don. I think Penelope Cruz [is] always ... shes such a stunner. I think she usually shows up in Chanel but I always look forward to seeing her on the carpet. Its gonna be [interesting] to see what Kirsten Dunst wears because I feel like shes an indie kind of girl, said Rich, who has guest-judged on reality TV competitions Project Runway and Top Model. And dont dismiss the men. Male actors have recently dressed to impress, and best actor and supporting nominees Andrew Garfield, Kodi Smit-McPhee and Will Smith will not disappoint, they said. Advertisement Kirsten Dunst arrives on the red carpet for the 89th Oscars on February 26, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > They have slightly stolen the spotlight recently. Were seeing a whole new way of men dressing up and its fun and inspiring to watch, said Rassi, who is also the brand ambassador for Afterpay, a retail installment payments app. Expect the stars makeup to be dramatic and bold. Rich, who is launching a makeup platform called btykwn.com for tweens, teen and queens, advised the stars to just go for it, makeup-wise. My feeling is all the looks for the Oscars should be very makeup-fied. Like if youre gonna go pink, go neon pink. Give it a pop, because ... they havent been doing anything lately. Just really go for it. Dont go on the safe edge. Go on the glitter edge, hello? Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas for Alec Baldwin even though the Rust tragedy still looms over his head. The embattled actor and producer is reportedly in Rome, working on his first movie projects since his involvement with last year fatal shooting on the New Mexico set of Rust. Advertisement Alec Baldwin is working on two holiday films, a report says. (Evan Agostini/Evan Agostini/Invision/AP) According to the Italian news service ANSA, Baldwin has two Italian Christmas-themed movies: the live-action/animated Kid Santa and Billies Magic World produced by Andrea Iervolino and Monika Bacardi underway. No plot details are available for either film. Known for lower-budget projects, the pair have made many straight-to-streaming films attracting Hollywood talent such as Mark Rylance, Robert Pattinson, Johnny Depp (Waiting for the Barbarians), Antonio Banderas (Black Butterfly) and Sarah Jessica Parker (All Roads Lead to Rome) Advertisement The outlet reported that Baldwin will share the screen with his younger brother Billy. The brothers will appear in the live-action segments of the live-action and animation-hybrid family comedies, Deadline confirmed. Baldwin is still awaiting the findings of a criminal investigation buy New Mexico authorities into the Oct. 21 shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. No criminal charges have been filed in the case but Baldwin and other producers on the Western film are facing several civil lawsuits, including one filed by the late filmmakers husband Matthew Hutchins. Amy Schumer is done keeping this secret after sharing it with every viewer of her new Hulu show. The comic and writer, director, and star of Life & Beth is opening up about using the new, semi-autobiographical show as the way in which shed tell the world she suffers from trichotillomania also known as hair-pulling disorder. Advertisement I think everybody has a big secret and thats mine, the native New Yorker, 40, told The Hollywood Reporter in an interview published Friday. Amy Schumer in "Life & Beth." ( Jeong Park/ HULU) Im proud that my big secret only hurts me but its been what Ive carried so much shame about for so long, said Schumer, who this Sunday will co-host the Oscars with Regina Hall and Wanda Sykes. Advertisement Another parallel to the titular Beth that Schumer once experienced was having pulled out so much hair, she needed a wig before going back to school and everybody knew. She recalled that she first started experiencing trichotillomania when her family was upended by her fathers multiple sclerosis and bankruptcy, and her mothers decision to leave him for the married father of Schumers best friend. Schumer said that trichotillomania is still something that I struggle with, and she worries son Gene, 2, could as well. Every time he touches his head Im having a heart attack, she told THR. Noting that she does not want to have a big secret anymore, Schumer said she thought putting it in [the show] would be good for me to alleviate some of my shame and maybe, hopefully, help others alleviate some of theirs too. Air force aviation brigade conducts night flight training China Military Online) 16:25, March 25, 2022 A fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade under the PLA Air Force soars into the sky in a flight training exercise on March 8, 2022. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Cui Baoliang) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) The award-season success of the film CODA continues to delight the deaf community and inspire hope for future projects. CODA, a heartfelt drama centering on a child of deaf adults, is nominated for three Oscars at Sundays Academy Awards, and is considered among the favorites for best picture after winning top honors at the Screen Actors Guild Awards and Producers Guild of America Awards. Advertisement The Oscar nominations are a historic milestone and an incredible elevation for everyone in the deaf community, says Howard Rosenblum, CEO of the National Association of the Deaf. He hopes CODA leads to change, saying the Oscars have rewarded actors without disabilities for mimicking people with disabilities in the past. With this nomination for CODA as Best Picture, we are hopeful that this means a shift within the Oscars and the movie industry in how they approach casting as well as how stories are told about deaf people and people with disabilities, he wrote in an email to the Daily News. Advertisement Troy Kotsur (left) and Marlee Matlin in "CODA." (AP) Directed by Sian Heder, CODA follows a teenage girl who is the only hearing member of her working-class family. She dreams of going to music school, but struggles with the idea of leaving her close-knit clan. The film, now streaming on Apple TV+, features deaf actors portraying deaf characters, with Marlee Matlin, Troy Kotsur and Daniel Durant among the main cast. CODA is the first movie since Children of a Lesser God that puts the lives of deaf people on the large screen in a meaningful way, Rosenblum wrote. The association, founded in 1880, is a nonprofit organization run by deaf people to advocate for deaf rights. There have been a number of movies with deaf roles, but rarely do they showcase deaf culture and deaf people interacting with one another in everyday life. CODA brought out the unique experiences of deaf families that have hearing children, and shared this common story with the American public for the first time. Troy Kotsur won supporting actor honors at the SAG Awards in February. (Chris Pizzello/Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) [ CODA stars Emilia Jones, Marlee Matlin on portraying deaf culture authentically in new movie ] Matlin won an Oscar in 1987 for her performance as a janitor working at a school for deaf students in Children of a Lesser God, making her the first deaf performer to receive an Academy Award. Kotsur would become the second if he wins best supporting actor Sunday for his portrayal of the CODA family patriarch. He won equivalent honors at the SAG Awards and Critics Choice Movie Awards. The Daily News Flash Weekdays Catch up on the days top five stories every weekday afternoon. > Troy Kotsur is a phenomenal actor who was able in CODA to beautifully portray a father who is struggling to accept that his hearing daughter wants to leave the family business and go to college to pursue a musical career, Rosenblum wrote. It is important to note that while the character is deaf, Troy as an actor went beyond just being a deaf person and showed the incredible range of emotions befitting such a role. Last summer, Matlin told the Daily News that CODA marked the first time shed felt 110% liberation on a movies set. Advertisement I could really spread my wings. There were no barriers. There were no communication conflicts. There was nothing of that sort, Matlin said. Everyone was in this game together. We knew what we wanted to make, which was a great film. We wanted to portray the authenticity of deaf people. We wanted to be honest, tell a good story. Daniel Durant, Marlee Matlin and Troy Kotsur (left to right) in CODA." (Apple TV+) CODA, which is also up for best adapted screenplay at Sundays ceremony, would become the first film predominantly about deaf people to win an Oscar. Rosenblum says his organization, which advocates for the rights of deaf people and people who are hard of hearing, is rooting for CODA and Kotsur to take home trophies. We hope that this film will lead to more movies and shows about Deaf people, and include them in the writing, direction and production of those stories, Rosenblum said. For the stories to be truly authentic, deaf people need to be involved in all aspects from beginning to end. Jimmy Smits is going back to his roots for his next big gig. The Brownsville, Brooklyn-reared Hollywood veteran is set to star in the pilot for the upcoming CBS series, East New York, about a neighboring rough-and-tumble neck of the woods. Advertisement Jimmy Smits has a new TV gig. (VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) Smits will star as Chief John Suarez, who with and experience, commanding presence and strong moral center helps oversee the bridging of communities and the cops that serve them. The new role brings the Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner and Latino television trailblazer back to primetime police dramas; he previously starred in the ABC drama series NYPD Blue. Advertisement As attorney Victor Sifuentes in the 1980s NBC drama series L.A. Law, the Thomas Jefferson High School alum broke ground as a Latino role model on primetime television. The East New York pilot was co-written by Mike Flynn and William Finkelstein and will focus on a newly promoted deputy inspector leading a group of police officers and detectives not quick to adapt to her creative methods of serving and protecting the impoverished, working-class neighborhood at the eastern edge of Brooklyn. Amanda Warren has been cast to lead series as Regina Haywood, whose plot takes place amid social unrest and early signs of gentrification. Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Richard Kind, Kevin Rankin, Olivia Luccardi, Lavel Schley and Elizabeth Rodriguez have also been cast. Smits, who was most recently seen in the film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Mirandas In the Heights, is also known for his work in series such as Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Sons of Anarchy and Dexter among others. Crowned King of Brooklyn in 1991 during the Welcome Back to Brooklyn Festival, the Brooklyn College graduate roots run deep in The Thorough Borough. So hes perfect for the new role. Im just a Puerto Rican kid from Brooklyn, who was determined to follow his dream and chase passion, Smits said during his acceptance speech for the 2,696th star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame last summer. Reality TV star Teresa Giudice was hospitalized this week and is now recovering. The Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member, 49, is in recovery, currently resting, after she was admitted for an emergency medical procedure on Wednesday, a representative for the reality star told E! News Thursday. Advertisement Following the non-cosmetic surgery, Giudices rep said she is recuperating and is looking forward to speedy recovery. Teresa Giudice (STEVEN FERDMAN/AFP via Getty Images) Giudice shared posts from others who were sending prayers on her Instagram Stories Friday. Advertisement She thanks everyone for their prayers and well wishes, the TV personalitys rep told E!. Giudices eldest daughter Gia posted a photo of her mother, masked and in her hospital bed, Thursday, captioned: Such a trooper I love you. Pray for a speedy recovery. Giudices ex-husband Joe shared the same photo to his account, asking followers to please pray for Teresa as shes been admitted to the hospital. Giudices rep did not immediately respond to the Daily News request for comment. Many Floridians have scoffed in disbelief at all the homebuying competition posed by out-of-state newcomers, and a new study shows just how eager they are to remove the welcome mat. Over 73% of Floridians polled believe that too many people have moved in from out of state, according to a survey from Mphasis Digital Risk, a tech company for residential real estate lending. Advertisement You are starting to see people getting really priced out of the market, or migration happening within the state itself to more affordable areas, said Kim Lanham, senior vice president of Florida based Digital Risk. Its this perfect storm, if you will, of a housing crisis. [ RELATED: South Florida housing prices are astronomical. But are cities upstate really a better deal? ] Over 1,000 Florida homeowners were surveyed between Feb. 6 and Feb. 7 on their opinions on out-of-state buyers moving to the area, whether they would consider moving to another state or different part of Florida and if they had been asked to sell their home. Advertisement The influx of out-of-state buyers hasnt changed how the vast majority of polled Florida homeowners feel about their state. Forty percent said it did change how they feel, with 60% saying it did not. The frustrations of many Floridians who have often been priced out of the real estate market over the past two years were laid out in the survey, with many saying they were thinking about leaving the state entirely or moving to a different area in the state where prices might be more affordable. The housing market has put so much pressure on Floridians that many of them are contemplating leaving the state entirely. When asked if they were considering moving to a different state, 51% of homeowners said they were thinking about it. And 67% of respondents said they were thinking about moving to a different part of the state. For those living in Miami Dade County, 10% said they would consider moving. For those living in Broward County, 10% said they would consider moving to a different part of the state. And for those living in Palm Beach County, 5% said they would consider moving to a different area in Florida. Its no surprise that out-of-staters have come around to the benefits of living in the Sunshine State, said Jeffrey C. Taylor, co-founder and managing director of Mphasis Digital Risk and a board member of the Mortgage Bankers Association. Weather, family, amenities and taxes, in that order, are the chief reasons homeowners cited for living here. However, its clear that the states booming popularity may force longtime residents to rethink living in their communities or even Florida itself. And high real-estate prices were a large reason for respondents wanting to move, with 46% of Floridians pointing out how expensive real estate has become. [ RELATED: State of the market: South Florida home prices soar as inventory dwindles ] Real estate prices have soared in South Florida, with little signs of a slowdown on the horizon. Advertisement The latest numbers from the Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors show that the median sale price of homes in South Florida skyrocketed in February compared to the year before. In Palm Beach County, the median sale price of a home jumped 19% to $535,000. While in Broward County, the median sale price jumped 19% to $519,000. Similarly in Miami-Dade County, the median sale price of a home jumped 19% to $536,000. Its probably going to be another two years before things start to level out and catch up, added Lanham. It takes a while for developers to go through the building process. This weekend at Camping World Stadium, Garth Brooks will likely discover that he has lots of friends in low places, but also high places as his fans pack into the Orlando outdoor venue. The country superstars March 26 show is nearly sold out and will have an anticipated record-breaking attendance, surpassing any previous concert at the stadium, with around 70,000 people set to join for his in-the-round performance. During his only Florida appearance scheduled for this year, rather than playing to just one side of Camping World Stadium, Brooks will have an audience on all sides of the stage. Advertisement You get to stand on the stage and hear the crowd from right in the middle of it. If cool can be even cooler, if awesome can be even more awesome, its amazing, that feeling. Anywhere you turn sounds nice, said Brooks at a Camping World Stadium news conference the day before his show. Well work the sides of the stage really hard because our job is to make everybody feel like youre playing for them. As Brooks has done with other shows, he chose to sell his Orlando tickets at a set price regardless of the seat. This way, he said, nobody can feel superior to other fans just because they had money to shell out for up-close floor seats. Advertisement Garth Brooks performs for a sold-out crowd in Jacksonville in 2014. Brooks is back and performing stadium shows, this time at Camping World Stadium on Saturday night. (Fran Ruchalski, Special to the S) Its for mom and dad. If Im sitting with mom and the kid goes, Hey mom, how come were not sitting down there? and the answer is, We cant afford it. That breaks my heart, he said. Its the luck of the draw. They throw everyones name in the hat and you get your chance when you get your chance. Nobody is lesser or greater than anyone, were all one here. After all, Brookss fans are his primary motivation to keep performing and continuing his successful, storied career as a musician in which he has become one of the bestselling solo artists in U.S. history. Somebody might say, We used your song at a wedding. Somebody says they buried their son to, The Dance. The Grammys are cool, but the sweet part is getting to be a part of peoples lives, he said. I think of the music thats a part of mine, like James Taylor or George Strait. I worship those guys. Its very sweet to think that someone else might feel like that toward my music. Garth Brooks answers questions ahead of his Orlando stadium show during a press conferenceat Camping World Stadium on Friday, March 25, 2022. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel) Things to Do Weekly A look at entertainment and sporting events in Orlando and around Central Florida. > And though Brooks doesnt identify just as a country artist, finding influences with musicians from Bob Seger to Elton John and Queen, he does find that his music resonates with everyday people. Country music is the voice of the common man. [Merle] Haggard was known as the common mans poet. Country music touches on stuff that me and you go through every day, he said. These people have allowed me to just kind of be me, where I throw everything into the pot and whatever comes out, comes out. In his long career of performing, Brooks has made a number of Orlando appearances but finds a special connection with Central Florida in retracing his roots. The Barn in Sanford, Florida, was the third gig we ever played. Five of the guys that are going to be on stage here were there at The Barn, Brooks said. Our drummer is from Plant City. This is always like coming home for us. Of course, Brooks and his crew couldnt resist making a stop at Walt Disney World ahead of his stadium show. Advertisement I think there were 95 of us out there. Im amazed at the size of the crew that has to put this thing on, but I know every one of them, he said. We all had the same problem and about lost our cookies on the Millennium Falcon ride. Find me @PConnPie on Twitter and Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com. For more fun things, follow @fun.things.orlando on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. State and local officials are investigating after a 14-year-old boy visiting Orlando from Missouri fell to his death late Thursday while riding the Orlando Free Fall at ICON Park, a tragedy captured in a horrific video that was widely shared online in the hours that followed. We cant imagine the pain and anguish that his family must be going through, Orange County Sheriff John Mina told reporters during an afternoon press conference Friday. Our victim advocates have been in contact with the family and helping them through this ordeal. Advertisement Mina identified the boy as Tyre Sampson. Deputies responded to the attraction at 8433 International Drive at 11:12 p.m. Thursday, taking Tyre to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children where he was pronounced dead, the Sheriffs Office said. Mina said absolutely no criminal charges have been filed, though the agency is still determining whether the incident was an accident or an intentional act. Advertisement Based on all of our preliminary investigation and information, it appears to be a terrible tragedy but our investigation is still open, he said. All other aspects of the investigation, as far as the ride itself and safety of the ride, thats investigated by the [Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs]. John Stine, sales director with the Slingshot Group of Companies, which owns the Orlando Free Fall, said the ride would remain closed indefinitely until the investigations have concluded. We are devastated that this happened, and our hearts go out to the family, Stine said. We are cooperating with all other investigations at this time to get to the bottom of what happened. The Orlando Free Fall at ICON Park sits closed hours after a 14-year-old rider fell to his death late Thursday. (Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel) Erin Moffet, a spokesperson with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, said the division was investigating the death and had inspectors at the attraction Friday morning. She declined to comment further, citing the ongoing investigation. I offer my deepest condolences for the family of the 14-year-old boy who died following the tragic incident at Icon Park, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said in a statement. I look to receive more information about what happened in the incident and what will be done to prevent it from ever happening again. Mina said Tyre was staying with the family of a friend on his visit to Central Florida. The East St. Louis School District in Illinois said his family was believed to be relocating there for the upcoming school year and a coach for East St. Louis Senior High Schools football team shared photos of Tyre in a Facebook post mourning his death. We understand that his family had plans to move to the East St. Louis School District prior to the start of high school, said Sydney Stigge-Kaufman, the school districts executive communications director, in an email. We are very sad to hear of his tragic loss of life and wish the family grace and healing during this difficult time. Disturbing videos of the fall and its aftermath went viral on social media overnight, attracting national headlines. The footage showed Tyre falling out of his seat as the ride slowed after its drop, sending the teenager hurtling into the ground as shocked onlookers screamed. Advertisement Records released Friday by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which inspects rides at smaller amusement parks statewide, showed the drop tower passed its initial inspection Dec. 20 with no issues found. The attraction opened Dec. 28. Under state law, its next inspection would have been scheduled around six months later. Brian Avery, an independent ride safety consultant and lecturer at the University of Florida, said it is difficult to tell what led to the accident from the publicly available information. It could be a multitude of issues, either operator failure in some capacity, it could be a patron-related failure in some capacity, it could be a manufacturer defect [or] it could be a maintenance issue, he said. It will take some time to unpack through a series of investigations. Video shows moments before accident Video of the incident showed an attendant talking to a group seated on the ride before it began to climb. You know how high youre going? 430 feet, he told them. Coming down 75 miles per hour. Advertisement One woman asked why the ride had only harnesses to strap them in and no additional seatbelt. Seat belt? There aint any, the attendant said. The video showed ride-goers being slowly lifted by the tower then quickly plummeting down. As the ride was slowing down, Tyre flew out of his chair and hit the ground, the video showed. The screams of joy from ride-goers quickly turned into cries of terror. Call the ambulance! one woman yelled. Others screamed, Get us out! Get us out! As one employee rushed to help the boy, another appeared to ask the ride attendants in charge if they had checked the boys seat. Advertisement You guys are sure you checked him? she asked. We did, yeah, they responded. Orange County Fire Rescue released several 911 calls related to the incident, including from one man who told a dispatcher he saw the moment Tyre hit the ground. The [ride] went down to drop, and like, when it got closer to the bottom, when it hit the brakes, this guy fell right out of his seat and bam, straight through the chair and just flopped, he said on the call. It was the biggest smack I ever heard in my life. Another caller, who was out of breath, told a dispatcher that the ride was going and during the middle of the ride, the guy just came off. The dispatcher began to give instructions for CPR, but the caller said Tyre was already dead. Hes face down, he said. Theres blood everywhere. Hes not breathing. Ive checked his pulse, theres no pulse. Advertisement ICON Park attractions The Wheel, left, Orlando SlingShot, middle, and Orlando Free Fall, right, are shown in Orlando, Fla., on Thursday, March 24, 2022. A 14-year-old boy fell to his death from the FreeFall late Thursday. (Stephen M. Dowell/AP) Other accidents on similar attractions have been caused by harness failure or riders slipping through the restraints for reasons like not meeting height or weight requirements, Avery said. In September, a 6-year-old girl died while riding a drop tower attraction in Colorado that did not have shoulder restraints, a standard safety measure on drop tower rides, according to the Denver Post. An accident report found she died due to multiple operator errors after workers did not notice she was sitting on top of her seatbelt, the Aspen Daily News reported. While over-the-shoulder harnesses, like those used on the Orlando Free Fall, are the generally accepted practice for drop tower-type rides, ride manufacturers often install a secondary safety mechanism like a seatbelt that attaches the harness to the seat, Avery said. If the harness system fails, the safety latch or seatbelt would prevent it from rising. Avery and his father, Bill Avery, have been advocating for secondary failsafe mechanisms on amusement rides for decades, he said. But sometimes operators forgo these backup safety measures because the extra time it takes to secure and check them can result in fewer riders per hour, he said. He added that there are no state or industry standards that require rides to have these secondary mechanisms. If you look at the totality of the number of riders, its a fairly safe industry, but you never want to be that person that is involved [in an accident] because obviously, it can be a very catastrophic event, he said. Advertisement Its really a tragedy Caution tape surrounded the Orlando free-fall ride Friday morning. The seats for the ride were stopped near the top of the attraction and the park was nearly empty apart from tourists walking by. Many stopped below the 430-foot ride as they passed, taking pictures and staring. John Garbecki, 66, who is on vacation from Rhode Island to watch March Madness, shook his head as he stood below the ride. I passed by it yesterday afternoon and thought, Oh no way I would get on that unless you wanted me to have a heart attack, Garbecki said. Garbecki said he didnt hear any sirens from his hotel room but was saddened when he found out this morning. I just feel bad for his family and its really a tragedy, Garbecki said. Advertisement Another tourist, Christian Cabazon, stopped to take a picture of the ride. Cabazon, 53, is on a business trip from Chile. Cazabon said his heart is with the boys family and hopes they will keep the ride closed indefinitely. I walked passed it last night and took a quick picture for my daughters then on my way back to my hotel I heard sirens, Cazabon said. I found out this morning and cant believe it happened. A mother and daughter vacationing from Ecuador walked to the black fence on the inside perimeter of the ride to look for blood. We saw it on the news this morning so [we] took a walk from our hotel to see if we could see anything, Catherine Sotomayor, 37, said. Sotomayor and her mother are staying in the hotel right across the street from the ride. We heard sirens but, knowing what happened now, I would have expected to hear more, Sotomayor said. Advertisement Breaking News As it happens Be the first to know with email alerts on important breaking stories from the Orlando Sentinel newsroom. > The Orlando Free Fall tower rises 430 feet as the worlds tallest free-standing drop tower, according to the attraction. Thirty riders sit in the ride as it rises to the top, rotates around the tower, then tilts at 30 degrees to face the ground before a brief moment of free falling, Ritchie Armstrong, CEO of Slingshot Group, told the Orlando Sentinel in January, shortly after opening the attraction. It falls down free, detached from the tower, reaching speeds of up to 75 miles per hour before this beautiful magnetic braking system gives them a nice, smooth, slow stop, straight back down to the ground, Armstrong said. In 2020, another death occurred in ICON Park when 21-year-old worker Jacob David Kaminsky fell from the StarFlyer attraction also owned by the SlingShot Group. Kaminsky was climbing the 450-foot spinning swing ride to conduct a safety check when he accidentally fell from about 50 to 60 feet. SlingShot Group, which has been operating amusement rides in Florida since 2000, also has attractions in Kissimmee, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach. Staff writers Cristobal Reyes and Desiree Stennett contributed. Advertisement Jpedersen@orlandosentinel.com TALLAHASSEE In a case involving a man who has been on Death Row for over four decades, Attorney General Ashley Moodys office and the inmates lawyers are battling in the Florida Supreme Court about allowing DNA testing of evidence. The dispute is unusual, at least in part, because Moodys office is objecting to an agreement that Orlando-area State Attorney Monique Worrell reached last year with lawyers for Death Row inmate Henry Sireci to allow the DNA testing. Advertisement Moodys office appealed to the Supreme Court after an Orange County circuit judge issued an order approving the release of evidence for testing. In a brief filed March 4, Moodys office contended that the state attorney could not enter the agreement without the support of the attorney general, whose lawyers play a key role in death-penalty appeals. The circuit courts order in this long-final case violates Floridas comprehensive statutory and rule-based scheme governing postconviction DNA testing, a scheme that balances the state and publics interest in the finality of lawful convictions with the desire to safeguard the reliability of verdicts, the brief said. The state attorney could not unilaterally waive the requirements of that scheme: By statute, the attorney general serves as co-counsel in all capital collateral proceedings, and her express objection vitiated any purported agreement with appellee (Sireci). Advertisement But Sirecis attorneys filed a 76-page brief Thursday countering the states arguments, saying state attorneys have discretion to allow DNA testing in cases where inmates argue they are innocent. Sireci, now 73, was sentenced to death in 1976. Appellant (the state) apparently disagrees with the current state attorneys decision to allow Mr. Sireci to conduct one final round of DNA testing before the state carries out his execution, Thursdays brief said. But Florida law does not give the attorney general the right to obstruct this well-established exercise of official discretion. Sireci was sentenced to death in the 1975 murder of used-car dealer Howard Poteet, who suffered 55 stab wounds, according to court documents. Sireci, who has received legal representation from a national organization, the Innocence Project, has maintained that he did not kill Poteet. Breaking News As it happens Be the first to know with email alerts on important breaking stories from the Orlando Sentinel newsroom. > In 2010, Lawson Lamar, then the state attorney in Orange and Osceola counties, reached an agreement that allowed DNA testing in the case, but the results were inconclusive, the briefs filed this month said. Worrell agreed in May 2021 to additional DNA testing. A circuit judge authorized the testing, and Moodys office said it found out about the decision in a newspaper story. Moodys office fought the testing, but Circuit Judge Wayne Wooten issued an order in October clearing the way for evidence to be sent to laboratories for analysis. An appendix to Wootens order said the evidence included such things as hairs, a bloody denim jacket and towels. In its March 4 brief, Moodys office pointed to the importance of concluding Sirecis case. Appellees latest efforts to relitigate his conviction deny the state, the victims family, and the public finality in this brutal 1975 homicide, the brief said. Yet he has not shown and cannot show any valid basis for postconviction DNA testing. Advertisement But in the brief Thursday, Sirecis attorneys cited numerous convictions that have been overturned because of DNA testing. Most fundamentally, the interests of crime victims and the state itself are advanced not thwarted by rules that do not unduly complicate or burden a capital defendants access to DNA evidence, the brief said. Every time an innocent person is in prison or on Death Row, the person who actually committed the crime has not been brought to justice. Thus, wrongful convictions harm not just core principles of justice and due process, but the safety of the public. A Florida couple is accused of locking their adopted 14-year-old son in a cage. Timothy and Tracy Ferriter, of Jupiter, pleaded not guilty to the charges on Wednesday, WPTV reported. Advertisement Officials arrested the couple in February after the boy ran away from home. Jupiter officers said they have thousands of videos showing the teen being locked in an 8-by-8 foot structure in the couples garage, WPTV reported. Advertisement The Florida Department of Children and Families removed three other children from the home. The youngest age of the child removed was 2 years old. Read the full report on wptv.com. Kevin Patrick, whose license is suspended license, was arrested again for his 6th DUI after single-vehicle crash. (Polk County Sheriff's Office) A Central Florida man with five prior arrests for DUI picked up his 6th arrest. Polk County deputies arrested Kevin Patrick, 55, on multiple felonies after a single-vehicle crash on Thursday, according to a press release from the agency. Advertisement Deputies responded to the call around 6:10 a.m. regarding the crash in Lakeland. They arrived on scene and found a 2019 Kia Sportage laying on its roof with the drivers side rear door open, according to the release. An open container of alcohol was present, but the car was empty. Authorities found Patrick wet and covered in grass and dirt about a mile from the crash site, according to the press release. As deputies approached him, Patrick dropped a key to the Kia Sportage involved in the crash. He told deputies the key didnt belong to him; he had the keys in case someone on Facebook would report it missing. Advertisement When deputies informed him the Kia belonged to his roommate, Patrick changed his story. Officials observed Patrick smelled like alcohol, had bloodshot eyes, and spoke with a slur. Polk deputies searched Patrick and found a receipt for Circle K gas station in Lakeland. They reviewed security footage from the store, which showed Patrick, whose license was suspended in 2013, in the parking lot driving the Kia Sportage around 5:50 a.m., purchasing gas, then traveling southbound, according to the press release. With five prior DUI arrests, Patrick has been given chance after chance to change, said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. Not to mention hes not even supposed to be behind the wheel of a car because he doesnt have a valid license. He needs to stay locked up. Patrick is being held in the Polk County Jail on charges of two counts of DUI, failure to give information at a crash and two counts of driving with a suspended license. All three are felony violations. Profile: Community planner helps revitalize old buildings, memories Xinhua) 16:31, March 25, 2022 CHONGQING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- As an individual residential community is but a small plot of the urban area, many may be surprised to learn that He Shuaishuai, a PhD graduate from the University of Oxford, decided to dedicate herself to becoming the planner of one little-known community in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. He majored in heritage conservation and urban revitalization in college. After graduation, she was invited to Chongqing's Shapingba District via a local talent introduction program in 2017. She became one of Chongqing's first 13 community planners last year, also the city's only female taking up the novel career. As part of the city's public welfare service efforts, He now serves the Zhongxinwan Community in Shapingba District, helping explore solutions to better renovate and revitalize the community. Zhongxinwan used to be the residential area of the city's Special Steel Factory, where over 90 percent of its residents were factory staff and their families, said Peng Rongfu, a 69-year-old resident in the community. The factory was once regarded as Chongqing's steel industry leader and the "mother" of heavy industry in southwest China in its heyday. However, it went bankrupt in 2005. "The factory was like a miniature society, which even had its own cinema, kindergarten, hospital and media center," Peng recalled. "However, problems with the old buildings now are gradually emerging, such as poor drainage." Since He took over the planning work of the community, she has been visiting the community on a weekly basis, chatting with residents and learning about the history and current problems of the community's buildings. "I'm not just a community planner, but also a keen listener to the opinions of the residents, discoverer of hidden problems in the community and communicator of the parties involved," said He. She has also tried her best to preserve the community's memories while giving it a facelift. In late February, she helped hold an art exhibition themed on the community's past and future, with numerous old items and photos concerning the steel factory on display. The old memories can help boost local residents' sense of belonging and attract them to the community, while engaging the residents in the community renovation projects can improve their living conditions and construction efficiency, according to He. Li Yipin, 64, the former deputy head of the factory's television station, was attracted by the exhibition. "The nostalgic photos are so rare in this modern society of rapid development," Li said, adding that he still remembers how he enjoyed the performances by the factory's workers during the Spring Festival in the past. For He, such feedback from the residents makes her feel her efforts are worthwhile. "I used to devise plans for vast areas spanning several square km, and communities were just dots on my layouts. However, I find the community is so important for its residents, as it is a homely area carrying their specific memories and emotions," explained He. This year, Chongqing plans to enroll more than 200 community planners just like He, providing services for its 36 districts and counties and promoting the revitalization and upgrade of the city's living environment. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) A Florida charter school teacher has resigned after being accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student. Erika Rains, principal and co-founder of Somerset College Preparatory Academy, posted a video about the incident on Thursday, WPTV reported. Advertisement Rains went live on Facebook to discuss the relationship. She said it violated school policies, that the school had reported it to the Port St. Lucie Police Department, and they were cooperating with the investigation. They did not name the teacher, who was in a relationship with an 18-year-old student. Advertisement Please remember that this is a police matter, and the investigation of this matter is currently ongoing, Rains said. Read the full report on wptv.com. A former Florida charter school president is guilty of multiple counts of theft and wire fraud. On Wednesday, after a week-and-a-half long trial, a jury found Jimika Williams, aka Jimia Mason, guilty of two counts of theft of federal funds and 18 counts of wire fraud, according to the Department of Justice. Advertisement Williams was the President of Advancement of Education in Scholars Corporation, a Florida non-profit corporation that operated Paramount Charter School in Broward County. She was also the Florida Scholars Educational Services Corporation president. Trial evidence established Williams unlawfully enriched herself to the tune of $389,857 between 2015 and June 2017, the DOJ reported. Advertisement She used money from AESCs business account and transferred it into an FSESC account for expenses such as payments for a vehicle, private school and rent. None of the funds were used to benefit the charter school, according to the DOJ. Williams faces ten years in prison for each theft charge and 20 years for each count of wire fraud. In addition, there will be substantial monetary penalties and institutions, the DOJ reported. A judge will sentence Williams on June 7. An ice shelf the size of New York City has collapsed in East Antarctica, an area long thought to be stable and not hit much by climate change, concerned scientists said Friday. The collapse, captured by satellite images, marked the first time in human history that the frigid region had an ice shelf collapse. It happened at the beginning of a freakish warm spell last week when temperatures soared more than 70 degrees (40 Celsius) warmer than normal in some spots of East Antarctica. Satellite photos show the area had been shrinking rapidly the last couple of years, and now scientists say they wonder if they have been overestimating East Antarcticas stability and resistance to global warming that has been melting ice rapidly on the smaller western side and the vulnerable peninsula. Advertisement This satellite image provided by NASA, Aqua MODIS 12 on March 2022 shows the main piece of C-37 close to Bowman Island. Scientists are concerned because an ice shelf the size of New York City collapsed in East Antarctica, an area that had long been thought to be stable. The collapse last week was the first time scientists have ever seen an ice shelf collapse in this cold area of Antarctica. (AP) The ice shelf, about 460 square miles wide holding in the Conger and Glenzer glaciers from the warmer water, collapsed between March 14 and 16, said ice scientist Catherine Walker of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. She said scientists have never seen this happen in this part of the continent and that makes it worrisome. The Glenzer Conger ice shelf presumably had been there for thousands of years and its not ever going to be there again, said University of Minnesota ice scientist Peter Neff. Advertisement The issue isnt the amount of ice lost in this collapse, Neff and Walker said. Its negligible. But its more about the where it happened. Neff said he worries that previous assumptions about East Antarcticas stability may not be so right. And thats important because the water frozen in East Antarctica if it melted and thats a millennia-long process if not longer would raise seas across the globe more than 160 feet (50 meters). Its more than five times the ice in the more vulnerable West Antarctic Ice Sheet, where scientists have concentrated much of their research. Scientists had been seeing the ice shelf shrink a bit since the 1970s, Neff said. Then in 2020, the shelfs ice loss sped up to losing about half of itself every month or so, Walker said. We probably are seeing the result of a lot of long time increased ocean warming there, Walker said. its just been melting and melting. And then last weeks warming probably is something like, you know, the last straw on the camels back. About 300 people were killed in the Russian airstrike last week on a Mariupol theater that was being used as a shelter, Ukrainian authorities said Friday in what would make it the wars deadliest known attack on civilians yet. The bloodshed fueled allegations Moscow is committing war crimes by killing civilians, whether deliberately or by indiscriminate fire, with a NATO official saying Russian President Vladimir Putins war is unprovoked, illogical and also barbarian. Advertisement For days, the government in the besieged and ruined port city was unable to give a casualty count for the March 16 bombardment of the grand, columned Mariupol Drama Theater, where hundreds of people were said to be taking cover, the word CHILDREN printed in Russian in huge white letters on the ground outside to ward off aerial attack. In announcing the death toll on its Telegram channel Friday, the city government cited eyewitnesses. But it was not immediately clear how witnesses arrived at the figure or whether emergency workers had finished excavating the ruins. Advertisement U.S. President Joe Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said Friday the theater bombing was an absolute shock, particularly given the fact that it was so clearly a civilian target. He said it showed a brazen disregard for the lives of innocent people. The scale of devastation in Mariupol, where bodies have been left unburied amid bomb craters and hollowed-out buildings, has made information difficult to obtain. This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies on Saturday, March 19, 2022 shows the aftermath of the airstrike on the Mariupol Drama theater, Ukraine, and the area around it. (AP) But soon after the attack, the Ukrainian Parliaments human rights commissioner said more than 1,300 people had taken shelter in the theater, many of them because their homes had been destroyed. The building had a basement bomb shelter, and some survivors did emerge from the rubble after the attack. This is a barbaric war, and according to international conventions, deliberate attacks on civilians are war crimes, said Mircea Geoana, NATOs deputy-secretary general. He said Putins efforts to break Ukraines will to resist are having the opposite effect: What hes getting in response is an even more determined Ukrainian army and an ever more united West in supporting Ukraine. On Thursday, Biden and allied leaders promised more military aid for Ukraine is on the way. But NATO has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys urgent pleas to supply warplanes or establish a no-fly zone over his country for fear of getting into a war with Russia. The U.S. and the European Union on Friday did announce a move to further squeeze Russia economically: a partnership to reduce Europes reliance on Russian energy and dry up the billions of dollars the Kremlin gets from the sale of fuel. Residents wait in line to receive aid from the Ukrainian Red Cross in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Felipe Dana/AP) Moscow is bristling at the tightening noose of sanctions around Russias economy. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the Western pressure amounts to total war. Advertisement And the goals are not hidden, he said. They are declared publicly to destroy, break, annihilate, strangle the Russian economy and Russia on the whole. The Russian military said 1,351 of its soldiers have died in Ukraine and 3,825 have been wounded, though it was not immediately clear if that included pro-Moscow separatist forces fighting in the east or others not part of the Defense Ministry, such as the National Guard. Earlier this week, NATO estimated that 7,000 to 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in four weeks of fighting. Britains Ministry of Defense said Ukrainian forces have been counterattacking and have been able to reoccupy towns and defensive positions up to 35 kilometers (22 miles) east of Kyiv as Russian troops fall back on their overextended supply lines. In the south, logistical problems and Ukrainian resistance are slowing the Russians as they look to drive west toward the port of Odesa, the ministry said. But the misery for civilians is growing more severe in Ukrainian towns and cities, which increasingly resemble the ruins that Russian forces left behind in their campaigns in Syria and Chechnya. In the village of Yasnohorodka, some 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of Kyiv, Russian troops who were there earlier in the week appeared to have been pushed out as part of a counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. The tower of the village church was damaged by a blast, and houses on the main crossroads lay in ruins. Loud explosions and bursts of gunfire could be heard. Advertisement You can see for yourself what happened here. People were killed here. Our soldiers were killed here. There was fighting, said Yasnohorodka resident Valeriy Puzakov. Tens of thousands of people have left Mariupol in the past week, most of them driving out in private cars through dozens of Russian checkpoints. Unfortunately, nothing remains of Mariupol, said Evgeniy Sokyrko, who was among those waiting for an evacuation train in Zaporizhzhia, the closest urban center to Mariupol and a way station for refugees. In the last week, there have been explosions like Ive never heard before. Oksana Abramova, 42, said she ached for those left behind in the city, who have been cut off from communication with the shelling of cell, radio and TV towers and do not have the means to escape. All the time I think about how they are, where they are. Are still hiding, are they alive? Or maybe they are no longer there, she said. In Kyiv, ashes of the dead are piling up at the main crematorium in the capital because so many relatives have left, leaving urns unclaimed. And the northern city of Chernihiv is all but cut off. Advertisement Chernihiv lost its main road bridge over the Desna River to a Russian airstrike this week. Follow-up shelling then damaged a pedestrian bridge, trapping remaining inhabitants inside the city without power, water and heat, authorities said. More than half of Chernihivs prewar population of 285,000 is thought to have fled. In other developments: Russia said it would offer safe passage starting Friday to 67 ships from 15 foreign countries that are stranded in Ukrainian ports because of the danger of shelling and mines. The International Atomic Energy Agency said it has been told by Ukrainian authorities that Russian shelling is preventing workers from being rotated in and out of the decommissioned Chernobyl nuclear plant, which requires constant monitoring of its spent fuel. Breaking News As it happens Be the first to know with email alerts on important breaking stories from the Orlando Sentinel newsroom. > Russias military claimed it destroyed a massive Ukrainian fuel base used to supply the Kyiv regions defenses, with ships firing a salvo of cruise missiles, according to the Interfax news agency. Videos on social media showed an enormous fireball near the capital. For the vulnerable the elderly, children and others unable to join millions heading westward food shortages are mounting in a country once known as the breadbasket for the world. Advertisement In relentlessly shelled Kharkiv, hundreds of panicked people took shelter in the subway, and a hospital emergency room filled with wounded soldiers and civilians. Mostly elderly women lined up stoically to collect food and other urgent supplies this week, as explosions thudded in the distance. Fidgeting with anticipation, a young girl watched as a volunteers knife cut through a giant slab of cheese, carving out thick slices, one for each hungry person. Hanna Spitsyna took charge of divvying up the delivery of food aid from the Ukrainian Red Cross. Those waiting each got a lump of the cheese, dropped into plastic bags that people in line held open. Among those who stayed, there are people who can walk on their own, but many who cannot walk, the elderly, Hanna said. All these people need diapers, swaddle blankets and food. Rosa reported from Kharkiv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report. Over the past several months, Floridians have been opening their property-insurance renewal notices and gasping in sticker shock or with dismay when they learn their policies wont be renewed. And if they were expecting help from Tallahassee, they were sadly disappointed: The Legislature had more important things to do, like finding ways to threaten teachers who acknowledge racism or sexual orientation. Lawmakers spent so much time engaging in cultural firefights that they didnt have the time to address a flaming crisis in a critical component of Floridas economy . Advertisement Florida's property-insurance market is on fire. Lawmakers' first job is to protect consumers. (Canva) Gov. Ron DeSantis says hes not averse to a special session to deal with property insurance (and condominium safety, another issue that slipped off lawmakers to-do lists despite the fatal collapse of a 12-story tower in Surfside that claimed 98 lives). Theres good reason to call lawmakers back. Start with those insurance premiums. Prior to the legislative session, insurance industry analysts said the average rate increase was close to 25%. As TCPalm reported in January, Florida homeowners had the highest national average insurance premiums at $3,600 compared to a national average of $1,398. Advertisement Despite those increases, a legislative analysis showed that from 2017 through the second quarter of 2021, Florida domestic property insurers had collective net losses of more than $1 billion. That helps explain why five insurance carriers have declared insolvency over the past three years, and around a dozen more have blocked or sharply restricted the number of new policies they are willing to issue in Florida. The troubles reach even the biggest names in the market; last month, Progressive said it would be dropping thousands of Florida property policies. In September, the Insurance Journal reported that Floridas state-backed insurer of last resort, Citizens, was taking on new policies at the jaw-dropping rate of 5,000 to 6,000 a week. Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > Lawmakers considered a few different solutions during the session that ended earlier this month. But once again, lawmakers seemed focused on solutions that would either reduce the value of insurance policies in Florida, or pave the way for future premium increases. The bill that went the furthest (SB 1728) would have hit Florida policyholders with a 2% deductible for roof repairs thats 2% of their entire policy value, not the actual cost of fixing damage. That will be devastating to homeowners on fixed incomes, forcing them to contribute thousands of dollars toward roof repairs they thought their policies covered. That bill died because House Speaker Chris Sprowls balked at the potential hit to consumers. But that doesnt fix Floridas crumbling insurance market. As they almost always do, lawmakers pointed to Floridas undeniable problem with insurance-related litigation. Data from the state Office of Insurance Regulation shows that less than 8.2 percent of all property insurance claims come from Florida but the state is responsible for 76 percent of the insurance-related litigation. Clearly, something is out of whack in the Florida market; many have pointed to an increase in dubious solicitations by companies promising free roofs to gullible homeowners, who are then led to sue their insurers when coverage is denied. If thats really the root of the problem, though, why do lawmakers consistently insist that the biggest part of any solution is to make consumers suffer more, or force them to take on greater risk? Why not focus more attention on going after the shady characters who are making off with illicit profits? And why dont they look for ways to make the states insurance market stronger, such as restrictions on national insurers who create pup companies that limit risk to Florida, but siphon profits back to the national name brand? Most of all, why cant Florida lawmakers, insurance companies and the states powerful trial-attorney associations sit down and collaborate on sensible reforms that preserve the rights of consumers and the value of their policies but shut down the scam artists and frivolous litigation? These may seem like unachievable goals, but there has to be an explanation as to why Florida, more than any other state, keeps lurching from insurance crisis to insurance crisis. If lawmakers come back and they should they should look for solutions that protect consumers first, instead of pandering to the powerful special interests that have brought this states market to a crisis point. Advertisement The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Krys Fluker, Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson, Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick and El Sentinel Editor Jennifer A. Marcial Ocasio. Contact us at insight@orlandosentinel.com A man leaves a polling place at the Sunset Lakes Community Center as voting takes place in a special election for Florida's 20th Congressional District seat, Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, in Miramar, Fla. Democratic Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a health care company CEO, faces Republican Jason Mariner in the special election to fill the U.S. congressional seat left vacant after Democratic U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings died last April of pancreatic cancer. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell) (Rebecca Blackwell/AP) You probably didnt know about the lefts secret plan to spend your tax dollars to win in 2022. Its a safe bet that the left doesnt know about it, either especially the win part. Quick Somebody alert the Florida Democratic Party. Advertisement This supposed plan is the title of one of the sessions at this weekends Florida Election Integrity Summit in Orlando, sponsored by some of the same people who continue to delude themselves into believing that Trump won an election he lost fair and square. The agenda for this two-day trade show or freak show for election conspiracy theorists has breakout rooms for building the Florida election integrity infrastructure, problems created by the Left with voter rolls and fighting the Lefts abuse of low-income, elderly, homeless and military voters. Advertisement (Its Republicans, not Democrats, who said ballots in Florida should not be counted after Election Day. That would disenfranchise military voters and those living overseas, who have long had a 10-day post-election grace period.) Steve Bousquet, Sun Sentinel Opinion Editor and columnist. (Mike Stocker/Sun Sentinel) Listed sponsors include the James Madison Institute, Heritage Action for America and Whos Counting?, a group aligned with Cleta Mitchell, an Oklahoma lawyer who tried to help Trump overturn the 2020 election. Heritage Action worked behind the scenes with Republican legislators on last years elections revamp bill, including limiting the use of drop boxes in Florida. (Special to the Sun Sentinel ) The Orlando event is at least the third such show of its kind, following similar shows in recent weeks in Georgia and Arizona, Americas two flashpoints of post-election Trump-induced mayhem. Nothing in a published agenda explains why election integrity is needed in Florida, a state where Republicans continuously rewrite the election laws even after a smooth-as-silk statewide election with a record turnout in 2020. Maybe I can help. At least three residents of The Villages are accused of casting more than one vote in an election a third-degree felony. There is the widely documented report of operatives switching elderly Miami-Dade voters registrations from Democrat to Republican without their knowledge or consent. Lets also not forget the criminal case of former Republican Sen. Frank Artiles of Miami, accused of rigging a state Senate race for the GOP. Those real-life situations wont come up at the summit, but you can bet there will be plenty of talk about hacked voting machines, ballots being thrown away and so on. A spokeswoman said all meetings are closed to the news media. Gov. Ron DeSantis was invited to this fear-mongering festival at the Caribe Royale Resort near Disney, but his campaign did not respond on Friday to a question whether, as is widely rumored, he would appear Saturday. For DeSantis, this seems like an ideal focus group for him to brag about the new elections police force he championed, not to mention the voting hurdles he signed into law a year ago that are being challenged in court. Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > It wont surprise anybody if DeSantis shows up at this convention of crazies, but it will serve as a handy reminder that hes comfortable with the lunatic fringe that traffics in election disinformation. Advertisement What the governor should do is return to the same hotel next Thursday. In the oddest of coincidences, Florida election supervisors booked the very same venue for an all-day workshop devoted to important nuts-and-bolts issues such as voter intent and verifying voters signatures. More than 400 people in every county have signed up for the event, and Secretary of State Laurel Lee will attend. Marion County Supervisor of Elections Wesley Wilcox, president of the supervisors statewide association, said he was invited to speak at the integrity summit, and said thanks but no thanks. We dont have a lot to talk about, Wilcox told the Sun Sentinel. Theyve already decided that something hinky is going on. Another long-time supervisor, Pasco Countys Brian Corley, hears the same wild talk. He said someone called the office the other day to claim that the liberal billionaire George Soros is paying people to move to Florida as part of a scheme to turn the state blue. Its only March, but two major statewide elections are right down the road. Its going to be a bumpy ride, Corley said. Steve Bousquet is Opinion Editor of the Sun Sentinel and a Tallahassee columnist. Contact him at sbousquet@sunsentinel.com or (850) 567-2240 and follow him on Twitter @stevebousquet. This month the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its latest climate report. The IPCC bluntly cautions: The scientific evidence is unequivocal: climate change is a threat to human well-being and the health of the planet. Any further delay in concerted global action will miss a brief and rapidly closing window to secure a livable future. While the report had a global focus, Florida was repeatedly used as an example where impacts of climate change are already being felt. Indeed, the Sunshine State is Americas poster child for climate damage with tidal flooding, extreme heat, stronger hurricanes, and dying coral reefs. While reducing emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases is feasible, we are told that it can be very expensive. Advertisement David Hastings is a climate scientist and retired professor of oceanography. He recently moved to Gainesville. - Original Credit: Courtesy photo (Courtesy photo) Wendell Porter is a retired UF Senior Lecturer and professional engineer. But sometimes its possible to save money and do the right thing. In Gainesville, a beloved institution is choosing a more expensive and less climate-friendly option. The University of Florida is proposing to build a Central Energy Plant powered by natural gas to replace aging infrastructure. The main component of natural gas, methane, traps 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide. Advertisement Recent studies reveal methane leakage from natural gas pipelines is far worse than we thought. There is leakage in gas fields, where fossil gas is extracted, leakage along the network of transmission pipelines, and leakage in the cities from pipelines that snake under the streets. While the proposed facility is estimated to produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to the current energy system, UF can do much better. A UF graduate, Dr. Sarah Toth, an environmental engineer who now works at RMI, just wrote a report detailing how electricity produced by the proposed gas plant could be generated by 100% clean energy at almost half the cost and with far less damaging greenhouse gas emissions. The key finding of the RMI report is that the cost of 100% clean-energy is $120 million, much less than the $235 million projected cost of the Central Energy Plant. The report shows how a combined 105MW portfolio of energy efficiency improvements, solar, and battery storage could reliably provide the electric power needed. How would this work? First, energy efficiency improvements are made so buildings use less energy. This was done at UFs Reitz Union in 2014 with great success: energy consumption dropped by more than 50% after the retrofit, saving UF more than $550,000 per year. Improving building efficiency is a fundamental first step in any effort to reduce energy use. Invading Seas (Invading Seas / Courtesy) Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > In the RMI report, solar is the primary source of electricity; utility-scale solar photovoltaic panels with a rated capacity of 72MW would be installed. Luckily, when its hot in Florida and cooling is most needed, the sun is usually shining and solar panels are generating lots of electricity. The cost of solar has plummeted, decreasing by 85% in the last decade. To complete the clean-energy portfolio, battery storage is used to provide electricity at night. Battery storage has also undergone dramatic cost decreases and technological advances. The same type of battery that powers your laptop can provide utility scale power after the sun goes down. Critics claim that steam produced by the gas plant is critical to campus operations since steam is used to reheat chilled air for buildings. While this legacy method has been used for decades, similar institutions are moving away from this inefficient and outdated approach. The recent IPCC report shows that people and the planet are being clobbered by climate change, according to UN Secretary General Antonio Gutteres. He calls the report an atlas of human suffering and has criticized the response by world leaders as criminal abdication. Advertisement Although we have pushed the planet to the brink, its not too late. Every action we take to cut carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases as soon as possible puts us on the path to reverse the course of climate change. UF has an extraordinary opportunity to save money and do the right thing for the planet. David Hastings is a retired climate scientist and marine geochemist. Wendell Porter is a retired UF Senior Lecturer and professional engineer. The Invading Sea is the opinion arm of the Florida Climate Reporting Network, a collaborative of news organizations across the state focusing on the threats posed by the warming climate. As someone who speaks fluent Russian, who has learned to run the deep h sounds through my throat and bounce the never-ending syllables in some of the longer words through the sides of my mouth, I can tell you how this war sounds to us Russian-speakers. The word war in Russian sounds very harsh. It has a ghoulish, otherworldly quality, like the sound of a nightmare come to life. Advertisement The word decision, as in the decision to go to war, starts with a hard r and it cuts like a knife. My parents had to take me to speech therapy to teach me to pronounce the hard rs in Russian. Elena Komsky is a Tallahassee attorney and Florida State alumna. - Original Credit: Courtesy photo (Courtesy photo) The word betrayal in Russian is a derivative of the word give, as in to give somebody up. Behind the scenes, on Russian and Ukrainian YouTube videos, this is what many prominent Russian and Ukrainian people are saying has happened. Few new sanctions are now being imposed and the West has refused to declare a no-fly zone or provide jets to Ukraine. Advertisement The first week of this war, leaders of Western countries imposed severe sanctions. That message resonated in Russia and China, and China made it very clear at that time that they were going to stay away from this conflict. In response to those sanctions, Putin threatened nuclear war. After that, the conversation changed. Russia has drawn a red line, and President Biden has actually declared that the United States does not want a war with Russia. Western countries have pretty much given up on doing anything to help Ukraine that could lead to the possibility of a war with Russia. On the other hand, the exact opposite is expected from the people of Russia. Russian people in Russia are expected to be motivated by the sanctions to put their lives at risk no matter how futile that would be, while all other nations have announced that they will do everything they can to stay out of this and will not take even the smallest risk to their personal safety in order to end the war not even delivering fighter jets to Ukraine. The message is: do as I say but not as I do. According to my friends in Russia, when rich Russian expats speak out against the war in the West where they face no threat of arrest, then call on them to do the same thing in Russia where they face the certainty of arrest, it sounds very hypocritical. Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > Recently, Russia has bombed a maternity ward, killing and injuring pregnant women and their babies. Thereafter, very little changed in terms of the Wests policy. Russia then announced that it did this intentionally. Again, very little changed. Russia has continued shelling and destroying peaceful cities and villages and shooting civilians point-blank. No change. To those who expect the West to follow through on its purported concern with violations of human rights, this looks like a betrayal of those principles. So now we are now living in the new normal, a nightmarish ghoulish reality, where we expect that criminal atrocities will be our top headlines on the news every day. Of course, no one wants a war with Russia. But the first step in solving a problem is asking the right questions. Unfortunately, we have been asking, Do we want a nuclear war with Russia? when, instead, we should be asking, Do we have a better chance of avoiding a nuclear war with Russia now or later? Here is the pattern to consider: Chechnya, Syria, Georgia, Ukraine. Civil war, foreign civil war, small war, war. Each one of these conflicts was an escalation in terms of being unjustified and in terms of its complete lawlessness. The next step in that chain of events is not likely to be peaceful coexistence with others. Advertisement As we let Russia dictate the terms of the Wests engagement in the war, the soldiers who oppose the war are being weeded out, and the Russian army is being taught to be a ruthless band of murderers. Right now, we still have a chance to show anyone who would support Russia inside and outside Russia that we will stand up to their aggression. Unless something changes, soon that chance will be gone. Elena Komsky is a Tallahassee attorney and Florida State alumna. Former Lieutenant Governor of Florida Toni Jennings speaks is still busy with her family's business and nonprofit boards. (Maria Lorenzino / Sun Sentinel) You have questions. I have answers. Scott, not long ago I spotted Toni Jennings and her family in a restaurant. It reminded me of a time when I sometimes voted for Republicans. What is she doing these days? (Toni looked great, by the way.) Susan Advertisement She does indeed look great. We sometimes see each other at the YMCA pool. (Making her the only lieutenant governor Ive ever greeted in my swimsuit.) Jennings still helps with her familys construction company, Jack Jennings & Sons. She just wrapped up a 14-year stint on the Nemours Foundation Board of Directors and still serves on several other business and nonprofit boards. Jennings said shes less involved with politics nowadays but will visit Tallahassee this fall for the swearing-in of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo the first woman to lead the chamber since Jennings did so from 1996 to 2000 saying: Way too long to wait. From what college did College Park derive its name? Brian Advertisement For this, we turn to Central Floridas queen of history, the Sentinels own Florida Flashback columnist, Joy Wallace Dickinson. Joy explains: Theres no one college behind College Park. The name is a great example of Florida real estate developers fondness (during the 1920s land boom and since) for choosing names they think will appeal to home buyers names that will dazzle and sound classy. In this case, the names invoke Ivy League colleges. So if you go looking for Edgewater University, youll be disappointed. Is there a single restaurant in Orange County serving our signature dish - honey nougat glace? Ryan Touche on the glace question, Ryan. For background: Orange County and Visit Orlando teamed up five years ago to select a signature dish for our community and settled on this one which just about no one had ever heard of before, much less associated with Orlando. The head-scratching only intensified after the one Winter Park restaurant known for serving it closed three years ago. I asked two local food writers if they knew of any well-known places still serving the Italian meringue. They did not. So while it may still be somewhere, the glace seems passe. Why do police departments give silly names to big arrests involving serious crimes? Jan Fair question, Jan. It almost seems to trivialize heinous crimes like when Polk County Grady Judd recently announced he was holding a March Sadness event. Cute name, right? Except it involved charges of human trafficking and child sex. Judd says he does it to catch attention (something Judd specializes in). While cute word play may still seem like a light way to discuss dark deeds, I cant argue with the sheriff when he said that media tend to eat it up. How do you still have a job? Youre awful. John My understanding is that every time a new billionaire or hedge fund buys the Tribune chain, the new owners pour scotch, light cigars and throw darts at a board to see which journalists theyll lay off. By luck of the shaft, barrel and tip, my little board bed hasnt been struck yet. But theres always the next round. Does Florida still have a law that requires car lights be turned on when its raining? If so, can we get a reminder somehow from the government? J.H. Advertisement Consider Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Kim Montes your reminder. She says state law requires car lights running in any inclement conditions, including rain, fog or smoke. Montes also noted that headlights not just daytime running lights activate your cars tail lights, helping the drivers behind you see your car better as well. Why cant we have a two-state solution? Chuck Some people have long suggested Florida seems more like multiple states, since South Florida and the Panhandle have about as much in common as peas and carburetors. But thats what makes us unique. And you cant just give North Florida to Georgia. (I contacted the Georgia governors office just to be sure.) Besides, what sane person would want to absorb the portion of Florida with our Legislature? Are brick streets unrepairable? It seems so in my neighborhood. Doug Doug, I believe youre referring to the surface inconsistencies common to brick streets known as differential settlement. OK, so I had no clue what that meant. But after Orlandos public works director Rick Howard used the term, I wanted to sound smart, too. Howard says brick streets are designed to slow down drivers but arent supposed to be intolerable. Still, some seem to rattle the teeth right out of my mouth. Howard said that can be because of the aforementioned settlement where, over time, some bricks sink deeper into the ground than others. If you think your bricks have settled beyond reason, call your citys or countys transportation division. (In Orlando, the number is 407-246-2238.) Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > Why dont you run for office? Jack Advertisement Jack, that sounds about as appealing as drilling holes into my skull with a rusty bit. Also, Im not sure I could get elected chief plate-passer at my own dinner table. The kids would probably vote for their mother and be right to do so. This seems like a pretty good "how it started" "how it's going" entry. This lovely old clock had been standing outside the Orlando Sentinel's old building for 60 years. This morning it got mowed down by a car. Sigh... pic.twitter.com/yiJYZQCqBU Mike Lafferty (@mlafferty1) August 16, 2021 When will the Orlando clock be put back together? Candice Oh, the poor clock. The iconic clock that stood watch over Orange Avenue in front of the Orlando Sentinels former office came crashing down last year when a motorist plowed into it. Fortunately, instead of trashing it, the city of Orlando took possession of the pieces with the hopes of resurrecting it somewhere. I heard talk this past week that some ideas are being pitched, but nothings formal yet. Recently, a new stoplight was put on East Colonial Drive near the WMFE building. The cross street is called Oberry Hoover Road. Ive searched to find out who this person is with no luck. Troy Troy, this one was tough. I ran your question by Orange Countys transportation division, the regional history center and the Sentinels Dickinson. No one had a definitive answer. But their best guess is that Oberry Hoover probably wasnt a he or she, but rather a they two different families that owned land nearby. Dickinson found 1935 newspaper clippings that referred to a Union Park civic leader named J.S. OBerry. whose name will never be forgotten even if the apostrophe in it apparently was. smaxwell@orladosentinel.com TALLAHASSEE The head of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is stepping down after 38 years with the agency. Commissioner Rick Swearingen revealed Friday that he will leave the post on Sept. 1. Advertisement While I have thoroughly enjoyed my 38 years with this agency, the time has come for FDLE to move in a new direction, Swearingen wrote. This agency and its members have made me who I am today. I look forward to personally saying goodbye to each of you in the coming months. Swearingens replacement will face a different path to the job. Advertisement A new law (SB 1658) changed the approval process for appointments of the FDLE commissioner, the secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and the executive director of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The law changed the FDLE commissioner from needing the approval of all three Cabinet members to a majority vote of the governor and the Cabinet, with the governor on the prevailing side. The appointment will still need Senate approval. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the law on March 10, a day before Senate confirmation of Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton. The law was crafted after a clash last year between DeSantis and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried over DeSantis decision to appoint Hamilton without Cabinet approval. Fried issued a statement Friday that said she respects Swearingen but suggested his departure isnt a coincidence after approval of the new law, which effectively boosted DeSantis power in the appointment process. Political Pulse Weekly Get latest updates political news from Central Florida and across the state. > There are no coincidences when it comes to the DeSantis administration, said Fried, a Democratic candidate for governor seeking to unseat DeSantis this year. DeSantis and the Cabinet will meet Tuesday for the first time since September. Swearingen was tapped by then-Gov. Rick Scott in December 2014 to become commissioner after serving as director of the Capitol Police. In running the Capitol Police, Swearingen oversaw security at the Capitol Complex, including protective services for the governor and Scotts family. Scott, now a U.S. senator, issued a statement Friday thanking Swearingen and noting that he oversaw the states response to the mass shootings at Pulse nightclub in Orlando and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, along with hurricanes and other emergencies. Advertisement In each of these unimaginably difficult assignments, he served our state with the utmost professionalism, Scott said. Swearingen joined FDLE in 1984 as a crime information input technician two years after graduating from Auburn University with a bachelors degree in criminal justice and political science. He later served in the agencys Clearwater office and by 2010 was the assistant special agent in charge of the Capitol Police Protective Operations. Three years later, he headed the Capitol Police. China's science foundation ups research budget to 33 bln yuan Xinhua) 16:32, March 25, 2022 BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has raised its funding budget to 33 billion yuan (5.2 billion U.S. dollars) in 2022, up 6.8 percent over last year. A major funding source in China for basic research and frontier exploration, the NSFC financed 48,800 programs in 2021, with a total investment of more than 31.2 billion yuan, the science foundation said Thursday. Li Jinghai, head of the NSFC, said the science foundation will bolster funding support in the fields of basic science, technical science, life sciences and medicine and interdisciplinary studies, with a particular focus on research involving COVID-19 and carbon emissions. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) At Kennedy Space Center, Fla., NASAs moon rocket for the Artemis 1 mission rolls to the launch pad, Thursday, March 17, 2022. Known as the Space Launch System (SLS), the mega-rocket carrying the Orion spacecraft capsule rollouts for the first time Thursday evening on the giant crawler-transporter 2, headed to Launch Complex 39-B. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) Kennedy Space Center will be juggling rockets and spacecraft in the next month that will herald a couple of new eras in space travel. Both of KSCs launch pads will be in action, one to send up two SpaceX Crew Dragon capsules while the other is performing a dress rehearsal for the Artemis I moon launch planned for later this year. Advertisement Days could shift, but at this point, NASA plans to simulate a countdown including the fueling and de-fueling of the Space Launch System rocket topped with the Orion capsule at Launch Pad 39-B from April 1-3. Also targeting no earlier than April 3 is the launch of Axiom Spaces AX-1 flight, the first all-civilian crew to fly on a mission to the International Space Station. In a flight readiness review Friday, Kathryn Lueders, NASAs associate administrator for the Space Operations Mission Directorate, said that the AX-1 mission will give way to Artemis Is needs, though, so it could slip without too much trouble anywhere from April 4-9, but both teams are talking daily to coordinate. Advertisement Four space participants, including three that paid $55 million each for the opportunity along with a former astronaut now employed by Axiom Space, will be hitching a ride on SpaceXs Crew Dragon Endeavour set to lift off on a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Pad 39-A. While Soyuz flights through the Russian space agency have brought civilians to the space station starting with Dennis Tito in 2001, this mission marks the first time theyll come from a U.S.-based launch, and also the first time they have not been accompanied by a professional astronaut or cosmonaut. The crew includes paying customers Larry Connor, Mark Pathy and Eytan Stibbe along with commander Michael Lopez-Alegria, a veteran of three space shuttle flights and a 215-day stint on the space station. They plan to spend 10 days on board the ISS performing a bevy of scientific experiments and enjoying the view before returning home for a splashdown off the Florida coast. That will make room for the next NASA crew rotation, also launching from 39-A in the newly dubbed Crew Dragon Freedom, named in deference to the Freedom 7 spacecraft flown by the first American in space, Alan Shepard. The name celebrates a fundamental human right, and the industry and innovation that emanate from the unencumbered human spirit, said Crew-4 commander Kjell Lindgren in a post on Twitter. Through the Commercial Crew Program, NASA and SpaceX have restored a national capability and we honor the ingenuity and hard work of those involved. Alan Shepard flew on Freedom 7 at the dawn of human spaceflight. We are honored to bring Freedom to a new generation. Lindgren, fellow NASA astronauts Robert Hines and Jessica Watkins and European Space Agency astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti of Italy are slated to launch no earlier than April 19 for Crew-4s six-month long stay at the ISS as part of Expedition 67. Go For Launch - Space News Weekly Fix your telescope on all space-related news, from rocket launches to space-industry advancements. > Their arrival will coincide with the return of Crew-3 on the Crew Dragon Endurance in which NASA astronauts Raja Chari, Thomas Marshburn and Kayla Barron along with ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer of Germany will complete the mission that took off from KSC last November. The exact day for splashdown has yet to be announced. Before either SpaceX liftoff, though, NASA looks to get its launch pad activities out of the way for Artemis I, as managers said they would not tackle the filling and draining of the core stage with 730,000 gallons of super-cooled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen on the same day as a planned launch. Advertisement Well stand down from activities during the launch window, said Mike Bolger, NASAs Exploration Ground Systems program manager based at KSC. We really dont have any significant impact. You know the pads are about a mile apart, and so really the only time that we have any kind of hazard from one pad to the other is actually during the launch window. The 5.75 million-pound, 322-foot-tall combination of the Space Launch System, Orion capsule and mobile launcher arrived to 39-B on March 18 after an 11-hour trip from the Vehicle Assembly Building. Teams have since connected ground support equipment elements such as electrical, fuel environmental control system ducts and cryogenic propellant lines, powering up all elements of the vehicle for the first time on Monday. If all goes well, the Artemis I rocket will go through the tests and not roll back to the VAB for another eight or nine days, so it should be on the pad at the same time as the AX-1 launch, but back to the VAB before Crew-4. It wont return to the launch pad until mission managers go through the test results, but the next possible windows for the Artemis I launch are from May 7-21, June 6-16 and June 29-July 12. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that even if all goes well, June was the more likely target. The first flight of the SpaceX Starship with Super Heavy booster will have to bide its time a little longer. Elon Musks plans to get an orbital test flight underway from the companys southeast Texas launch facility has been awaiting approval from the Federal Aviation Administration. That wont come until the FAA releases the results of a final Programmatic Environmental Assessment that was originally targeting to be complete by the end of 2021, but has seen a series of delays. Advertisement On Friday, the FAA announced it was pushing its expected release of that report to April 29. The assessment was expected March 28, but a statement from the FAA said it was currently reviewing and coordinating the final version with local, state and federal agencies before its release. That review doesnt guarantee an OK for SpaceX to fly either, as Musk and others have stated that it could pave the way for a more intense Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that could delay any Texas launch plans beyond 2022. Advertisement If faced with an EIS, Musk has said plans for the Starship launch may need to shift in the short-term to Kennedy Space Center, where work continues on hardware to support the new rocket from KSCs Launch Pad 39-A, the current home to SpaceXs Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launches. Musk said in February he expects what would be the most powerful rocket to ever launch from the Earth still to have its first flight by the end of the year, even if it has to shift to Florida. To date, the company has flown prototype versions of Starship without the booster to about 6 miles altitude, and attempted landings back in Texas, sometimes with fiery results. Those used only three or fewer of the new, powerful Raptor engines. The fully working orbital version will be coupled with a Super Heavy booster with 39 Raptor engines, 33 on the booster and six on Starship. Even if SpaceX were to get FAA approval, the company announced it was switching to updated versions of its Raptor engines, so its not as if theres a rocket ready to go and fly. The plan for the next test flight, though, if it were to lift off from Texas, seeks to launch a stacked version of Starship and Super Heavy, have them separate, return the booster to land on a SpaceX vessel 20 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico while Starship achieves orbit for least one trip around the Earth and then lands in the Pacific Ocean. Go For Launch - Space News Weekly Fix your telescope on all space-related news, from rocket launches to space-industry advancements. > Texas remains SpaceXs preferred location for continued testing of Starship. Because we have a lot of launches going out of the Cape we didnt want to disrupt the Cape activity the operational launches with the advance R&D of Starship, Musk said in February. So it was important to decouple the operational launches from the R&D launches. Thats why were at this location. 2022 is proving to be the busiest yet for SpaceX for its existing stable of rockets including 10 launches through the first 10 weeks of the year, and plans to hit at least 50 launches among its KSC, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Vandenberg Space Force Station sites. Just within the next month, SpaceX Falcon 9s are slated to lift off with Crew Dragon capsules on two missions to the International Space Station. Advertisement So a shift to KSC for Starship testing could prove complicated. When it does launch, the Starship and Super Heavy combo would generate more than 16 million pounds of thrust. That nearly doubles the power of NASAs planned Artemis flights and more than doubles those of the Apollo missions. Immediate plans for Starship are for Starlink satellite delivery to add to the companys growing constellation of internet satellites, as well as to develop a version to assist NASA in getting humans back on the moon by 2025. Also upcoming is a tourist flight to orbit the moon funded by a Japanese fashion tycoon whos taking along several artists. The main purpose for its development, though, is eventually to help create a self-sustaining colony on Mars. Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, located in the France pavilion at Epcot, opened while the Cultural Representative Program at Walt Disney World was inactive. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) More international flair will be returning to Epcot this summer as Walt Disney World is relaunching the Disney Cultural Representative Program. It will be a phased reintroduction, Disney says, with initial recruitment in Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Norway for Epcots World Showcase. More countries will be added after they clear travel restrictions and have CDC-authorized vaccine availability. Advertisement The first new participants will begin work at Disney World in August. Disney now is reaching out to participants whose programs were shortened, canceled or wait-listed in 2020, as well as those who had an offer but had not arrived at Disney World yet. Email notifications were set to go out Friday. Those people will be given first opportunity to reapply, and others will be invited to apply soon, Disney said. Advertisement The development was posted on a company website for Disney Programs, which includes the Cultural Representative Program, an offering within Disney International Programs, the Disney College Program and professional internships. Many program participants are based in Epcot, representing their home countries and lending authenticity to the international atmosphere, although some workers have been stationed elsewhere, including Disneys Animal Kingdom theme park and Animal Kingdom Lodge. The program was discontinued in 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic took hold. The college program, also discontinued in March 2020, was reinstituted last year. The company has been returning attractions, shows and other features gradually to the lineup. Recent announcements have included the Festival of Fantasy parade and Mickeys Magical Friendship Faire show at Magic Kingdom, the Minnie Van transportation service and restaurants. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. Want more theme park news? Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters or the Theme Park Rangers podcast at orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-podcast Brazzaville, Congo (PANA) - The World Health Organisation (WHO) is cautioning African countries as they curtail COVID-19 surveillance and quarantine measures in response to significant drop in cases Lome, Togo (PANA) - The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has been called upon to support African states in the implementation of the Lome Declaration on cybersecurity and the fight against cybercrime News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Cargo plane returns to airport safely in southwest China after mechanical failure Xinhua) 16:32, March 25, 2022 CHONGQING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A cargo plane of Sichuan Airlines, which departed from southwest China's Chongqing Municipality to Moscow, returned to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport safely after reporting mechanical failure on Friday. (Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun) A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. Relatives of a young Offaly woman fatally attacked while out running have met with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall. Charles and Camilla offered their condolences to the family of school teacher Ashling Murphy, who was killed after going for a jog along a canal near Tullamore, Co Offaly in January. The royals met privately with Ms Murphys parents Kathleen and Ray, sister Amy, brother Cathal and boyfriend Ryan Casey at Bru Boru Cultural Centre in Cashel, Co Tipperary on Friday. The 23-year-old, a talented musician, had performed at the centre. Her death caused shockwaves and sparked vigils across Ireland and beyond in Ms Murphys memory, as calls were made for a change in attempts to tackle gender-based violence. Camilla has long been a vocal campaigner on the issue of violence against women, and at an event in London last year she paid tribute to all the precious lives that have been brutally ended. She also called on men to get involved in the movement, saying they need to be on board to tackle violence against women. Jozef Puska, 31, of Lynally Grove in Co Offaly, has been accused of Ms Murphys murder. Leading Midlands law firm Tormeys Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce the appointment of two newly qualified solicitors to their ever-growing team in response to continued growth at the company. Tormeys Solicitors currently employ 30 staff at its Athlone office in Castle Street, including nine solicitors. It has grown to be one of the largest and most respected law firms in the Midlands, and has been providing expert legal services for almost a century, specialising in all areas of law including personal injury, medical negligence, property law, family law, corporate law and environmental law. Maeve Grealy, a previous recipient of the Barra Flynn memorial scholarship has joined the practice as an Associate Solicitor. Maeve is a graduate of NUI Galway and qualified as a solicitor in January 2022. Maeve will be focusing on expanding the property law and family law departments within the firm. David Keane, a native of Athlone also graduated from NUI Galway with a Bachelor of Civil Law Degree. David has joined the firm as an Associate Solicitor, having qualified in December 2021. David will focus on the areas of general litigation and corporate law. Tormey's Managing Partner Tony Henry with the two new Solicitors David Keane and Maeve Grealy "These two appointments come at an exciting time for Tormeys Solicitors as we continue to expand our workforce and practice areas. Both Maeve and David bring with them knowledge in different ever-growing areas in our practice which will complement our existing team and ensure that Tormeys Solicitors continue to thrive and provide expert legal advice to the people of the Midlands and indeed further afield," Tony Henry, Managing Partner said. Barra Flynn Memorial Scholarship Tormeys Solicitors LLP provides an annual Scholarship to Leaving Certificate students from the Athlone, Moate, Ferbane, Ballymahon, Roscommon, Ballinasloe and Tullamore school areas. This fund is awarded to students that attain the highest Leaving Certificate points and who have chosen to pursue a legal course at a third-level institution in 2021. This is the 29th presentation of the scholarship, and whilst there are now a number of scholarships presented by corporate bodies within the Athlone area, Tormeys Solicitors was the first to embrace this incentive to encourage young adults to study law. The scholarship fund in total is valued at over 2,500 with 1,200 for 1st place, 600 for 2nd place and 300 for 3rd place. It is payable for one year to students attending a faculty of law in any university or Institute of Technology, in the Republic of Ireland. To recognise the schools contribution, Tormey's donate the sum of 500 to the winning school. 2nd Place Emmanuelle Besler, with Patrick Flynn (son of Founder of Scholarship Barra Flynn) and Tormey's Solicitors David Keane and Maeve Grealy In 2000 to commemorate the Millennium, Tormeys introduced the presentation of a perpetual trophy to the school with the highest cumulative points for law students within that year. The winner of the 2021 school prize is Athlone Community College. The 1st place student winner this year is Emma McDermott of Glasson Athlone, daughter of Patrick and Lucille McDermott and past pupil of Athlone Community College. Emma is now studying Law at Trinity College. 2nd place winner is Emmanuelle Besler, Daughter of Valerie Besler and past pupil of Our Ladys Bower, Athlone. Emmanuelle is now studying Law and Politics in UCD. 3rd place winner is Ebunoluwa Jamgbadi, daughter of Abimbola and Kayode Jamgbadi and past pupil of Our Ladys Bower. Ebunoluwa is now studying Economics, Politics and Law at DCU. 3rd Placed Ebunoluwa Jamgbadi, being presented by Patrick Flynn (son of the late Barra Flynn who founded the scholarship) also in the photo is Tormeys Solicitors Maeve Grealy and David Keane Tormeys Solicitors would like to thank all the applicants who participated in the scholarship and wish them all the best in their future careers. Finally, Tormeys Solicitors would like to thank its clients for their loyal and continued support and we look forward to many years of continued success. TORMEYS SOLICITORS LLP, Castle Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Tel: 090 6493456 Email: info@tormeys.ie * Sponsored content Espanola, NM (87532) Today Plentiful sunshine. High around 75F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight A clear sky. Low around 45F. W winds shifting to SE at 10 to 15 mph. Just a day after his trip to Kabul, visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday met National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar here. Wang first met Doval at the latter's office in South Block, after which he and Jaishankar proceeded to hold delegation-level talks. The Chinese Minister arrived in Delhi from Kabul around 8 p.m. on Thursday and according to sources, trade and the pending border dispute in Ladakh will feature in the talks. This is the first visit by a high-level Chinese diplomat to India since the border dispute between the two nations erupted over two years ago. So far, 15 rounds of military talks have taken place to resolve the issue. Wang's visit to Delhi is part of his South Asia tour, which took him to Kabul and Pakistan where he raked up the Jammu and Kashmir issue. During the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation meeting in Islamabad, Wang had said: "On Kashmir, we have heard again today the calls of many of our Islamic friends. And China shares the same hope." India however, rejected the "uncalled reference" to Kashmir. "Matters related to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are entirely the internal affairs of India. Other countries including China have no locus standi to comment. They should note that India refrains from public judgement of their internal issues," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on Wednesday. After Delhi, Wang will travel to Nepal from Friday through Sunday. If the United Kingdom joins a handful of other nations to recognize the sentience of invertebrates, such as octopuses, crabs, lobsters and crayfish, by, for example, prohibiting the boiling of live lobsters, this will be based on evidence that emotions and felt experiences (i.e., sentience) are not limited to animals close to humans, such as the mammals. This topic has been heavily debated in both affective neuroscience and philosophy, but a consensus on the criteria for and implications of recognizing animal sentience seems to be emerging. Pre-verbal human babies were considered not to feel pain up until at least the 1980s. It is still thought by many that animals, including invertebrates, dont feel pain and only have unconscious reactions to negative stimuli. However, research on mammals, fish, octopuses, and to a lesser extent crabs, has shown they avoid pain and dangerous locations, and there are signs of empathy in some animals, such as cows they become distressed when they see their calf is in pain. It has long been thought in Western culture that other animals dont feel pain or have emotions, said York Universitys Professor Kristin Andrews, a co-author of a paper published in the journal Science. Its been a real struggle even to get fish and mammals recognized under welfare law as sentient. A London School of Economics (LSE) report commissioned by the U.K. government found there is strong enough evidence to conclude that decapod crustaceans and cephalopod mollusks are sentient. Recognizing the sentience of invertebrates opens a moral and ethical dilemma. Humans can say what they feel, but animals dont have the same tools for describing their emotions. However, the research so far strongly suggests their existence, said Professor Andrews, who co-authored the paper with Emory Universitys Professor Frans de Waal. When were going about our normal lives, we try not to do harm to other beings. So, its really about retraining the way we see the world. How exactly to treat other animals remains an open research question. We dont have sufficient science right now to know exactly what the proper treatment of certain species should be. To determine that, we need greater co-operation between scientists and ethicists. There may be a point when humans can no longer assume that crayfish, shrimp, and other invertebrates dont feel pain and other emotions. If they can no longer be considered immune to felt pain, invertebrate experiences will need to become part of our species moral landscape, Professor Andrews said. But pain is just one morally relevant emotion. Invertebrates such as octopuses may experience other emotions such as curiosity in exploration, affection for individuals, or excitement in anticipation of a future reward. It may be time to look at our world differently. _____ Frans B. M. de Waal & Kristin Andrews. 2022. The question of animal emotions. Science 375 (6587): 1351-1352; doi: 10.1126/science.abo2378 Burger Fuel Group Limited (BFG) has advised that given the highly contagious Omicron variant remains widespread, it is experiencing some short-term, temporary store closures within the franchise system. This is due to the requirements for some staff to self-isolate, either as close contacts or infected individuals. In the past 4 weeks several BurgerFuel outlets have closed for relatively short periods of time. The Company anticipates more temporary closures over the coming weeks and perhaps longer, dependent upon the ongoing impact of Omicron. BurgerFuel Middle East Burger Fuel Group Limited (BFG) has today announced that its United Arab Emirates Master License holder AKI Group, will cease operating the BurgerFuel brand in the UAE by 1 April 2022. BFG has previously stated that the last 2 years under Covid-19 conditions had been extremely difficult in Dubai and although visitor numbers were now picking up, AKI group have made the decision to largely exit the food and beverage sector. There are currently only 4 BurgerFuel restaurants operating in the UAE under a Master License Agreement. These stores will close by 1 April 2022. BFG earnings from the Middle East have been diminishing for some years, but particularly since the arrival of Covid-19. The Company is currently assessing all options for the UAE region and will update the market in due course should any new developments be finalised. BFG stated that it would not be making any further announcements regarding temporary store closures and the day-to-day impact of Omicron on the business, within New Zealand or the Middle East markets, unless it regarded developments as significant and material. END Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: KPG FY22 annual results announcement date BGP - 1st Quarter Sales to 1 May 2022 Air NZ completes shortfall bookbuild GEO - March 2022 Quarter Operating Update 5th May 2022 Morning Report GAS MARKET UPDATE MAY 4TH ANZ 2022 Half Year Results Documents PGW Raises Guidance Air NZ Rights Offer Period Closes and Bookbuild Commences 4th May 2022 Morning Report U.S. takes the front seat in smearing China over Ukraine. It's not helpful 17:08, March 25, 2022 By Qing Ming ( People's Daily Online The hopeless fault-finder Illustration: Liu Rui/GT --America's sanctions stick and bellicose rhetoric are only worsening the situation, narrowing the window for a possible clawback from escalation, and steering Ukraine and Russia away from the negotiating table. --To turn around the deteriorating situation and prevent further needless suffering, the US should use its leverage and work with other nations to bring Ukraine and Russia, among other stakeholders, back to the negotiating table, instead of incessantly throwing dirt on another country. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which erupted precisely a month ago, has been truly frustrating and traumatizing to witness. As tensions swiftly build up and the human toll continues climbing in the region of Eastern Europe, Washington has offered its solutions to the crisis: a joint "sanction" of Russia along with its allies and weapons supplies to Ukraine. With neither of these approaches seeming to have worked so far, unfortunately, the US has decided instead to shift blame onto other parties, spreading blatant falsehoods and disinformation targeting China, while insinuating that China hasn't done enough to address the crisis. And yet, such blame games won't do anything to help with the situation either. American media outlets, almost in tandem with the Ukraine crisis, have kept circulating and spewing anti-China disinformation that is simply fake. Starting earlier this month, the New York Times, joined by other mainstream media outlets, falsely claimed that Chinese officials had "known" beforehand the occurrence of the conflict. Their evidence? An unsubstantiated "Western intelligence report." Their source? Several unnamed officials. Apparently, America's disinformation machine has never once run out of steam with the same fuel. Less than two weeks later, American media outlets cooked up something richer and even more fantastical. This time, they cited a US intelligence official who suggested that China "has expressed some openness to providing Russia with requested military and financial assistance," as CNN reported. To even consider giving an official response to such a pure fabrication was not worth the time. Yet, Chinese officials have on multiple occasions shown their utmost patience in debunking the flagrant and sinister lies. [Related Reading: U.S. can't cover up its responsibility for Ukraine crisis by spreading anti-China disinformation ] Then, this week, the New York Times published a preposterous analytical article headlined "China Takes a Back Seat in International Diplomacy Over Ukraine," in which it suggested that "China has repeatedly called for peace talks in Ukraine," while adding that "What it has not done is press Russia to negotiate". It is somewhat of a relief to see that the Times used the word "negotiate" instead of "sanction." But their tone seems to suggest that China somehow has a greater ability to sway Russia or press the "stop" button on the conflict than either the US and most of its allies combined might have. In the American media's warped narratives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the US is whitewashed as a mediator, a peacekeeper, and a savior who protects the vulnerable from utter despair, while China is blackwashed as the nation that "stands aloof," "waits and sees", and hesitates to "act." But in reality, America's sanctions stick and bellicose rhetoric are only worsening the situation, narrowing the window for a possible clawback from escalation, and steering Ukraine and Russia away from the negotiating table. And its unprovoked smear campaign against China over the Ukraine crisis will do nothing to help bring an end to the conflict, other than divert the public's attention and generate more anti-China hate. Sanctions provide no path to solutions. Weapons are not the answer to peace. Disinformation is no means of persuasion. To turn around the deteriorating situation and prevent further needless suffering, the US should use its leverage and work with other nations to bring Ukraine and Russia, among other stakeholders, back to the negotiating table, instead of incessantly throwing dirt on another country. (Web editor: Meng Bin, Hongyu) Ukraine will remain steeped in profound corruption no matter who rules it. by Eric S. Margolis Those familiar with Russian history know that wars usually begin with disastrous muddles. Its the Russian way. But Russians are also renowned for surmounting great obstacles after enormous sacrifices and finally achieving victory. World War II, in which the Soviet Union lost around 8.6 million soldiers killed, is a mighty example. Right now, Russia is in its typical early war muddle in Ukraine, which not so long ago was an integral part of the Soviet Union/Russia. The initial Russian offensive in Ukraine has broken down and ground to a halt. NATO spokesmen and anti-Russian Ukrainians are crowing about an apparent military defeat for Moscows invasion forces. Most estimations are absurdly exaggerated. There is lots of loose talk about chemical and nuclear weapons all designed to scare the other side. The deeply anti-Russian British establishment is using its influential BBC to whip up sentiment against Moscow as the Brits have done since 1917. So have the forces of light and good in Ukraine really defeated Russias army of wicked orcs? It depends on Moscows real goal in Ukraine. Its very likely that President Putins strategic goal in Ukraine is to dismantle its independent nationalist government and re-attach minor Russian-speaking parts to the Russian federation. Recall that some 36% of Ukrainians use Russian as their native language; many want no part of Ukraine. In fact, a low intensity civil war has flared in Ukraine for the past 14 years between anti-Russian nationalists (Nazis according to the nationalists) and pro-Russians (traitors say the nationalists), notably in the border enclaves of the Donets Basin, the center of that nations heavy industry and mining. Ukraine will remain steeped in profound corruption no matter who rules it. The best way out of this dangerous mess would be partition into pro and anti-Russian zones. But the pro-Russians have weak leadership and the current government forces see themselves as world heroes backed by NATO which is another name for American military power. While the fighting goes on, the conflict in Ukraine is increasingly dangerous. Defeat in Ukraine would fatally undermine the Russian Federation which went to war to prevent NATO/US from taking over Ukraine, then breaking up whats left of Russia. That is Washingtons ambition before it turns on China. This is playing with nuclear fire. The prime goal of the US should be to end the Ukraine conflict and stop pouring weapons and encouragement into Ukraine. But a wounded nation particularly a past or former enemy is too much of a target to ignore. Ukrainians must re-learn co-existence with Russia, like Finns. They must end their conflict before the rupture of Ukraines vital exports of wheat, other key grains, uranium and metals sends world trade into a tailspin. Middle East stability alone depends on US-subsidized Ukrainian wheat exports. What if the hard men in Moscow get fed up watching hundreds of millions worth of US and British arms pour across the Polish-Ukraine border? Sound military sense suggests Russia should attack these supply lines, depots and railroads. Good statecraft demands that Washington move mountains to settle the conflict in Ukraine in which it has no vital national interest but faces nuclear peril. But the Ukraine civil war is a political godsend for the Biden administration which has lost much of its voter support due to charges it is weak and timid. A Russian defeat in Ukraine would nicely compensate for the humiliating US defeat in Afghanistan for which Biden is blamed though it was mainly Donald Trump who lit the fuse of that disaster. Unfortunately, Ukraine has become what little Belgium was in 1914, a highly emotional issue propelling the mad rush to war. Westerners feel the sorrow of Ukrainians while totally ignoring the terrors they inflicted on Gaza, Afghans, Iraqis, Syrians, Yemenis, Somalis and Libyans. Our media wails for Ukrainians while ignoring the waves of B-52 heavy bombers carpet bombing Afghan villages. Copyright Eric S. Margolis 2022 The Supreme Court's rejection of Abu Zubaydah's plea is another black mark on American justice by Mark Fallon With its decision on March 3 blocking a Guantanamo detainees petition to question CIA contractors about his torture at an agency black site 20 years ago, the Supreme Court added another miserable chapter to the long history of cover-ups related to its criminal treatment of terrorist suspects. The long discredited legal process at Guantanamo has become so snarled in procedural and constitutional knots that talks are underway now between the government and defense lawyers to swap out death penalty trials in exchange for guilty pleas and life terms in a federal penitentiary or Guantanamo. In 2011 Congress blocked the Obama administration from trying the detainees in stateside federal courts. Lawyers for Abu Zubaydah, nom de guerre for a Saudi citizen captured in Pakistan and held without charges or trial in Guantanamo since 2006, had sought the testimony of James Mitchell and John Bruce Jessen, two former CIA contract psychologists who devised the agencys so-called enhanced interrogation techniques, or EITs. The Guantanamo techniques were based on the same abusive interrogation practices employed at the CIA black sites, Afghanistan, and eventually Abu Ghraib, the notorious Iraqi prison where detainees were photographed in humiliating and degrading poses. The Biden administration argued that the information Zubaydah sought would reveal state secrets that could harm U.S. national security. With this ruling, American and even foreign courts have been blocked from learning officially confirmed facts about the state-sponsored torture the CIA was engaged in. The court rebuffed Zubaydahs petition on a 7-2 vote, with Associate Justice Stephen Breyer writing for the majority. In our view, he said, the government has provided sufficient support for its claim of harm to warrant application of the privilege." Previously, in 2019, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit had sided with Zubaydah, now 51, rejecting the governments claims of potential harm to national security. Justice Neil Gorsuch blasted the majority decision, writing that the government should come to terms with what it did to Zubaydah, whom the U.S. mistakenly labelled a high level al-Qaeda terrorist and tortured for days with waterboarding, sleep deprivation, rectal penetrations and more. A report by the Senate Intelligence Committee in 2014 found the CIA "significantly overstated" Zubaydah's role in al-Qaeda. Stubborn Things The facts are hard to face, Gorsuch wrote in a dissent joined by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, suggesting that the dismissal of the truth was to avoid further embarrassment for past misdeeds. He added: We know already that our government treated Zubaydah brutallymore than 80 waterboardings, hundreds of hours of live burial and what it calls rectal hydration. Further evidence along the same lines may lie in the governments vaults. But as embarrassing as these facts may be, there is no state secret here. It was the courts duty, Gorsuch said, to follow the rule of law and the search for the truth. We should not let shame obscure our vision. The courts decision was even more baffling because the information about Abu Zubaydahs torture has already been declassified and is within the public domain. Zubaydah remains at Guantanamo Bay, one of those the New York Times labeled forever prisoners. The label struck: Abu Zubaydahs case was also singled out in last years HBO documentary, The Forever Prisoner. Further details of his torture and those involved in it are the subject of a book scheduled for release next month, The Forever Prisoner: The Full and Searing Account of the CIAs Most Controversial Covert Program, by Cathy Scott-Clark and Adrian Levy. There comes a point where we should not be ignorant as judges of what we know to be true as citizens Gorsuch said. This case takes us well past that point. The judge was clearly deeply agitated by his colleagues decision rebuffing Zubaydahs plea. Zubaydah seeks information about his torture at the hands of the CIA. The events in question took place two decades ago. They have long been declassified. Official reports have been published, books written, and movies made about them, he wrote. Still, the government seeks to have this suit dismissed on the ground it implicates a state secretand today the court acquiesces in that request. Ending this suit may shield the government from some further modest measure of embarrassment. But respectfully, we should not pretend it will safeguard any secret. Some may regard this as a victory for the government, in that it allows the CIA to shape the information to suit its own agenda. But the long term implications for the rule of law and todays battle between the forces of democracy and autocracy in America are devastating: The decision allows the CIA to shape national policy, rather than support it, by using the state secrets privilege to manage perceptions and control the narrative of the courts, which is an abrogation of the rule of law that the U.S. promotes and is supposed to practice. In his first State of the Union address, President Biden condemned Vladimir Putins aggression against Ukraine and described it as a battle between democracy and autocracy, proclaiming, In the battle between democracy and autocracy, democracies are rising to the moment, and the world is clearly choosing the side of peace and security. Of course, we are not an autocracynot yet, at least. But President Biden can underscore his self-proclaimed commitment to truth and rejection of autocracy by following through on his words with action. He should use his executive authority to order the disclosure of all information about the torture program, starting with the declassification the Senate Intelligence Committees full report on the same (taking care to protect the identity of CIA officers and sources). He should make closing the Guantanamo Bay prison a national priority, as recommended by the Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law at the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania, and mandate that any evidence derived from illegal activity, including cruel, or degrading treatment, or the use of interrogational practices prohibited by U.S. law, be excluded from all stages of military tribunal proceedings and for all purposes, except as evidence of the illegal activity. Without truth, without fair and transparent trials, there can be no closure for the families and friends of those who died on the USS Cole or during the horrific events of September 11, 2001. All of America deserves better. Mark Fallon is a former NCIS Deputy Assistant Director and Homeland Security Senior Executive. Was the former Special Agent-in-Charge of the Pentagon task force established to bring suspected terrorists to justice before military commissions at Guantanamo Bay. He writes for Spy Talks where this piece first appeared. System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28: 29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e8346f7628)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e83899b250)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e8346f7628)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e83899b250)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e8386ddb30)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e83899b250)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e83899b250)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8308649e8)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e838842000)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e838842000)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e838832df8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8387116d8)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e838832df8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8387116d8)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e83882d8d0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8387116d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8387116d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8346f3c70)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e83892df58)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e83892df58)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e838915950)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8389496d8)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e838915950)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8389496d8)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x55e83896f6b8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8389496d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e8389496d8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x55e82e9c5418)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e83895ab70)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x55e83895ab70)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 Radio amateur interviewed about Ukraine situation The Press Herald reports on the support being offered to victims of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and interviews radio amateur Bob Parsons KA1KSQ The newspaper reports that Bob Parsons has made contact with a radio amateur in Kyiv and a Polish amateur near the border. Read the story at https://www.pressherald.com/2022/03/23/gorham-residents-among-those-reaching-out-to-ukrainians/ A few days ago, the government decided to add antigen test as a supplement to nucleic acid detection.At present, there were 12 antigen detection reagents have been approved for the market. A number of enterprises in Hefei High-tech Zone are actively applying for domestic COVID-19 antigen testing registration certificates. In June 2020, a company in Hefei developed the COVID-19 antigen test, which has been certified by the European Union CE,Australia TGA and other countries, and its products are exported to many overseas countries. "The product is highly sensitive and specific and can also detect mutated strains." Wang Li, head of the company, said that antigen detection can be used as a supplementary means of screening COVID-19, which is conducive to the early detection of viruses. When a patient has symptoms of a cold or fever, or is quarantined at home, self-examination can be conducted to find out if the infection happens or not and whether isolation measures need to be taken, preventing cross-infection in a more timely and effective manner. Compared with nucleic acid test, antigen test kit is similar to pregnancy test stick, which can be done at home, without needing a professional equipment, getting results within 15 minutes. Its convenient and efficient. According to the reagent instructions, the nasal swab after sample collection was immediately placed in the sample tube, and the liquid was rotated and mixed with the preservation solution by squeezing the outer wall of the sample tube, and finally the liquid was dropped into the sample hole of the test card. After a few minutes, you can view the test results. If both "C" and "T" show a red band, it is positive, and if "C" shows a red band, it is negative, Wang said. Wang also told reporters that she had submitted materials to the State Food and Drug Administration in early March and was applying for a registration certificate. Other companies have also submitted relevant materials. "Our product is an independent innovation,using antibodies developed and produced by ourselves. In the process of research and development, we have received financial support from the Provincial Development and Reform Commission." Once the registration certificate is approved, production capacity will be increased to ensure the stability of the supply chain. Ukraine war: BBC World Service granted extra funding The BBC World Service will receive more than 4m in extra funding from the UK government to help counter disinformation about the Ukraine war. The BBC made the request for the money, which will also be used by the Ukrainian and Russian language services to cover urgent and unexpected costs. It welcomed the announcement and said the money would help relocate staff and operations to safe locations. The two language services have had record audiences since the invasion. The announcement on Wednesday followed a BBC request to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Foreign Office. "The BBC has seen a big demand for clear, fact-based, impartial journalism to counter disinformation and our teams are working around the clock to bring people the very best independent journalism," BBC director general Tim Davie said. "This funding will also help us with the immediate need to support staff who have been displaced, many of whom are continuing to work and provide vital expertise to the whole of the BBC," he added. In a statement, the government said it would give the World Service emergency funding "to help it continue bringing independent, impartial and accurate news to people in Ukraine and Russia in the face of increased propaganda from the Russian state". Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said the funding would help the World Service broadcast directly into both countries. Ms Dorries said: "The BBC will ensure that audiences in the region can continue to access independent news reporting in the face of systemic propaganda from a dictator waging war on European soil." Before 2014, the World Service was funded with a grant from the Foreign Office. But since then, it has been primarily funded by the licence fee, although in 2016 the government agreed to provide funding for it to expand. Between 2016 and 2021, the government has contributed 378m, including 8m announced for 2021/22 to fight disinformation around the world. https://radiotoday.co.uk/2022/03/bbc-world-service-to-receive-4-1-million-in-emergency-funding/ While Russias original and shifting objectives in Ukraine remain unclear, the Kremlin is increasingly wary of a publicized, drawn-out conflict. A potential intervention by its military alliance, the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), could give Russia a diplomatic victory and an acceptable path to de-escalating its campaign if it can leverage its influence over member states effectively. by John P. Ruehl Russias attempts to build an alliance between former Soviet states began shortly after the Soviet collapse in 1991. This led to the signing of the Collective Security Treaty (CST), which came into effect in 1994, by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Designed to coordinate military policies and collective defense between member states, the CST failed to promote any real military integration, and Azerbaijan, Georgia and Uzbekistan chose to leave in 1999, during the renewal of the treaty. When Vladimir Putin took over as president of Russia, he placed considerable efforts into expanding post-Soviet military ties. In 2002, the Collective Security Treaty was granted the status of an international regional organization, and came to be known as the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). The Russian-led CSTO alliance saw increased common military drills, and a Collective Rapid Reaction Forcedesigned to respond quickly to the challenges and threats to the security of the CSTO member statesand a joint air defense system were also created. Russias defense industry also increased weapons exports and maintenance deals with the CSTO member states. Yet until 2022, the CSTO had been slow to reveal any tangible use to any of its members besides Russia. Kyrgyzstan appealed to the CSTO to help end ethnic clashes in the country in June 2010, but the organization denied the request as it lacked the mandate to intervene in the domestic affairs of member states (a limitation since lifted after the CSTO decided to send forces into Kazakhstan in January 2022 to put an end to the unrest in the country). In September 2010, the CSTO also refrained from intervening to help Tajikistan suppress rising militancy in the country. And in 2021, Tajikistans leadership complained about the CSTOs lack of assistance as U.S. troops pulled out of neighboring Afghanistan. Instead, military drills were held by Tajikistan, Russia and non-CSTO member Uzbekistan at the border Tajikistan shares with Afghanistan in 2021a couple of months before the CSTO conducted its own counterterrorism drills in Tajikistan. Armenia has repeatedly appealed for CSTO assistance during its long-term dispute with Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, notably during their 2020 conflict, to no avail. However, the CSTOs intervention in Kazakhstan on January 5, 2022, proved that the alliance could provide benefits to other members besides Russia. As the Kazakh leadership faced nationwide protests and riots, 2,500 CSTO troops were sent in to secure Kazakhstans critical infrastructure. This allowed Kazakh security forces to focus their efforts on restoring order, and the Russian-led CSTO intervention successfully left a week later. A CSTO intervention in Ukraine during the current Russia-Ukraine war would be a completely different operation than the one seen in Kazakhstan. Yet such a scenario was hinted at in 2014, shortly after the first Russian military intervention against Ukraine, by then-CSTO Secretary-General Nikolay Bordyuzha. He suggested that the CSTOs peacekeeping forces were ready for any operations outside its territories, including in Ukraine, but a decision for a peacekeeping mission would depend on the organizations members. On February 19, meanwhile, just days before Russia recognized the independence of two breakaway regions in Ukraine, Luhansk and Donetsk, current CSTO Secretary-General Stanislav Zas stated that CSTO peacekeepers could be sent to the Donbas region under a UN mandate and with Kyivs blessing to help de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine. A few weeks later, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov stated that Putin intended to involve representatives of the member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict in some capacity. It is still unclear what exactly a CSTO operation in Ukraine would look like. As of this moment, member states could be committing to an active war zone outside CSTO territory with little comparative experience compared to Ukrainian, Russian and proxy forces. Initially, CSTO operations in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict could likely be limited to the playbook seen in Kazakhstan and could only involve securing critical infrastructure and perhaps patrolling pacified regions. The Kremlin would also have to convince other CSTO members to endorse and potentially join the Russian invasion force in Ukraine. Doing so would all but guarantee widespread Western sanctions against them, alongside significant diplomatic repercussions. But CSTO states are also far more economically linked with Russia. For example, annual remittances sent from Russia to the home countries of migrant workers belonging to the CSTO member states of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan accounted for more than 26 percent of Tajikistans gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 and approximately 31 percent of Kyrgyzstans GDP for the same year. Russia also accounts for more than 40 percent of Belarus exports and provides Belarus with billions of dollars in oil and transit fees (alongside subsidized energy shipments). And all CSTO members except for Tajikistan are also members of the Russian-led economic bloc, the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Additionally, EAEU/CSTO member countries economic relations with China far outstrip their links to Western economies, and Beijings growing partnership with Russia to challenge the West could result in the Chinese economic assistance somewhat compensating for the sanctions these countries might face from the West. Perhaps most importantly, Russia has significant military leverage over other CSTO states. Their individual vulnerabilities have made Russia indispensable to their security, and the Kremlin could choose to strongarm them into a CSTO commitment in Ukraine. A CSTO intervention would only provide limited support to Russia and is unlikely to sway the tide of the war. But even a symbolic contribution would legitimize Russias campaign and change international perceptions over its role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Such an operation would hinge on the Kremlins ability to exploit CSTO states dependencies on Russia. Armenias conflict with Azerbaijan, as well as its tensions with Turkey have made it largely reliant on Russian firepower through the Russian 102nd military base and Russian border guards. In 2019, Armenian forces also joined Russian forces in Syria to participate in a demining mission, though Armenia has stressed the non-combat nature of its deployment there. The Republic of Artsakh, which governs the Armenian-controlled parts of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, has already indicated its intention to recognize the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk shortly after Russia did. Kazakhstans reliance on Russia was revealed during the 2022 CSTO intervention that helped prop up its government. The country also has a large Russian minority population, mostly on its border with Russia, that could be used as further pressure by the Kremlin to coerce Kazakhstan into legitimizing a CSTO campaign in Ukraine. Tajikistan received significant help from Russia during its civil war in the 1990s, and the lingering presence of the Russian 201st army base helps guarantee the countrys internal stability and border with Afghanistan. Kyrgyzstan has also relied on Russia for national stability, and supported Russias decision to recognize Donetsk and Luhansk without doing so itself. The CSTO has also been used to manage the border dispute between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Nonetheless, Belarus is the most likely CSTO member to enter the conflict in Ukraine. President Alexander Lukashenko has increasingly intertwined the countrys economic, political and military policies with Russias. The Kremlin also gave support to Lukashenko during the 2020 protests that rocked Belarus against his reelection. Belarus also recognized Russias annexation of Crimea in 2021 and was one of five countries that voted against a UN Resolution in March of 2022 to condemn Russia for its invasion of Ukraine (other CSTO members abstained). The effects of sanctions against Lukashenko are already less pronounced, as he and Belarus have been subjected to Western sanctions for yearsincluding more since the 2022 Russian intervention in Ukraine. Before and after the Russian invasion, Belarus also partly mobilized military units on its border with Ukraine. On February 27, Ukraine stated that missiles had been fired from Belarus into Ukraine, and by March 11, a senior U.S. defense official declared that Russian forces have launched more than 80 missiles from Belarus into Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict. The same day, Lukashenko stated that Belarus military would come to the defense of the rear of Russian forces should they be attacked, while Ukrainian authorities accused Russia of firing missiles into Belarus from Ukraine. This incident raised fears of a false flag operation that could not only push Belarus into the war but also trigger the CSTOs Article 4 that would insinuate an attack on the entire alliance. It is unclear if the Kremlin is seriously considering pushing a CSTO intervention, what this intervention would eventually look like and when Russia plans to try and implement this intervention. But a successful multinational intervention, which will likely be more a show of diplomatic solidarity than military coordination, could help Russia legitimize its claims in Ukraine when negotiations truly begin. Russia will still have to remain wary of CSTO states security situations from escalating as well. But the Kremlins developments of its own international institutions are part of wider efforts to minimize Western diplomatic influence over global hotspots. Russia has already held talks over Ukraine with Turkey and China, and coordinating with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) over this issue could also further Russias goal to prevent Western intervention in the conflict. Activating the CSTO to intervene in a European country outside the territory of the alliance will raise tensions across the continent and will almost certainly involve a strong NATO deployment in the Baltics and the risk of further Western sanctions. But the muted Western military response so far may have incentivized Russia to push its luck with the CSTO. Whether member states can be convinced or coerced by Russia to intervene in Ukraine is yet to be seen. This article was produced by Globetrotter. John P. Ruehl is an Australian-American journalist living in Washington, D.C. He is a contributing editor to Strategic Policy and a contributor to several other foreign affairs publications. He is currently finishing a book on Russia to be published in 2022. A free virtual summit will discuss Alzeimers disease in Latinos, a group with the largest increase of the disease in the United States. The event, specifically created for residents of South Florida, is Wednesday, March 30 starting at noon and will be in Spanish with English subtitles. Advertisement Organized by the Alzheimers Foundation of America, people interested in the virtual Latino Healthy Brain Summit can register at www.alzfdn.org/Latinomiami. The goal of the summit is to educate people about topics such as early detection, warning signs, estate planning, tips for healthy aging and local resources. Advertisement Latinos face the largest increase in Alzheimers disease and dementia-related illnesses of any racial/ethnic group in the United States, according to the National Institute on Aging the number of Latinos aged 65 and older with Alzheimers is projected to nearly triple by 2060, said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., the foundations president and CEO. We want to empower the Latino community with information that can help them understand the risks and warning signs, encourage them to get screened and speak up about memory concerns, as well as learn about services available to help. Early detection, experts say, is vital to get help and for early planning for patients and family members. Knowing the difference of typical and atypical changes associated with aging is crucial for early detection, diagnosis and treatment. Knowledge about the signs of the disease can also be helpful in finding support and help, said Dr. Annelly Bure-Reyes, assistant professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and one of the panelists at the summit. The summit will also provide information on proactive steps that can be taken to help improve brain health, on resources in the Miami area available to help Latino families as well as what can be done to detect early stages of the disease. The presence of biological markers or biomarkers associated with the disease can be detected with various exams including brain imaging and laboratory analysis. Genetic testing to identify predisposition or risk of developing the disease can also be done, said Bure-Reyes. Although research on the use of different diagnostic tools is ongoing, cognitive, behavioral and psychological changes can be indicative of the presence of a neurodegenerative disorder such as Alzheimers disease, added Bure-Reyes. Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimers, there are medications that help treat symptoms at different stages of the disease. Access to treatment options and participation in clinical trials may be possible with early detection, she said. At the summit, participants will also learn what to eat for brain health, and how to modernize traditional Latino foods and recipes for healthy living. In this event, the participants will learn how to incorporate the foods that we already eat as part of our Latino culture with things that are not very common in our countries, said Diana Mesa, nutritionist, licensed and certified in diabetes education and founder of Nutricion En La Mesa, and also a panelist at the summit. Mesa is leading the talk Eating for Brain Health: Modernizing Traditional Latino Foods for Healthy Living, which will take place from 1:20 to 1:50 p.m. Advertisement I think that having healthy habits are definitely good for brain health or health in general, said Cuban Mesa, a Miami resident. Alzheimers disease is the most common type of dementia. According to current estimates, there are 5.8 million people in the United States who have Alzheimers disease or related dementias, including 5.6 million age 65 and older, and about 200,000 under 65 with early-onset Alzheimers disease, according to the Alzheimers Association. By 2060, cases of Alzheimers disease are predicted to rise to an estimated 14 million, with minority populations being the hardest hit. yvaldez@sunsentinel.com, @yvonnehvaldezz in Twitter and @elsentinelsur en Facebook, Twitter e Instagram. Barbara Sharief said Friday shes running for Florida Senate, setting up a colossal showdown in the Democratic primary. Sharief is running in a newly crafted Senate District 35 that covers southwest Broward, her longtime political base. Advertisement Theres no incumbent senator in that district. But state Sen. Lauren Book, who lives nearby, plans to move into the newly created district and is running there. The result will be contentious campaign leading to the Aug. 23 Democratic primary, the winner of which is all-but-guaranteed to win the November general election. Advertisement The moment the campaign began, the gloves were off. [ RELATED: Pleading for exemptions to 15-week abortion bill, Sen. Lauren Book reveals she was gang raped as a child ] Tallahassees broken. We need public servants who will fight for the people that they serve instead of selling out to big money special interests and lobbyists, Sharief said in a campaign video posted on social media Friday morning. We need a leader who wont bow to the right wing agenda that wants to take away all of our rights, restrict our freedoms and limit opportunity. Her comments in the video and later at a kickoff event in Davie are a clear criticism of Book, who is currently the Democratic leader in the Florida Senate and has been accused by political foes of not taking a sufficiently tough line with Republicans. Her father, Ron Book, one of the states most prominent lobbyists, is a major Florida political player and fundraiser. Im Barbara Sharief, your Democratic candidate for State Senate District 35. Ive been fighting for our community for 29 years, and Im not ready to stop. To learn more about our campaign, visit ---> https://t.co/VrNFnK3WW0 pic.twitter.com/E5uMZ08Krk Barbara Sharief for State Senate (@Barbarasharief) March 25, 2022 Too many politicians are concerned with how to benefit themselves and lobbyists who give them money. They have no idea who you are, what you think or what you want because they only care about passing their own agendas by any means necessary. The political establishment doesnt know what its like to struggle, to claw your way out of poverty, to create a life of stability. We need true public servants who will fight for the people they serve instead of selling out. We need someone who understands the struggle, Sharief said. Sharief is a former Broward County commissioner and former Miramar city commissioner. As a county commissioner, she served as president of the Florida Association of Counties, and her colleagues twice elected her to serve terms as county mayor. A nurse who holds a doctorate of nursing practice, Sharief founded a pediatric home health care company. State Sen. Lauren Book is moving to a different district, hoping to win another term. I have spent the past several years fighting for our shared Democratic values," she said. (Wilfredo Lee/AP) Last year, Sharief was an unsuccessful candidate in a special Democratic congressional primary. She finished third in the 11-candidate field seeking the nomination to succeed the late Congressman Alcee Hastings. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick won the special congressional primary and special general election. Book was traveling Friday and not available to comment about the primary campaign. In a statement emailed by her spokeswoman, Book faulted Sharief for challenging an incumbent Democrat in the primary and noted her failed 2021 campaign. Book depicted herself as the champion of Democratic values and voice of opposition to Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republicans. Advertisement I have spent the past several years fighting for our shared Democratic values and am now working tirelessly to not only increase Democrats numbers in the Senate but to stop the ultra right wing agenda of Ron DeSantis and his supporters. Serving in the State Senate should never be a consolation prize, especially at such a time when our values and freedoms are under attack by the extreme right, Book said. My work in the Senate and as Democratic leader is far from over, and Democrats fighting each other only undermines our critical efforts to strengthen our party and Caucus. We should be working together to to defeat the Republican agenda, not each other, Book said. This is also the region of Broward county I grew up in. I know it like the back of my hand. Tallahassee and SW Broward are my two homes in Florida. Florida Data Geek (@MappingFL) March 25, 2022 The primary contest could have a broader impact. The No. 1 job of a party leader in the Legislature is raising money to help the partys other candidates. A primary race means Book will have to spend more time campaigning in her own contest and raising money for her own efforts instead of raising money for other Democratic candidates for the state Senate. Book was first elected to the Florida Senate in 2016. In 2021, she became minority party leader in the Senate after Democrats ousted another Broward Democrat, state Sen. Gary Farmer, from the job. Currently serving Democratic senators have chosen Book to continue in that job through 2024, something contingent on Broward voters electing her to a Senate seat. Book is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and rape, and is founder and CEO of the child abuse prevention organization Laurens Kids. Barbara Sharief, a former Broward County commissioner and former Miramar city commissioner, is running for Florida Senate in 2022. "Tallahassee's broken," she said. (Anthony Man / South Florida Sun Sentinel) Redistricting and shifting advantages Matthew Isbell, a Florida-based Democratic data consultant who runs the MCI Maps firm and grew up in that part of Broward, wrote on Twitter that the Book-Sharief primary could have a notable north south divide. Sharief could do well in the southern-diverse end where she was a commissioner. While Book should do strong in the northern suburbs. Advertisement Mapping that Isbell published immediately after the congressional primary showed that Shariefs best performance was was in southwest Broward precincts especially around Miramar that are in the new district. Part of the territory she represented on the County Commission, from November 2010 to January 2022, is in the Senate district, but much of it isnt. Book currently represents a large part of the newly created District 35, but because of redistricting, her home in Plantation is now part of new District 32. Running there would have required her to compete with freshly elected state Sen. Rosalind Osgood in a district that would greatly favor Osgood. Boundaries of all state Senate districts are changing this year to reflect population changes uncovered in the 2020 Census, forcing current lawmakers to figure out where theyll run if they want to try to continue their careers and creating more opportunities for newcomers. Book has been looking for a new home in District 35, her spokeswoman said, and plans to move there. [ RELATED: Hes as arrogant as Trump. He is mini-Trump. DeSantis is a disaster. Crist, Fried, Taddeo rally Broward Democrats. ] The new 35th Senate District is mostly south of Interstate 595 and west of Floridas Turnpike. It also includes territory around the hockey arena in Sunrise formerly known as the BB&T Center and the Sawgrass Mills shopping mall and vast unpopulated territory in the Everglades. It includes all or parts of Cooper City, Davie, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise and Southwest Ranches. The Book-Sharief faceoff was expected. Though Sharief had considered running again for Congress, she said in a March 12 interview during a break at the Broward Democratic Partys annual Obama Roosevelt Legacy Gala that she was leaning heavily toward a Senate candidacy. The coming primary means other Democrats, along with political donors, will be put in an uncomfortable position. Broward County Commissioner Steve Geller, a former Democratic Party leader in the Florida Senate, said Friday he planned to endorse Book. I really like my former colleague Dr. Sharief. I wish she was running in a different seat. Advertisement Anthony Man can be reached at aman@sunsentinel.com or on Twitter @browardpolitics UW Selects Parag Chitnis as VP for Research and Economic Development Parag Chitnis An experienced administrator who has led numerous interdisciplinary research programs for two federal agencies and two land-grant universities has been chosen as the University of Wyomings vice president for research and economic development. Parag Chitnis, most recently the associate director for programs at the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), will begin his new role at UW May 31. His appointment was approved today (Friday) by UWs Board of Trustees. Dr. Chitnis brings a deep understanding of both the federal research funding landscape and the mission of land-grant universities to UW, President Ed Seidel says. Were excited hes joining our leadership team to help move the university forward and achieve our ambitions in the highly related areas of research and economic development. The role of the vice president for research and economic development is to support and facilitate the research efforts of UWs faculty, staff and students; direct the universitys research mission as a public research university; promote the universitys research program with stakeholders; direct technology transfer and commercialization efforts for UW intellectual property; and facilitate synergies with Wyoming industry. Those tasks are at the center of UWs efforts to achieve R1 status in the Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education, the top tier of American research universities, and to become a stronger economic engine for the state through the Wyoming Innovation Partnership and related initiatives. I am honored to join UWs dynamic leadership team for advancing President Seidels transformative vision for digital, entrepreneurial, inclusive and interdisciplinary excellence at UW, Chitnis says. The impressive faculty, dedicated staff, energetic students and a clear set of goals position UW on an exciting path to seed and nurture even more creative activities at UW; to enhance research infrastructure; and to catalyze economic prosperity for Wyoming citizens by innovating avenues for deliberate commercialization of research outputs. Chitnis has been a leader at NIFA since 2014, holding other positions including acting director; deputy director of food production and sustainability; and associate director for operations. The federal agency provides leadership and funding for programs that advance agriculture-related sciences. Notably, Chitnis oversaw the successful reestablishment of NIFA in Kansas City, Mo., after relocation of its 300-plus positions from Washington, D.C., in 2019. In his most recent role, Chitnis has led and managed more than 70 NIFA programs with a total budget of nearly $2 billion annually. Among his many responsibilities, he enhanced funding opportunities for extension programs nationwide and led participation in interdisciplinary initiatives such as artificial intelligence. He led partnerships with land-grant universities as a liaison to agriculture experiment stations and cooperative extension services. He also was a leader in international collaborations in animal and plant health. Before going to NIFA, Chitnis was the director of the Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences at the National Science Foundation (NSF), where he also served as a deputy director and program director starting in 2002. Among his many accomplishments during that period, Chitnis led research grant programs in molecular and cellular systems and led initiatives in areas including synthetic biology and functional genomics at the interface of biology and other disciplines. He received the NSF Directors Awards for Program Management Excellence, as well as for his diversity initiatives. Many of the NSF research programs he led were interdisciplinary, involving chemistry, physics and engineering programs. At Iowa State University (1996-2002), Chitnis was a full professor and associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. Before that, he was an assistant professor in Kansas State Universitys Division of Biology and Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station (1991-96). He taught a diverse array of courses at those institutions, from introductory biology for undergraduates to membrane biochemistry for advanced graduate students. His research in plant biochemistry, photosynthesis and proteomics was supported by over $4 million in research grants from many federal and private sources. Chitnis holds a Ph.D. in biology from UCLA; an M.S. in genetics and biochemistry from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Dehli; and a B.S. in botany from Konkan Agricultural University in Dapoli, India. In addition to his administrative appointment at UW, Chitnis will be a tenured professor in the Department of Molecular Biology. He and his spouse, Vaishali Chitnis, are looking forward to moving to Laramie this summer. Dr. Chitnis has extensive expertise in areas that are central to UWs land-grant mission, says UW Provost and Executive Vice President Kevin Carman, who led the search committee. He has had great success as both a scholar and administrator, and were looking forward to drawing upon his experiences to advance the universitys important research enterprise and reach UWs potential as an economic driver for the state. Michael Lo Piano, left, helps Oksana Hryvinska with a pin symbolizing support for the Ukrainian people during a benefit concert at St. Thomas More Catholic chapel at Yale University in New Haven, Conn., on March 16. Neighbors try to extinguish the fire of a house destroyed after a Russian attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Thursday. U.S. President Joe Biden attends a press conference at the NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, March 24, 2022. NATO approved on Thursday the deployment of four new battle groups in the eastern part of the alliance, including Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, declared Jens Stoltenberg, NATO's secretary general during a press briefing. In total, there will now be eight NATO battle groups deployed along the eastern flank of the alliance, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) BRUSSELS, March 24 (Xinhua) -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) approved on Thursday the deployment of four new battle groups in the eastern part of the alliance, including Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, declared Jens Stoltenberg, NATO's secretary general during a press briefing. In total, there will now be eight NATO battle groups deployed along the eastern flank of the alliance, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. The organization's heads of states were called for an extraordinary meeting to discuss further support for Ukraine, in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that started exactly one month ago. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg said that the alliance's top military commander has activated NATO's chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense elements and allies are deploying additional chemical and biological and nuclear defenses. Fort Polk, LA (71446) Today Mostly cloudy. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Thunderstorms - some may contain locally heavy rain, especially this evening. A few storms may be severe. Low around 65F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near an inch. Aerial photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows the Cambodia-China Friendship Medical Building in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Cambodia inaugurated a China-aided modern medical building on Monday at the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital in the capital Phnom Penh. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, March 21 (Xinhua) -- Situated in the capital of Cambodia, the newly-established Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital will play an important role in improving the quality of healthcare services in the southeast Asian nation. Built by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd. under a Chinese government's grant, the 11-storey building, which includes a helipad on its roof, has 400 beds and is well equipped with high-tech medical equipment. The building is divided into different units, including surgery, outpatient services, emergency, medical technology, hospitalization, and logistics. "It will importantly contribute to improving the quality of healthcare services and the development of human resources for health in the country," Cambodian Health Minister Mam Bunheng said during the inauguration ceremony of the medical building on Monday. "It will not only be a lifesaving facility, but also a venue for training medical students and health officials," he said. The Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital is a public hospital that provides medical services to all kinds of diseases. What is more, it is outstanding for its surgery on brain as well as bone and spinal fracture. Tan Sokun, director of the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital, called on people to choose the hospital for their treatment instead of seeking medical services abroad, saying that the hospital is qualified enough to deliver quality medical services and that medical fees are also cheaper than those charged by overseas hospitals. "All pieces of medical equipment are new and modern, and our medical experts, both Cambodian and Chinese ones, are highly competent, so I'm confident that the hospital will provide high quality and effective medical services to all patients," he said. "This is an international standard hospital, so medical services at our hospital are not different from those at overseas hospitals," Sokun said. The medical building is the largest project in public health cooperation between Cambodia and China, and it is the fruit of cooperation under the frameworks of the comprehensive strategic partnership and the Belt and Road Initiative. "It's a huge gift for the health sector that China has granted to Cambodia," Try Limtyty, a 29-year-old doctor at the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital, told Xinhua. "This new hospital would serve people better as it is well equipped with modern medical technology." Local residents are also elated to see a large, beautiful and modern hospital in the central part of Phnom Penh, expressing their confidence that it will provide more convenient and quality medical services to people in the capital and the rest of the country. "This hospital is an invaluable asset of Cambodia," a 36-year-old Phnom Penh resident, Sar Srey Virak, told Xinhua. "I believe that it will play an important role in protecting the well-being of Cambodian people, because the hospital has both Cambodian and Chinese veteran doctors as well as modern medical equipment," he said. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen visits the Cambodia-China Friendship Medical Building in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on March 21, 2022. Cambodia inaugurated a China-aided modern medical building on Monday at the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital in the capital Phnom Penh. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) Photo taken on March 18, 2022 shows the Cambodia-China Friendship Medical Building in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Cambodia inaugurated a China-aided modern medical building on Monday at the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital in the capital Phnom Penh. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) A security officer stands next to the wreckage of a car on a street of Aden, the southern port city of Yemen, on March 24, 2022. (Photo by Murad Abdo/Xinhua) ADEN, Yemen, March 23 (Xinhua) -- A deadly booby trap bomb attack in southern Yemen's Aden killed a high-ranking military commander of the Yemeni army and three bodyguards on Wednesday, a government official told Xinhua. The booby-trapped vehicle "targeted a motorcade of General Thabit Jawas while he was passing near a security checkpoint in the northern parts of Aden," the local government source said on condition of anonymity. The four people were killed on the scene amid the powerful explosion, he noted. Jawas leads the pro-government military forces in the country's southern provinces, particularly in Aden, Lahj, and other neighboring cities, he said. "The general had launched several military campaigns against the Houthis in the first round of fighting in 2004 in the northern province of Saada," one of which killed Hussein Al-Houthi, former head of the Iran-backed Houthi group, according to the official. Earlier on Wednesday, witnesses told Xinhua that an exchange of gunfire occurred following the explosion that was heard in various neighborhoods of Aden. They said that security vehicles and ambulances rushed to the bombing site that was surrounded by soldiers who prevented access to the area. Local authorities are trying to maintain security and stability in Aden. However, sporadic bombing incidents and drive-by shooting attacks still occur in the strategic Yemeni port city. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014, when the Houthi rebels seized control of several northern provinces and forced the internationally-recognized government of Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. Security officers stand next to the wreckage of a car on a street of Aden, the southern port city of Yemen, on March 24, 2022. (Photo by Murad Abdo/Xinhua) The wreckage of a car is seen on a street of Aden, the southern port city of Yemen, on March 24, 2022. (Photo by Murad Abdo/Xinhua) Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrives for the meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels, Belgium, March 24, 2022. Hungary strongly opposes sanctions against Russian energy sector, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Wednesday ahead of a two-day meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels. (European Union/Handout via Xinhua) BUDAPEST, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Hungary strongly opposes sanctions against Russian energy sector, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Wednesday ahead of a two-day meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels. "Proposals seeking to extend sanctions against the Russian aggression to the energy sector and thus put Hungary in a difficult, perhaps impossible position must be prevented," Orban said in a video message sent to Hungarian News Agency MTI. "We must protect Hungary's national interests, and we must prevail in Brussels for the next two days," he added. EU leaders will have a two-day meeting in Brussels on Thursday and Friday, to discuss further steps and sanctions against Russia, because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that broke out almost a month ago. Some proposals call on the extension of EU sanctions to Russian energy companies, according to Orban. Earlier Wednesday, Hungarian chief of diplomacy Peter Szijjarto affirmed the Hungarian position against sanctioning Russian energy companies, as Hungarian economy, along with other EU countries, relies heavily on Russian oil and gas. Hungary does not support any sanctions on Russian energy shipments as it would endanger Hungary's energy security, foreign minister Peter Szijjarto said on Wednesday at the United Nations Human Rights Council reiterating Hungary's stance. "It is not Hungary's fault that natural gas and oil from Russia plays a big role in the energy supply of Hungary, Central Europe and all of Europe," Szijjarto said in a speech broadcast on his Facebook page on Wednesday. Szijjarto also underlined it is not realistic to cut dependence on Russian energy "from one year to the next, let alone from one day to the next." Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban attends an extraordinary NATO summit at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, March 24, 2022. Hungary strongly opposes sanctions against Russian energy sector, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Wednesday ahead of a two-day meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban attends an extraordinary NATO summit at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, March 24, 2022. Hungary strongly opposes sanctions against Russian energy sector, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Wednesday ahead of a two-day meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Photo by Xu Dong/Xinhua) NANNING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. Field exploration and shallow surface excavation have been carried out at the core crash site in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, said Zhu Tao, head of the aviation safety office of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Experts are working on an excavation plan for the core site, Zhu said, adding that DNA samples are being taken from relatives of the missing passengers. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. The search and rescue scope has been expanded to nearly 200,000 square meters, and more than 2,200 people have joined the rescue efforts, said Lao Gaojin, vice mayor of Wuzhou City that administers Tengxian. As of 10 a.m. Friday, 531 family members of 92 missing passengers had arrived in Wuzhou. The engine gearbox and main landing gear remnants were found in the core crash site, said Mao Yanfeng, head of the aviation accident investigation center of CAAC. Mao noted that it is not certain when the downloading and analyses of data from the recovered black box will be completed. A preliminary investigation report will be submitted to the International Civil Aviation Organization within 30 days in accordance with the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Mao added. Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Photo by Zheng Bingzhen/Xinhua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Photo by Zheng Bingzhen/Xinhua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers transport pieces of plane wreckage at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers identify objects collected at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers transport a piece of plane wreckage at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers transport pieces of plane wreckage at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers transport objects collected at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers transport objects collected at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A rescuer helps another rescuer get medical treatment at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers use a water pump to conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers transport objects collected at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers transport pumping equipment at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers carry pieces of plane wreckage at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers carry a piece of plane wreckage at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) A rescuer suffering from heat stroke is helped out of the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) A rescuer rests at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers drain water at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) A rescuer pulls out a shoe stuck in the mud at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) A medical worker treats wounds for an injured rescuer at a plane crash site in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Staff members classify and identify the searched items at a plane crash site in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Over 30 years ago, Xi Jinping was Party secretary of Ningde, then an impoverished prefecture in China's eastern province of Fujian. When some local officials suggested more taxes on enterprises to boost fiscal revenue, he immediately rejected the idea, comparing it to "draining the pond to get all the fish." As Chinese president, Xi has been dedicated to helping businesses grow. Now, a campaign to reduce the burdens on businesses is in full swing. An array of measures rolled out over the past years, including reforms on the value-added tax (VAT) and reduction of administrative fees, have already been fruitful. Thanks to the tax and fee reduction initiative, over 8.6 trillion yuan (1.3 trillion U.S. dollars) of taxes and fees were saved for enterprises nationwide from 2016 to 2021. As the economy faces the triple pressure of shrinking demand, supply shock, and weakening expectation amid the pandemic, helping struggling businesses is more pressing than ever. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Xi has chaired key meetings and made inspection tours to make sure relief measures are more targeted and effective. In February 2020, he called for the roll-out of more targeted interim policies to cut taxes and fees to help micro, small and medium-sized firms tide over difficulties. During an inspection tour in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in June that same year, Xi said policies designed to reduce tax burdens on companies should be implemented fully. Yuchen Building Materials, a small manufacturer in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, struggled to cover the pay for its over 30 employees when the pandemic hit business. But thanks to a tax cut worth 350,000 yuan for 2021 and another 130,000-yuan tax payment deferral at the beginning of this year, the company's prospects took a turn for the better. Yuchen's experience, not an isolated case, has played out across the country. With massive tax and fee cuts, the cash flow of businesses, vulnerable small ones in particular, has significantly increased. Their confidence has improved and new market vitality has been unleashed. The efforts to support businesses will continue. In the annual government work report, China announced plans for a record 2.5 trillion yuan in tax refunds and cuts this year, including VAT credit refunds worth around 1.5 trillion yuan. Nearly 1 trillion yuan of VAT credit refunds will go to micro and small enterprises and self-employed individuals, according to a State Council executive meeting on Monday. Market entities support the employment and entrepreneurship of hundreds of millions of people, according to the annual Central Economic Work Conference in December, where Xi delivered a key speech. "We will continue to implement new tax and fee cuts to help them, especially micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and self-employed individuals, ease their burden and restore their vitality," a statement released after the meeting said. KUNMING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Police in southwest China's Yunnan Province have arrested three individuals and seized 139.27 kilograms of methamphetamine in a drug trafficking case, local authorities said on Friday. On March 13, police in the city of Lincang detected a suspicious sedan loitering around a border area through video surveillance, and then dispatched officers to inspect the vehicle. During the inspection, police arrested two suspects on the scene and found five bags filled with methamphetamine. The third suspect was arrested on Wednesday. Further investigation is underway. Yunnan is a major front in China's battle against drug crime as it borders the Golden Triangle, an area notorious for rampant drug production and trafficking. HONG KONG, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Carrie Lam said on Friday that anti-epidemic supply kits will be distributed to all Hong Kong residents in early April. The HKSAR government will distribute the supply kits to around 3 million families in Hong Kong, which include rapid antigen test (RAT) kits, KN95 masks and traditional Chinese medicines, among others, Lam told a press conference. Lam urged the public to use RATs more often after they receive the supply kits and to report their test results to the government's online platform within 24 hours once testing positive. The chief executive said the timely report of positive cases will help the government keep track of the epidemic development and arrange appropriate triage and stratified treatment for patients as early as possible, while enabling the public to obtain infection records that can be used for sick leave applications and vaccination arrangements. Jack Chan, acting secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSAR government, said the supply kits mainly consisting of mainland-aided anti-epidemic supplies reflect the central government's care and support for Hong Kong compatriots. Chan said the Housing Department will be responsible for the distribution of supply kits to all people including those living far away. The government will also set up a number of distribution points in all 18 districts to ensure the full distribution of supply kits. On Friday, Hong Kong registered a total of 10,405 new daily COVID-19 infections, including 4,578 by nucleic acid tests and 5,827 additional cases through self-reported rapid antigen tests, official data showed. Damaged buildings are seen in the Zanabili soap factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) by Hummam Sheikh Ali ALEPPO, Syria, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Walking into the Zanabili soap factory in the old city of Aleppo in northwestern Syria is somewhat tricky, as the scars of the protracted civil war are still visible here and there. However, the mesmerizing scent of the natural olive soap would attract visitors to the piles of soap bars, whose touch is so smooth as it is made of natural olive oil. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. In 2012, Zanabili had to leave for a safer place in Aleppo when the Syrian rebels took over the area. However, that didn't bring him down. He continued making soaps in a room inside a house in the city, trying to preserve the family brand name. When the rebels were expelled in 2016, Zanabili immediately returned to the ancient factory, just to find that 40 percent of it was damaged. Zanabili didn't quit. He rolled up his sleeves and started repairing the factory while continuing the soap production, even though at a very limited capacity. Inside the factory, soot deposits could be seen on parts of the walls as result of the fire that erupted during the war. Workers were operating old-fashioned machines to produce the olive soaps. In general, olive soaps are still being produced in Aleppo in the old-fashioned way, with no complicated machinery involved. This makes it easy for the manufacturers to resume work under any circumstances. Zanabili is very determined to carry on the family business and preserve the family brand. "If you leave the souk, people would forget the brand name. That's why I carry it on," he said. But the troubles caused by the war go far beyond the physical damages. The Zanabili factory, like many other factories in Syria, is also facing other serious problems. Zanabili said his production has decreased 50 percent due to external and internal factors. For example, the U.S.-led Western sanctions imposed on Syria have made it very difficult for the factories to conduct bank transactions to facilitate the trade. He also cited the shortage of electricity supply and high fuel prices as other factors that have added burden on Syrian factories. "The lack of electricity is a major obstacle, forcing us to operate the machines on fuel and electricity generators, which increased the production cost and then the soap prices, in comparison with neighboring countries," Zanabili said. The Zanabili factory is also troubled by the attempts of others to steal the brand name amid the chaos of war and sanctions. Still, Zanabili vowed to continue the struggle to regain his old life and make it even better than before, hoping that his products could reach more countries in the future. Mazen Zanabili, owner of the Zanabili soap factory, inspects the restored part of his factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) An employee works at the Zanabili soap factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) An employee works at the Zanabili soap factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Mazen Zanabili (L), owner of the Zanabili soap factory, inspects the manufacturing of olive soap at his factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Olive soap bars are seen piled up at the Zanabili soap factory in the old city of Aleppo, northwestern Syria, on March 6, 2022. The Zanabili factory, the oldest olive soap factory in Aleppo named after the family who has been operating it since 1,000 years ago, suffered massive damages as it was located in a battle zone during the war. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. (Photo by Zheng Bingzhen/Xinhua) NANNING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The core site of the recent plane crash in south China will be excavated as all-out efforts are made to continue searching for survivors and the second black box, officials said at a news briefing on Friday. Field exploration and shallow surface excavation have been carried out at the core crash site in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, said Zhu Tao, head of the aviation safety office of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 24, 2022. (Photo by Zheng Bingzhen/Xinhua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Photo by Xu Dong/Xinhua) Experts are working on an excavation plan for the core site, Zhu said, adding that DNA samples are being taken from relatives of the missing passengers. The China Eastern Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft carrying 132 people crashed on the afternoon of March 21 in a mountainous area of Guangxi's Tengxian County. No survivors have been found so far. One black box has already been recovered. Rescuers identify objects collected at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) The search and rescue scope has been expanded to nearly 200,000 square meters, and more than 2,200 people have joined the rescue efforts, said Lao Gaojin, vice mayor of Wuzhou City that administers Tengxian. As of 10 a.m. Friday, 531 family members of 92 missing passengers had arrived in Wuzhou. Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) The engine gearbox and main landing gear remnants were found in the core crash site, said Mao Yanfeng, head of the aviation accident investigation center of CAAC. Mao noted that it is not certain when the downloading and analyses of data from the recovered black box will be completed. Rescuers transport pumping equipment at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua) Rescuers conduct search and rescue work at the core site of the plane crash in Tengxian County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) A preliminary investigation report will be submitted to the International Civil Aviation Organization within 30 days in accordance with the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Mao added. BEIJING, March 24 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson on Thursday said the claim that China sent military aid to Russia is nothing but pure fabrication. Both Chinese and Russian sides have clarified the issue. The rumor repeatedly spread by the United States against China exposed its sinister intention, said Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense. "We urge the U.S. side to immediately stop this despicable smearing and do some deep reflections on its disgraceful role in the evolving Ukraine crisis," Wu said, adding that the United States should take concrete actions to push for the de-escalation of the Ukraine situation. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- China is set to boost its value-added tax (VAT) credit refunds in the country's latest tax and fee reduction efforts to ease the burden on businesses and shore up the vitality of market entities. The country's total VAT credit refunds will reach approximately 1.5 trillion yuan (about 235 billion U.S. dollars) this year, with priority to be given to micro and small firms and the manufacturing industry, Vice Minister of Finance Xu Hongcai told a press conference earlier this week. "The large-scale tax refunds are the most important part of this year's new package of tax-and-fee policies," said Xu, citing the country's record tax cut and rebate target of 2.5 trillion yuan. "[Tax refunds] are a direct boost to the cash flow of enterprises, and will benefit them more quickly than tax cuts," said Premier Li Keqiang while presiding over an executive meeting of the State Council on Monday. Newly added VAT credits will be refunded in full on a monthly basis starting from April 1, while outstanding VAT refunds to micro and small businesses will be completed in one lump sum by the end of June, said a circular jointly issued by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the State Taxation Administration. "These moves will help steady the operation of small and micro firms and promote enterprises in key industries to expand investment and improve production techniques, thus accelerating the high-quality development of the manufacturing sector," said Liu Yi, a professor at Peking University. The rebate of outstanding VAT credits is a particular highlight, which will fully inject vitality into enterprises, Liu added. To reconcile the implementation of the preferential tax policies and pressure on local governments, China has rolled out a slew of measures to increase and front-load transfer payments. In 2022, central government transfer payments to local governments will increase by 18 percent from last year to reach nearly 9.8 trillion yuan, said Xu. The first batch of transfer payments to support excess tax paid rebates to micro and small businesses, worth 400 billion yuan, had been released on Monday, according to the MOF. The VAT a firm must pay is its output tax minus the input tax. When the taxpayer's output tax is insufficient to cover its input tax, the difference between the two is called excess tax paid. A firm can use the excess to offset taxes in the next taxable period, or apply for refunds in the current period. In recent years, China has been improving the refund system of excess VAT paid to ease the burden on corporate cash flow. In 2016, the country implemented a comprehensive reform in replacing the business tax, a mainstay of local tax revenues, with VAT, and stepped up the reform in 2019 with an improved refund sharing mechanism. From 2019 to 2021, tax authorities handled a total of 1.23 trillion yuan in excess tax refunds, which played a positive role in shoring up the real economy including the manufacturing industry. "Excess tax refunds can directly offer cash flow support for enterprises, spur the upgrading of their equipment and expand investment in technology," said Li Xuhong, a senior researcher with the Beijing National Accounting Institute. The large scale of excess VAT refunding and the improved procedures of tax collection, payment and refunding this year will help refine the country's VAT system, Li said. Wang Yang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, presides over a biweekly session organized by the CPPCC National Committee in Beijing, capital of China, March 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese political advisors attending a consultation session in Beijing on Friday offered suggestions to build and improve the policy support system for the seed industry. The biweekly session, organized by the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, was presided over by Wang Yang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee. Wang called for efforts to increase self-reliance in seed technology and ensure that China's seed resources are self-supporting and under better control. Twelve political advisors and special representatives delivered their remarks at the session, while more than 160 political advisors voiced their opinions via a mobile platform. Acknowledging China's progress in the seed sector, they stressed efforts to solve existing problems. They encouraged efforts on converging resources, technologies, talent, and funds toward key companies and cultivating leading, internationally competitive enterprises. Calling for implementation of the Seed Law amended last year, political advisors urged accelerating revision of supporting laws and regulations and strengthening the protection of intellectual property rights. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- As night falls in northeast China's Jilin Province, a hard-hit region in the current wave of cluster COVID-19 infections, the temperature drops sharply. Despite the weather, nucleic acid testing continues in Tongguang Road West Community of Changchun, the provincial capital. Staff members of the neighborhood committee work nearly 20 hours each day, and each medic must conduct nucleic acid tests for approximately 1,000 people a day, all for one purpose -- ensuring safety. In response to recent cluster infections in multiple regions, China has maintained the policy of "preventing imported cases and domestic resurgences" and adhered to the dynamic zero-COVID approach. It is striving to achieve the best results in epidemic control with minimum costs, and the delicate balance of controlling COVID-19 and promoting economic and social development. RAPID RESPONSE Resolute measures, including mass nucleic acid testing, quarantine, working from home, and online education, are put in place to see that COVID-19-related testing, isolation, and treatment services are accessible to anybody in need. In Jilin, people take both nucleic acid tests and antigen tests for COVID-19, and residents' doors are knocked on to ensure that nobody in need is left unattended. Virus containment requires rapid response and solidarity among the people. In Changchun University of Science and Technology, teachers formed a volunteer team to deliver hot water to students in need. While thousands of kilometers away in Quanzhou City of Fujian Province, nearly 60 restaurants jointly launched an initiative to donate meals to epidemic control workers, having delivered more than 10,000 packets. China has ordered all-out efforts to meet the daily needs of people in locked-down neighborhoods where "green passage" is open to the elderly, children, pregnant women, and patients in severe or critical conditions. According to the Ministry of Commerce's monitoring, the recent supply of daily necessities in China is generally sufficient with stable prices. TARGETED MEASURES Liang Wannian, head of the COVID-19 response expert panel under the National Health Commission, stressed that the essence of China's dynamic zero-COVID approach is featuring swift and targeted response measures. The country's latest diagnosis and treatment protocol for COVID-19 patients, its ninth edition, features adjustments regarding case locating and reporting, and patient treatment, aiming to make the epidemic response more science-based and targeted. According to the new protocol, asymptomatic cases and those with mild symptoms will go to designated quarantine facilities instead of hospitals. The revision, however, does not mean China's epidemic prevention and control will ease, according to officials. In combatting the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, Shanghai initiated grid screening, or extensive screening of citizens in key districts, industries, and among key groups, through which many asymptomatic cases were identified. Zhu Jin, Party chief of the Panjiazhai residential compound in Xuhui District of Shanghai, did not go home for four consecutive days, during which she was busy urging residents to take nucleic acid tests, using a loudspeaker. No infections were reported in four rounds of mass testing, a result that finally made local people at ease, as Panjiazhai is just about a 10-minute walk from a hotel that reported a cluster of infections. Wu Fan, a member of the Shanghai municipal COVID-19 prevention and control expert team, said grid screening helps clear unnoticed, hidden risks for coronavirus transmission. MINIMIZING IMPACT While battling to contain the virus, local governments are exploring ways to minimize the epidemic's impact on economic and social development. Due to COVID-19-related restrictions, many people who previously worked with Hengan, a Fujian-based household paper manufacturer, could not return to their positions, which made labor shortage an immediate headache for the company. Government authorities came to the company's help by joining Hengan executives in studying details of workers before making arrangements to ensure the smooth passage of workers while epidemic control protocols are well observed. So far, 90 percent of the company's positions for workers have been filled, bringing many production lines back to operation. As a base of maize production in China, Jilin has established workgroups to assist farmers in preparing for spring plowing. In Shenzhen City of southern China, local restrictions are gradually lifted, as the goal of dynamic zero-COVID is basically achieved. Starting Monday this week, the municipal government of Shenzhen and public institutions resumed work, and buses and subways returned to normal operation. Differentiated epidemic prevention measures have been adopted for enterprises on the production and supply chains. China's consumer market has been on a steady recovery trend since the beginning of 2022, with retail sales of consumer goods reaching 7.4 trillion yuan (about 1.16 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first two months, growing 6.7 percent from a year earlier. The consumer market has shown strong resilience and potential, and its trend of expanding scale and optimizing structure has not changed, according to the Ministry of Commerce. XI'AN, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The lawful rights and interests of women from all ethnic groups in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region have been effectively protected, according to experts at a side meeting of the 49th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. The side meeting, themed on achievements in protecting women's rights and interests in Xinjiang, was held on Thursday in Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Zulhayat Ismayil, vice president of Xinjiang University, said that the Chinese government has continuously advanced women's development and effectively guaranteed the lawful rights and interests of women of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang. Under local conditions, Xinjiang has formulated several local regulations to protect women's rights and interests, ensuring the freedom and equality rights of ethnic minority women, noted Zheng Liang, deputy dean of the School of Journalism and Communication at Jinan University based in south China's Guangzhou city. Gu Guanghai, dean of the Business School of Xinjiang University, pointed out that the development of the culture and tourism industries in Xinjiang has boosted the employment and income of women of all ethnic groups. ANKARA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday held a phone conversation to discuss the situation in Ukraine. The two leaders discussed the situation on the ground and the stage of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, according to a statement issued by the Turkish presidency. Erdogan told Zelensky that he once again had emphasized Turkey's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity at the NATO leaders' summit, which was held in Brussels on Thursday, said the statement. The Turkish president said he had told the leaders of NATO members about Turkey's "active and principled policy, and the effective diplomatic efforts comprehensively." "Turkey has put into practice all the help it can in this process," Erdogan told Zelensky. Earlier Friday, Erdogan said he would make a phone conversation with Zelensky on Friday and with Russian President Vladimir Putin this weekend or early next week. BAMAKO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- At least 886 civilians were killed, injured or missing in Mali in the second half of last year, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) said in a note published on Thursday. Of the victims, 40 are children and 65 are women, the MINUSMA said. According to the document, the number of violence-affected civilians decreased slightly by 7 percent from the first half of last year. Human rights abuses that were attributable to groups, such as the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, have increased by 21 percent from the previous period. The note said that the violence was concentrated in the centre of the country, notably in the regions of Bandiagara, Douentza, Mopti and Segou, with a shift towards the southern regions. Since 2012, Mali has been facing a deep multifaceted crisis at the security, political and economic levels. Independence insurgencies, jihadist incursions and inter-community violence have left thousands dead and hundreds of thousands displaced in this West African country. ADDIS ABABA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), a rebel group in northern Ethiopia, announced early Friday morning it has "cautiously" agreed to a ceasefire. The rebel group said in a statement considering the humanitarian need of its population in Tigray, the TPLF has agreed to the implementation of an immediate cessation of hostilities. "If the right circumstances arise for local people to receive the level of humanitarian assistance commensurate with needs on the ground and within a reasonable timeframe, the Government of Tigray is committed to implementing a cessation of hostilities effective immediately," the statement said. The statement also called on the Ethiopian authorities to take concrete steps to facilitate unfettered humanitarian access to Tigray. The Ethiopian government on Thursday announced an indefinite humanitarian ceasefire in its conflict with Tigrayan rebels. The Ethiopian government statement called on the Tigrayan rebels to desist from all acts of further aggression and withdraw from areas they have occupied in areas outside the Tigray region. It also called on the donor community to boost the provision of humanitarian assistance to those who need it in northern Ethiopia. The TPLF, which currently de-facto rules Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, and the Ethiopian National Defense Force backed by allied forces have been engaged in a nearly 18-months-long conflict that has reportedly left tens of thousands of people dead. The Ethiopian parliament designated the TPLF as a terrorist organization in May 2021. BANJUL, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of Gambia has recently approved 251 candidates to contest for 53 constituency seats across the country ahead of the National Assembly election slated for April 9. Aminata Correa, one of the 19 female candidates among the 251, is seeking the Latrikunda Sabiji seat sponsored by the People's Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism. She vows to champion women issues if elected by the Kanfing Municipality based constituency. "Because women consist of 55 percent of the population and we are under-represented in an important organ of the government, the legislature where laws are made, and these laws are sometimes gender sensitive. This is why I am contesting," she told Xinhua. This is Aminata's second attempt for parliamentary election. She has spent most of her political career as an advocate for women rights issues. "We believe that women's representation will positively influence decision making. We can also voice issues affecting the nation's priority areas of concern, which includes women and children's welfare, health, education, agriculture, security and youth issues," she said. Abdoulie Ceesay is seeking reelection for his Old Yundum constituency seat in the West Coast Region of the country as a candidate for the ruling National People's Party. "I deserved re-election because I have been effective in representing my people both in the parliament and at the constituency level. I have been in good times with my people and have been in consultation with them," he said. Abdoulie aims to continue where he left in his first term in office by engaging in effective legislation. He said he has demonstrated enough as he participated in various legislations, including the anti-corruption bill, women enterprise bill, as well as passing the Access to Information law. Meanwhile, away from the urban constituencies, Alpha M.K Lowe is a first time-seeker who is contesting for Lower Nuimi seat, claiming that he is motivated to contest because the area has been a victim of poor representation. "As someone who was born and brought up within Lower Nuimi, I have realized that we have been under-represented for quite a long time now. So, I want to come back and help my people because they have encountered a lot of challenges of representation. I have what it takes to help my people, to salvage them from such," he said. Alpha previously served as a school teacher and later became the president of the University of The Gambia Students' Union. Upon graduation, he served the University until his recent decision to contest the election. He is not impressed with the way the national budget is allocated, claiming that farmers and the agriculture sector in general have been neglected to a great extent. "This year, I have seen my parents, brothers, relatives, my constituency members and farmers across the country struggling to have their peanuts purchased, and this has made them frustrated and challenged," he said. HARARE, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's largest diamond miner, the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC), aims to increase its annual production to over 5 million carats from 4.1 million carats last year. Other diamond mining companies, including Anjin, a Zimbabwe-China joint venture and Murowa, have also embarked on a drive to expand production, Mines Minister Winston Chitando said on Thursday. "There is strong growth taking place in the diamond sector, ZCDC had record production last year, they produced 4.1 million carats from a base of about 1.8 million carats in 2017 and this year their target is to produce over 5 million carats so they are doing very well," Chitando said. The ZCDC, Anjin, Murowa and Russian-owned Alrosa are the four companies licensed to mine diamonds in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe's diamond industry is expected to contribute at least 1 billion U.S. dollars to the government's ambition to extract minerals worth 12 billion dollars as part of an overall plan to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. Under the envisaged mining roadmap, gold is expected to contribute 4 billion dollars, platinum 3 billion dollars, while chrome, iron, steel and coal will contribute 1 billion dollars. In 2021, Zimbabwe's mineral exports reached 5.7 billion dollars, a huge leap from 3.2 billion dollars recorded the previous year. The mineral-rich southern African country sees the mining sector as the main driver for economic growth. Rebecca Mzengi Corey, executive director of Nafasi Art Space, speaks with Xinhua in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on March 24, 2022. TO GO WITH "Feature: Tanzania's art center fosters artistic growth for community" (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua) DAR ES SALAAM, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A glance at a sprawling compound on a rough industrial plot filled with shipping containers in the Dar es Salaam commercial capital's Mikocheni area does not raise any feelings to a passer-by. But a walk into this unassuming compound leaves the passer-by agape. It is home to Nafasi Art Space in which the art platform has turned the shipping containers into artistic studios and a warehouse exhibition gallery. Studio spaces, residencies, workshops, film screenings, festivals, performances, exhibitions, children's art activities, and much more have filled the compound of Nafasi with unbridled artistic experimentation and expression. After slightly over a decade of its operations, Nafasi Art Space is now home to some 20 studios, many converted from old shipping containers that are used to paint, produce music, weave, weld, sculpt and more. "Nafasi trains in many different areas. We started with a focus on visual arts and we expanded into hosting trainings on workshops and all different disciplines including film, music, dance, photography and much more," Rebecca Mzengi Corey, executive director of Nafasi Art Space, told Xinhua in an interview on Thursday. "Hundreds of thousands of people have come to Nafasi for training since it began in 2008," Corey said, explaining that Nafasi is the Kiswahili word for "space" as well as possibility, opportunity and chance. Corey said Nafasi Art Space is a multi-disciplinary contemporary arts space in Tanzania that encourages artistic growth, experimentation, conceptual engagement, collaboration and art as a vital community practice. "Nafasi has been a creative harbor for arts and art lovers in Dar es Salaam, becoming one of the East African region's leading art institutions," she said. Corey said Nafasi is striving to create a center of excellence that promotes the creativity and professionalism of Tanzanian artists through training, exposure, cross cultural dialogue and collaborative artistic endeavors. "All people have the creative potential to be artists, but it must be nurtured in order to enable them to become professionals," said Corey. However, she said, in Tanzania, there is limited formal arts education at the primary, secondary and tertiary level, with arts training primarily taking place at the informal level. "Many young people with creative ideas and a thirst for outlets for their expressions are too often denied the chance to make meaningful contributions to the social discourse due to limited access to opportunities for artistic learning," said Corey, adding these artists are also struggling to make a living from their craft. She said the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted Nafasi activities and some of the activities were done online but it was limited. "For a period of time, we had to shut down. It was a very tough time. But we managed to get through it and we decided to use that time to reflect and think about what impact our work has had and also where we wanted to go in the future," she said. "I see the future of Nafasi as growing and having an impact all across Tanzania. Our big goal in the next five years is to help spread the idea, the vision and even the blueprint for Nafasi so that other people in the regions can establish their Nafasi Art Spaces," she said. Ahmed Batenga, 28, a freelance photographer and graphic designer is among the beneficiaries of Nafasi Art Space. He is currently learning about filmmaking at Nafasi. "I have been doing films but I decided to train here on film making so that I can get to know much about the industry. I am learning how to develop the story structure," said Batenga. He said Nafasi has helped him to improve his scriptwriting and to create a story that is more character-based. Nafasi is training filmmakers, including actors, sound engineers and writers, said Batenga, adding: "Film making in Tanzania has a bright future. Give it five, ten years you will find great films made by Tanzanians, especially the youth that are attending Nafasi training." Looking forward, Nafasi's major goals by 2026 include establishing an arts reference library with a wide range of art journals, books, catalogues and other publications for artists' use and establishing a digital laboratory and film hub for artists interested in digital art. According to Nafasi Art Space's 2021-2026 strategic plan, the center is also planning to develop an 'artistic track' that helps artists measure progress toward professionalization based on conceptual development, technical skill, self-management and entrepreneurship ability. Corey said Nafasi's strategic approach to artistic development is to continually provide opportunities and resources that respond to these inter-related needs, and explore pathways to ensure that artists across Tanzania have the opportunity to develop their diverse artistic practices. On March 23, 2022 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Chief of Army Staff Qamar Javed Bajwa of Pakistan in Rawalpindi. The two sides had a friendly and in-depth exchange of views on China-Pakistan relations and international and regional issues. Bajwa warmly welcomed Wang Yi's visit to Pakistan again and his attendance at the 48th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and spoke highly of the high-level strategic cooperation between the two countries. He praised and expressed support for China's foreign policies, noting that China pursues balanced and prudent foreign policies and actively dedicates itself to world peace and development. This fully demonstrates China's role as a responsible major country on international hotspot issues. Wang Yi congratulated Pakistan on successfully holding the events marking Pakistan Day, saying that China appreciates the positive efforts and important contributions made by the Pakistani military over the years to consolidate and enhance the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between China and Pakistan, ensure the safe and smooth development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and safeguard the security of Chinese institutions and personnel in Pakistan. Wang Yi said, the Pakistani military has played the role of a stabilizer and ballast stone in building a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era. Bajwa said, the Ukraine issue is very important, but the international community should not ignore the Afghan issue. Pakistan appreciates and supports China's hosting of the Third Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the Afghan Issue Among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan and believes that the international community should pay more attention to and invest more in the people's wellbeing and security issues of Afghanistan. Wang Yi said, the Afghan issue should not be solved by exerting pressure or imposing sanctions, but by drawing on the wisdom of the East to promote dialogue and communication. Both China and Pakistan encourage the ruling authorities of Afghanistan to actively build an open and inclusive political architecture, implement moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies and resolutely combat terrorism in all its forms. Noting that Afghanistan enjoys favorable geographical advantages, resource endowment and development potential, he said that the international community should support Afghanistan in finding the right path of developing its economy, improving people's wellbeing, and realizing self-reliance and self-improvement. Bajwa said, Pakistan is highly concerned about the spillover effect of the Ukraine crisis, appreciates China's position of upholding justice and fairness and promoting peace talks, and is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China in this regard. Wang Yi said, the Ukraine crisis has taught the world that conflicts will eventually break out when one pursues exclusive or absolute security and seeks its own security at the expense of others' security. Today in the 21st century, setting up military blocs and inciting antagonism of camps wins no support and leads nowhere. NAIROBI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta Friday reiterated his call to Kenyans to embrace peace and live together in harmony as the country gears toward the August 9 general elections. Kenyatta who is due to retire after completing his two-term in office emphasized that the forthcoming elections which will soon pass should not divide Kenyans. Kenyatta who was speaking in Kiambu, central Kenya at a funeral service urged all people of goodwill to join hands in ensuring that politics do not disrupt the harmonious co-existence that has made Kenya stand out as a peace haven in the continent. "Politics will come and go. So let us conduct ourselves peacefully and in a respectful manner. Let us work towards ensuring that even after the elections we will live together as Kenyans," he said. The East African nation will go to the polls on August 9 to elect a new president and national lawmakers, as well as the governors and assemblies of its 47 counties. The August election is set to be contested between major coalition agreements - Kenya Kwanza headed by Deputy President William Ruto and Azimio la Umoja which is led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. NAIROBI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Kenya and Huawei on Friday signed an agreement to boost the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) capacity in the country. Joe Mucheru, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs said in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, that under the agreement, a total of 20,000 Kenyans will receive training including 12,500 civil servants over the next three years. "We appreciate the commitment and support provided by Huawei not only to developing Kenya's ICT infrastructure but also in elevating ICT skills across various levels," Mucheru said during a ceremony where 12 civil servants were awarded for their outstanding performance in the Huawei capacity building program. Since 2020, Huawei has trained 1,500 civil servants on various aspects of ICT. He observed that the Huawei training program is the largest of its kind in the country's history and is akin to the software development part of ICT capacity building. Under the deal, Huawei Kenya Engineering Training Academy will become an authorized training center for ICT skills. Mucheru said that the pact with the Chinese technology firm follows the country's commitment to increase the number of services that Kenyans can access online in a bid to ease public services and information provision. Will Meng, CEO of Huawei Kenya said that combining the capabilities of the private sector with those of the public sector has proven to be a successful approach to unlocking the country's potential. "We believe that providing training to public officers in the use of technology is essential in enforcing many small improvements that have substantial impacts, therefore unlocking the potential of governments," Meng said. KINSHASA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- At least 27 rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) were killed by the army in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), said the Congolese army Friday. At least 27 ADF rebels were killed during a military operation launched by the DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) since Wednesday in the village of Walese-vonkutu of the northeastern Ituri province, said Lieutenant Jules Ngongo, spokesman for the FARDC in Ituri. According to the spokesman, the operation was launched from Wednesday until the morning of Friday, aiming to eradicate the presence of ADF rebels who have been active recently in Ituri. During the operation, the army retrieved bombs and other ammunition, while conquering three strongholds of the ADF rebels. Military sweep operations are still underway in the area to ensure total stability, the spokesman said. TUNIS, March 25 (Xinhua) -- China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) is ready to cooperate with Tunisia in building the country's mega-projects, said a statement from Tunisia's Ministry of Transport. Tunisian Minister of Transport Rabie Majidi received Friday representatives of CSCEC, during which the Chinese experts affirmed their readiness to cooperate with Tunisia in mega-projects such as highways, railway networks between major cities and commercial ports. For his part, the Tunisian minister emphasized the importance of the Rapid Rail Network (RFR) project, which would link the capitals of Tunisia, Algeria and Libya, stressing its role in boosting land border crossings and supporting to create logistics zones. CANBERRA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Medical regulators have approved a fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose for vulnerable Australians in the lead-up to winter. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI) on Friday officially recommended a second booster vaccine for over-65s, Indigenous Australians older than 50, those in disability care and all immunocompromised people over 16. Minister for Health Greg Hunt said approving fourth doses was an important step ahead of an expected spike in coronavirus cases during winter. "That dosing regimen will start in our pharmacies, in our general practices, in our state and Commonwealth clinics, in our Indigenous medical clinics from the fourth of April," he told reporters. "It's for a window for four to six months after you have had your first booster, and that's based on medical advice." The national influenza vaccine program will start on the same day, with health authorities warning Australia is set for a double blow of COVID-19 and flu outbreaks. Hunt said in a statement that government-funded influenza vaccines will become available through a range of providers including general practitioners (GPs), community health clinics and eligible pharmacies subject to local supply arrangement in states and territories. "The medical advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization is that it is safe to have the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same visit," he said. The Australian government announced on Friday that it is scrapping a requirement for all overseas travelers to Australia to return a negative COVID-19 test prior to departing for the country. The requirement was introduced late in 2021 when Australia's borders were opened to residents and citizens. "Given that the vaccination requirements remain and the masking requirements, the medical advice is that (the test) would no longer be required," Hunt said. "Particularly as there are some challenges in some jurisdictions in having access to those tests or proving those tests." COLOMBO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka has removed restrictions imposed on domestic aviators that prevented them from operating night flights. Noting that the restriction was practical and important during the civil conflict, Director General of Civil Aviation Themiya Abeywickrama said on Friday it has created undue burdens on the domestic aviation industry. "Due to the night flying restriction, some operators had to provide their crew and passengers with unplanned overnight stays at destinations which was an added cost to the operators," he said. Abeywickrama said while the restriction has been removed, the pilots and airplane operators must obey local rules and internationally accepted norms whenever they operate between dusk to dawn. ULAN BATOR, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia recorded 103 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, surpassing the 100-mark for the first time since March 13, the country's health ministry said Friday. The latest confirmed cases were all local transmissions, raising the country's COVID-19 tally to 468,943, the ministry said in a statement. As no new related deaths were reported in the past day, the country's COVID-19 death toll remained at 2,108. Currently, there are 1,700 active COVID-19 cases across the country. Almost 67 percent of Mongolia's population of 3.4 million has received two COVID-19 vaccine doses, 1,031,374 people have received a third dose and 113,435 have received a voluntary fourth shot. With a high vaccination coverage and declining daily infections, Mongolia has essentially returned to normal life. It has resumed in-person classes for all educational institutions and fully opened its borders to foreign tourists. TOKYO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A 61-year-old man on Friday was sentenced by a Japanese court to 14 years in prison for killing two elementary school children and leaving three others severely injured in a drunk-driving incident near Tokyo last year. Hiroshi Umezawa was found guilty by the Chiba District Court of driving under the influence of alcohol when his vehicle struck a group of pupils who were on their way home from school in June last year in a local area of Tokyo's neighboring prefecture of Chiba. Umezawa was condemned by prosecutors in the trial for what they described as "one of Japan's worst-ever cases of drunk driving." The prosecutors sought a 15-year prison sentence for the offender. The families of the victims also called for a hefty punishment. Umezawa admitted to the charge of dangerous driving resulting in injury or death. He also offered his apologies to the bereaved families and those whose children had been seriously injured. Two boys, aged 7 and 8, respectively, were killed in the accident while two other boys and a girl were seriously injured. The prosecutors said he consumed 220 milliliters of "shochu" liquor prior to causing the fatal accident. Police said a breathalyzer test administered after the accident showed he was well over the legal limit for operating a vehicle. The indictment stated that Umezawa consumed alcohol at a rest area on an expressway during work around 3:00 p.m. local time on June 28, 2021. Following this, he drove on a street in Yachimata around 3:30 p.m., where he fell asleep at the wheel and smashed into the group of school children. File photo taken on April 16, 2021 shows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia in Moscow. The extraordinary summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) held Thursday has confirmed the alliance's desire to contain Russia and prolong the military conflict in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. (Xinhua/Evgeny Sinitsyn) MOSCOW, March 24 (Xinhua) -- The extraordinary summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) held Thursday has confirmed the alliance's desire to contain Russia and prolong the military conflict in Ukraine, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. "The decision announced at the summit to continue providing political and practical support to the Kiev regime confirms the alliance's interest in continuing hostilities," the ministry's spokesperson Maria Zakharova said in a statement. NATO members have demonstrated their loyalty to Washington by vowing to follow its orders aimed at ultimately containing Russia, she said, adding Washington once again "disciplined" its allies by pressuring sovereign countries and further erasing Europe's strategic autonomy. "They silently watched the United States destroy the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, stood aside when Washington withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, allowed the Americans to withdraw from the Treaty on Open Skies," Zakharova said, stressing that NATO members have been slowly destroying the European security system. NATO is using its "anti-Russian course" as a pretext to increase the purchase of weapons, which are being supplied by the U.S. military industrial complex, she noted. To cover up Washington's "dirty practices" regarding secret research on biological and chemical weapons, NATO has launched a groundless disinformation campaign accusing Russia of possible provocations, the spokesperson added. MOSCOW, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The Kremlin said Friday that Washington must explain the involvement of U.S. President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden in the financing of Ukrainian biological laboratories. The investment fund Rosemont Seneca, currently managed by Hunter Biden, financed the Pentagon's military biological program in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday. "This is very sensitive information both for us and for the whole world," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a daily briefing. He said that Washington was attempting to deflect attention from U.S. biological programs by discussing the alleged threat of Russia using chemical weapons in Ukraine. During a special military operation in Ukraine, the Russian military has found that U.S.-funded biological laboratories conducted research with dangerous viruses, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. The Russian side has repeatedly urged Washington to explain the purpose of these facilities to the international community. US and the Indo-Pacific Illustration: Liu Rui/GT A CNN report, entitled "What China really means when it talks about NATO's eastward expansion," said that "China has sought to draw parallels between the US strategy in the Indo-Pacific and NATO in recent years." It continued, "Experts point out there are vast differences between NATO, a security alliance, and the US strategy in Indo-Pacific, which is not just about security, but includes a range of policies." The ultimate goal of US foreign strategy is to safeguard its global interests. Fundamentally, the establishment of the NATO security alliance and the formulation of the US Indo-Pacific Strategy were aimed at maintaining the regional and global hegemony the US has enjoyed. However, there are differences between NATO and the US Indo-Pacific Strategy. The latter has a broader vision and may be more destructive to the region than NATO is to Europe. Washington has stated that its Indo-Pacific Strategy is a whole-of-government strategy, attempting to mobilize all possible resources to reinforce its dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. Security is an important part of the strategy. The US hopes to strengthen its military alliances in the Indo-Pacific. "In terms of security, Washington hopes to copy the model of NATO to the Indo-Pacific region by virtue of its Indo-Pacific Strategy. But apart from security, Washington has also ramped up its investment in fields such as economy, politics, ideology and diplomacy. This means that the Indo-Pacific Strategy will generate an all-round impact on the region, not just on security," Zhang Tengjun, deputy director of the Department for Asia-Pacific Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng said on Saturday that "some country insists on going against the trend to pursue the Indo-Pacific Strategy, provoke trouble, put together closed and exclusive small circles or groups... Such an Indo-Pacific Strategy is as dangerous as the NATO strategy of eastward expansion in Europe. If allowed to go on unchecked, it would bring unimaginable consequences, and ultimately push the Asia-Pacific over the edge of an abyss." Although Le did not name the country, many analysts believed he was referring to the US. "Le's remarks sound very reasonable. By promoting various economic and security cliques in the Indo-Pacific region and repeatedly putting pressure on regional countries diplomatically, the US hopes to continuously enlarging its circle of friends, which serves the US' hegemonic system. Washington's goal in the Indo-Pacific is evident - targeting China," Zhang noted. "To realize this objective, the US is attempting to force more countries to take sides with the US to gain more support in the region to achieve its goal of containing China. This is bound to trigger more division and instability in the region. From this perspective, like the impact of NATO's eastward expansion in Europe, the US Indo-Pacific Strategy is likely to push the region 'over the edge of an abyss.'" Washington's Indo-Pacific Strategy is to establish a US-led regional order, which will be detrimental to the interests of regional countries. Regional countries aim to promote the peace and security of the region and enhance the existing regional mechanism, such as ASEAN, while the US' Indo-Pacific Strategy will causedamage to such a mechanism. Many Indo-Pacific countries have expressed their concerns over the US strategy. They are aware that the US' Indo-Pacific Strategy is essentially to strengthen competition and confrontation with China, and they are not willing to participate in the rivalry between China and the US. But Washington seems to be reluctant to discard its attempts. It has been widely seen that the US has increased its attempts to rope in regional countries. Regional countries should remain sober, and continue to strengthen coordination and communication with each other. They should become more united and make a more consistent voice on the US Indo-Pacific Strategy - stay intolerant to outside forces to mess the region, and oppose the establishment of US hegemony in the region that serves their own hegemonic interests but undermines regional unity and stability. ZAGREB, March 25 (Xinhua) -- A shooting in southern Croatian town of Ploce killed two people on Friday morning and the suspected murderer has been arrested, said local police. The shooting took place at around 8 a.m. local time near a technical inspection station in Ploce, the police said. The two victims are identified as a 52-year-old veteran and a 16-year-old teenager, according to local media. "At around 8.30 a.m., the police arrested a person who is connected to this event, and he is currently in the police station where a criminal investigation will be conducted against him," the police said. MOSCOW, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The investment fund Rosemont Seneca, currently managed by Hunter Biden, the son of U.S. President Joe Biden, funded the Pentagon's military biological program in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday. The fund has resources in the amount of at least 2.4 billion U.S. dollars, said Igor Kirillov, chief of the Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Forces of the Russian Armed Forces. The U.S. Agency for International Development, the George Soros Foundation, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were also involved in the funding and development of these programs, he added. "The incoming documents have allowed us to trace patterns of interaction between U.S. government agencies and Ukrainian biological facilities," he said. The official added that the defense ministry has official documentation proving that 30 Ukrainian laboratories were involved in military biological activities. According to Kirillov, 16,000 biological samples have been exported to the United States and its allies from Ukraine. For example, he said, 4,000 blood samples were taken from servicemen in Lviv, Kharkov, Odessa and Kiev to study the prevalence of antibodies to hantavirus. "This large-scale screening of the natural immunity of the populations was probably carried out to select the most dangerous biological agents for populations in certain regions," he explained. He added that dangerous pathogens and their transporters were also exported from Ukraine. The U.S. government has not made any response to the claim yet. LONDON, March 24 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) countries and EU lawmakers on Thursday reached an agreement on an unprecedented law to curb the market dominance of the biggest tech companies such as Alphabet's Google, Meta, Amazon and Apple. The law, called the Digital Markets Act (DMA), is aimed at stopping the largest tech platforms from using their interlocking services and considerable resources to box in users and squash emerging rivals, giving new entrants a better chance to survive against the world's powerful tech juggernauts. "DMA. 3 letters -- and a lot of work done for fair & open digital markets," European Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton said in a tweet. "And with tonight's agreement, soon a reality. Because no one should be 'too big to care'." Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age Margrethe Vestager also confirmed in a tweet that there was a deal on the law. ISTANBUL, March 25 (Xinhua) -- At least four workers were wounded in an explosion at an oil refinery in northwest Turkey, local media reported on Friday. The blast occurred at the Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corporation (TUPRAS)'s facility in the Kocaeli province, about 100 km to the country's largest city Istanbul, reported the Ihlas news agency. It said the cause of the incident, which happened at one of the filling tanks of the refinery, was not immediately clear, and authorities launched a comprehensive investigation. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals, the report said. A fire broke out after the explosion and was extinguished in a short time, it added. TUPRAS operates four refineries across the country, and the refinery in Kocaeli processes 11.3 million tons of crude oil per year, accounting for 33 percent of Turkey's petroleum products consumption. BEIJING, March 25 -- Recently, a group of naval vessels, headed by the guided-missile destroyer Zhengzhou (Hull 151) attached to a naval destroyer flotilla under the PLA Eastern Theater Command, organized a multi-subject 24-hour combat training exercise in waters of the East China Sea. The training exercise tested the technical and tactical performance of weapons and equipment, strengthened the operational ability of the specialists, and improved the level of coordination and cooperation among system modules. By Jun Sheng As the Ukraine crisis drags on, preventing a massive humanitarian crisis is a pressing task at the moment. However, the US, the root cause of all chaos and calamity, is playing double standards now, clamoring for no war, more peace on the one hand and seeking self-interests on the other. Its interference in and sanctioning of other countries will create a humanitarian crisis and impose tremendous threats to global peace and security. The American and western politicians and media, who are eloquent preachers of high-sounding slogans such as equality, democracy, freedom and human rights, have been adeptly practicing racial discrimination and double standards during the ongoing crisis. They say that the Ukrainian refugees are more worthy of compassion than the Syrians because they are white Christians. They, when reporting armed conflicts and crisis, took skin color, race and religious belief as criteria of judgment, a fragrant violation of general taboos, and compared the Ukrainians with Middle Eastern and North African refugees with the underlying message that the former is superior to the latter and doesnt deserve what they are going through. Such mind-boggling comparisons laid bare the deep-rooted sense of superiority of the US and the West in general, astonishing and disgusting the world with their racist double standards. The double standards reveal how phony and arrogant the US-led West is. According to western media, America attacked Iraq without UN authorization is liberation rather than invasion, and its unilateral attack of Afghanistan is counterterrorism rather than invasion. Posing a sharp contrast to how intensely the western media is focused on the Ukraine situation, they barely mention or even notice Yemen, a country thats also ravaged by war and a severe humanitarian crisis. Ironically, the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine today is caused by a fuse laid exactly by the US, whose consistent suppression and containment of Russia and squeezing of its strategic space over the years by pushing for NATOs eastward expansion in breach of commitment to Russia have eventually led to the breakout of the crisis today. Lets take a look back and wed see, with no surprise, Americas long track record of creating humanitarian crises, as evidenced by its constant interferences in and military operations against other countries based on made-up excuses, in order to preserve its global hegemony. There was a time when the US-led NATO troops, upholding the banner of avoiding a humanitarian disaster, bypassed the UN Security Council and bombed the then Federal Republic of Yugoslavia for 78 days on end, killing more than 2,000 innocent civilians, injuring over 6,000, and leaving a million people homeless and over two million with nothing to live on. There was a time when countries represented by the US and the UK invaded Iraq on a fabricated charge, killing 200,000-250,000 civilians, of which 16,000 deaths were directly caused by American troops. During the 20-year-long Afghan war launched by the US to allegedly fight al-Qaeda, more than 30,000 civilians were either killed by American troops or died because of the war they started, with another 60,000-plus injured and about 11 million becoming refugeesThe list goes on. The US has been igniting war flames everywhere around the world, but has never really achieved what it set out for and always ended up fleeing in debacle and disgrace, leaving the innocent locals paying the price for its atrocities. Despite such a shitty record rife with crimes and catastrophes, the US never for a moment stops to reflect on itself but continues to gang up with its allies to impose unilateral sanctions against other countries in glaring violation of international law, which only aggravates the humanitarian crisis it started in the first place. From imposing the embargo on Cuba to blatantly stealing Afghanistans national assets to suspending the payment of fees to WHO, Americas bullying actions have been strongly condemned by the international community. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the US for slashing its funding to WHO or any other humanitarian organization at a bad time as the world was in the middle of fighting the coronavirus pandemic. Injustice is doomed to destruction. We advise the US side to do some serious soul-searching, stop pouring oil on the Ukraine issue, and take concrete actions to mitigate the situation and solve the problem. Otherwise, it will only expand the scale of the humanitarian crisis and plunge the region and the world into an abyss of suffering. On the 23th anniversary of the beginning of the 78-day bombings of Yugoslavia by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a leaders' summit was held, discussing Ukraine issues. Have the U.S. and NATO ever thought about the underlying cause of the Ukraine crisis? What kind of responsibilities do these countries have to take? Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin asked on Friday at a regular press conference. "People from Serbia, China and even the whole world will never forget NATO's bombings in Serbia in 1999," he said. Wang made the remarks in response to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's remarks that NATO's aggression to Serbia in 1999 was illegal, horrible, unethical and their accusation against Russia now is shameful and stupid. Without any approval of the United Nations, the U.S.-led NATO blatantly started bombing Yugoslavia on March 24, 1999 in a severe violation of relevant international conventions and the basic norms of international relations. The 78 days of aggression killed thousands of innocent civilians, including three Chinese journalists, leaving the country's medical infrastructure, historical relics and schools severely damaged, the spokesperson said. During such operations, besides 12,000 bombings and the launching of 3,000 missiles, NATO also used depleted uranium, a leftover product from the enrichment process of uranium-235 prohibited by international conventions, which has caused long-term adverse effects on Serbia's environment and public health, Wang added. He said before reflecting on their crimes in Serbia, Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S. and NATO are in no position to judge any country, ostensibly on the moral high ground. As a product of the Cold War, NATO had never added security and tranquility to the world, and people who really want peace will say no to NATO's expansion, he added. People visit the Britain Pavilion at the Third Silk Road International Exposition and the Investment and Trade Forum for Cooperation between East and West China in Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 11, 2018. (Xinhua/Shao Rui) BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday afternoon held a phone conversation with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level between China and Britain, Xi said that the bilateral relationship in the past half century has witnessed continuous growth on the whole despite some ups and downs. The trade volume between the two countries has increased from 300 million U.S. dollars to 100 billion dollars, and the two-way investment stock has risen from almost zero to 50 billion dollars, Xi said. Last year, bilateral trade reached a new high, and China's investment in Britain more than tripled, Xi said, adding that British-funded enterprises have actively participated in China's reform and opening up, and London has become the world's largest offshore RMB trading hub. Photo taken on Nov. 7, 2020 shows the exhibition booth of Great Britain at the Food and Agricultural Products exhibition area during the third China International Import Expo in Shanghai, east China. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua) The two countries have coordinated and cooperated in such fields as global development and climate change, and have made positive contributions to tackling humanity's common challenges, Xi said. Noting that China and Britain have different domestic conditions and development paths, Xi said the two sides should take a strategic and long-term perspective, respect each other, keep an open and inclusive mindset, promote dialogue and communication, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation. Xi said that China is willing to conduct dialogue and cooperation with Britain in a frank, open and inclusive manner, and hopes that the British side would view China and China-Britain relations in an objective and impartial light, and work with China in promoting a continuous development of bilateral ties. Children show dance lion souvenirs after the screening of a Chinese animation in London, Britain, on Feb. 26, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Ying) For his part, Johnson said that Britain-China relations are of great importance. Trade between Britain and China has been growing rapidly, and Chinese students in Britain outnumber those in any other European countries, of which, he said, Britain is very proud. Britain and China, two permanent members of the UN Security Council, share common interests on many issues and can work with each other on many things, he said. He also said that Britain is willing to have candid dialogues with China, strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation, expand bilateral economic and trade cooperation and deepen communication and coordination on such global issues and regional hotspots as climate change and bio-diversity. The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine. Xi expounded China's principles and position, stressing that the international community should truly promote peace talks, create conditions for the political settlement of the Ukraine issue and push for Ukraine's return to peace at an early date. The Chinese side is ready to continue to play a constructive role in this regard, he added. Many Ghanaians say they are feeling increasing hardships amid the rising cost of petroleum products and transport fares. ACCRA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Amid the rising cost of petroleum products and transport fares, many Ghanaians say they are feeling increasing hardships. The Road Transport Coordinating Council in Ghana announced a 15 percent increase in transport fares in February as the ex-pump price of petroleum products increased constantly since the beginning of this year. Vehicles exit a gas station in Accra, Ghana, on March 22, 2022. (Xinhua/Seth) Richmond Larbie, a banker who commutes between the capital Accra and the eastern port city Tema daily, told Xinhua that the additional one Ghana cedi (about 13 U.S. cents) charged fare per trip along that corridor had a rippling effect on his cost of living. "The cost of living has increased due to higher transport fares and has reduced the general standard of living since there is no corresponding increase in incomes to compensate for the increasing fares and higher prices of general goods and services," Larbie said. The situation becomes critical for urban populations, many of whom change buses at least once daily before reaching their destinations. A ticket operator checks for passengers in a street in Accra, Ghana, on March 21, 2022. (Xinhua/Seth) Vivian Braimah, a secondhand clothes vendor, said the higher transport costs and commodity prices had crippled businesses and affected the incomes of traders. "Things are even more difficult for those with children of school-going age, because with my three children, their transport costs, food subsidies, and other costs have all doubled, and families can't even enjoy three square meals a day," Braimah told Xinhua. Braimah urged the government to introduce some measures to ease the hardships of citizens and lessen their plights a little. Amid the hue and cry by Ghanaians, commercial bus drivers still have to seek further increases in their fares in line with the constant rise in petroleum prices. "We have to start training to commute to work on foot because the transport fares may become unbearable," said Rebecca Akordor, a clothes vendor at Makola, the central market in the CBD. "It is no secret that our economy is going through difficult times. It is also no secret that we are not alone in this situation. Many of the phenomena we face are also apparent in many parts of the world," Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo said late Tuesday, during a meeting with the Council of State, the constitutionally mandated advisory body to the president. Vendors sell products in a busy street in Accra, Ghana, on March 21, 2022. (Xinhua/Seth) The president vowed that the government would make some "difficult but necessary decisions" to bring the economy back on track and lessen the impact of these challenges on the people. Ernest Addison, the central bank governor, said Monday that the government planned to pump about 2 billion dollars into the economy through budget financing, adding he was hopeful that this action would strengthen the Ghana cedi together with monetary policy measures. Some Ghanaians told Xinhua that they hope a stronger cedi would also reduce the impact of exchange rate depreciation on petroleum price build-up, thereby resulting in lower ex-pump prices, transportation costs, and commodity prices, to ease the harsh economic conditions in the country. BRUSSELS, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies gathered here on Thursday, for what Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called "an extraordinary NATO summit in an extraordinary security situation" amid the Ukraine crisis. The meeting, held on the day that marked one month since the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, might temporarily boost unity across the Atlantic, but could not easily balance the demands of relevant parties or put out the fires in Ukraine. Behind closed doors, NATO heads of state and government agreed to form four new NATO battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, to supplement the four established ones in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. They also agreed to strengthen "longer term deterrence and defense posture" supported by "enhanced exercises." Stoltenberg also said that NATO will strengthen the cyber defenses and offer Ukraine cybersecurity assistance. In the statement after the gathering, there was no agreement to impose additional sanctions against Russia, especially the country's oil and gas products. This demonstrates the obvious divergence among NATO members, who have different security and economic concerns. The biggest difference is whether to place sanctions on Russia's energy industry. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has clearly expressed opposition to such penalties. Upon his arrival for a summit with leaders of the EU countries on Thursday, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo warned that the 27-member bloc should not consider sanctions against Russia as such a move would unnecessarily weaken its economy. In contrast with the Western European states, some countries adjacent to Russia such as Latvia and Estonia are calling for stricter sanctions against Russia as they claimed that energy sanctions would be an crucial measure to stop the country's military operation in Ukraine. In order to cut dependence on Russia's gas and oil, the EU is seeking long-term liquefied natural gas supplies from the United States, making the latter a beneficiary of the European energy crisis prompted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Besides the divergence on sanctions, the NATO members in Brussels also shied away from Ukraine's request for more advanced weapons systems, participations of NATO troops and a no-fly zone in Ukraine. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, invited to address the NATO leaders, hit out at Western nations for not doing enough to help his country. "You have thousands of fighter jets! But we haven't been given any yet ... You have at least 20,000 tanks! Ukraine asked for a percent, one percent of all your tanks to be given or sold to us! But we do not have a clear answer yet ... The worst thing during the war is not having clear answers to requests for help," Zelensky said during the meeting. NATO has been clear it will not send troops or planes to the battlefield. "We have a responsibility to ensure that the war does not escalate beyond Ukraine ... this would cause even more death and even more destruction," Stoltenberg said on Wednesday. KHARTOUM, March 24 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations (UN) has warned of a deepening food crisis in Sudan as result of the African country's economic downturn, displacement and devastated harvests. "The combined effects of conflict, economic crisis, and poor harvests are significantly affecting people's access to food and will likely double the number of people facing acute hunger in Sudan to more than 18 million people by September 2022," the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) said in a press release on Wednesday. "There are already worrying signs that access, affordability, and the availability of food is shrinking for most people in Sudan, which is pushing more people deeper into poverty and hunger," Eddie Rowe, the WFP representative and country director in Sudan, was quoted as saying. In recent months, there has been a surge in the number of people displaced due to conflict in parts of Darfur and the Kordofan region. "This insecurity has eroded livelihoods, damaged farms, and triggered widespread unemployment," Rowe added. The depreciation of the Sudanese pound as well as the rising food and transportation prices are making it more difficult for Sudanese families to put food on the table, and a lack of access to hard currencies is expected to cause the currency to depreciate further. Domestic cereal production for the 2021/22 crop season in Sudan is estimated to be 5.1 million metric tons, which will only meet the demands of less than two-thirds of the population, according to the Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission report issued by the FAO and WFP. "Rising food prices and scarcity of essential agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and seeds mean that farmers have no other option than to abandon food production if they do not receive immediate support," said FAO Representative in Sudan Babagana Ahmadu. This will likely have "grave consequences" not only for their food security, but also on food availability in Sudan, and may ultimately lead to more conflict and displacement, Ahmadu added. Sudan is reliant on wheat imports from the Black Sea region. The current Russia-Ukraine conflict has disrupted the flow of grains into Sudan, raising food prices, according to the press release. Currently, the wheat price in Sudan has already surpassed 550 U.S. dollars per ton, up 180 percent from the same period in 2021. In 2021, the WFP was a lifeline for almost 9 million Sudanese, who were suffering from political unrests and economic uncertainty. However, WFP food reserves in Sudan are dangerously low this year, and without new funding, they would run out by May, according to a WFP report. A budget shortage has already compelled the WFP to target the most vulnerable individuals, said the report. "Urgent support is required to provide essential agriculture inputs to vulnerable farming households before the main agriculture season starts in June, so that they can produce enough food and become self-reliant," the FAO said in Wednesday's press release. Sudan has been facing an economic crisis since the United States and international agencies suspended aid after Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the general commander of the Sudanese armed forces, declared a state of emergency on Oct. 25, 2021 and dissolved the Sovereign Council. The U.S. has suspended 700 million dollars in economic aid to Sudan, while the World Bank failed to provide 500 million dollars to Sudan, which was expected in November 2021. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also halted 150 million dollars in special drawing rights for Sudan. Sudan's debt relief process under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative of the IMF has also been suspended. Sudan has been plagued by an economic crisis since the secession of South Sudan in 2011, due to which Sudan has lost 75 percent of its oil revenues. PHNOM PENH, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's anti-drug police have arrested three foreigners for possessing and trafficking 107 kg illicit drugs, the Anti-Drug Police Department (ADP) said in a news release on Friday. The suspects, all male, were caught Tuesday night at three different locations in capital Phnom Penh and southern Kandal province, the ADP said. "Some 99.6 kg of ketamine, 7.3 kg of ecstasy, 0.19 kg of methamphetamine tablets, and 7 grams of nimetazepam were seized from the trio during the raids," the ADP said. The southeast Asian nation has no death sentence for drug traffickers. Under its law, someone found guilty of trafficking over 80 grams of illicit drugs could be imprisoned for life. According to the ADP, in 2021, the authorities nabbed a total of 13,765 drug suspects in 6,242 cases throughout the country, confiscating 4.43 tons of illicit drugs, mostly crystal methamphetamine (ice), heroin and Ecstasy. Tras una jornada de dialogo y articulacion con las autoridades regionales, provinciales y distritales, se clausuro el III Consejo de Ministros Descentralizado en Huancavelica, encabezado por el presidente @PedroCastilloTe, junto con el premier Anibal Torres. pic.twitter.com/XjO7CFjPfJ "Pedro Castillo is a man who comes to power; nonetheless, a sector of Congress wants to remove him from office every time. He had already faced a vacancy process (). Now, another one is being held. Part of the reasons mentioned in this process were discussed during the first process ," he indicated. Estamos en Huancavelica! El premier Anibal Torres, junto con ministros de Estado, llego a dicha region para participar en el III Consejo de Ministros Descentralizado, donde con autoridades regionales y locales se abordara la agenda de desarrollo territorial.#PCMEnLasRegiones pic.twitter.com/7RM2MYX4fG YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. On March 24, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, grossly violating the ceasefire regime, crossed the Line of Contact with the Republic of Artsakh and invaded the village of Parukh in the Askeran region of Artsakh. The adversary has undertaken provocations also in the direction of the settlement of Khramort of the same region, the Foreign Ministry of Artsakh said in a statement released today. Moreover, on the night of March 25, Azerbaijani Armed Forces opened fire on the units of the Artsakh Defense Army, using both firearms of different calibers and attacking drones (UCAV). The above actions are the logical continuation of the recent terrorist campaign initiated by the Azerbaijani authorities, which manifests itself in the exertion of psychological pressure on the civilian population, periodic violations of the ceasefire regime, disruption of the operation of the only gas pipeline feeding Artsakh, resulting in a dire humanitarian situation in the Republic of Artsakh. All these actions carried out by Azerbaijan are nothing but a state-orchestrated policy of ethnic cleansing aimed at the complete eviction of Armenians from Artsakh. Azerbaijan's geopolitical goals are obvious: to intimidate the people of Artsakh, to strike at the Russian peacekeeping mission, to make the Transcaucasus a platform of pan-Turkism and extremism for the implementation of far-fetching programs in the future. The international community and specialized international organizations should assess Azerbaijans anti-Armenian policy in the strictest terms. Indifference and inaction will have the most severe consequences for the entire civilized world. The people of Artsakh continue to stand firmly on their land. They will never give up their homeland and will never retreat to the vileness and insidious tricks of the enemy, the statement says. STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. The authorities of the Republic of Artsakh are in active dialogue with the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent deployed in Artsakh, the authorities said in a statement. All efforts are utilized in order for the Russian side to take respective measures within the framework of its mission to return the Azerbaijani troops that have infiltrated into the Parukh village section of Askeran region on March 24 back to their initial positions. At the same time, the armed forces of Artsakh are taking additional measures to ensure the security of adjacent villages. We expect that as a result of consistent work the Russian peacekeeping mission will succeed in resolving the issues that happened in the dimension of its control and that after the withdrawal of the Azerbaijani side the peaceful population will return to their homes by receiving additional security guarantees, the Artsakh authorities added in a statement released through the official InfoCenter. YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. Lawmaker Arsen Torosyan says he regrets that Ukrainian colleagues are disoriented in the information war and are generating disinformation, thus harming the relations between Armenia and Ukraine. Torosyan made the comments regarding a controversial tweet posted by the official Twitter account of the Ukrainian parliament, which was seemingly cheering the Azerbaijani military incursion into Artsakh and spreading disinformation. The post has since been deleted. I regret this, they spread a disinformation from an unknown source, which falsely claimed that the Russian peacekeeping troops were moved to Ukraine [from Artsakh] to participate in the military actions, which is entirely false. And I really regret that our colleagues in Ukraine or those who manage that Twitter account are unable to correctly navigate in this information war, and differentiate lies from truth, Torosyan, the member of the Armenia-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group told ARMENPRESS. Torosyan added that he wouldnt want to believe that the post was made intentionally. They should nevertheless be more attentive because with this they harm the relations between the two countries, and we wouldnt want that to happen, and I think neither would they, Torosyan said. The Ukrainian parliaments twitter post came after Azerbaijani military forces infiltrated in the direction of the village of Parukh in Artsakh on March 24. The Azeri attack resulted in 5 Artsakh troops being wounded. YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Finance Tigran Khachatryan received today Ambassador of France to Armenia Anne Louyot, the ministry said. Minister Khachatryan thanked for the meeting and briefly presented the economic year of 2021, particularly the main fiscal and macroeconomic indicators. Ambassador Anne Louyot highlighted the high level of the Armenian-French relations and reaffirmed the readiness of France to work jointly with Armenia, deepen and strengthen the bilateral ties. The meeting also touched upon the current agenda of the Armenian-French relations. The sides exchanged ideas also about the regional and international issues. YEREVAN, MARCH 25, ARMENPRESS. President of Russia Vladimir Putin said he will hold a phone conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today, on March 25, TASS reported. Putin announced the call during a meeting with laureates of culture and arts awards. I will have the opportunity to convey your warm words about Yerevan today to the Armenian Prime Minister, with whom I will have a phone talk, TASS quoted Putin as saying at the event. YEREVAN, 25 MARCH, ARMENPRESS. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres calls on Azerbaijan and Armenia to show restraint amid the escalation of the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, ARMENPRESS reports, citing TASS, the representative of the UN Secretary General Stephane Dujarric said during the briefing. "The Secretary-General is concerned about reports of new hostilities in and around Nagorno-Karabakh. The Secretary-General urges the parties to refrain from any actions or statements that could aggravate the situation and to resolve all issues, including those of a humanitarian nature, through direct dialogue within the existing platforms," he said. Armenian and Russian Defense Ministers, Suren Papikyan and Sergei Shoigu, held e telephone conversation on March 24, the Russian defense ministry said. March 25, 2022, 09:06 Armenian, Russian Defense Ministers discuss situation in Artsakh STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARTSAKHPRESS: Papikyan presented the latest developments in the Askeran region of Artsakh in connection with the violation of the line of contact by the units of the Azerbaijani armed forces and the volatile situation created as a result. The Armenian defense minister stressed the need for these Azerbaijani military units to return to their initial positions. Shoygu, for his part, assured that the situation is in the center of the Russian side's attention and necessary steps are being taken to resolve it peacefully. On March 24, Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan had a phone conversation with the US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said in a news release. March 25, 2022, 09:43 Armenian FM presents Azerbaijans violation of line of contact in Artsakh to US Assistant Secretary of State STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARTSAKHPRESS: The parties touched upon the issues of regional security. The Foreign Minister of Armenia briefed on the situation created as a result of Azerbaijan's violation of the Nagorno Karabakh contact line and the infiltration to the Parukh village of Artsakh. The Minister stressed that Azerbaijan grossly violates its obligations of the Trilateral Statements, endangering regional stability and peace. Ararat Mirzoyan also touched upon the actions of Azerbaijan towards targeting civilian population and exerting psychological pressure, deliberately disrupting the normal operation of vital infrastructure in order to create a humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh. Minister Mirzoyan stressed that the above-mentioned actions are vivid manifestations of Azerbaijan's policy of ethnic cleansing and Armenophobia. In this regard, the Minister stressed the need for a targeted and clear response from the international community, including the United States. Both sides highlighted the importance of undertaking steps aimed at de-escalation of the situation. During the phone conversation, the Foreign Minister of Armenia presented the position of the Armenian side regarding the launch of negotiations on the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Interlocutors touched upon the process of dialogue between Armenia and Turkey. Azerbaijan's criminal and impudent behavior is a slap in the face to all civilized humanity, which remains persistently silent, Ombudsman of Artsakh Gegham Stepanyan said in a statement on social media. March 25, 2022, 10:43 Azerbaijan's criminal and impudent behavior a slap to civilized humanity Artsakh Ombudsman STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARTSAKHPRESS: The genocidal acts committed against the Armenians of Artsakh at the beginning of the 20th century, the 70-year persecution of the Armenians after the annexation of Artsakh to Soviet Azerbaijan in 1921, the systematic discrimination and ethnic hatred, the atrocities committed by Azerbaijan since 1988 in Sumgait, Baku, Gandzak-Kirovabad and other places to suppress the free expression of will of the Armenians of Artsakh, the war imposed in the 1990s, the 2016 April aggression, the 44-day war of 2020, which is full of war crimes, all the criminal actions taken by the military-political leadership of Azerbaijan since November 9, 2020 are an attempt to nullify the collective measures taken by the international community over decades after the Second World War to prevent such crimes. Azerbaijan is openly, publicly giving a "master class on the destruction and deportation of a concrete ethnic group" to the world, which even fails to make condemning statements. That is why Azerbaijan is developing its arsenal of tools and means of committing crimes almost every day, that is why the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan, openly violating the provisions of the Trilateral statement of November 9, 2020, dare to occupy civilian communities, to leave more than 120,000 people without heating and hot water, forcibly displace them. It can be listed endlessly. Such arguments of the Azerbaijani side considering the disruption of gas supply and the humanitarian catastrophe resulting from it as a matter of its internal affairs were once made by the leadership of Nazi Germany during the Nuremberg trial to justify the atrocity crimes. Dear representatives of the international community, the facts and evidence are more than enough to enforce the principle of "responsibility to protect" adopted to prevent genocide, crimes against humanity, and mass crimes, to recognize the Artsakh Republic and save the Armenians of Artsakh from ethnic cleansing and genocide. Please, finally realize that there is no other option; the criminal must be punished and not negotiated with, the statement says. It will be difficult for Europe to give up Russian oil and natural gas. As news.am informs, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Counciland former President and PM of Russia, told RIA Novosti about this. March 25, 2022, 12:42 Medvedev: It will be difficult for Europe to give up Russian oil, natural gas STEPANAKERT, MARCH 25, ARTSAKHPRESS: "Of course, we [i.e., Russia] are looking at Asian markets in these conditions, and thinking about how to diversify supplies if our European friends are in a hurry to give up supplies, oil, and natural gas from the Russian Federation," he said. According to Medvedev, it will be very difficult for Europe to do that, as it receives 40 percent of its natural gas and one third of its oil from Russia. "If they want to give it up, they will give it up. The question is: With what perspective? We [i.e., Russia] will also think about what to do," Dmitry Medvedev added. Wang to meet Jaishankar, Doval today, no meeting with PM Modi New Delhi: Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi arrived on Thursday evening in New Delhi straight from the Afghan Capital Kabul on a hush-hush visit and is expected to meet external affairs minister S. Jaishankar and national security adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Friday before leaving for the Nepalese Capital Kathmandu, according to reports. Officials continued to be extremely tight-lipped on the visit even on Thursday, perhaps in an indication of its importance at the highest levels. The visit could finally set the ball rolling for an eventual breakthrough in the Sino-Indian impasse, with New Delhi pushing hard for disengagement by Chinese troops from all friction points in the Ladakh sector. But this could well hinge on how much Beijing is willing to walk the talk, particularly since Prime Minister Narendra Modi is of the firm view that there cannot be normalcy in Sino-Indian ties unless there is peace and tranquillity on the borders, a euphemism for China pulling back its troops and restoring the status quo of early 2020. China is understood to be keen on strengthening both the multilateral BRICS forum including a visit by PM Modi to China for the BRICS Summit later this year as well as strengthening the trilateral Russia-India-China (RIC) forum, particularly in the wake of the Ukraine conflict and the crippling sanctions imposed by the West on Russia. This is also the first time that a top-level visit is taking place from either country to the other after the deadly conflict at the Galwan Valley in the Ladakh sector between Indian and Chinese troops two years ago. EAM Jaishankar and Mr Wang have held meetings in other locations in third countries such as the Russian Capital Moscow as well as telephonic conversations in the past two years but neither foreign minister had till now visited the other country after the horrific Galwan clash in June, 2020. Just hours before the visit in an indication of New Delhis thinking, EAM S. Jaishankar while delivering an alumni lecture at the elite St. Stephens College in the Capital, said, Few would have anticipated, for example, the turn that Indias relations with China have taken in the last two years. Any prudent policy therefore backs its posture with capabilities and deterrence. ... Where China was concerned, the diplomatic interactions that are going on in parallel to the military stand-off since May 2020 illustrate that foreign and defence policies are really joined at the hip. He added, That a Rafale aircraft acquisition from France can take place at the same time as that of an MH-60R helicopter or P-8 aircraft from the US, the S-400 missile system from Russia or the Spice bombs from Israel speaks volumes of our nimbleness. Interestingly, the visit of Mr Wang took place despite India on Wednesday evening slamming the Chinese foreign minister for raking up the Kashmir issue at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers conclave hosted by Pakistan in Islamabad, saying China has no locus standi to comment on Jammu and Kashmir which is an internal matter of India and reminding Beijing that India refrains from commenting publicly on Chinas internal issues. Ties between the two Asian giants had deteriorated following the massing of Chinese troops at the border areas in the Ladakh sector that started in April-May 2020 and had eventually led to the deadly clash at the Galwan Valley in which troops of both sides lost their lives. Both nations have since held several rounds of talks at the diplomatic and military level but disengagement between the troops of both sides has not taken place at all friction points due to the perceived reluctance of Chinese troops to pull back. Both countries have also accepted that bilateral ties have gone downhill in the past two years. The MEA had informed Parliament just last month, As regards disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh, India and China have maintained dialogue through both diplomatic and military channels. Our approach in these talks has been and will continue to be guided by three key principles, that both sides should strictly respect and observe the LAC; neither side should attempt to alter the status quo unilaterally; and all agreements between the two sides must be fully abided by in their entirety. Unless things change before the summer season, there will be no public exhibits of live fowl in Cayuga County or at the New York State Fair this year. The state department of Agriculture and Markets on Friday announced that the state has proactively banned all fowl shows and exhibitions to safeguard against the spread of avian flu. While avian flu strains are not a threat to humans, the highly pathogenic avian influenza is a threat to the state's poultry industry. The state said that the disease has been rapidly expanding in the United States, with detections found in New York and 16 other states. Agriculture and Markets said that the ban will remain in effect until further notice and that a reassessment of the order is expected in late May to determine whether it should remain in place through the summer fair season. State officials said that four flocks in New York state have tested positive for avian flu and that the disease has also been detected in wild birds, including snow geese and wild ducks. Commercial and hobby poultry farmers are encouraged to increase their biosecurity measures to help prevent the spread of the disease. Poultry owners should keep their birds away from wild ducks and geese and their droppings. Outdoor access for poultry should be limited at this time. Poultry biosecurity materials and checklists can be found on the USDAs Defend the Flock website. Best practices include: Discourage unnecessary visitors and use biosecurity signs to warn people not to enter buildings without permission. Ask all visitors if they have had any contact with any birds in the past five days. Forbid entry to employees and visitors who own any kind of fowl. Require all visitors to cover and disinfect all footwear. Lock all entrances to chicken houses after hours. Avoid non-essential vehicular traffic on-farm. After hauling birds to processors, clean and disinfect poultry transport coops and vehicles before they return to the farm. To report sick birds, unexplained high number of deaths, or sudden drop in egg production, producers are asked to contact the Department of Agriculture and Markets Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or the USDA at (866) 536-7593. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 AUBURN For the third time in the past four months, Sarah Reed spoke in a courtroom to describe the impact her brother's murder has had on her life. On Thursday, she was there for the sentencing of Christian Rivera, one of the four defendants charged in the November 2019 shooting death of her brother, 36-year-old Joshua Poole, at 8 Delevan St. in Auburn. Rivera, originally facing a murder charge, was in Cayuga County Court to be sentenced by Judge Thomas Leone after he pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and child pornography charges earlier this year. With Rivera in the room, Reed said she hoped "at some point you have some remorse." She also mentioned that Poole had children and that Poole was her "last sibling." When Leone asked Rivera if there was anything he wanted to say, he declined to speak. Leone gave Rivera a previously-agreed upon sentence of 12 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision for a first-degree attempted robbery conviction and one to three years in prison for one count of promoting a sexual performance by a child. The sentences will run concurrently. Rivera was indicted in November 2020 on charges that included second-degree murder, first-degree attempted robbery, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and fourth-degree conspiracy. Authorities said Rivera wasn't present at the shooting but planned the robbery that resulted in Poole's death, alleging he provided money for the masks and gloves to be used for the robbery and provided the 20-gauge shotgun and 9-millimeter handgun utilized at the scene. During the murder investigation, authorities determined Rivera had possessed child pornography. He was charged in June for that crime. Rivera reached a plea deal in court on Jan. 19, admitting to the attempted robbery charge and one of the promotion counts, in satisfaction of his other offenses. Before Leone announced Rivera's sentence, Cayuga County Chief Assistant District Attorney Christopher Valdina said Rivera had accepted responsibility for his actions during his pre-sentence investigation. "The victim would still be alive today if the defendant hadn't set up this robbery," Valdina said. Before handing down the sentencing, Leone said he wasn't sure "what more I can say" that hadn't already been said. "This was a really foolish act, to say the least," Leone said. Rivera's attorney, Clifton Carden, of the Syracuse-based firm CDH Law, said after court that he felt his client "expressed all the responsibility" for his actions. "He did not lack transparency. He did not lack remorse. He did not fail to take accountability for what he actually did, and regrets it, and I thought that was very telling," Carden said. Amanda H. Spagnola received the same promoting a sexual performance by a child charges earlier in the same month that Rivera did. Spagnola is the mother of Lucciano Spagnola, one of the other defendants in Poole's death. Amanda Spagnola was also charged in July with two counts of third-degree intimidation. The Cayuga County District Attorney's Office previously said Amanda Spagnola threatened a witness connected to Poole's homicide case. She was sentenced in Cayuga County Court earlier this month to 364 days in the Cayuga County Jail on one intimidation and one promotion count. Those sentences are running consecutively, so she is poised to serve about two years in jail. Rivera's fellow defendants in Poole's death have all pleaded guilty in county court over the last year. Days before Lucciano Spagnola's trial was set to start, he pleaded guilty in September and was sentenced in November to 17 years to life in prison for two counts of second-degree murder. He was also sentenced for less serious charges. Lucciano Spagnola and co-defendants Gage Ashley were identified by the Auburn Police Department as the shooters, but Lucciano wasn't able to be charged with first-degree murder because he was 17 at the time. Ashley was sentenced in December to 21 years to life in state prison for first-degree murder and second-degree murder. He also received 15 years to life and five years of post-release supervision for first-degree attempted robbery and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, plus sentences for less serious charges. Tyree Anglin, the fourth defendant, pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in June. He is expected to see an agreed-upon sentence of 10 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision. Acting Cayuga County District Attorney Brittany Grome Antonacci said after court that Anglin is slated to be sentenced April 14. Staff writer Kelly Rocheleau can be reached at (315) 282-2243 or kelly.rocheleau@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @KellyRocheleau. Love 0 Funny 3 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 2 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A prominent Auburn business is among the partners in a multi-state proposal to establish a regional clean hydrogen hub in the Northeast. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that New York will join with Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Jersey to seek the designation from the U.S. Department of Energy. The program was included in the federal infrastructure package signed by President Joe Biden last fall. The proposals will compete for more than $8 billion in federal funding to establish the clean hydrogen hubs. The Department of Energy will select at least four sites to serve as research and development hubs. The criteria for selection includes feedstock and geographic diversity. Along with three other states, New York has several private-sector partners that are part of the proposed clean hydrogen hub. Nucor in Auburn is identified as one of the partners. It's unknown what the company's role would be in the hub. Nucor did not respond to a request for comment. According to Hochul's office, those involved in the multi-state proposal have agreed to "define the shared vision and plans for the regional hydrogen hub that can advance safe green hydrogen energy innovation and investment to address climate change ..." They also will collaborate to advance a proposal that "makes climate and environmental justice central to its strategy." "New York is proud to lead the way in forming bold partnerships to combat the existential threat of climate change," Hochul said. "Expanding the hydrogen market is critical to New York's aggressive pursuit of clean energy alternatives that will supercharge our economy and advance our climate goals." For the federal government, the clean hydrogen hubs are part of a $21.5 billion strategy to invest in clean energy demonstration and research with the goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035 and a net-zero carbon economy by 2050. In New York, Hochul says the hub will support the state's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 85% by 2050. Some environmental justice groups are concerned with Hochul's proposal. In a joint statement on Thursday, six organizations Environmental Advocates NY, New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, New York City Environmental Justice Alliance, UPROSE, PUSH Buffalo and PEAK Coalition called the plan the "hasty hydrogen initiative." Among the concerns expressed by the groups is the potential impacts to disadvantaged communities. Hydrogen combustion, they said, increases emissions of oxides of nitrogen. The advocates urged Hochul to reject hydrogen combustion and "not continue to expose communities of color to direct or disparate environmental and negative public health conditions." The multi-state consortium will finalize its proposal in time for the launch of the Department of Energy's funding opportunity announcement in May. Politics reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The town of Owasco is one of 10 municipalities in New York, and the first in Cayuga County, to be certified as a "climate smart community" by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. To achieve the certification, local governments must complete certain objectives and are scored on their actions. There are two tiers of certification, bronze and silver, with a minimum of 120 points needed for the bronze level and 300 for silver. Every community that seeks certification must create a climate smart community task force that focuses on "climate mitigation adaptation" and appoint a climate smart community coordinator. After that, local governments can choose from dozens of actions, such as installing renewable energy sources and encouraging biking and walking. Owasco, according to Supervisor Ed Wagner, scored 172 points to clear the threshold for bronze certification. The town began the process for becoming a climate smart community three years ago, he said. Some of the actions taken by Owasco include upgrading the lighting at all town buildings and converting the street lights to LED lighting. An electric vehicle charging station has been added to the town hall and there were several climate change-related resolutions approved by the town council. "The town has been a leader with water quality issues and I think the climate smart community is an important step," Wagner told The Citizen. "We want to leave our community in better shape than we inherited it." The Climate Smart Communities program was created in 2009, and the certification process began in 2014. While more than 350 local governments have taken the climate smart communities pledge, 90 are certified through the state's program. That includes Owasco and nine other municipalities that were certified this year. Four of the local governments are in central New York in addition to Owasco, the town of Manlius (Onondaga County), town of Richland (Oswego County) and village of Pulaski (Oswego County) also achieved bronze-level status. According to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, the 10 local governments are also participants in the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's Clean Energy Communities program, which helps municipalities adopt clean energy policies and cost-saving measures. DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos, who also co-chairs the state's Climate Action Council, lauded the communities for their efforts to address climate change. "We look forward to working with our Climate Smart Communities and other local leaders incorporating clean energy, climate resiliency, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, among other actions, in policies and plans that benefit local residents, create green jobs, and help build a stronger, more resilient New York state," he said. Owasco has two more goals, according to Wagner. He wants to encourage other municipalities in Cayuga County to get the certification. The county, city of Auburn, towns of Montezuma, Moravia and Niles, and villages of Aurora and Moravia have signed the climate smart communities pledge. But they have not taken further action to be certified as a climate smart community. Wagner also hopes to elevate Owasco from the bronze to silver-level certification. Of the 90 certified climate smart communities, eight have reached the silver tier. Politics reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding. Love 4 Funny 3 Wow 2 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. India has agreed to a request from neighboring Sri Lanka for urgent supply of a diesel consignment with around 40,000 tonnes of the fuel set to be sent to the island nation that is currently battling one of its worst economic crisis ever. Fuel rates in Sri Lanka have jumped to record high levels while supply has been dwindling. The situation here is so grave that the government had to order troop deployment at fuel stations earlier this week to ensure orderly distribution. According to a Hindustan Times report, state-run Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is likely to send a consignment of 40,000 tonnes of diesel to Sri Lanka. Seven monthly shipment of petrol, diesel and aviation fuel is also being sent under a line of credit for purchasing petroleum products which was agreed upon last month. The 40,000 tonnes of diesel is over and above this. Similar Cars Find More Cars UPCOMING Skoda Kodiaq Petrol Bs6 Prices are currently unavailable View Details While countries the world over are grappling with a very volatile oil price and supply situation in the aftermath of Russia invading Ukraine, the situation has reached alarming levels in Sri Lanka where the value of the local currency has taken a nosedive and import costs have skyrocketed. Prices of essential items, apart from petrol and diesel, have jumped manifold. With cooking oil and milk products becoming far more expensive than these have ever been, pre-owned vehicles are an item of luxury and selling for more than plush homes in many parts. (Also read: Used cars more expensive than plush homes in Sri Lanka) Sri Lanka imports all of its petroleum requirements while India imports nearly 85% of its needs. But while India has a rather tricky road to walk as well - fuel prices have now been hiked thrice in four days - the country has reportedly responded to the urgent call from Sri Lanka. Indias Export Import (Exim) Bank and the Sri Lankan government signed an agreement for the $500-million line of credit for purchasing petroleum products from the Indian side on February 2. India has also extended a Saarc currency swap facility of $400 million and deferred the payment of $515.2 million to the Asian Clearing Union (ACU) by two months to assist Sri Lanka. First Published Date: Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Fudi Battery, the power battery unit of BYD, is vigorously expanding its carmaker client base, which has reportedly attracted NIO and Xiaomi EV. BYD Blade Battery; photo credit: BYD Before the Spring Festival holiday, NIO and Fudi Battery firmed up their cooperation under which NIO would purchase BYD's lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, according to a local media outlet, citing people with direct knowledge. The person also revealed that BYD's headquarters in Pingshan district, Shenzhen city greeted some visitors from NIO in the second half of 2021. Earlier this month, some photos were exposed on Chinese social media platforms showing that BYD's chairman Wang Chuanfu was visiting NIOs manufacturing plant in Hefei in the company of William Bin Li, chairman and CEO of NIO. This may be another sign of the cooperation between NIO and BYD. Besides, Fudi Battery has also inked a targeted cooperation agreement with Xiaomi EV, the EV unit of the world-renowned smartphone maker Xiaomi Group, according to the aforementioned media channel. Reportedly, Xiaomi EVs first model will come with two configuration options. Notably, the lower-spec version will ride on a 400-voltage platform and uses BYD's Blade batteries. After being reached for comment, NIO, Xiaomi, and BYD all said they had no official information to disclose yet. Much has been written about business actions in Russia over the past few weeks. Given the nature of this conflict, more will unfold for years. Thats because out of every conflict come the seeds of new orders. Russia sees a democratic Ukraine and one potentially allied with NATO as a security issue. Russian President Vladimir Putin dreams of an empire, and Chinese President Xi Jinping would love a partnership assisting in his ambitions in Taiwan. There are plenty of tanks, bombs and other sharp power engaged in this conflict, but underlying all of these is the Wests sticky power the economic system which aims to strangle Russia and threaten China. Yet, in addition to sanctions, two important seeds need to germinate to simultaneously counter an autocratically driven economic system and to foster a more value-driven approach of our own. The first seed pertains to how we view business. The big companies that have left Russia are iconic brands. Pepsi, Coca-Cola and McDonalds are geopolitical entities. When they decide to leave a country, the calculus is based on three things: the nature of their relationships with employees and customers, and to some extent, suppliers; the reputational, and therefore profit, impact; and leadership itself. Leadership matters. Though its tempting to see businesses as profit-making monoliths, leaders make decisions on the basis of their own values and the values of the companys culture and history, all of which can differ from company to company. Stakeholders matter. The companies that have left Russia have rightly expressed concern over the well-being of their workforces. Depending on the product they make for example, medicines that might help alleviate suffering there are good reasons for companies to place significant weight on their customers. Shareholders matter. The potential harm to reputation especially for consumer-branded businesses is a very strong reason for companies to shed themselves of any association with a regime bombing childrens shelters and hospitals. Each of these considerations is affected by, but ranges well beyond, any given nation-state in a global economy. There is great risk in relying on one nation-state, or even a combination of nation-states, to cultivate the values that generate leadership, concern for at least some key nonshareholder constituents and corporate reputation. In addition to alliances such as NATO, there needs to be alliances with businesses themselves, businesses that also generate these values. That leads to the second seed that needs to germinate. The strategy that promotes working in countries that are willing to squash human rights for the sake of profit leads to the tensions that we have seen in Russia this month. Does this mean that companies should shun Russia, China and others? Well, no. Just as having liberal democratic values can seep into autocratic countries which is why they are so threatening to those countries so can free market concepts, but only if those business practices authentically respect values that promote human rights, voice, gender equity and avoidance of corruption, which cut against the values of regimes willing to bomb hospitals. The way companies as geopolitical entities do business not only can be beneficial for them, but it also can strengthen alliances for a kind of gentle commerce that stands as a further bulwark against autocratic efforts to make the global system even grimmer. This is not to say that the Wests shareholder-centric economic system is ideal. I have a career as a business ethics professor because businesses frequently suck. Yet one can envision a kind of gentle commerce emerging. These seeds have been sown, and weve seen some germination. As the world endures this current conflict, the hope is that a gentler economic system might arise that stands against harsher systems one that can reform the more problematic edges of our own system. Timothy L. Fort is the Eveleigh Professor of Business Ethics at the Indiana Universitys Kelley School of Business and is an affiliated scholar at the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame. He has written four books on business and peace. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The 26-year-old Flagstaff man arrested for allegedly shooting another man in downtown Flagstaff on Sunday says it was self-defense, according to court records. Treysean Ware was arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder Sunday after police say he admitted to shooting and killing 26-year-old Frankie James Jackson outside Collins Irish Pub & Grill near Leroux Street and Route 66. He's also facing charges for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and disorderly conduct with a weapon, in addition to drug and paraphernalia possession. A probable cause statement filed in the Flagstaff Justice Court recounts how a night at the bar turned deadly. Court documents said Ware and Jackson had prior "family drama" and that it came to a head when they ran into each other at the bar shortly after midnight. Witness stories differ, but police documents detail how someone -- either Ware or a family member of Jackson -- "shoulder checked" the other before "exchanging words." A witness told investigators Ware later insinuated he was carrying a gun in his waistband and wanted to fight. Ware then either left Collins voluntarily or was removed by a bouncer, according to court documents. He told investigators he was hit by a glass bottle as he walked toward the door before heading outside. According to Ware, he then headed back inside and was met with multiple threatening statements from Jackson before going back outside. One witness told investigators Ware continued to insinuate he wanted to fight from outside, records say. The witness tried to tell the bouncer, but she was kicked out of the bar along with Jackson and the rest of the group. Jackson and Ware soon encountered each other again in the street outside the bar and a fight broke out. Ware claimed one of Jackson's friends knocked out one of his friends, while other witnesses say they saw both groups engaging in the fight. Ware told investigators Jackson then struck him in the face and threw him to the ground, police documents say. He then thought Jackson was coming toward him while reaching into his pocket, but he wasn't sure if he had a gun. "He told Frankie to stop and leave him alone where Frankie kept coming," investigators wrote in the probable cause statement. "Treysean drew his Glock handgun from his waistband, racked it and shot Frankie one or two times from a distance of 5-6 feet." A bouncer then ordered Ware to drop the gun and he did before trying to run, police said. Another man pinned Ware to a wall until police took him into custody. Jackson was taken to the Flagstaff Medical Center, where he later died. Ware admitted to the shooting to police, court records say. He made multiple comments on the way to the police station indicating he shot Jackson in self-defense, including "They knocked out my friends and said they had knives" and "I know I wasn't in the right, but at the same time I had no other choice." Ryan Stevens, attorney for Ware, said the initial defense investigation has already "unearthed compelling evidence" that he acted in self-defense. "This is a complicated and tragic case, and we are going to diligently investigate and review all of the evidence before making any final conclusions or legal decisions," Stevens told the Arizona Daily Sun. He added that they will be filing a notice of self-defense and disclosure in the "near future." Under Arizona law, "a person is justified in threatening or using physical force against another when there is a reasonable belief that it is necessary to protect themselves against the other person's attempted or actual use of unlawful physical force." However, it must be considered "reasonable," the attack can't be provoked and it can't be based on verbal provocations alone. Filing the disclosure puts the burden on prosecutors to prove that the defendant wasn't justified in using deadly force in self-defense. Ware later told investigators he didn't know if any of them were armed and hadn't seen any weapons other than another person in the group carrying a knife. A second gun was later found outside the bar. Investigators, however, said it was likely carried by Ware's friend and knocked loose during the fight. This marked the second shooting in downtown Flagstaff so far this year. Flagstaff resident Craig Asplund was arrested in February after police say he shot another man on the corner of San Francisco Street and Route 66 around 1 a.m. The victim survived. Asplund is facing multiple charges in Coconino County Superior Court in connection with the shooting, including second-degree murder, two counts aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and firing a weapon inside city limits. Reporter Bree Burkitt can be reached at 928-556-2250 or bburkitt@azdailysun.com. Love 0 Funny 4 Wow 4 Sad 13 Angry 6 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Coconino County Flood Control Districts Forest Restoration Initiative won both the 2021 Governors and Presidents awards at Arizona Forwards 40th annual Environmental Awards Gala in Phoenix on Saturday. The awards, which honor creative programs that foster the economic vitality and long-term sustainability of Arizonas future, recognized the districts Forest Restoration Initiative as an exemplary sustainability project dedicated to reducing the threat of wildfire and post-wildfire flooding. Since at least 2010, when flooding following the Schultz Fire led to $130 million in damages, forest management agencies have been aware of the direct relationship between catastrophic wildfire and flooding. Mitigation efforts primarily focus on restoring forests to a fire-resistant state and secondarily on creating flood management infrastructure. When the district established its Forest Restoration Initiative in 2018, it subsequently partnered with the Kaibab National Forest and the National Forest Foundation to reduce hazardous fuels on the steep slopes of Bill Williams Mountain south of Williams. Its estimated that a catastrophic fire and flood in the area in particular could produce $365 million to $700 million in damages in addition to significant threats to the public safety and water security of the City of Williams. To date, the district has contributed $2.8 million to the Bill Williams Mountain Steep Slope Project -- the first two phases of which have thinned 476 acres of densely treed steep slopes as well as removed large amounts of dead and down timber. The district has also committed $6 million toward future phases of the project. Steep Slope 3, which will treat an additional 285 acres, is scheduled to begin late this summer or early fall. While presenting the award, Arizona Forward President and CEO Lori Singleton emphasized that wildfires and post-wildfire flooding are major threats throughout Arizona and are being accelerated by climate change. Id like to thank Arizona Forward for these awards, which acknowledge the critical importance of forest restoration to our county and our state, said Patrice Horstman, chair of the Board of Supervisors and Flood Control District chair. Mitigating the risk of catastrophic wildfire is a top priority because post-wildfire flooding affects everything from public safety and our economy to the quality of the water that many Arizonans drink daily. "Our successful Forest Restoration Initiative was created to develop strategies and partnerships that significantly reduce these threats to our communities, and we hope it can serve as a model for other counties across Arizona and the western United States to emulate. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Officials of Grand Canyon National Park said Friday that a woman has died on the Colorado River. Mary Kelley, 68, of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, was on day nine of a private boating trip Thursday when her boat capsized at the top of Hance Rapid at river mile 77. Kelley was ejected from the boat into the river before members of her party were able to retrieve her from the water, Joelle Baird, park ranger and spokesperson, said. When they pulled her from the water, she was found unresponsive, Baird added. And that is when they began CPR and notified the park via their personal locator beacon. At approximately 11:18 a.m., the park was alerted of the emergency and informed that CPR was in progress. Rangers flew to the location by helicopter but all resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. This is not the first time Hance Rapid has claimed a life. On June 15, 2021, James Crocker, 59, fell into the water at Hance Rapid and could not be resuscitated. It is one of the more technical rapids, Baird said. It's very challenging, even for experienced boatman who have been on the river many times. The incident involving Kelley is the first to result in a fatality on the Colorado River this year. Grand Canyon National Park has the most search and rescue (SAR) incidents of any national park an estimated 785 incidents between 2018 and 2020. Baird, who has been stationed at the park for 10 years, said she has observed an increasing trend in the number of SAR incidents at Grand Canyon, especially over the last couple years. We saw a lot of people visiting the park during the pandemic in general, 2020 and 2021, Baird said. But last year in 2021, we had a total of 411 search and rescue incidents in Grand Canyon National Park. Normally, we average around 300 search and rescues a year. But to have 411, it really took a toll on our staff and resources. As the summer season approaches, Baird said she expects to respond to more SAR incidents. If trends continue with our visitation going upwards, then we would potentially see search and rescue incidents climb as well, she said. Baird urges all park visitors no matter their activity to take safety very seriously and come prepared for the extreme environments of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. Even the most highly experienced and well-prepared recreation enthusiasts can still find themselves trouble, she said. It is a highly technical river, she said. Accidents can happen. I don't think anything preventative could have been done ahead of time for this case. Sean Golightly can be reached at sgolightly@azdailysun.com Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 5 Angry 1 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Russian Defense Ministry released on March 24 the latest results on the analysis of information about the 30 Pentagon-funded Ukrainian biolabs engaged in dangerous and illegal research on deadly pathogens. US officials and Western media at first denied that such labs existed, but a senior administration official has subsequently confirmed their presence, according to Sputnik. An investment firm connected to US President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, has been involved in the financing of the Pentagon's military biological program in Ukraine, Igor Kirillov, the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Forces, mentioned during a briefing on Thursday. "Incoming material allowed us to trace the interaction scheme between US government agencies and the Ukrainian biolab," Kirillov said, adding that the involvement in financing these activities by structures close to current US leadership, in particular Hunter Biden's Rosemont Seneca investment fund, draws attention to itself. According to information from the Russian Ministry of Defense, the fund has at least $2.4 billion in investment capital. At the same time, a close relationship has been established between the fund and key contractors of the US military, including Metabiota, which alongside Black & Veatch, is one of the main suppliers of equipment for Pentagon biolaboratories around the world, Kirillov added. The Los Alamos National Laboratory, birthplace of the US atomic bomb, has serve as one of the chief curators of the US military biological program in Ukraine, Kirillov said. Along with the Pentagon, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Soros' Open Society Foundations and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention are directly involved in its implementation, Kirillov said. "Scientific supervision is carried out by leading research organizations, including the Los Alamos National Laboratory, which developed nuclear weapons for the Manhattan Project. All of this activity has been carried out under the direct control of the Pentagon," Kirillov added. For 9 months, Jason Sharp woke up 8 hours before his wife. Hed drink a large cup of black coffee to start his long day. Nights fell like blankets across the sky outside his quarters. Lows barely reached into the 70s. And with the sun blanching the pavement crisscrossing Camp Lemonnier, temperatures could climb to almost 120 degrees. Sharp, a member of the Nebraska National Guard, served with the Lincoln-based 67th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade for three quarters of year in Djibouti, a small nation on the Horn of Africa. He returned to Beatrice two weeks ago and will continue his work as a deputy for the Gage County Sheriff in April. Sharp served as a senior enlisted leader, a kind of advisor to officers and liaison for enlisted men and women. He was as well known for his hard work as he was for the steaming cups of coffee his colleagues would tease him for needing. Im kind of a workaholic, Sharp said. I would often work full 10 or 12 hour days and come in on weekends and work for four hours or so. Black flags would sometimes fly on sweltering days, alerting the camp that outside recreation was unsafe, but sharp was insulated from the worst of it with fans and air conditioning. His work for Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, a multinational counterterrorism operation, kept him office-bound. I was the Current Operations Senior Enlisted Leader, he said. We kept track of everything that was happening that week We supervised the joint operations center. The main role of the joint operations center is flow of communication. Making sure reports are getting sent to the right staff elements There would be a lot of meetings. Sharp, a sergeant major, said this deployment allowed him to engage with different aspects of the military. His position as a senior leader forced him to think more strategically. He knew, when sitting in on meetings with the commander of United States Africa Command and four-star General Stephen Townsend, he needed to focus on the bigger picture. One aspect of the mission was fostering relationships with partner countries, which meant Sharp was interacting with soldiers and officers from allied countries every day. [One of the best parts] was working with such a diverse group, he said. The people I worked with the most were my British counterparts. There were people from all over the world on our staff And there were people from all over the United States. It was nice to build those relationships. But a long deploymenthis was 10 months in total, with some weeks in Fort Hood at the front and back endscomes with a slate of costs, too, Sharp said. I dont ever second guess the worth of what were doing, he said. But when you sit down to think about it, theres definitely a sacrifice there Its hard seeing everything that goes on at home, and Im just in a metal box in my room. Sharp has been deployed four times during his more than 20 years in the National Guard, but he said the pangs of distance never go away. The people who have it the hardest is the family, he said. I was busy all the time, and I had a sense of purpose over there. But everyone back at home has to pick up the slack. He has a wife and two step-kids, as well as two kids of his own. Sharp said, on leave, hes enjoying spending time with them. He looks forward to the vacations they have planned. But Sharp also said hes looking forward to being back out on road patrol. Ive missed the team, he said. Sharp is a sergeant and night patrol supervisor. Sergeants become sergeants for a reason, Gage County Sheriff Millard "Gus" Gustafson said. Were really looking forward to having him back out... Hes an important part of our work. Sharp said he always wanted to work in law enforcement. His earliest memories of cops were all positive, but no one moment crystalized his desire to serve in the blue, he said. For Sharp, its about the experience of community. In Omaha, it can feel like youre just another person, he said. Here, people know me. Its fun to be part of the community Its about the relationships you build, and thats easier to do in a smaller town. Sharp is planning to get back to work around the week of April 11. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 After graduating high school in the spring of 2020, Cheyenne Whiteman decided amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to attend Montana State University and pursue nursing. She wanted to bring her knowledge back home to serve the Crow and Northern Cheyenne nations. "My family has always emphasized bringing what we've learned back to the reservation," she said, "Also, I think representation is important in health care. It's important for patients to see and interact with someone who can bridge cultural health care barriers." Her grandmother was a nurse, and Whiteman plans to follow in her footsteps by serving their community. "My grandmother and mother both worked at the Crow and Northern Cheyenne hospital, Whiteman said. I have distinct memories of walking around the clinic and exploring as a kid. Mostly, I remember watching them at the hospital, and that really stuck for me." Whiteman, of Crow Agency and a member of both Crow and Northern Cheyenne tribes, is a sophomore in Montana State Universitys Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing and is co-president of MSUs American Indian Council. The AIC organizes MSUs annual powwow, one of Montanas largest, which will be held March 25-26 in Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. Whiteman said it was the diversity in student population and school programs that attracted her to MSU, but the support she received when she got to Bozeman was why she stayed. At first, she said, she was shy but became rooted in her education despite the challenges of learning virtually during COVID-19. "Everyone at MSU is so welcoming, she said. Immediately, I had a support system and was a part of this awesome community." Since her first year, Whiteman has become involved in various MSU activities while also maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Along with her duties with the American Indian Council, she participates in the Native American nurse support group Caring for Our Own, or CO-OP, and serves on the financial board for the student government, the Associated Students of MSU. "I like being involved in my community, but I also really like stepping out of my comfort zone and getting involved in other parts of MSU," she said. Her passion for helping others doesn't end at health care. Whiteman recently received the 2022 Glenn Kirkaldie Scholastic Achievement Award, highlighting her academic achievement and volunteer service as a tutor for American Indian/Alaska Native Student Success Services at MSU. "I love learning. I'm very committed to my academics, and with tutoring, Whiteman said. I really love helping people learn." As a part of her AIC co-president leadership responsibilities, she helped organize this years powwow. In addition to helping coordinate various areas of the event, Whiteman is a jingle dress dancer and plans to participate. "Everyone should come out to the MSU Powwow," she said. "I really look forward to dancing and sharing my culture with everyone." Nick Ross-Dick, program manager of American Indian/Alaskan Native Student Success Services, said Whitemans commitment to community involvement and her service to others has shown that the nursing profession is gaining a competent, confident and compassionate individual. It's been really neat to see Cheyenne follow in the footsteps of those who have inspired her, he said. She is a role model and inspiration to a lot of people. We really love seeing Cheyenne share her culture and leadership. When she graduates with her nursing degree, Whiteman hopes not only to continue her education to become a nurse practitioner and primary care provider but also to be a role model for young tribal members, as her mother and grandmother were for her. "I can see what impact they made on me, she said, I think it would be so cool to be that inspiration for someone else." For more information about the 2022 AIC Powwow, go to https://www.montana.edu/aic/powwow/ Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 This years race for the Billings School District 2 board is something this community hasnt seen in a long time. For starters, its the first time in at least seven years that a board position has been contested. Two years ago, for example, four of the trustees simply retook their seats after election night because no one ran against them. This years race on May 3 comes at a time when the countrys increasingly divisive cultural wars are being fought closer to home, particularly with school boards. Nationally, some school board meetings have gotten so overheated theyve ended in arrests, as debates raged out of control on topics from race, to gay rights and representation, to COVID mandates and religion. Numerous school board members across the country have also been targeted with well-funded recall efforts. In a suburban Denver school district, a national conservative group is spending $500,000 on a recall campaign. One board candidate in the district said shed gotten a vicious email hoping shed get cancer and die, the New York Times reported. Things have been more civil in Billings, although one parents recent request to have two school library books dealing with LGBTQ issues removed drew hundreds of emailed comments to the board. A few of those comments were too vulgar to read aloud during the board meeting. In Billings, four SD2 trustee seats are up for grabs this year, with three incumbents running against at least five contenders. The races are non-partisan, but early meetings of potential candidates indicate political affiliation will be a central issue in the races. During one recent gathering of the Yellowstone County Republican Womens group, five school board challengers rallied around a platform of opposing COVID mandates; championing parents rights, and demanding transparency in school policy and governance. The five candidates attending the meeting each received $200 for their campaigns from the Yellowstone County Republican Central Committee, according to the state Commission of Political Practices website. None of the incumbents have received funds for campaigning, according to public records, while newcomer candidates show a range of about $1,500 to $4,000 in total money received. Candidates who attended the YCRW luncheon also received help from Americans for Prosperity, a libertarian conservative political group funded by Charles Koch that advocates for empowering individuals and limiting government. The help technically comes from AFPs foundation rather than AFP. For candidate Chad Nelson, for example, the group made itself available to help. He attended a class on door-knocking that trained the group in classic sales techniques, he said. Nelson also attended a course about the constitution, which he thought was phenomenal. It was educational, free, and they even provided food, he said. Nelson does not consider himself someone who is politically motivated, only conservative groups reached out to him, he said, except for the teachers union, which also endorses candidates. Hes grateful for the help, he said, calling the election process daunting. Its scary. I dont like the fact that its divided, but it's just the way it goes, Nelson said. In a separate interview with the Gazette, Nelson said he was grateful, too, for the other newcomer candidates who have communicated and helped each other throughout the election process. David Herbst, who is the state director of AFP, said the group offers to lift peoples voices and help them tell their stories. Our mission is to build a grassroots movement in order to transform public policy for that vision, where people serve each other in mutually beneficial ways. Members of AFP were present at the recent YCRW meeting, and they spoke during a rally in January advocating for school choice celebrating changes to state law expanding the amount of tax credits available for financial donations to private schools. There is also some concern among candidates for the school board over the number of trustees that have been appointed to the board. Six of the nine current trustees were originally appointed to their seats, said Craig Van Nice, the boards clerk and the districts chief financial officer. All but one of those appointed to the board have since gone up for election, although most of those elections were uncontested. Current board member Zack Terakedis was appointed last July and hasnt yet faced an election cycle. In Terakedis case, the board advertised the role of replacement trustee and received three applications, from which they interviewed and appointed him. Nelson decided to run after he attended a school board meeting and saw his districts seat unfilled, which was before Terakedis was appointed. I was upset because in the agenda, they were going to vote to give power to [Superintendent] Greg Upham, Nelson said, in an interview with the Gazette. The policy, 1905, gave Upham the ability to impose or remove mandates, which he makes based on recommendations and reports from RiverStone Health. The system isnt designed for a school board to give over power. Theres supposed to be a check-and-balance system, Nelson said. In a separate interview with the Gazette, Terakedis said he appreciated his appointment because it gave him the opportunity to see if the role was a fit during the shortened 10-month term. We took a long time to discuss it in our family to decide, and I have small kids in school, so it seemed like there were a lot of things that made sense, he said. Terakedis has nearly 15 years experience working with youth service organizations, he said, including Coca-Cola C5 Youth Programs, Eckerd Youth Programs, and Trio Programs. He also has financial and budget literacy, he added. He knows educators who live in his neighborhood, and several of them suggested he should apply, Terakedis said. Im a good school board candidate because I do the work. Because I understand my responsibility and I have a background in education. But there are things that this community just doesnt understand about our public school system, he said. At the time of the interview, he cited funding complications from the state level that have since been resolved. Candidate Teresa Larsen expressed concerns about mental health among students in the district, and she wants to see more transparency from the board. I know nowadays that were seeing more mental illness among elementary kids. I want to focus on that and make sure we are meeting those kids needs, she said. When asked about the possibility of a balanced calendar, essentially year-round school, candidate John VonLangen said that parents should be responsible for their kids summer education if they so choose. I am not in favor of that. I think the less time our kids are in public school, the better, he said. A work session about balanced calendars and high school bonds will take place April 4 for members of the board. Scott McCulloch, trustee in district five, has served for three years. The argument of parental rights is inadequate to the challenges we have facing public education, he said. We must have a more stable and appropriate funding system if we are to continue to provide educational opportunities for our students, McCulloch wrote, in response to a survey sent to candidates from the Gazette. He added that trustees should be focusing on continued growth of career technical education instead of the ghost of Critical Race Theory. CRT refers to a decades-old movement among legal scholars and civil rights activists to thoroughly examine the interplay between racial justice and law. School officials, teachers and state education associations have repeatedly said that CRT is not taught in any Montana public schools, according to a Montana Free Press article published in early March. Contested seats In district three, two newcomers are competing for the vacancy that opened with board chairwoman Greta Besch Moen choosing to not run again after her term ends. Shannon Johnson is running against Teresa Larsen. In district four, appointed incumbent Zack Terakedis will run against Chad Nelson. In district five, incumbent Scott McCulloch is running against Kristen Gilfeather, as well as Kayla Ladson. In district seven, incumbent Brian Yates will run against John VonLangen. Critical Race Theory Not everyone agrees on whether or not CRT is taught in secondary schools. CRT is a legal argument limited mostly to graduate schools. The theory argues that racism over time has manifested itself in laws, and that the legacies of slavery and Jim Crow have kept Black people from achieving equality. New board candidates are wary that CRT could be dressed up using distracting terms like equity." Last June, Republicans in the House of Representatives, specifically members from the Republican Study Committee, circulated a memo from Committee Chair Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), encouraging members to lean into the culture war, according to an article published in Open Secrets, a non-profit group that tracks data on campaign finance and lobbying. Because the backlash against Critical Race Theory is real, Banks wrote. We are beginning to see an organic movement from parents across the country who are fed up with the lessons their kids are being taught. As House conservatives, we should be sending a signal to these concerned parents: We have your back. In Montana and elsewhere across the country, CRT has become code for any teaching that suggests white people are inherently racist. Last May, Montanas Attorney General Austin Knudsen issued a legal opinion stating the teaching of CRT was itself discriminatory. Recent years Trustee terms last three years and elections take place every May. In May 2021, two incumbents or candidates ran unopposed, known as acclimation. In April 2020, four incumbents or candidates won by acclimation. COVID-19 caused the election date to change, Van Nice said. Love 2 Funny 1 Wow 5 Sad 4 Angry 17 Hundreds of community members gathered to dig into foreign culture and food at the international food fair held at MSUB this week. For many international students it was an opportunity to share their culture with their student peers and the local community. My family made a lot of the food that we cooked today, but some of it was completely new, like the kher was so good, and it was my first time learning how to cook it, said Kavi Fix, a junior, describing a popular Indian dessert. Countries and areas represented included Turkmenistan, India, Japan, South Korea, Southern African, China, Germany, Russia, Croatia, Nepal, and the Nordic Region. Many students wore traditional clothing and spoke other languages at the event, which is 17 years old in Billings, but because of COVID, hasnt been held in person since 2019. Weve come to this pretty regularly, and we have a couple of grandchildren we bring to it to get them exposed to international food and culture, said Edward Barta. And of course I love all the food, and I love seeing the diversity we have here in Billings. A lot of it is on focused on campus here, and its just pleasant to see that. The event raised money for the multi-cultural club on campus. Aaris Hill, a sophomore, attended with a group of nursing students. Her roommate is an international student and she has made friends with several of her roommates friends. I definitely ask a lot of questions, wanting to know her opinion on things, especially right now, she said. Eugeniia Burdakova, a junior from Russia, served a soup with cabbage, meat, and potatoes. Some elderly people were familiar with the soup, and one guy came to us three times, so I guess he liked it, she said. We received a lot of friendly support and appreciation, she added. She plans to travel home to Russia in May by flying through a Middle Eastern country where there are lighter travel restrictions. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Paradise Valley hiker was found dead by Park County Search and Rescue officials on Friday, a day after he was reported overdue. The Livingston Enterprise identified the victim as Craig Clouatre. "It is with a very heavy heart that I am writing this update," Sheriff Brad Bichler posted on the Park County Sheriff's Office Facebook page. "After an extensive search this morning we have located Craig. It appears he had an encounter with a grizzly and unfortunately did not survive. We will continue to work through the afternoon to bring Craig home. Please keep his family and all those involved in your thoughts and prayers." The search started on Thursday in the Six Mile Creek area using ground and air crews. A thermal imaging camera was flown on Thursday night. Friday morning horse teams, ground teams and helicopters began searching again. Clouatre is married and the father of four children. The family's Fleshman Creek home northwest of Livingston was burned in a 2020 fire, prompting several fundraisers to assist. This is the first grizzly bear mauling of the year in Montana. Last year, two people were killed in grizzly maulings, one a cyclist who was camping in Ovando and the other a West Yellowstone guide fishing along the Madison River. Love 2 Funny 3 Wow 2 Sad 49 Angry 9 When Americans go to the polls this year, they will be making their most critical choices in generations. At stake is whether Democrats will still be in a majority in the United States Congress, or whether control will be turned over to a Republican party that is still in the thrall of Donald Trump and veering far to the right. Whether we will meet the climate challenge, redress the growth of inequality, rebuild our economy, and protect reproductive rights and democratic institutions all hang in the balance. Keeping, let alone expanding, its majority will be an uphill battle for Democrats. Because of the structure of our Federal system and deliberate Republican gerrymandering, when compared to the popular vote, Democrats are already underrepresented in both the Senate and House and in state legislatures all across the country. Much of this under-representation is embedded in smaller, more rural states. Just consider Montana and its neighboring states of North Dakota, Wyoming and Idaho. In the 2020 Congressional elections, something around 40% of the electorate in those four states voted Democratic, yet between them they have only one Democratic member of Congress Montanas own Jon Tester. But its not just the system that makes it tough for Democrats in states like Montana to elect members of Congress. All across the country, including in Montana, Democrats have lost support among rural voters. Thats due, in part, to simple neglect. In some places Democrats have turned their attention to other constituencies and stopped engaging with rural voters. But theres something more: for a long time, Montana voters were famous for ticket splitting theyd vote for a Republican in one race and a Democrat in another. That meant they were evaluating candidates carefully and voting for the person, and not just the party. But sadly, those days seem to be behind us. We are now divided into warring, partisan camps, and its hard for Democrats, or Republicans for that matter, to appeal to voters in the middle, because there are so few voters there. If we Democrats want to retain, or better yet expand, our majorities in Congress, and move the nation forward and away from the divisions that currently plague us, we have to do much better than we have been at meeting the needs and securing the votes of rural voters. And thats where Montana, and Monica Tranel, come in. Montanas new, western Congressional district is a must win for Democrats if we are to keep our majority in the U.S. House. And its a must-win for Republicans if they want to take our majority away. The race will attract a lot of attention, and probably a lot of money, but in the end it will be won by the candidate who can appeal to all of the districts voters, urban and rural, and can reach out and break down those hard partisan walls people are sheltering behind in this time of deep divisions. Monica Tranel is that candidate. Monica grew up in Montana. She can listen to, understand, and respect the concerns and aspirations of Montanans in every corner of the state. She knows how to bridge the partisan divide, and will be respected for her integrity, energy and ability. As a lawyer and forceful advocate for ranchers, small businesses, individuals and consumers, she has taken on powerful corporations and won. She is a workhorse, whether that means rowing for the United States in the Olympics, getting breakfast for her daughters, litigating in court, or showing up at public meetings and speaking her mind. Electing Monica Tranel will help America down the road it must travel. Nancy Keenan is the former executive director for the Montana Democratic Party, former president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, and the former State Superintendent of Public Instruction in Montana. Love 8 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 5 Federal appeals judges have revived part of a lawsuit filed by an Arizona man of Navajo heritage who alleges North Dakota law officers seriously injured him and violated his civil rights during protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline five years ago. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals also is considering two other excessive force lawsuits filed against law enforcement in the wake of the DAPL protests in 2016-17. A fourth lawsuit is still making its way through federal court. The three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on March 15 ruled that U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor improperly dismissed Marcus Mitchell's claim of excessive force. The judges also said that if Mitchell's claims are true, "then Morton County law enforcement engaged in a persistent pattern of excessive force against peaceful protesters that was tacitly authorized by (Morton County) Sheriff (Kyle) Kirchmeier and that led to Mitchell's injury." Attorneys for the county and Kirchmeier didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Law enforcement has long denied using excessive force against the thousands of pipeline opponents who camped near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation to protest construction of the $3.8 billion project built by Texas-based Energy Transfer to move North Dakota oil to Illinois. Authorities maintain some protesters used violent and illegal tactics and assaulted officers. The protests resulted in 761 arrests over a six-month span. The Mitchell case Mitchell, who is in his mid-to-late 20s and has most recently lived in New Mexico, sued in July 2019, alleging he was subjected to excessive violence by law officers who in January 2017 fired shotgun beanbag rounds at peaceful, unarmed protesters including himself. One round hit him in the left eye, resulting in long-term vision, hearing and smell problems along with chronic pain, he alleges. Mitchell was arrested and charged with criminal trespass and obstruction of a government function. The charges eventually were dismissed through a pretrial diversion agreement, the terms of which were not publicly disclosed. Mitchell's lawsuit seeking unspecified money damages is backed by the Chicago-based MacArthur Justice Center, which uses the courts to advocate for human rights and social justice. Traynor in December 2020 threw out the lawsuit, saying Mitchell had placed himself where he knew less-than-lethal weapons were being used and had failed to show that law enforcement officers treated him any differently than anyone else at the protests. Traynor said Mitchell failed to provide even a scintilla of evidence that there was a conspiracy to violate his civil rights. Mitchell appealed. The 8th Circuit judges ruled that Traynor properly dismissed Mitchell's claims of retaliatory use of force and retaliatory arrest, noting that officers had been firing bean bag rounds before Mitchell arrived on scene and that "shooting bean bags at Mitchell too after he stood in their way is exactly what one would expect the officers to do." "Officers merely carrying out their duty as they understand it are not liable for retaliatory arrest or retaliatory use of force even if their understanding of their duty is mistaken -- indeed, even if it is so mistaken as to be 'unreasonable,'" the panel wrote. The judges also upheld Traynor's conclusion that Mitchell had not been targeted by law officers because he was Native American. However, the judges said that firing lead-filled bean bags at someone amounts to more than minimal force. "Mitchell's allegations that he was 'peacefully protesting' -- neither committing a serious crime nor threatening anyone's safety nor fleeing or resisting arrest -- when the officers shot him with lead-filled bean bags capable of shattering his eye socket are sufficient to state a claim for excessive force," the panel said. The judges sent back to federal court Mitchell's excessive force claims, along with his allegations that Morton County is liable for the officers' conduct, and that Highway Patrol Sgt. Benjamin Kennelly, a scene commander, failed to intervene. Further proceedings weren't immediately scheduled. The lawsuit names as defendants Kirchmeier, Deputy Morton County Sheriff George Piehl, Morton County, the city of Bismarck, Bismarck Police Officer Tyler Welk, Kennelly and two others listed as John Does 1 and 2. Attorneys for Bismarck didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Kennelly is being represented by the state Attorney General's Office; spokeswoman Liz Brocker said, "We are reviewing the decision." Other appeals Two other similar excessive force lawsuits are before the 8th Circuit. It's not known when decisions might come. Oklahoma resident Eric Poemoceah sued in April 2020, claiming he suffered a broken pelvis when he was tackled while running from law officers in February 2017. Traynor in December 2020 dismissed the complaint, saying officers acted reasonably. Poemoceah appealed last June. He argued in part that his behavior during the incident "posed no threat to safety of the officers or others, and the officers failed to warn of the imminent use of force." He also maintained that "federal courts have often held that an officer's own provocative behavior can undermine the justification for the use of force." Shawn Grinolds, attorney for the defendants, maintained in a January filing in the appeals case that "Poemoceah was actively resisting arrest and attempting to flee when he was tackled." Nine protesters sued in November 2016 alleging violations of their civil rights due to officers tactics including the use of tear gas and water sprays amid temperatures below freezing during a clash that month over a blockaded bridge. The lead plaintiff in that case is Vanessa Dundon, a Navajo from Arizona who suffered an eye injury. Traynor last December sided with law enforcement, again saying officers acted reasonably during an unprecedented incident. The violent clash between protesters and police became the emblematic skirmish of the monthslong protest. Dundon and the other plaintiffs appealed in January. Arguments have not yet been filed in the appeal. Wilansky case The November 2016 confrontation sparked another lawsuit that is still proceeding in federal court. New York City resident Sophia Wilansky, who was 21 at the time, alleges police intentionally targeted her with a concussion grenade and severely injured her left arm. She seeks millions of dollars from law officers and Morton County, who maintain her injury was caused by a propane canister that protesters had rigged to explode. Traynor in October 2020 dismissed several of Wilansky's claims including defamation but allowed numerous others to proceed, including some excessive force, assault and emotional distress claims. Trial had been set to begin April 26, but it has now been delayed. Court documents indicate Wilansky is seeking to add some law officers as defendants. Documents also indicate that Wilansky will finally get evidence from the FBI that she thinks will help prove her case -- but how that evidence will be handled is undecided. Wilansky sued the federal government in 2018 seeking access to shrapnel and clothing taken from her while she was hospitalized. She lost the case when a judge ruled she didn't have a good argument for why she couldnt file a civil lawsuit without the seized property. The FBI has now closed its investigation of Wilansky and is willing to turn over the evidence, according to one of her attorneys, Ben Stoll. U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal earlier this month advised the two sides in the excessive force lawsuit to try to agree on how the evidence should be handled. Reach Blake Nicholson at 701-250-8266 or blake.nicholson@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. North Dakota's top election official will report alleged violations of state law related to signatures gathered for a proposed ballot measure for term limits on the governor and state lawmakers. The proposed measure will not go on the November general election ballot, Secretary of State Al Jaeger said Tuesday. Measure supporters last month submitted petitions to prompt a public vote on term limits. They needed 31,164 signatures of qualified North Dakota electors; they submitted 46,315 signatures. Jaeger on Tuesday accepted about 17,000 signatures and rejected about 29,000. He notified measure chairman Jared Hendrix, a Minot-area Republican district chairman, of his review. "Based on a review of the petitions by my office and an investigation by the Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the petitions do not have a sufficient number of valid signatures," Jaeger wrote. "Additionally ... I must report all violations to the Attorney General," he wrote. Attorney General Drew Wrigley told the Tribune, "Under the circumstances, all I can add is that: 'The BCI's investigation of this matter continues.'" Hendrix in a statement expressed disappointment with Jaeger's "decision to exercise unprecedented and unconstitutional discretion to dismiss the signatures of thousands of North Dakotans who support term limits." "We will pursue every legal avenue for challenging this decision out of respect to the wide swath of North Dakotans who want term limits, and to protect the integrity of our initiated measure process," he told the Tribune. Jaeger's letter cited five points for excluding petitions: Several signatures of petition circulators were likely forged on affidavits in the presence of a notary public, meaning all affidavits attached to 751 petitions including 15,740 signatures weren't counted. Some circulators were neither North Dakota qualified electors nor U.S. citizens. A sampling of the 87 circulators indicated several were offered or paid bonuses based on the number of signatures they gathered, which is against state law. Petitions included a significant number of signatures from residents of other states, which violates state law. Thousands of signatures did not meet requirements of having a printed name, affixed signature and complete address witnessed by the circulator. Jaeger said his office found the alleged violations as part of its regular review of the petitions. "We found discrepancies, and went from there," he told the Tribune. Some of the alleged violations "might be" criminal, he said. Jaeger said "we have found fraud before," in 1994 with a proposed term limits measure, but he stopped short of saying the newly alleged violations are fraud. State Rep. Jeff Magrum, R-Hazelton, a member of the measure's sponsoring committee who was present when supporters turned in their petitions to Jaeger in mid-February, said the alleged violations surprised and disappointed him. "Sure is news to me," said Magrum, who confirmed he participated in gathering "quite a few" signatures. He added, "I don't mind BCI having another set of eyes on (the petitions), but I surely didn't expect any mischief, but I didn't go through them all myself, obviously." The proposed measure would add a new article to the state constitution, effective Jan. 1, 2023, imposing term limits of eight cumulative years each in the House and Senate. The governor, who serves four-year terms, could not be elected more than twice. Supporters of term limits say they bring in fresh ideas and reduce corruption. Opponents say term limits force out expertise and take power away from voters. Term limits under the proposed measure would not be retroactive -- meaning the service of current officeholders would not count against them. The measure's language also would bar the Legislature from proposing amendments to alter or repeal the term limits; only citizens would be able to do so. The measure's 42-member sponsoring committee includes several state lawmakers linked to the ultraconservative Bastiat Caucus, as well as multiple GOP district chairmen who came on last year. North Dakota's dominant Republican Party has seen infighting between ultraconservative and establishment members, notably in the party censures of several state lawmakers and a walkout from a party meeting last year. North Dakota has no term limits for state elected officials or lawmakers. The governor and lawmakers each serve four-year terms. More than 60 sitting lawmakers have served eight or more years in their respective chamber. Fifteen state legislatures, including Montana and South Dakota, have term limits. Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Military officials are preparing to put on an air show at Ellsworth Air Force Base for the first time in seven years. The Rapid City Journal reported Friday that the Ellsworth Air & Space Show is set for May 14 and May 15. The show will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the base north of Rapid City as well as the 80th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid and the 75th birthday of the Air Force. The show will feature a science booth and flyovers by the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels aerial acrobatics team. COVID-19 forced officials to scuttle plans for the 2020 and 2021 shows. The Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery marked 75 years as an independent Benedictine community on Thursday. The Benedictine sisters landed in Bismarck upon the invitation of Bishop Vincent Ryan, according to Sister Nicole Kunze, prioress since 2016. Ryan was appointed bishop for the Diocese of Bismarck in the early 1940s, at a time when more than 150 sisters from St. Benedicts in Minnesota worked in the region. Ryan envisioned Bismarck having its own sisters and its own mother house, to meet the local needs. I dont think it would have happened without his persistence, Kunze said. It was truly by the gift of his tenacity. In 1944, a group of 140 sisters accepted Bishop Ryans invitation and volunteered to move to Bismarck to start a new independent community, while others remained in Minnesota. Three years later, on March 24, 1947, the group received word from the Vatican that their decree had been signed. It established an official, independent monastery in North Dakotas capital city. Since it happened on the eve of the Annunciation of Mary feast day, the sisters became Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. The sisters continue to answer Gods call to serve the community. Benedictines were not established to do a particular kind of work, Kunze said. We meet the needs of the people in the area. Sisters have been serving in the area since 1878, when a handful came to Dakota Territory to teach the children of German immigrants. Their ministry of education began at St. Marys School. In 1885, they became the founders and sponsors of St. Alexius Hospital, the first hospital between Seattle and St. Paul, Minnesota. They saw a need for higher education and established the University of Mary in 1959. Most recently they began sponsoring the nonprofit Ministry on the Margins, which had been founded in 2013. We continue to live our life of prayer, community and service, Kunze said of the sisters, who now number 34. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Wachter Middle School history teacher Erica Quale had no idea that at the end of a Thursday morning assembly, she'd leave with a prestigious honor and an extra $25,000 in her pocket. The assembly started off like any other, with eighth graders laughing with one another as they filed into the cafeteria and a show choir performing. But then State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler took the stage and thanked students for their commitment to learning before introducing Milken Family Foundation Senior Program Director Greg Gallagher. Gallagher told the students that he was at the school Thursday to surprise an educator with an award and invited a few volunteers to help him hold up signs to reveal that one of their teachers was going to receive $25,000. The eighth graders erupted into cheers when Quale was announced as the winner. In tears, she approached the stage -- where Baesler and Gallagher presented her with an oversized check -- then turned to her students with her hands above her head in the shape of a heart. "You guys know that I would not be here without any of you," she said to the students. "Every day, you guys are the ones we come to school for." During her remarks, a student yelled out, "I love you, Ms. Quale!" The Milken Family Foundation works to elevate education in America and around the world, and its Educator Award is considered one of the most prestigious teacher recognition awards. Only 60 teachers across the country were honored this year. Recipients are selected by a panel chosen by a state's education department; teachers can't apply or be nominated for the award. The foundation looks for early or mid-career educators with exceptional talent and accomplishments beyond the classroom, and whose contributions go unnoticed. A statement from the Milken Family Foundation said Quale has a unique ability to connect with students, and that they leave her classroom loving history. "Quale sees past academics to address the needs of the whole child," the statement said. Seven North Dakota teachers who have won a Milken Educator Award during their career were present at the ceremony for Quale. The state has had 55 educators recognized since it joined the program in 1992, with nearly $1.4 million awarded in total. Quale said she is humbled by the award, and that the teachers and kids she works with are "awesome." "These kids will change your world," she said. "We have a huge weight on our shoulders, because these kids are our kids." Quale said her daughter, whom she teaches, told her, "We can get new windows" with the award money. Principal Lee Ziegler said that even though the Milken Educator Award is individual, it also reflects on the school. "What I want people to know -- and this is across the district -- we have great teachers, we have awesome kids, our parents are supportive," he said. Reach Sam Nelson at 701-250-8264 or sam.nelson@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The North Dakota State Investment Board's holdings with ties to Russia have fallen to about $2.7 million as the panel has sought to divest from the country attacking Ukraine. The board in a special meeting earlier this month approved divestment of "Russian investment exposure." Other states also have moved to divest from Russian entities. Staff of North Dakota's Retirement and Investment Office on Friday updated the 12-member board on the divesting. The office oversees more than $19 billion in assets. In early March, the board had about $10 million total of investments with Russian ties, down from an initial report of nearly $16 million. The panel's "Russian entity exposure" as of March 15 had dwindled to $300,000 from the state insurance pool, $1.2 million from the state pension pool and $1.2 million from the $8.5 billion, voter-approved Legacy Fund, which is invested around the world. Some bond holdings were sold at face value, though others weren't, Chief Investment Officer Scott Anderson told the board. Those sales totaled about $2 million. The value of securities also fell, he said. "What we're seeing right now is very little Russia exposure left in our portfolios," Anderson said. What remains cannot be sold, he said. "The exchanges where those transactions could take place will not allow those transactions to take place," he told the Tribune. Additionally, nearly all of the remaining $2.7 million is in commingled funds, or money pooled from different investors, which would require the board to divest of hundreds of millions of dollars to exit those holdings linked to Russia -- which can't be sold anyway -- and reconstruct its portfolio at additional cost, Anderson said. A major investment firm also has removed Russia as a geography category from its index -- "a significant development in the investment world," office Executive Director Jan Murtha said. The board took no action after the update. Investments with Russian ties of North Dakota's Board of University and School Lands fell from $29 million to $4 million earlier this month as investors pulled their money. Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Several North Dakota counties have implemented burning restrictions as spring begins amid continued drought in the state. Meanwhile, concerns are mounting in the ranching community about a lack of water for livestock heading into the grazing season. The counties of Morton, Billings, McKenzie, Mountrail, Burke, Renville, Bottineau, Sheridan and Stutsman all have put some sort of burn ban in place, according to the state. More information is at https://ndresponse.gov/burn-ban-restrictions-fire-danger-maps. Morton County's ban is effected through Oct. 1. Violations are punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine. "With an abundance of dry prairie grasses and other vegetation, the area has already either sustained or been threatened with grass and vegetation fires," the county's declaration states. More information on the restrictions is at https://bit.ly/3tz4anC. There were 2,442 wildfires in North Dakota last year, burning 125,664 acres, according to North Dakota Emergency Services. The number of fires was more than 2 times the number in all of 2020, and the scorched acres were more than 10 times what burned the previous year. The total blackened area was more than six times the size of Bismarck. Large wildfires around Easter prompted the evacuation of the tourist town of Medora and shut down the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Drought update 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. Conditions have improved dramatically in the eastern half of the state -- no areas are in any drought category, according to the latest map, released Thursday. But central North Dakota is considered abnormally dry, and the west is in either moderate or severe drought, with a large swath of extreme drought in the northwestern corner. "Across western North Dakota and southern South Dakota, the lack of seasonal snow cover, above-normal temperatures this past week ... and high winds resulted in the expansion of extreme and severe drought, respectively," wrote National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Meteorologist Adam Hartman. "Reports from western North Dakota indicate rangeland conditions are worse than this time last year. Groundwater and root zone soil moisture is very low and watering holes are dried up." Hartman said that in southern North Dakota, "Locals continue to be concerned about the antecedent dryness leading up to the spring. Water availability, forage for feed, and livestock are all at risk if the rains do not come during the spring and summer months, as the Northern Plains begins transitioning into a climatologically wetter time of year in April." NOAA's recently released spring outlook shows the drought is expected to continue or worsen in the western third of North Dakota this spring. AccuWeather's spring outlook isn't any rosier, predicting that drought will maintain its grip on the western U.S., including the western third of North Dakota. "Conditions could get worse before they get better," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brian Lada wrote. The U.S. Drought Monitor is a partnership of NOAA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Livestock worries North Dakota State University Extension has scheduled Livestock Drought Outlook webinars the next two Thursdays. The March 31 outlook will focus on the drought, forage and grazing outlook; the April 7 webinar will focus on considerations for feeding cattle. To register go to https://ndsu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_w5HZLafsSf2dg0zqU1rgIg. Drought impacts are at the forefront of many ranchers' minds as we head into the 2022 grazing season, said Miranda Meehan, Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist. Concerns linger about long-term impacts of the drought on forage production as well as the risk of a continued drought throughout the year. Drought last year prompted many ranchers to move livestock out of state for feeding or reduce their herds, according to the North Dakota Stockmen's Association. Ranchers in the state at the start of this year had 5% fewer cattle than at the same time a year earlier. With little to no snowfall in central and western North Dakota so far this season, many cattle ranchers in these regions of the state are very concerned about what could be an upcoming sequel to last years serious drought," Stockmen's Executive Vice President Julie Ellingson said. "Top-of-mind concerns are water; how -- or if -- grazing and forage production areas will recover; and diminishing stockpiles of feed that are the reserves tapped in emergency situations," she said. "There is still time for snow and rain to show up, but as we get deeper into the calendar without measurable precipitation in these areas, we grow more anxious about what lies ahead. Many ranchers still depend on surface water sources such as dugouts and stock dams to provide water to grazing livestock. Many of those water sources in 2020 and 2021 dried up or were potentially toxic to livestock due to dissolved minerals or solids, according to Sheehan. Elevated concentrations of total dissolved solids and sulfates can be toxic to livestock, resulting in decreased performance, abortions, blindness, central nervous system disorders and death, she said. Extension agents last year screened 1,547 water samples from 37 counties. They identified 151 water sources with elevated levels of dissolved solids, and 330 sites with potentially toxic sulfate levels. Improvement in water quality in surface water sources depends on runoff, according to Meehan. The most recent National Weather Service flood outlook indicates a low snowpack west of the Missouri River, with below-normal water content in the snow. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers predicts spring runoff to be well below normal for the entire upper Missouri River Basin. Runoff in February was less than expected, and the agency expects the trend to continue in coming months. Sheehan also said that spring rainfall alone likely won't be enough to dilute salt concentrations in surface waters. As (ranchers) prepare for the upcoming grazing season, we recommend monitoring water quality and evaluating alternative water options, she said. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3IyurGN. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 More than two years after Covid began spreading around the globe, Hong Kong is experiencing one of the deadliest outbreaks of the entire pandemic. It began early this year, when the omicron variant breached the Chinese territorys ferocious quarantine system for inbound travelers, which had previously kept cases almost at zero. Soon it became clear that the authorities had done little to prepare for the possibility that the travel restrictions wouldnt be enough. Within weeks, parts of the health-care system had effectively collapsed, and since January there have been about 5,600 fatalities. Although there are tentative signs that the worst may be over, right now more people are dying from Covid in Hong Kong, relative to population, than anywhere else in the world. For some, the situation has engendered a sort of dazed shock. How could a wealthy, sophisticated city, with a top-notch health-care system and ample time to learn from experiences elsewhere, get its response so wrong? During the past two years the government has done nothing, Cheng says. It seems like its never come across to them that Hong Kong may face a serious outbreak. Share of Hong Kongs Population With Two Vaccine Doses As of March 22 Source: Government of Hong Kong Vaccination Dashboard Hong Kongs situation is the product of several specific policy failures, which stem partly from Beijings decision to take greater control of the financial hub after 2019s pro-democracy protests. Above all, the citys government utterly failed at vaccinating older adults, botching public-education campaigns and allowing misinformation about the shots to run rampant among those residents. As of March 18 just 37% of people 80 and older had received at least two doses, mostly of the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccineperhaps the lowest rate in the developed world. Other missteps resulted from the doctrinaire application of Chinas Covid-zero strategy, a suite of policies designed to stamp out every outbreak the moment its detected. Aggressive contact tracing and mandatory hospitalization of infected people, regardless of symptoms, worked well enough with daily case counts in the single digits, but they became useless as omicron raced through densely packed high-rises. Under pressure from Chinas central government, Hong Kong officials stuck to them anyway, forcing people into daylong waits for compulsory testing and dedicating precious hospital beds to patients who could have easily stayed at home. The authorities maintained, and in some cases deepened, Hong Kongs international isolation, completely banning flights from high-risk countries such as the U.S. and the U.K., as though the virus was still something that could be kept out. A mobile testing site in Hong Kong. Photo: Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images Hong Kong was experiencing a dark period even before the current outbreak. The governments uncompromising enforcement of the new National Security Law, which effectively bans political opposition, had hollowed out the media and civil society, draining the vitality of a famously freewheeling place. Its now tipped into a full-blown civic crisis, with large numbers of residents leaving and major employers scrambling to relocate operations to places that are living with Covid more successfully. The damage to the citys reputation as a business hub may be permanent. The most significant implications, however, could be felt in the rest of China, where authorities are rushing to contain the largest surge of infections since the 2020 outbreak in Wuhan. What is happening in Hong Kong seems to vindicate their worst fears of what would happen if China were to open, says Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and an expert on the Chinese health system. Outside of large cities, mainland facilities are rudimentary, and in a large outbreak, youre going to see hospitals quickly inundated with people seeking care. And its very possible the health-care system could be overwhelmed, which could lead to panic that would threaten political stability. EU Chamber of Commerce Gollob on H.K. Covid Curbs Play 5:07 WATCH: EU Chamber of Commerces Gollob on Hong Kong Covid Curbs Until early this year, the total number of Covid deaths in Hong Kong stood near 200about one-fifth of the current daily total in the U.S. This remarkable record was essentially the result of a single policy, implemented consistently and remorselessly: putting everyone who wanted to enter from abroad in quarantine in a hotel room for up to 21 days. It hardly mattered that, with mandatory PCR tests before departure and again on arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, almost no one who made it as far as checking into their isolation room actually tested positive. The point was to eliminate even the tiniest risk that the virus could enter, regardless of the consequences to the economy. On the rare occasions that an infected person slipped through, contact tracers swung into action, ordering everyone theyd been in contact with to Pennys Bay, a spartan dormitory complex on an outlying island. Sometimes all it took to be sent there was having dined at the same restaurant as a positive case. But as long as a Hong Konger didnt travel and avoided being swept up in a contact tracing dragnet, daily life retained a reassuring normalcy, with eateries, offices, and beaches still open and busy, even as cities in the U.S. and Europe swung in and out of sweeping social distancing campaigns. For obvious reasons, this put Hong Kong in a different position from most places when vaccines began to arrive in the first months of 2021. In February of that year, Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the head of Hong Kongs government, rolled up her sleeve at a televised event to receive her first dose of the Sinovac vaccine, which was offered alongside Pfizer Inc.s shot. But while Lam and other officials urged everyone to get vaccinated, the rollout quickly sputtered. In a population that had no direct experience of Covids horrors, relatively few people appeared interested. Despite a simple online sign-up, a surplus of doses, and dozens of orderly, efficient vaccination sites, just 46% of the population had been fully vaccinated by the end of August, compared with almost 80% in Singapore, the regions rival financial center. Chief Executive Carrie Lam at a news conference on March 21. Photo: Getty Images Distrust of the government certainly played a role in driving hesitancy. Although its now difficult to conduct reliable polls on sensitive issues in Hong Kong, Lam is widely unpopular, despised by many liberal-minded residents for her eagerness to please Beijing. Those arent niche sentiments: Before the security law made such gatherings illegal, pro-democracy rallies routinely drew hundreds of thousands of attendees. For some, any instructions Lam or her allies issued, on vaccination or anything else, were automatically suspect. It didnt help that politics had crept into the vaccine drive from the start. Pro-China figures boasted proudly that theyd chosen Sinovac, and central-government officials suggested that crossing the border into the mainland would be easier for those whod received a domestic vaccine. At one point the authorities removed a clinic from the list of authorized vaccination sites after doctors there recommended the Pfizer shot, which studies indicate is more effective at preventing infection and severe disease without a booster. The larger problem was an unconventional philosophy of public-health communication. As in Singapore, South Korea, and other Asian countries, Hong Kong took a hypertransparent approach to publishing information about Covid cases, publicly identifying every location visited by a person who later tested positiveon the theory that these details would prompt people whod been in the same places to monitor their health. More unusually, it did something similar with vaccine side effects, proactively publicizing the handful of deaths and adverse events that occurred after someone had been vaccinated, whether or not there was reason to believe the shot had caused them. The result was a frenzy of anxious media coverage, with newspapers regularly speculating that the vaccines were harmful. At the same time, official policy called for older people with existing medical problemswhich was to say, almost every senior citizento consult a doctor before being vaccinated. This qualification, which was employed almost nowhere else in the world, led many families and even doctors to urge the elderly to err on the side of caution, as they saw it. With so little chance of catching Covid and a government that insisted it could keep the virus out indefinitely, why take the risk? To this day, many people are talking about controlling their diseases before getting vaccinations, says Leung Chi-chiu, a physician and former chairman of the Hong Kong Medical Commissions advisory committee on communicable diseases. This slowed down our vaccination program among those who most needed vaccination. And that hasnt been solved, up until this moment. A chart of Hong Kongs vaccination rates, categorized by age, looks almost like the inverse of the situation in most countries, where its the young and healthy who tend to resist receiving shots. Among Hong Kong residents age 40 to 49, well over 90% are fully vaccinated, more than double the percentage of those 80 and older. An elderly woman outside her retirement home. Photo: SOPA Images/Getty Images Shortly before Hong Kongs omicron outbreak accelerated in January, the citys senior officials held a meeting to discuss whether they were prepared for a surge of cases, according to a person with knowledge of the gathering, who asked not to be identified discussing closed-door policymaking. The group concluded that they were ready for even a large number of infections, in part because of the vast spaces available for isolation beds at AsiaWorld-Expo, a convention center by the airport. They also discussed how, in a worst-case scenario, the government might abandon its insistence on hospitalizing or otherwise taking physical responsibility for every positive case, allowing those without serious symptoms to stay at home. But in the subsequent weeks, Hong Kong kept to its Covid-zero playbook, even as it became clear the rising number of cases was making that approach unsustainable. Tens of thousands of people were getting pings on LeaveHomeSafe, the contact tracing app thats required to enter restaurants, malls, and other public places, instructing them to report for mandatory testing. Actually getting a test could mean lining up for several hours or more, and the results were often badly delayed, with labs overwhelmed by the volume of swabs. Meanwhile, emergency rooms were jammed with people who were worried they might have Covida response that may seem curious to Americans or Europeans. But in a city where even a single positive case had been treated as a severe-enough threat to justify locking down entire apartment blocks, the instinct was understandable. Even defenders of the government conceded that they underestimated how fast omicron would jump through the population. Its not that we didnt have plans, says Bernard Chan, a businessman who heads a group of Lams senior advisers. It just happened faster than the system could handle. Conditions inside health-care facilities quickly grew chaotic. A nurse at one public hospital, who asked to remain anonymous because he feared retaliation for speaking to the media, recalls how he and his colleagues stuffed gurneys into corridors and behind doors, parking emergency patients anywhere they could find space. A substantial percentage of those admitted with the virus had no reason to be there. Many Covid patients didnt even have serious symptoms, the nurse says, and there was little we as health-care workers could do to help them medically. But government policy stated that they had to be in the hospital. The crowding made it harder to deliver decent care to those who really needed it. Meanwhile, hospital morgues were filling to capacitysome were so overwhelmed that corpses, zipped into gray body bags, were placed in the same rooms as living patients. The nurse says that at his hospital, staff had to beg government officials to cart bodies away faster. Workers at a public mortuary on March 16. Photographer: Dale de la Rey/Getty Images Their response was obviously failing, but Lam and her subordinates had little ability to deviate from Chinese pandemic orthodoxy. On Feb. 16 two pro-Beijing newspapers carried comments from President Xi Jinping that instructed Hong Kong to take all necessary measures to get cases under control, a clear signal that the central government wouldnt tolerate major policy changes. Later that month, Lam announced that her administration would try a tactic that had successfully tamed outbreaks across the border: a blitz of mandatory testing for all residents. She was vague on how exactly this was supposed to work. Mainland cities that had completed such mass testing, including Wuhan, had done so with far lower case counts. They could also draw on the essentially unlimited manpower of the Chinese state, something Hong Kongs modest bureaucracy could never replicate. It also wasnt clear what would happen to those who tested positive, whod surely be too numerous for the already-overwhelmed quarantine facilities. Many feared the testing campaign would be accompanied by a citywide lockdown, and Lams announcement prompted a rush to supermarkets, where panicked shoppers cleared out stocks of meat and fresh produce. She denied that a lockdown was planned, acknowledging that such a blunt ban on movement was inconceivable in Hong Kong. The citys housing is the most expensive in the world, and large numbers of people live in micro-dwellings known as cage or coffin homes, which can be as small as a single enclosed bed, with the tenants belongings kept in bags strung overhead. Even some regular apartments have a hot plate and bar fridge instead of a kitchen. Confining people to those residences seemed beyond what officials were willing to contemplate. After two weeks of confusion, Liang Wannian, a Chinese health expert tasked by Xis administration with advising Hong Kong, gave Lam an opening to change course, publicly instructing the citys leaders to shift their focus to reducing the sky-high death rate. She shelved the mass-testing plan on March 9, in tandem with a series of measures intended to improve vaccination rates among older peoplethough by the time a significant number of those residents receive two or three doses, many more will have died. The shift in strategy also included allowing home quarantines for people with mild illness for the first time, easing some of the pressure on hospitals. Hong Kong is still reporting hundreds of Covid deaths each day, overwhelmingly among unvaccinated older people. The number of fatalities per million residents since the start of the pandemic now stands at more than 800, far higher than in South Korea, Japan, or Singapore and closing in on the figures for some European countries. Many of the victims are in their 90s or even older, people who might have been killed by the flu or some other opportunistic infection had Covid not come along. That doesnt make the situation any less infuriating for their families, who are watching their loved ones die unnecessarily from a disease they could well have been protected from if theyd lived elsewhere. The effects of the outbreak are being felt across the economic spectrum. Mary Wan, 34, lives with her husband and their two children in Sham Shui Po, one of Hong Kongs poorest districts. As neither has a job, they rely on modest social security payments to survive, squeezing into a 150-square-foot, one-room apartment. All four of them sleep in a single bunk bed, jammed against the only window: Wans husband on top and her on the bottom with her 4-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son. Worried that it would be impossible to shield her children if someone in the family got infected, Wan sent her daughter to stay with her parents in early March. Her son tested positive soon after, followed by his father; Wan was infected a couple of days later. The boy, who struggled with asthma and hadnt yet received his second dose of the Sinovac vaccine, was running a fever that wouldnt break, and Wans husband brought him to a hospital. But staff there said it could take days to find a bed and instructed them to go home. Desperate, they stayed in the emergency room, waiting 12 hours before the boy was finally admitted. With so little space available, Hong Kong hospitals were largely forbidding parents from accompanying Covid-infected children, and he had to be treated alone. Wans husband returned to their apartment, where the couple isolated until a government agency moved them to a comparatively spacious room in a quarantine center. Her son eventually recovered, but Wan found the experience terrifying. I missed him so much, but there was nothing I could do, she says. I felt really helpless. For Hong Kongs many wealthy people, circumstances are more comfortable, but life is still a long way from the relatively normal existence now on offer in other world cities. While few large employers have publicly announced plans to move roles elsewherein part because they fear a backlash for decisions that could be seen as implicit rebukes of Chinese policytheres no question that an exodus is under way. In the first 20 days of March, about 64,000 people left via Hong Kongs air, land, and sea ports, while just 10,000 arrived. In Facebook and WhatsApp groups, expats seek advice about moving companies with the shortest waitlists, while others trade tips about finding short-term rentals in Singapore, which has moved away from hard-line Covid policies and substantially reopened its borders. Some of those departing will eventually come back, but many wont, diminishing Hong Kongs economic base. After insisting for almost two years that nothing compared in importance to avoiding Covid cases, Lam recently conceded that there are limits to what the population can be asked to put up with. I have a very strong sense that peoples tolerance is fading, she told reporters in a briefing on March 17. In particular, she said, some of our financial institutions are losing patience. Several days later she announced a modest easing of restrictions, including the shortening of inbound quarantines from 14 to 7 days, as well as an earlier-than-planned end to the ban on flights from the U.S. and the U.K.a change that will allow stranded residents, some of whom have been locked out of Hong Kong since the December holidays, to finally return. It remains unclear, however, how Hong Kong can move toward substantially looser policies without a similar shift occurring on the mainland. In mid-March remarks reported by CCTV, Chinas state broadcaster, Xi instructed officials to put people and life at the forefront by continuing to pursue dynamic zero, Beijings term for pouncing on each outbreak with snap lockdowns and mass testing, albeit with tweaks to reduce the policys economic toll. At the time of his comments, about 45 million people across the country were in some form of lockdown because of rising cases. In Shenzhen, immediately across the border from Hong Kong, factories and schools were closed until recently, while Shanghai has suspended bus services and diverted flights. In Jilin, a northeastern province experiencing a stubborn outbreak, daily life has come almost entirely to a halt. One lesson from Hong Kongs viral surge could be that even the most aggressive containment policies arent sufficient to control the omicron variant, and that the only sustainable approach is to focus on vaccinating and treating the most vulnerable. But Chinas leaders may well conclude the opposite: that the citys experience proves the risks of letting Covid gain a foothold in the rest of the country are unacceptable. Some of the dynamics on the mainland are alarmingly similar, if not more worrying. Only 51% of people 80 and older have received two vaccine dosesall with domestic shots that may provide insufficient protection. Huge numbers of Chinese residents have no primary physician, which could send them straight to hospitals to seek care in a large-scale outbreak. Many of those facilities are undersized and underresourced, especially in rural areas that are likely to have the largest proportion of unvaccinated elderly. If they let go right now, theyd have a huge wave and a very large number of fatalities, says Ivan Hung, the head of the infectious diseases division at the University of Hong Kongs medical school. The attitude of the Chinese public could be an equally formidable obstacle to shifting strategy. Soon after the coronavirus was contained in Wuhan, state media began relentlessly hyping its dangersboth to justify Chinas aggressive approach and to accuse the U.S. and Europe of betraying their citizens by letting it circulate. The tone of coverage has changed little since, and many ordinary Chinese people are petrified of being infected, a public opinion reality that will complicate any shift toward living with the virus, even in a one-party state that permits no meaningful dissent. To some in Hong Kong, a similar lack of openness is a big part of why the city was so unprepared for the current outbreak. The National Security Law, which criminalized a broad range of what would be considered normal political activities in most places, was designed to kneecap opposition to the government, not to stifle discussion of medical policies. But its cast a broad chill over all public debate, with no one sure what comments might fall under the umbrella of subversion, one of several vaguely defined offenses in the legislation. In January the government felt it necessary to put out a statement clarifying that general remarks about its Covid strategy wouldnt violate the law, after a pro-Beijing lawmaker suggested the opposite. In any case, there are few people left in public life whod dare to criticize government decision-making. Dozens of opposition politicians and activists are in jail awaiting trial on security charges, while almost every critical media outlet has been pressured into shutting down. After legal changes intended to ensure only patriots can be elected, Hong Kongs legislative council has been transformed into a rubber-stamp body.For Cheng, the union official representing nursing-home workers, theres a direct line between this political repression and Hong Kongs failed virus response. If there were still pro-democratic lawmakers, they would have definitely held the government accountable and revealed the problems in the system, he says. And the government might have been able to fix the problems. But now theres no one left to point out the loopholes, so the holes just grow wider. With Phila Siu Translated by Lyrics of Liangzhou Song by Wang, Zhihuan The Yellow River looks like flowing out of the white clouds, In the magnificent rolling mountains, the lone town stands out. Why the Qiang flute plays sorrowful tones of the Broken Willow Song The spring breezes don't reach the desolate Yumen Pass so far away. Pavel Fuks, a real estate, banking, and oil tycoon with ties to Russia and Trump is alleged to have paid local thugs to paint swastikas on buildings as part of "a false flag operation to exaggerate Ukraine's Nazi presence at a time when Putin was using it as a pretext for war," reports Rolling Stone. Through intermediaries, Fuks allegedly offered between $500 and $1,500 for street level criminals to vandalize city streets with pro-Nazi graffiti in December, January, and February. The accounts of Fuks' alleged efforts to stir up animosity in Ukraine is derived from multiple sources, including U.S. intelligence reporting. Rolling Stone spoke to an Ukrainian who says he confronted Fuks twice about the alleged swastika plot. Another account of the plot was relayed to the U.S. government in recent weeks by a U.S. informant with high-level business and government contacts in Ukraine. A U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the matter, confirmed that the allegations about Fuks' activities had been received and distributed for analysis throughout the U.S. intelligence community. Finally, Rolling Stone spoke to four other sources who spoke on condition of anonymity and confirmed they heard about Fuks' alleged role in a plot to paint swastikas independently of one another. It makes you wonder: is Majorie Taylor Greene, who increasing spews Kremlin lies about Nazis in Ukraine, a paid agent, a useful idiot, or just a plain fucking idiot? And of course, Rudy Giuliani and Trump have deep ties to Fuks. Pavel Fuks? You mean this Pavel Fuks? Rudy Guiliani's Ukrainian paymaster? Remember, no collusion. https://t.co/xiVsQQIDLW pic.twitter.com/2rvrTfc5EP David Clark (@David_K_Clark) March 24, 2022 So nice that we won't get in trouble for saying Pavel Fucks up. Pavel Fuks-Trump. Pavel Fuks the -GOP Senate behind him? https://t.co/gs0tM29S4r NancyNoCo (@NancyNoCo24) October 17, 2019 And Qevin McQarthy! An NBC News reporter today pressed President Biden on attacking Russia directly: was he too early to rule out such an attack, even ifas she outright quotes him sayingit would lead to World War III? ABC reporter asks Biden if he was too quick to rule out world war 3 pic.twitter.com/OEjl9ijWhu Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 24, 2022 Jeet Heer asks, "do people not understand what a direct military conflict between Russia and the USA would entail?" This implies the obvious answers "No"the delusion that Russia might capitulate or show restraint in the face of humiliation at American hands or "Yes"that journos are just a bunch of vacuous psychopaths eager to report bombs flying. You know, like Richard Engel. But it's important to understand that news media is a floating world whose inhabitants generally see themselves as voices from nowhere. It's a worldview rooted not in stories told but in the telling of stories, defining the reality they describe. In this context, to ask what is entailed doesn't really mean anything, because they're not assessing necessary or inevitable consequences. They're writing stories ("Biden: peremptory leader or doddering gaffeur?", "Putin: villain to some, hero to others", "Covid: life returns to a new normal") for as long as it lasts. A group of local businesspeople and investors is buying the St. Ann's Church and Shrine complex, with the intention of preserving the church while turning the rectory and school building into a facility for short-term mental health care. Gary DeCarlo of CRE Global, who represented the buyers, said the group has the four-building complex at 651 Broadway under contract with the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo for an undisclosed price, with hopes of closing the purchase within 60 days. But he could not identify the group's leader or any of its members because of a nondisclosure agreement, since the deal is not yet final. He said the group's leader whom he described as a businessman wants to meet first with city officials and the common councilman for that district prior to going public. "He wants to remain confidential at this time," said DeCarlo, who worked with partner Andrea Brozyna on the deal. "We've been working with him on this property for over a year." The other members of the group include both real estate investors and others involved with the mental-health business. DeCarlo said the buyers will invest at least $22.5 million into the complex over the next five years, including renovations and preservation work that may be sorely needed after 10 years of disuse since it was closed as an active church. "It was not a real concern. We understood what we are dealing with," he said. That's a relief to preservationists and community advocates, and potentially to the former parishioners of St. Ann's, who have been fighting to revive the 216-foot-long church, which once held as many as 1,600 people for Sunday Mass. The neo-Gothic structure was built from 1878 to 1886, but was threatened with demolition by the Diocese after it closed in 2012. The shrine has already been removed. "Its good news if the entire complex is preserved and repaired," said Tim Tielman, executive director of the Campaign for Greater Buffalo History, Architecture & Culture. "If this new owner has deep enough pockets to restore the church, that's great." But not everyone is celebrating yet. "We aren't ready to order party hats just yet," said Martin Ederer, a SUNY Buffalo State professor and co-chair of Friends of St. Ann. "The devil is in still-undisclosed and still-unclear details. Certainly we hope that things land in a really good place." The church is a city landmark, and is one of several historic buildings in the city that have been considered "endangered" and at risk of demolition in the future because they weren't being maintained. Any work on it would fall under the purview of the Buffalo Preservation Board, as well as the State Historic Preservation Office and National Park Service. The buyers plan to retain the church largely as it is, DeCarlo said. The Diocese will remove religious artifacts and statues, but the stained-glass windows and pews will stay, and everything else will remain intact. It cannot be used as a religious institution again, under rules imposed by the Diocese, but the buyers want to turn it into a community service building, potentially as meeting or event space. "The building will be treated with the utmost respect and dignity, and the former congregation and the neighbors do not have to worry about St. Ann's," DeCarlo stressed. "It will stay intact and be treated with reverence." The rectory and school building will be the focus of reuse. DeCarlo said the buyer already operates a licensed mental-health facility elsewhere in the area and wants to bring the same services to St. Ann's. DeCarlo and Brozyna were helping him purchase a different property for the purpose, but that deal fell through. So as they started looking around, they found St. Ann's. "It was a building and a property that seemed to work," DeCarlo said. "They looked at it, walked through, had a couple of visits, and it fits their needs." Plans call for the rectory to be used for nonemergency mental health and substance abuse care, with 125 beds for overnight stays of three to four days. DeCarlo stressed that it's not a methadone clinic or similar operation, and will not receive ambulances. "It's more mental health than anything else," he said. Meanwhile, the school building will house administrative offices and a research lab, related to the health facility. The group does not have plans for the convent. "We need to reassess the condition of that building," DeCarlo said, citing plans to bring in a structural engineer and architect to the entire complex. "The building has some issues that we need to deal with." Diocese officials are pleased. Proceeds from the sale will be used to partially offset the expenses from maintaining and securing the site. "The propertys been for sale for a period of time, so were pleased that were hopefully getting to a resolution on the property," said Diocesan spokesman Joe Martone. But Ederer of Friends of St. Ann still voiced some concerns, citing the group's demand that the church's interior remain intact, and cautioning against removing too much from the inside. "It is one of Buffalos most exquisite church interiors. The interior is the real cultural significance of the church," Ederer said. "Money is very important, but doing whats right is still more important." Buffalo Next Must-read local business coverage that exposes the trends, connects the dots and contextualizes the impact to Buffalo's economy. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Shortly before midnight on a Sunday in mid-February, Medaille College security guards used their card keys to enter the rooms of several students without warning. Students said the intrusions startled and scared them. Some were asleep. Others weren't fully dressed or were in the shower. And students who held a protest about the incursions on Friday said it was wrong, violating Medaille's security and privacy policies. The guards, employees of Vista Security Group of Amherst under contract by the college, wore hoodies rather than uniforms; they weren't wearing masks as required by Covid protocols in place at the time; and they appeared to be on a random hunt for alcohol or marijuana, students said. Medaille officials said it never should have happened. They had Vista remove the guards responsible and have held several meetings with the Student Government Association to reassure students that the incidents should never have happened and will not happen again, said Medaille President Kenneth Macur. Macur described the security guards involved as a couple of people behaving badly and abusing their power. But students who say they still fear for their safety and dont feel heard staged a walkout and protest Friday to publicize the incidents and call for Macur and Vice President for Business and Finance Lori Miterko to step down. The president and vice presidents have not taken accountability for this. They have just beat around the bush, said SGA Student Programming Coordinator Leya Slade. I think today is the biggest step we could have taken, and it seems like they are finally listening. About 50 students gathered on the steps of the Main Building for the protest, which quickly attracted another 100 or so students and faculty. Macur, Vice President for Student Development Amy DeKay and Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Kenya Hobbs stood a few yards away as the crowd chanted, Hey hey, ho ho, Dr. Macur has got to go! The students said that while five Vista guards involved in the incidents were ultimately removed from security detail at Medaille, only two ringleaders were removed at first and it took five weeks to remove the other three. They said Macur, DeKay, Hobbs and Miterko had met with them three times since the incidents, but have not met all their demands or answered all their questions. Students said they were angry that Medaille switched from its own security detail to a contract service with Vista early this year without notifying students. After the Vista guards conducted random room raids on Feb. 12 and 13, Macur blamed the individuals involved, not Vista as a firm, and took no blame for Medaille having brought them in, students said. SGA members who took turns at the megaphone said the security incidents were the catalyst for students to begin talking about a variety of concerns on campus, including accessibility for disabled students, diversity and inclusion and even potholes. What is Medaille going to do to promote restorative justice? asked Medaille freshman Lee Garcia. We want to be in the loop on decisions like bringing a third-party security system onto campus. We want to meet with the board of trustees so students can share their experience. And we want to be involved in hiring a new president of Medaille College. The students invited Macur to speak but drowned him out when he said, I promise to meet with you, as I did in March when first asked. DeKay received a better reception when she stepped to the microphone and recounted what her investigation revealed about that weekend. She said three Vista security guards entered three student rooms on Saturday, Feb. 12, and some of the same guards plus others entered 11 other rooms starting at 11:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 13. The guards found some bottles of alcohol and took them, Macur said. All the officers have since been removed from our campus, DeKay said. I have heard you from the beginning, I see you and I am committed to doing what I can to make sure you feel safe. I have never been more proud of students standing up to authority and leadership, she added. Macur said Medaille contracted with Vista starting in mid-January because the firm, which also provides security for the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, has performed well under contract with two other small private colleges, Trocaire and Daemen. I dont see this as an issue with them as a firm, he said. Vista Security officials declined to comment. Buffalo Next Must-read local business coverage that exposes the trends, connects the dots and contextualizes the impact to Buffalo's economy. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Shelley Drake was a pioneer one of the first women to move up the ranks in the male-dominated world of Buffalo banking. That became clear about three or four years into her career at M&T, not long after she became one of the bank's first female commercial loan officers, when she was in her mid 20s. When she got moved into the job, her boss was surprised. But he was helpful, nonetheless. He sent letters to clients to introduce Drake to them. Drake's boss soon got a call from one of those clients. Drake's first name, the client said, "sounds like that could be a girl." When the client found out that Drake, indeed, was a woman, he refused to work with her. So Drake's boss assigned a male loan officer in her place, instead of urging the customer to give her a chance. Drake was disappointed and hurt. Her supervisor not standing up for her only made it worse. But it didn't stop Drake. She steadily rose through the ranks at M&T. When she retired in early March at 71, she was serving as M&T's Western New York regional president. making her a top woman leader in local banking. She also served as head of M&T's charitable foundation, which donates tens of millions of dollars annually in all the territories the bank touches. During her 51-year career at M&T, Drake helped blaze a trail for other women in local banking and corporate roles. Her rise paralleled M&T's transformative growth in geography, employees, assets and influence. As she reflected on her career, she thought about how much progress women have made in banking and what's still to be accomplished. Drake's experience with the client who shunned her coupled with her memories of supportive supervisors at M&T shaped her approach to being a manager. "It has always been so incredibly important to me to support and lift up members of my team, and to celebrate their achievements," Drake said. "So much has changed in banking and at M&T. I truly hope and believe that this sort of situation is long gone, and that no one with whom I have worked has ever felt the way that I did." While women have made headway in leadership roles in banking and other industries and issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace have gained more attention statistics show there's more work to be done: A Deloitte report found the proportion of women in leadership roles within financial services firms was 24% in 2021, up two percentage points from 2019. That number is expected to increase to 28% by 2030. A Catalyst study found that only 86 women were promoted to manager for every 100 men elevated to the same level, creating a smaller pool of women available for promotion to even higher levels. Catalyst also noted that while women made up 47% of the workforce in the United States in 2021, they accounted for only 41% of managers. Fortune reported that a record-high number of women served as CEOs of Fortune 500 companies in 2021, although they still led only 8% of those businesses. Job hunting Drake's career at M&T began with a visit to the bank's downtown headquarters in 1971. Drake back then, Shelley Cole had graduated from the University at Buffalo with a degree in psychology, but didn't have a clear career choice in mind. An uncle who was a loyal M&T customer suggested she apply for a job at the bank. So she did. An employee at M&T's personnel office asked if she had a college degree, and if she had a car. Drake answered yes to both questions. No one asked what her degree was in. She was hired. Her first job and the reason for the car question was persuading merchants to take M&T's Empire card, as an alternative to MasterCard. She called on the businesses that were thriving on Main Street, as well as stores in the Boulevard Mall. "That was the start of my selling it was really easy, because [the card] was free to them," she said. When Drake started at M&T, there were lots of women working in the banking industry as tellers and secretaries, but not in leadership positions. "That's certainly not the way it is now, but it took some doing," she said. In 2020, 60% of M&T's workforce and 48% of its managers were women. Sweeping change The M&T of the early 1970s was small by today's standards, extending only as far east as Batavia, down to the Ellicottville and Dunkirk, and up to Medina and Lockport. M&T had about $2 billion in assets, and seemingly everyone at the bank with a college degree had graduated from either UB or Canisius College. "I knew pretty much everyone," Drake said. "We were little." All of that would soon change. Robert G. Wilmers took the helm of M&T in 1983. The bank embarked on a wave of mergers that dramatically expanded its footprint. Today, M&T has branches in eight states and Washington, D.C., and another big merger is about to be completed. Wilmers, who died in 2017, is remembered as an executive who built M&T into a banking powerhouse, with its headquarters firmly rooted in Buffalo. But Drake recalls how when Wilmers arrived from New York City, some locals questioned his intentions. "When he came to town, there was a great deal of concern on the part of the business community and Western New York itself that he would try to grow the bank to sell it, flip it," she said. "That was absolutely not what he did. There were people that were really concerned about that, and They thought Western New York was going to lose this wonderful institution." Part of that skepticism stemmed from the fact that Wilmers was "bringing in people from all over," Drake said. "All of a sudden, not everybody had grown up here. Not everybody had gone to Canisius or UB." But with the new blood came a new direction for M&T. The vision for the bank now extended far beyond the Buffalo backyard. "After a little bit of time, it became exciting because people were bringing in new ideas," she said. Regional leader Drake found her home at M&T in the bank's commercial business. She enjoyed working with customers of all different sizes, sophistication and ambitions. "Some of them want to grow," she said. "Some are very happy being whatever they are, doing it well." When Jeff Wellington moved to Buffalo from Boston in 2003 to serve as Western New York regional president, Drake helped him get connected. She had built contacts from a lifetime of living and working here. In 2017, Drake succeeded Wellington as regional president. In announcing her promotion, Wilmers called her a "leader in every sense of the world" and "one of the most experienced commercial bankers we have at M&T Bank." Drake felt ready for the job, from working alongside Wellington. "I was part of the fabric of the community, because I grew up here and I never left," she said. Now Drake has handed the regional president's reins to Eric Feldstein, M&T's head of business banking and a local native. Stepping aside The M&T of today is vastly different from the bank whose headquarters Drake stepped into 51 years ago, just looking for a job. Along with serving multiple states, M&T has about 18,000 employees and had assets of $155 billion as of the end of 2021. M&T ranked No. 444 on the most recent Fortune 500, and is wrapping up its acquisition of People's United Financial. That purchase will extend M&T's reach even further into the Northeast. The bank continues to add women to upper management and its board of directors, and has set targets for diversifying its leadership ranks. Drake felt the time was right to retire. She looks forward to traveling, reading and spending more time with her grandchildren. And she's pleased to see a younger generation moving up at the bank. When Drake was promoted to regional president, Wilmers praised her for serving as "a mentor to people entering the field." It's a role that Drake relished, all the way to retirement. "It's a people business," she said. "That's what I've so loved, and I'll miss." ... A 51-year career and a lifetime of memories Shelley Drake's career at M&T spanned five decades before she retired earlier this month as M&T's Western New York regional president Here's a look at three aspects of Drake's career how it became a family business, who will take over her charitable work and why lunch with the late Robert G. Wilmers could sometimes leave you hungry. A career turns into a family path Shelley Drake not only made her career at M&T, she met her future husband, Kenneth, there. They met when he stopped by her desk one day in 1972. They married in 1976. Kenneth Drake later left M&T for management positions with manufacturing companies, before becoming a financial adviser. He died in 2019. Their son, Robert, started working at M&T as a college intern and he was hired after graduation. Now 39, he is a team leader in business banking. "It's great because he totally gets what I do and I understand what he does," she said. The Drakes' daughter, Allison Robert's twin chose a career path outside of banking. She is earning a doctorate in psychology. ... Leading M&T's giving in Buffalo M&T hasn't yet said who will take over for Drake as head of the charitable foundation. Within the Buffalo philanthropic community, it's a significant position. In 2020, the foundation made nearly $35 million worth of donations in all of the territories that M&T touches. The bank expects 2021's total will be similar, once the numbers are released. "We put grants out specific to the communities we are in," Drake said. "In Buffalo, we are not making decisions for other [M&T] regions, because they know what they need in their regions, as we know what we need in our region. I like to think the impacts we're making are individualized to those specific regions." ... Never a wasted lunch with Wilmers In a tribute video to Wilmers, Drake described him as her mentor, her ultimate boss and a dear friend. Drake got to work closely with Wilmers. He chose Drake to serve as president of the M&T Charitable Foundation 22 years ago. "I was always amazed at how he never forgot anything, ever," she said. "He remembered the minute detail about everything. He never wanted to waste a lunch by not having it with a client or a prospect." Drake would warn Wilmers' guests that they might leave hungry. He was famous for peppering his lunch companion with questions, while he somehow managed to eat. "He was working all the time and he thrived on it," she said. "He was detailed, he was specific, and he knew everything that was going on all the time. It was fun to watch him and it was fun to be a part of that." Matt Glynn Buffalo Next Must-read local business coverage that exposes the trends, connects the dots and contextualizes the impact to Buffalo's economy. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A GRAND INTRODUCTION - The Select Board during a meeting earlier this week welcomed new town Director for Equity and Social Justice Dr. Sudeshna Chatterjee (above on right). The new manager, who began work in Town Hall in early March, was also joined by Reading Human Relations Advisory Committee Chair Sherilla Lestrade (left). Judge John L. Michalski had all of his court cases suddenly reassigned Friday, one day after the FBI raided his home. All cases assigned to the State Supreme Court judge will be assigned to another judge and no additional judicial matters will be assigned to Judge Michalski until further notice, said Norman St. George, deputy chief administrative judge for the state Office of Courts Administration. The state office sent The Buffalo News a statement announcing the move in response to questions from The News about a search warrant executed at Michalskis Amherst home Thursday morning by agents from the FBI, Homeland Security, the state Attorney Generals Office and other law enforcement agencies. While federal prosecutors and agents declined to discuss the raid, law enforcement officials more than a year ago began investigating Michalskis relationship with Peter Gerace Jr., a friend and former client of the judge who runs the Pharaohs strip club in Cheektowaga. Gerace faces federal charges of drug trafficking, sex trafficking and bribing a Drug Enforcement Administration agent, which Gerace denies. One of Michalskis attorneys, Terrence M. Connors, said Michalski told him late Friday morning that his superiors were assigning all his cases to another judge Kevin Carter, supervising judge for the state courts in Western New York and will not assign Michalski any new cases until further notice. Michalski was "not suspended" from duty, Connors said. Todays communication from the Office of Court Administration was not a disciplinary action nor was there any associated suspension of the judges duties," Connors said. "His cases have been temporarily reassigned until further communication from the Deputy Chief Administrative Judge. "It is not a suspension," confirmed state courts spokesman Lucian Chalfen. Connors declined to comment on why state court officials took Michalski's cases away from him, saying, "I'm not going to speculate." Connors added that he and Anthony J. Lana, another attorney who represents Michalski, met with the judge Thursday after the police raid. No charges were filed. Obviously, he was caught off-guard by the raid, nobody expected it, Lana told The News. Nobody wants to see something like that happen in their home at 7 a.m. or 7:30 in the morning. Lana said he does not know where the federal investigation is heading, which he said is unnerving for the judge and his family. We have not been told anything by law enforcement about where this investigation is heading, Lana said. The judge tells me that he has never broken any laws and I fully believe him. A Buffalo FBI spokeswoman, Jennifer Zientowski, confirmed that the agency "conducted court-authorized law enforcement activity" at the Michalski home, but declined to explain what was behind it. Both Lana and Connors said the judge is in good shape from an emotional perspective and fully prepared to continue his duties as a judge. Thursdays raid is the latest in a series of strange developments involving Michalski since early last year. On Feb. 28, 2021, the judge was injured by a freight train that struck him after he lay down on some railroad tracks in Depew. The judge survived that incident but was off-duty until Jan. 28 of this year, when the state Office of Courts Administration reinstated him to duty. The train incident which another judge referred to in a court ruling as an apparent suicide attempt came days after FBI agents told Michalski they wanted to question him about his friendship with Gerace. Michalski is also under investigation by the state Commission on Judicial Conduct. It is investigating allegations made by Geraces ex-wife that Michalski was paid $5,000 to perform Geraces wedding ceremony. Judges in New York State are prohibited from accepting more than $100 to perform a wedding. The Buffalo News: Good Morning, Buffalo The smart way to start your day. We sift through all the news to give you a concise, informative look at the top headlines and must-read stories every weekday. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Buffalo's new Police Commissioner Joseph A. Gramaglia addressed a variety of residents' concerns from littering and people parking on grass to the proliferation of gun violence and how police respond to people in mental crisis during a town hall meeting Thursday in the auditorium of Frederick Olmsted at Kensington School No. 56. Less than two weeks after being sworn in as commissioner, Gramaglia was lauded by University District Council Member Rasheed N.C. Wyatt for making good on a promise to attend such a public forum. Gramaglia was joined by top members of his command staff, as well as Wyatt, Lovejoy District Council Member Bryan Bollman and Council President Darius G. Pridgen. "There are a lot of guns flowing in this community, and our problem right now is not just guns, but ghost guns," Gramaglia said, addressing one resident's concern about the city's burgeoning gun violence. "That's a tremendous problem where people are legally purchasing gun parts and they don't have to drive down to Georgia, and they don't have to drive to Ohio anymore. They don't have to drive to these other states, as they call it, the Iron Pipeline, to purchase guns. They can simply order them online, have them shipped to their house. No background check, no pistol permit, no other form of checking. And then they assemble them at their house, and then they sell them for a tremendous profit," he added. Gramaglia said the city saw a significant increase in gun arrests and gun seizures last year as compared to 2020, which, he said, was driven solely by ghost guns. He said the State Legislature needs to take up the issue to help police get such guns off the streets. "I know that's a priority of the governor of the state and certainly our local leaders," he added. A couple of residents, including Howard Henry who identified himself as a chaplain expressed concerns about the police shooting of a knife-wielding man outside a North Buffalo apartment building on March 14. In response, Gramaglia talked about the police department's Behavioral Health Team, which was created in October 2021, and consists of specially trained officers who are paired with mental health specialists to handle mental health crisis calls. "What we try to do is engage before somebody gets into a point where they are in a mental health crisis, before it gets to the point where even what we saw last week. The further we can engage and make sure the people are up to date with their counseling and taking their medication, patient services, getting where they need to go. And that's what the Behavioral Health Team does," said Gramaglia. However, he noted that officers responding to the March 14 incident were unaware that it was a mental health crisis because the caller told police that someone was trying to kill him. As a result of that, and the late hour of the call, no one from the Behavioral Health Team arrived on the scene. Gramaglia said he was unsure if it would have made a difference because the situation escalated rapidly. Gramaglia also talked about the police department's Neighborhood Engagement Team and partnering with various community groups to build trust between police and the public. He also said the department has enacted an intelligence-driven response to the proliferation of gun violence in parts of the city, and noted that gun search warrants were being pursued to get guns off the streets. Officers are in the midst of getting trained to use stun guns. He said the city has purchased about 125 Tasers, a dozen of which have to be set aside for training purposes, with 20 each going to the five police districts. He said about 40% of the force has been trained to use the Tasers. We know that gun violence is of paramount importance, but theres a lot of us here who have quality-of-life issues, said one resident, who hand-delivered to Gramaglia a letter enumerating her concerns. Another resident complained about littering, motor vehicles being parked on the grass and fires being started at Unity Island Park. Gramaglia said police patrols will be increased at the park as the weather gets warmer. The resident also was advised by another member of the department's top command to make use of the city's 311 Call and Resolutions Center. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. An Erie, Pa., man was arrested early Friday morning after leading police on a chase going in the wrong direction on the New York State Thruway before crashing into a Hamburg police vehicle, the Erie County Sheriff's Office said. The series of events began at about 2:41 a.m. when deputies attempted to stop a vehicle with "improper plates" in the Town of Brant. The driver did not stop and continued into Evans, where town police used spike strips to damage three of the vehicle's tires. However, the vehicle continued onto the Thruway at Exit 57A going eastbound on the westbound side, sheriff's officials said. Law enforcement officials from multiple agencies followed the vehicle and others drove in front of it to warn oncoming traffic, said sheriff's officials. The vehicle remained at or below the speed limit during the pursuit, sheriff's officials noted. The vehicle got off at Exit 57, drove onto Route 5 and went into Woodlawn State Park where it crashed into a Hamburg police vehicle. The driver was identified as Carl Knight, 31. Authorities said the vehicle was reported stolen in Erie and that Knight was wanted on an extradition warrant out of Allegheny County, Pa., for parole violations. Deputies also found some cocaine in the vehicle, the Sheriff's Office said. Knight was charged with felonies including criminal possession of stolen property, reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a controlled substance, along with multiple misdemeanors and vehicle traffic violations. He was being held Friday in the Erie County Holding Center. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. University at Buffalo medical students who graduate later this spring could breathe a little easier while looking toward the future last weekend. The annual Match Day ceremony in which soon-to-be doctors across the U.S. learn simultaneously where they will go for residencies took place online in 2020 and in scattered settings last spring because of the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 400 students, parents and loved ones attended this years affair at the Powerhouse in South Buffalo. This is the first class to fully go through the new building, and youre the first class to be able to have a Match Day in person after the pandemic, Dr. Allison Brashear, dean of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, told those gathered. It was the largest Match Day in UB medical school history. The 2022 graduating class was expanded to 180 students in response the growing need for physicians and other health care workers regionally and nationwide. Roughly one in five quit during the last two years, many citing the pandemic, low pay and burnout. The departures come at a time when the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates that as many as 124,000 new doctors alone will be needed in the U.S. during the next dozen years. More than 39,205 matches were made on March 18, the largest number on record, according to the National Resident Matching Program. Students opened envelopes at noon to learn where they will spend the next few years in advanced training. Walking led to climbing, stretching, better eating and 113 fewer pounds Michael May drove a delivery truck for many years before he landed a job 4 years ago delivering the mail on the University at Buffalo South campus. Before that, I was doing a lot of sitting, said May, who at 5-foot-10 weighed 282 pounds at the time. People would bring doughnuts in to work all the time. The weight UB grads will take advanced training in medical settings tied to Yale, Duke and Vanderbilt universities, along with others that include Ohio, Pennsylvania, California, Wisconsin, Louisiana and Illinois. Most will do so in New York State, including 51 30% of the class who chose to stay in Buffalo. They include Ellen Lutnick, of Grand Island, who will do her orthopedic surgery residency at UB. I have wanted to stay in Buffalo for my surgery residency literally since before I started medical school, she said. Get moving: The UB School of Public Health and Health Professions looks to help those across the region put more spring in their steps next month. It leads its seventh annual Step Challenge, which helps participants track and report walking activity and potentially win prizes. This year, were focused on how physical activity boosts physical and mental health, something thats much needed if recent Covid-19-related studies are any indication, said Grace A. Lazzara, public health school director of marketing, communications and outreach. A 2021 research study found that those with reduced levels of physical activity during the pandemic were more likely to develop depression and anxiety. The challenge runs each day of April. Participants connect their fitness trackers to the challenge app to log their step counts. Weekly prizes include gift cards and sport headsets. Learn more and sign up at bit.ly/UBSteps22. More than 1,500 people took part last year, despite the pandemic, logging about 375 million steps. The goal this year is 400 million. Physical activity provides a better functioning immune system, better mental health and increased cardiovascular capacity, Lazzara said. This is a perfect opportunity to step together with friends and family, and reap some benefits for your body and mind. Submit health and wellness tips or related items for Refresh Takes to refresh@buffnews.com. The Buffalo News: Good Morning, Buffalo The smart way to start your day. We sift through all the news to give you a concise, informative look at the top headlines and must-read stories every weekday. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Clean Slate legislation is being discussed in Albany again this year for good reason: It can provide a fresh start for thousands of New Yorkers by removing barriers for those who have served their prison sentences and provide them the opportunity to thrive. This is more important than ever in the wake of the Covid pandemic to ensure that New Yorkers with criminal records arent left behind as the economy reopens. In the era of worker shortages and the Great Resignation, Clean Slate can combat workforce shortages by reducing obstacles people face as they seek employment after incarceration. Under the Clean Slate Act (S.1553C/A.6399B), New Yorkers will be eligible to have conviction records automatically sealed three years from sentencing for misdemeanors and seven years from sentencing for felonies, not including time incarcerated. These time frames are carefully calibrated to allow people with conviction records to move forward with their lives and access jobs, housing and higher education. To be eligible for automatic sealing relief, individuals must have completed probation, parole or postrelease supervision, and cannot have incurred any new convictions or pending charges during the three- or seven-year waiting period. Sex offenses are not eligible for sealing. As we continue to recover from the pandemic, businesses are adapting to economic conditions and resuming their search for skilled workers. By reducing barriers to employment for those with criminal records, we will be able to get more people back to work more quickly. Some may wonder why Verizon is engaged in this issue. As one of the states largest private unionized employers, we think people deserve second chances. This issue affects millions of New Yorkers, including our customers, our employees and our business. We believe that if someone hasnt had any convictions for a certain number of years and arent on parole, probation or the state registry, they should be able to finally move on with their life. This measure will not end poverty or systemic racism, but it will do more to help people get back on their feet than all of the criminal justice reforms of the last few years combined. As we work to strengthen our communities and propel our economy into the future, the Legislature should continue the passage of just and reasonable laws like this and the Drivers License Reform Act. These reforms create a next generation economy that truly provides opportunities for everyone. We look forward to working with lawmakers and the governor to take that next step to help people rejoin the workforce. It is the right thing for those people in need of a second chance. David Lamendola is a director for Verizon Government Affairs for New York and Connecticut. Niagara County is onto something. It plans to pay bonuses to four top officials who worked long hours to help the county weather the Covid-19 pandemic. Its a different approach from the one that Erie County took, and a better one. In Erie County, unelected officials such as the health commissioner, Dr. Gale Burstein, are considered hourly employees, though they shouldnt be. As a consequence, they were paid overtime for the many extra hours they worked. For Burstein, it added up to more than $288,000 in extra compensation in 2020 and 2021, on top of her $209,000 annual salary. Leaders in management positions such as hers are typically salaried, working as many hours as the job requires. Thats what happened in Niagara County, where the four officials will receive bonuses of either $10,000 or $20,000. They are Public Health Director Daniel J. Stapleton and Emergency Management Director Jonathan F. Schultz, who will be paid $20,000 each, and their deputies, Victoria Pearson of the Health Department and Dan Leven of Emergency Management, who will receive $10,000 each. We dont begrudge Burstein the extra money she earned she really did work hard during the pandemic though, it is obviously a lot and, just as obviously, it could have been less. The question is whether Erie County should move to a better system. At the urging of County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick, county legislators are considering the matter. They should look closely at Niagara Countys approach. Theoretically, salaried managers simply dont qualify for overtime pay at all. Its one of the pleasures/penalties of professional success: Your pay is set and you do the work. Unbudgeted supplemental compensation is especially unwarranted in the public sector, where that money comes not out of company profits, but from the pockets of taxpayers. Still, rules can sometimes be broken or at least modified. A calamity such as a once-in-a-century pandemic offers legitimate exception and it suggests a way to evaluate when such executives might legitimately qualify for additional compensation: when a county declares a formal and long-term state of emergency, such as the pandemic produced around New York. The rarity suggests a set of conditions that justifies additional public expense. There could be other, rare circumstances that would support additional public expense; its worth considering. But, after what weve been through and are still enduring its fair to say that county public health officials earned some extra consideration, even if it could have been less than $288,000. Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said he wouldnt object to a change in such compensation policies, but he added a caveat: If such changes are approved, those unelected officials should get a raise. Thats also worth considering, but any action should be driven by factors beyond the availability of overtime pay, in particular, the forces of economic competition. In Bursteins case, the evaluation would need to consider the compensation packages of similar officials in similar-sized counties. It would also need to factor in what she could earn in the private sector. Regardless, just the loss of overtime that would otherwise be paid during a public health emergency isnt enough to justify a raise in pay. 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. It is difficult to watch what is occurring on the European continent. The naked aggression of Russia, the targeting of schools, hospitals, apartment buildings. I am perplexed by Europes inaction. They learned nothing from their experience with Adolf Hitler. They are sitting back, trying to suck America in, trying to get America to pay for the war efforts? First, Russia went into the Crimea region of Ukraine. Europe did nothing. Then Russia went to Syria, Israel did nothing, they negotiated the use of Syrian air space, to have access to bomb Iran. Now, Vladimir Putin has committed war crimes, under the Geneva convention. Again, no action by Europe. China pointed out on March 20, on Face the Nation, that they have a four-thousand-mile border with Russia. They will supply humanitarian aid to Russia? They want peace (China has not been to war since 1953). America just ended 20 years of war. I lived well, even though there was an iron curtain, Russia was called the evil empire. If Europe is not willing to take action, then, why should we? America has millions of homeless, cities that are violent and I watched Mitch McConnell say we need to do more? Who will fight the War? Certainly, Donald Trump got five deferments to stay out of Vietnam. He has three adult kids. We were at war for 20 years; they did not serve! So who will, and why should they? Daniel Weaver West Seneca On April 6, SUNY Brockports Anthony Bottom, an antisemitic cop killer, will be Brockports featured speaker. Incredibly the university thinks this domestic terrorist is fit to have an intellectual discussion about his ruthless, senseless murders of two police officers. The colleges website shamelessly promotes Bottom as a political prisoner even though Bottom, himself, admits he just felt like ambushing some cops he didnt know but felt like killing. Bottom was invited by a faculty member who was approved for a Promoting Excellence in Diversity grant which, during the controversy, has been rescinded. While in jail, Bottom converted to Islam and formed an organization dedicated to destroying Israel as a country for the Jewish people. It gets worse if thats possible. The university says the talk is part of the history of Black resistance. The university claims it isnt condoning murder yet the speakers bio and how the discussion is being promoted belie that narrative. Its about students getting a new perspective. Bottom can say what he wants but should not be on a campus paid for with New York State residents tax dollars. What the university is doing in the name of academic freedom is not about uncomfortable discussions. Its about legitimizing antisemitic terrorists. Accepting and promoting Bottoms false claim of being a political prisoner is gaslighting the students, faculty and community. Its ruthless and callous for the widows and families of the murdered officers. The university is misguided as to what it thinks may be an uncomfortable discussion. Whats uncomfortable is radicalizing the future generation under the guise of free speech. Its totally perverted to present Bottom as a political prisoner seeking social justice. The administrations judgment is not simply bad. Its despicable. Elinor Weiss Williamsville Speaker / Lectures Steve Wozniak Presentation USI to host Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak The Woz The University of Southern Indiana will present Steve Wozniak in Person, a moderated discussion with Steve Wozniak, also known as The Woz, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 30 in the Screaming Eagles Arena. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The discussion is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved VIP seating is available for $100 per person by calling the USI Foundation at 812-464-1918. A technology entrepreneur and philanthropist for more than 40 years, Wozniak has helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apples first line of products, the Apple I and II, while also having influence on the Macintosh. In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc. with Wozniaks Apple I personal computer. The following year, the pair introduced the Apple II personal computer, featuring a central processing unit, keyboard, color graphics and a floppy disk drive. Wozniak finished his degree in electrical engineering/computer science from UC Berkeley in 1981, and to date, has received 10 Honorary Doctor of Engineering degrees. For his achievements at Apple, Wozniak was awarded the National Medal of Technology by President Ronald Reagan in 1985, the highest honor bestowed on Americas leading innovators. In 2000, he was inducted into the Inventors Hall of Fame and was awarded the prestigious Heinz Award for Technology, The Economy and Employment for designing the first personal computer and then redirecting his lifelong passion of mathematics and electronics toward igniting fires of excitement for improvements in education. Through the years, Wozniak has been involved in various business and philanthropic ventures, focusing primarily on computer capabilities in schools and hands-on, experiential learning encouraging creativity and innovation from students. Making significant investments of both his time and resources in education, Wozniak adopted the Los Gatos School District in Los Gatos, California, providing students and teachers hands-on experiences and state-of-the-art technology equipment donations. He also founded the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and was the founding sponsor of the Tech Museum, Silicon Valley Ballet and Childrens Discovery Museum of San Jose. Wozniak is the author of iWoz: From Computer Geek to Cult Icon, a New York Times best-selling autobiography. His television appearances include Dancing with the Stars, The Big Bang Theory, My Life on the D List, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Conan, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Celebrity Watch Party. Wozniak continues to pursue his entrepreneurial and philanthropic interests today. In October 2017, he co-founded Woz U, a postsecondary education and training platform focused on software engineering and technology development. He also recently co-founded Efforce, which leverages disparate applications of blockchain technology. Wozniak will be the fifth speaker in the Universitys Romain College of Business Innovative Speaker Series. Previous speakers include General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.), former Secretary of State, in 2019, Dr. Oscar Salazar, founding chief technology officer of Uber, in 2017, Dr. Ben Bernanke, former chairman of the Federal Reserve, in 2015, and T. Boone Pickens, legendary entrepreneur and philanthropist, in 2013. Steve Wozniak in Person is hosted by the USI Romain College of Business and made possible through the Romain College of Business Innovative Speakers Series, a permanent endowment of the USI Foundation though the generous gift of Connie 74 and Ron 73 Romain. Army Institute of Technology (AIT), Pune : Admission 2022 https://career.webindia123.com/career/dates_and_events/entrance/eng/army-institute-of-technology-b.tech.htm Details of Army Institute of Technology (AIT), Pune : Admission 2022 2022-1-2 2022-5-3 https://career.webindia123.com/career/images/exams.png India India Army Institute of Technology (AIT), Pune : Admission 2022 Engineering Army Institute of Technology, Pune : Admission 2022 - Based on JEE (Main) Army Institute of Technology (AIT), Pune : Admission 2022 Category : Engineering Admissions 2022 Published : On January 2, 2022 By Webindia123 Editor Important Dates Last date for submission of completed AIT Application Form Online submission of JEE (Main) 2022 application on website April 5, 2022 Date of JEE (Main) Entrance Exam-2022 JEE (Main) - 2022 (Session 1) 21, 24, 25, 29 April, and 1, 4 May 2022 Army Institute of Technology, Pune invites application to admission for the year 2022-2024 for the BE Courses commencing in July/August. AIT admission is based on the merit of (JEE) MAIN . All applicants are therefore required to appear in (JEE) MAIN and also apply to AIT. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) MAIN will be conducted by the NTA from 2022 onwards. This Examination was being conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) till 2022. JEE Main is applicable for admission to NITs, IIITs and CFTIs participating though Central Seat Allocation Board subject to the condition that the candidate should have secured at least 75% marks in the 12th class examination, or be in the top 20 percentile in the 12th class examination conducted by the respective Boards. For SC/ST candidates the qualifying marks would be 65% in the 12th class examination. Seats Offered AIT offers 300 seats for Engineering Course commencing in July 2022 (120 seats in Computer Engineering, 60 seats each in Mechanical Engineering, Information Technology and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering,). Only wards of serving/retired Army personnel are eligible to apply for admission to AIT. Children from other categories, that is those who are not wards of Army personnel, can be considered for admission only after wards considering wards of Army personnel. Usually more than 3000 applications are received every year from Army wards. Eligibility The eligibility criteria for admission to AIT is given in detail in the Prospectus which is available in February every year. Brief outline is as below :- Candidate must be a ward of one of the following :- (i) Serving /Retired Army Persons. (ii) Serving medical officers of IN and IAF who have served in the Army for more than 10 yrs and are members of AOBF. (iii) Retired Army pers who in receipt of regular pension, or former Army pers who retired after min service of 10 yrs. (iv) Former Army pers who died during service/after retirement and family pension is granted. (v) TA pers who have completed 10 yrs of embodied service. (vi) DSC pers who are serving or retired with pension. War widow (in receipt of liberalized pension) and children in receipt of family pension (due to death of both parents) are also eligible. Details of eligibility of adopted/step children are as in the prospectus. Should have passed, or appeared for 10+2 exam, at the time of applying for admission to AIT. Minimum acceptable mark in PCM are 50%. Should appear for either 1st or 2nd JEE (Main) 2022 conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) else both. In case of candidates who attempt both the JEE (Main), the best of the two scores will be considered by NTA for preparation of final merit list and All India Rank. (In AIT, last year's last admitted students All India Ranking was 1,11,326). Age of the candidate must be between 16 to 21 years on 01 Jul 2022. Must be an Indian citizen, or a PIO who obtains Indian citizenship before admission. JEE Application Form Candidate can apply for JEE 2022 'Online'. For this candidates are advised to visit www.jeemain.nic.in. Details can be obtained from Executive Director JEE Main Secretariat Central Board of Secondary Education PS 1-2, Institutional Area, IP Extension Patparganj, Delhi - 110 092 Tel: 020 - 27157534 Entrance Examination AIT admission is based on the All India Ranking obtained in the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE (Main) 2022). All applicants are therefore required to appear in JEE Main 2022, 1st / 2nd JEE (Main) 2022 or both and also apply to AIT for Admission. Failing to fill up any one of the forms will lead to rejection of admission to AIT. AIT Application Form JEE Application Form should be filled before AIT Application Form. The JEE Roll No must be endorsed on the AIT Application Form before submitting it to AIT. Failure to do so would result in rendering the AIT Application Form null and void. Details of First Attempt (Roll Number, Mark in JEE (Main) All India Rank obtained etc) are to be filled by the candidate itself in AIT Admission form. Application Form. (a) Online application form is available on our website www.aitpune.com wef 15 Mar 2022 after receipt of JEE (Main) Roll Number of Second Attempt of JEE (Exam seat Number). Application fee of Rs 550- can be paid through credit/debit card or netbanking. (b) Cost of application form will not be refunded. Last Date for Application. The application form duly completed must be submitted by 31 July 2022 No form will be accepted on or after 31 July 2022 AIT will not be held responsible for non receipt of Application Form due to network failure. Acknowledgement of Receipt of Application. Computer generated Roll Number of the applicant will be intimated through email/SMS to the candidate. Applicants are well advised to mention correctly their telephone number and email ID on the form. Note : - Candidates are advised to check their JEE (Main) Roll No and Name on the list displayed on our website by 31 July 2022 . In case of any discrepancy, the same may be brought to the notice of Admission Cell, AIT through email ID amission@aitpune.edu.in. For more details refer official website Contact Details Address : Army Institute of Technology, Dighi Hills, Pune-411015 Phone : 020-27157534, 27157612 Fax : 020-27157534 Mobile : E-mail : Contact I Website : www.aitpune.com/ Find it Useful ? Help Others by Sharing Online Comments and Discussions Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology : MBA Admission Notice 2022 https://career.webindia123.com/career/dates_and_events/rajiv-gandhi-institute-of-petroleum-technology-mba-admission.htm Details of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology : MBA Admission Notice 2022 2022-1-10 2022-3-27 https://career.webindia123.com/career/images/exams.png India India Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology : MBA Admission Notice 2022 Management Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology MBA 2022 Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology : MBA Admission Notice 2022 Category : Management Admissions 2022 Published : On January 10, 2022 By Webindia123 Editor Important Dates Last date for the submission of Online Application 27th March, 2022 Shortlist for WAT & PI 30th March 2022 Fee Deposit 19th April 2022 Registration & Commencement of Classes 02 August 202 Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, invites application for its MBA in Petroleum & Energy Management program for the year 2022-23 The 2 year MBA in Petroleum & Energy Management offered by RGIPT is designed as a career-oriented program aimed at the Petroleum & Energy sector. The program is designed to facilitate students in understanding, developing, integrating and applying knowledge of both core and specialized areas of management and their concepts and practices in the domain of the Petroleum & Energy Sector. The focus of the MBA program will be to impart extensive training in the various area of specialization through electives, thereby providing a wide array of career opportunities in the sector. Eligibility A candidate must hold a minimum 50% in aggregate (45% for SC/ST/PH) in Class 10. A candidate must hold a minimum 50% in aggregate (45% for SC/ST/PH) in Class 12. Candidates must hold a Bachelors degree recognized by the AICTE/UGC/Institute/University incorporated by Act of Parliament/State legislature, university declared to be deemed as a University under section 3 of UGC Act, 1956, with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PH). Candidates meeting the above eligibility criteria and have appeared at latest Common Admission Test (CAT) conducted by IIMs/ Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)/CMAT (conducted by AICTE)/ GMAT are eligible to apply. Candidate appearing for final year examination of programme are also eligible to apply based on the following conditions: a. Such candidate must produce a certificate from the authority of the university/ institution certifying that: (i) The candidate has obtained 50% marks or equivalent based on latest available grades/marks (i.e. all the years grade/marks except the final year grade/marks), and (ii) The candidate has completed all the requirements and has appeared for the examinations / practical etc. for the final year/final term and that the result is awaited for obtaining the bachelor's degree/ equivalent qualification. Such candidates, if selected, should submit the final year mark sheet and certificate on the registration date (Monday, July 01, 2022) notified by the Institute. b. Non-fulfillment of the above conditions will result in the cancellation of the provisional admission. Selection Procedure Candidates will be shortlisted based on the following criteria: Criteria Weights Max. Score CAT/XAT/CMAT/GMAT Score* 50% 50 Academic Performance** 20% 20 Work Experience** 5% 5 Total (A) 75% 75 * CAT/XAT/CMAT/GMAT Score will be multiplied by assigned weights **Work experience and Academic performance in class 10th, 12th and Bachelor degree will be appropriately factored in the shortlisting and selection. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). Criteria Weights Max. Score Personal Interview (PI) 15% 15 Written Ability Test (WAT) 10% 10 Total (B) 25% 25 The final selection of candidates will be based on total weighted cumulative score (A + B) out of a maximum score of 100 (one hundred). The information about the selected and waitlisted candidates will be available on the DoMS website on the given date. Selected students are required to make payment of fees as notified by Institute to secure the admission. The Institute will activate waitlist(s) on a notified date (given by the Institute) to fill the vacant seats, if any. On receiving the intimation of the offer of admission by web notice/email, the waitlist candidate is required to secure his/her admission as per instructions. The final list of admitted candidates will be uploaded on the RGIPT website before the commencement of the programme. The candidates will have to be present on the date of registration at the institute with all originals of all marksheets and certificates. The candidates, who fail to appear for the registration process without prior approval, are considered to have withdrawn from the programme. If at any stage, the information provided by a candidate is found to be false his candidature/admission shall be cancelled. Admission Procedure Sponsored candidates should produce recommendation letter and no-objection certificate from the employer. Criteria Weights Max. Score Academic performance** 30% 30 Work Experience** 15% 15 Written Ability Test (WAT) 40% 40 Personal Interview (PI) 15% 15 Total 100% 100 **Work experience and Academic performance in 10th, 12th, and Bachelor degree will be appropriately factored in the shortlisting and selection. The final selection of sponsored candidates will be based on total weighted cumulative score obtained out of a maximum score of 100 (one hundred). How to apply Candidates should apply Online by paying necessary application fee. Application Fee : A non-refundable application fee of Rs.400/- (Rs.200/- for SC/ST candidates) to be paid by the applicant. Eligible candidates should apply Online for admission by filling up online application form given on DoMS, RGIPT website www.domsrgipt.ac.in After filling the application form, the system will generate Application form (pdf file) and the applicants are required to save a copy of the same. Print out of duly filled and signed (by the candidate) Application form, along with the copy of payment (NEFT transaction) receipt/Demand Draft and all other necessary documents must be sent by speed post/registered post/courier to the MBA Admission office by the designated date. For the late receipt of the forms or loss of forms in the transit, RGIPT shall not be responsible. Applications submitted without application fee will be summarily rejected. Print out of duly filled Application form signed by the candidate, along with application fee receipt (NEFT transaction)/Demand Draft of Rs.400/- (non-refundable) (Rs.200/- for SC/ST) and all other necessary documents must be sent by speed post/registered post/courier, latest by the prescribed date. The candidate should write Application for MBA Admission 2022 on top of the envelope. Incomplete application forms and forms received after the due date will not be considered for admission process. Candidates are required to send following documents before the due date: Hardcopy of the duly filled Application form signed by the candidate. Photocopies of passing certificates and Mark-sheets of Class 10th and 12th to be attached with the duly filled and signed Application form. Photocopy of bachelors degree/provisional degree and Mark-sheets of all trimesters/semesters/years to be attached with the duly filled and signed Application form. Photocopy of CAT/XAT/CMAT/GMAT Admit Card (Self-attested) Photocopy of CAT/XAT/CMAT/GMAT Score Card (Self-attested) Demand Draft of Rs.400/- (Rs.200/- for SC/ST) drawn in favor of RAJIV GANDHI INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM TECHNOLOGY payable at RAE BARELI or print out of duly signed Online Payment (NEFT transaction) Receipt. The candidate must write Name, Address, Phone number, and Email ID on the back side of Demand Draft/Online Payment Receipt. Photocopy of Certificate of work experience, if any (Self-attested). Photocopy of valid Caste Certificate as per Central List for OBC/SC/ST category. In respect of OBC category non-creamy layer certificate and a self-declaration to be signed by the candidate. Photocopy of valid certificate for physically handicapped category (Self-attested) A passport size photograph of the candidate to be affixed with the Application form In case of grade sheets/CGPA/CPI, applicants should send a copy of grade to percentage conversion certificate if issued by the Board/ Council/ Institute/ University. More Details can be available from the institute website. Contact Details Address : MBA Admission Office Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology Bahadurpur, Mukhetia More, Post: Harbanshganj, Jais Amethi, Uttar Pradesh 229304 Phone : 0120- 2472632 Fax : - Mobile : +91-8765985540 E-mail : Contact I Website : www.domsrgipt.ac.in Find it Useful ? Help Others by Sharing Online Comments and Discussions AARP Wisconsin and Sen. Tammy Baldwin are pushing for Congress to lower the cost of prescription drugs, with many struggling to afford essential medications. AARP on Thursday morning hosted a virtual press conference with Baldwin, hearing from three state residents who have experienced or witnessed the burdens caused by pricey medications. Nationwide, four million people, including over 126,000 Wisconsinites, have signed a petition calling on Congress to make prescription drugs affordable. Per an AARP survey, 70% of voters feel lowering prescription drug costs is very important. Americans are fed up with paying three times what people in other countries pay for the same drugs, said AARP Wisconsin Federal Issues Advocacy Director Lisa Lamkins. Baldwin, who supports the Affordable Insulin Now Act and allowing Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices, is a staunch advocate of quality and affordable healthcare. At age 9, she was hospitalized for a severe illness and labeled as having a preexisting condition, making it difficult for her guardians to obtain insurance coverage for her, Baldwin said. While the Affordable Care Act 12 years ago remedied that issue, drug costs continue to be an obstacle a growing one with a third of Americans saw the out of pocket cost of their prescriptions increase in 2020. I am going to continue working to get the job done on this much needed reform that has broad support from the public, Baldwin said. ...Too many Americans are seeing their out-of-pocket medication costs increase, and certain brand-name prescription drugs in the United States cost two to four times more than they do in other countries. This needs to change and we need to lower costs for working families who should no longer be at the mercy of big drug corporations. Wauwatosa resident and retired nurse Nancy Koch during the press conference shared she has an autoimmune, degenerative disease, and her medications delay her need to use a wheelchair. However, her once free medication now costs $140 a month I simply cant afford that, Koch says Ive been charging it for now but thats not going to be sustainable much longer. I beg the powers that be to help lower drug costs so seniors can take the meds they need. Between my husband, who has COPD, and myself, we are swamped. Karen Justeson, 78, spoke of needing medicine for both her diabetes and heart disease. Last year, she started on two new brand name drugs for diabetes and found great success, but the out-of-pocket cost proved too much, as she is just above the bracket for financial assistance. Switching to a lower cost version of her pills left her with unsatisfactory results and side effects. I am certain there are many other people throughout Wisconsin who have experienced a similar situation with high drug prices, Justeson said. Susan Fadness of Madison said while working as a medical social worker, she saw patients whose hospitalizations could have been prevented had they taken their prescribed medications. But they did not take their medications because of the cost, Fadness said. Many people had to decide how to spend their limited financial resources. Would they pay for housing, for food, or for medications? Understandably, medications were often not the first priority. While Fadness would try to connect patients with medication assistance programs or hospital charity care funds, the financial help was temporary. If prescription costs are brought down, many of these situations could be avoided, said Fadness, who noted, If the Senate does not act, it will be at the cost of older Americans and taxpayers. Lamkins thanked Baldwin for her support, and emphasized the need for timely action. None of us can wait for the next year or two years or ten years from now, Lamkins said. We need to get lowered drug prices done this year. And we are counting on you. Emily Pyrek can be reached at emily.pyrek@lee.net. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Dodge County Sheriffs Office is asking anyone with information about a former North Bend Central elementary instructor to contact the office or their local law enforcement agency. On Thursday, the sheriffs office said it is seeking Craig A. Schmeckpeper, a 50-year-old, white male from North Bend on a warrant for Child Abuse Not Resulting in Serious Injury (simple assault). Schmeckpeper, a former elementary physical education instructor, has been charged with child abuse after an alleged incident at the elementary school in February. On Feb. 17, Schmeckpeper, according to the Dodge County Attorneys Office, allegedly grabbed a North Bend elementary student out of line during physical education, pinned the childs arms behind his back, and told the rest of the students in attendance Free hits as you go by and Free punches. Five students lightly hit the child in the stomach and the child also reported pain from Schmeckpeper while his arms were pinned. Deputies interviewed two witnesses that were present during the event, and who corroborated the story. Investigators for Dodge County also gathered security camera footage, which allegedly captures the incident, along with documents conducted by North Bend Central for an internal investigation into the incident. Schmeckpeper faces one count of a child abuse, a Class IIIA felony. The affidavit by the Dodge County Attorney's Office states that Schmeckpeper knowingly and intentionally caused or permitted a minor child to be placed in a situation that endangers his or her life or physical or mental health. Deputies received an arrest warrant for Schmeckpeper, following the investigation, on March 22. North Bend Central Public Schools did not comment on the situation, but did say Schmeckpeper officially resigned from the school during the last school board meeting, which took place March 21. As of March 24, Schmeckpeper was not in custody, and the sheriffs office is asking anyone with information on Schmeckpeper's location to call 402-722-2700. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Authorities have been searching for Dillard since her ex-husband reported her missing June 20, four days after she was last seen. In court filings, State Patrol Investigator Amanda DeFreece said Dillard had left her home near Fairbury in mid-June to visit friends in the Falls City area. Dillard and a friend drank at a bar in Salem on June 12, a Saturday, then visited the acreage near the search area and joined a group drinking in Table Rock the next day, DeFreece said in a sworn affidavit. Investigators believe James Money, who lives on the property, was among the last known individuals to have seen Dillard alive, according to the affidavit. Money, who had previously told investigators that Dillard had walked away from the white, two-story house east of Table Rock at about 3 a.m. June 16 after accusing him of sexual assault, later said a friend picked her up and they drove away, according to the affidavit. As volunteers searched the surrounding area for Dillard's remains, Money largely repeated the same claims he made to investigators while offering alternate theories about what happened last June. The 62-year-old said he had offered haven to Dillard, who he described as an old friend. He said the last time he saw Dillard was as she walked away from his property at around 2:30 a.m. June 16 about an hour after she had called her ex-husband to pick her up, according to the State Patrol. Most of all, Money repeatedly said he had nothing to do with Dillard's disappearance. "What could I do but let her walk off? I can't keep her hostage," Money told the Journal Star. "I gave her haven a couple, three days is all." "I didn't do it," he said, laughing. "I didn't do it." Jeffrey Hagemeier, who lives at the house with Money and who said he met Dillard a few times while she visited last June, repeated Money's claim that the 55-year-old left the property on her own accord, though he said he hadn't witnessed it. "The story I got was that she just took off walking, got all (messed) up and left," he said, then alluded to the fact that there are lots of coyotes in the area. "I won't even walk around out here at night," he said. "It's entirely possible, if that lady took off walking, disoriented, didn't know where she was, got attacked by them things ... you wouldn't find her. You wouldn't find nothing." Money and Hagemeier were at the house when the State Patrol served a search warrant there July 22, according to court filings. Both men on Thursday said they were detained in July, but neither of them have been charged with any crime relating to Dillard's disappearance. The warrant did turn up suspected methamphetamine, ketamine and carisoprodol, according to an affidavit for Money's arrest. He was charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance and was jailed until bonding out in September, according to court filings. Money told the Journal Star he believes the State Patrol planted at least some of the drugs that led to his arrest. He is set to go to trial in June. As he thought back to last June, Money said he wished he could alter the events of the night Dillard disappeared though he said he's not sure what he could have done differently. Maybe he should have stopped her from walking away, he said. Or refused her haven to begin with. But as volunteers and investigators scoured the woods around his property, hoping to find Dillard, Money wasn't sure what he was hoping for. "I'm kind of torn about that," he said. "I wish they would have found her before. But then again, if they do, they're probably gonna throw (charges) at me. "I don't know. I mean, I feel sorry about it. But I didn't do it." LOS ANGELES The jury took less than two hours deliberating in the federal case of Nebraska Rep. Jeff Fortenberry: guilty. The jury Thursday found him guilty on one count of concealment of conduit contributions and two counts of lying to the FBI. The case stems from an investigation into illegal campaign donations originating from a Nigerian billionaire, Gilbert Chagoury. The nine-term Republican congressman faces up to five years in prison on each count, though supervised release is also a possibility. His sentencing is scheduled for June 28. Just two hours before the verdict Thursday, the jury heard closing arguments. Prosecutors laid out a slide show of the illegal flow of foreign money into Fortenberrys campaign coffers because of the congressmans support for the cause. That cause was the plight of Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East. Chagoury gave a bag of $30,000 cash to Toufic Baaklini. Baaklini passed it to Los Angeles Dr. Eli Ayoub. Ayoub gave it to his relatives so they could write checks to Fortenberry at an LA fundraiser in 2016. Prosecutor Susan Har, an assistant U.S. attorney, told jurors to disregard the defense's suggestion that FBI agents ambushed or targeted Fortenberry. "The question is not, 'How could they look into the defendant?' " Har told jurors. "The question is, 'How could they not?' " Fortenberrys defense questioned how the prosecution could base its entire case on a 10-minute phone call from Ayoub to Fortenberry. In that June 4, 2018, call, recorded by the FBI, Ayoub told Fortenberry three times that Baaklini provided $30,000 in cash and that the cash probably came from Chagoury. It is illegal for U.S. politicians to accept donations from foreigners. Attorney John Littrell blasted the FBI for waiting 293 days before confronting Fortenberry about the phone call and expecting him to remember everything. He also blasted the lead FBI agent in the case Todd Carter for a memo he wrote in which he laid out, before interviewing the congressman, that he would be seeking to charge Fortenberry with misprision (concealment) of conduit contributions and, if he lied, making false statements. If you already have plans to indict someone, this is not a search for the truth, Littrell said. This is a setup. Littrell noted that Fortenberrys campaign had $1.5 million in its coffers. Do you really think he would take and put his reputation on the line for $30,000 when he had almost $1.5 million in the bank? Littrell asked jurors. Theres no way he would. Littrell put up a slide emphasizing Fortenberrys presumption of innocence. He followed that with a slide of Fortenberrys official office photo that said presumption of integrity. The defense attorney said he had never been in a case where every witness acknowledged that the defendant had a sterling reputation. Every government witness testified that he is a truthful person, a man of integrity, Littrell said. One witness said it best: He brings integrity to everything he does. That said, Littrell told jurors his client is flawed. He talks too much, Littrell said. He doesnt listen enough. He should have paid more attention to his fundraisers. Thats all true. But thats not a crime. ... Having a faulty memory is not a crime. Littrell also noted the phone call had been played several times in court. He suggested to jurors that if they had to listen to the call again, that would amount to reasonable doubt. After all, he said, Fortenberry only heard the call once. If he didnt hear, understand or recall the June 2018 call, then hes not guilty of all three counts, Littrell said. Har and prosecutor Mack Jenkins, the lead attorney for the government, said theres ample evidence that Fortenberry heard Ayoubs words and was concerned. The defense itself noted that he talked to four people after the phone call, including his wife. Celeste Fortenberry testified earlier Thursday that she advised him to contact an attorney. Fortenberry did. However, that attorney said Fortenberry was so vague about what had been said that she considered it a nonissue. He definitely didnt say anything about the possibility of foreign money into his campaign, the attorney testified. Har said one of the most obvious restrictions on political fundraising is the ban on foreign money. Its essentially campaign finance 101, she said. She said Fortenberry could have taken several off ramps. He could have picked up on his instincts that most of the checks had been written by one family. He could have gotten rid of the money by disgorging it the formal term for when a politician donates suspected dirty money to charity. He didnt want to, Har said. He was running for reelection, she said, and he didnt want the embarrassment surrounding a scandal of foreign cash in his campaign. Prosecutors also pointed out several lies that they say Fortenberry told during interviews with the FBI. Handed a photo of Ayoub, Fortenberry told agents during an interview at his home in Lincoln that he wasnt placing the doctor. After a few seconds, he said Ayoub may have given him a donation. Littrell had pointed out in defense arguments that Fortenberry didnt recognize Ayoub because the photo was at least 10 years old, taken from a time when Ayoub still had dark, instead of silver, hair. But Har noted that FBI agents had repeated Ayoubs name several times. And Fortenberry clearly had a rapport with the LA doctor, based in part on the fact that the doctor had spent nine years of his medical training in Omaha. Not placing him? Har asked. Its someone who hosted a fundraiser for him. In a follow-up interview in Washington, D.C., in July 2019, Fortenberry also claimed that he had cut off the Ayoub phone call when Ayoub said illegal cash may have been injected into his campaign. But audio of the phone conversation proves Fortenberry didn't cut off the call. At the end of the day, it's a pretty simple case, Jenkins said. Its an all-too-familiar story of a politician caught up in the system, caught up in the cycle of power, who lost his way. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Carlisle man in prison awaiting trial on murder charges from 2020 faces new charges after an incident that occurred inside the Cumberland County Prison earlier this month. Middlesex Township Police said Friday that Davone Unique Anderson, 26, of Carlisle, was charged with two felonies, criminal attempted murder and aggravated assault. He is accused of assaulting another inmate about 5 p.m. March 11. Anderson punched the victim multiple times and threw him over a second-floor railing, causing the victim to suffer several fractures and bruising, police said. The victim was transported to the hospital. Anderson is in prison awaiting trial in the shooting deaths of Sydney Parmelee, 23, and Kaylee Lyons, 23, in 2020. He was charged with two counts of first degree murder, one count of first-degree murder of an unborn child, two counts of endangering the welfare of children, two counts of persons not to possess firearms and one count of theft by receiving stolen property. According to documents filed in that case, Parmelees body was found in Lyons home on July 5, 2020. She had been shot in the head. Lyons was found in her home on July 31, 2020, also with a gunshot wound to the head. She died on July 31 at Hershey Medical Center. The Sentinel reported in October 2020 that the district attorney was seeking the death penalty against Anderson in the two womens deaths. The district attorneys office did not respond by press time when asked for an update on the earlier charges. A preliminary hearing on the most recent charges is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. April 13. Anderson remains in Cumberland County Prison without bail. Maddie Seiler is a news reporter for The Sentinel and cumberlink.com covering Carlisle and Newville. You can contact her at mseiler@cumberlink.com and follow her on Twitter at: @SeilerMadalyn Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Rodney L. Yentzer, 52, of Cumberland County plead guilty Tuesday to health care fraud, money laundering and theft of public money, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Yentzer has agreed to pay up to $3,869,571.55 in restitution for these offenses. Posted earlier on Cumberlink Feb. 15: A Cumberland County man faces charges of defrauding Medicare and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Rodney L. Yentzer, 52, was charged with one count of conspiracy to commit health fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and one count of theft of public money, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Yentzer is accused of committing the fraud between 2016 and 2020. U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus said Yentzer agreed with other individuals to submit bills to Medicare for medically unnecessary urine drug tests for chronic opioid patients, using medical clinics that were under Yentzers control. This included a group of clinics called Pain Medicine of York, otherwise known as All Better Wellness. Pain Medicine of York allegedly billed Medicare for over $10 million in drug urine tests from the middle of 2017 to the end of 2019. Pennsylvanias Medicaid program also received bills for urine drug tests during this time, Gurganus said. The urine drug tests that Pain Medicine of York ordered were sent to an in-house laboratory at Pain Medicine of York when possible, so that Pain Medicine of York received the proceeds, Gurganus said. Yentzer allegedly received more than $191,000 in stimulus money from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that was originally intended for health care providers who had health care-related expenses and experienced revenue losses due to COVID-19. Yentzer is alleged to have received those funds in April 2020 after he had resigned from Pain Medicine of York in March. Pain Medicine of York closed near the end of 2019. Gurganus said Yentzer used the money for expenses, including personal ones, that were unrelated to COVID-19. The news release said search warrants were executed for Pain Medicine of Yorks various locations, and operations at those locations ceased thereafter. Under federal law, the maximum penalty for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and theft of public money are 10 years in prison, 20 years in prison, and 10 years in prison, respectively. Maddie Seiler is a news reporter for The Sentinel and cumberlink.com covering Carlisle and Newville. You can contact her at mseiler@cumberlink.com and follow her on Twitter at: @SeilerMadalyn Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A House bill aimed at amending the Pennsylvania Election Code will be back on the House floor for a third consideration by the Legislature on Monday. House Bill 1800 isnt likely to get past Gov. Tom Wolfs veto given his record of vetoing election law changes, as well as given the bills mostly party-line votes so far this cycle, but the bill has still generated some vocal concerns from Cumberland County. In January, Cumberland County commissioners comprised of two Republicans and one Democrat released a statement regarding their unanimous opposition to HB 1800. The county argued that a number of the proposed changes would put an undue burden on election bureaus in getting results quickly to the Department of State. The proposed legislation is mere window dressing and not a viable solution to the issues at hand, the commissioners said. As a combined body, the state legislature needs to come up with real solutions to the system that they imposed upon us along with its unworkable timelines and absurd requirements. Laying more unworkable mandates on top of this will only worsen election issues. Some of the elements of the bill that most concerned the commissioners were the creation of early voting centers which they said would be too costly to staff and locate and the timeline expected for bureaus to count all ballots. What is proposed Though his previous version of the bill failed to pass, Rep. Seth Grove, R-York, re-introduced the bill last year after hearing Wolf reportedly indicate he was more open about voter identification expansion. The Pennsylvania Voting Rights Protection Act is a commonsense approach to help voters, help counties and ensure trust in our elections, Grove said in a memorandum asking for co-sponsorships in July. The first version of this years HB 1800 was supported by local representatives Greg Rothman, R-Silver Spring, and Glenn Stambaugh, R-Perry County. Rep. Barb Gleim, R-Carlisle, came on board as a co-sponsor after the bill was amended last fall. As it stands, the bill calls for the establishment of a Bureau of Election Audits, which would be run by the state auditor generals department. The auditor general would conduct independent election audits, or an appointed independent special auditor would if the auditor general was up for election that year. The bureau would be tasked with audits of each election, which would include an audit of ballots, election machine logs, returned absentee and mail-in ballots in each county, canvassed ballots, and pre-testing of election equipment. The bill also calls for the state to begin issuing new voter registration cards with scannable identification numbers with copies of the voters signature, which would then be used at polling places. The polling places would be required to have electronic poll books to scan those cards, something Cumberland County said it was interested in pursuing in the future, but would not be ready because of the cost to undertake immediately if the bill is passed. The bill would also require at least two inspectors of election one from each party to be present at mail-in ballot return locations to oversee those returns. Those inspectors would have the power to verify the identity of each person returning a ballot, review it and separate the ballot if they determine it is in violation, including issues with the signature. Because the inspectors of election would be required to be at the mail-in ballot locations, the operating hours of those locations would be based on their availability. Currently, the only mail-in ballot drop-off point in Cumberland County is at the countys Bureau of Elections in Carlisle, and it was monitored by both staff and a member of the county Sheriffs Office. Other limits on mail-in ballots would include no county or department operating a permanent mail-in voting list voters would have to request a mail-in ballot for each election and counties would be required to use an automated sorting or extracting machine with certain capabilities, such as signature verification. According to the bill, any separated ballot from these machines or by the inspectors would have to include manual comparisons of the signature and require the elector to appear in person or provide the county with proof of identification or affirmation. Sticking points Two parts of the bill that were of focus for county commissioners were in-person early voting and the timeline for counting ballots. Groves bill calls for each county to offer an opportunity to vote at an early voting center prior to election day beginning with the 2025 primary. The voting centers would be considered polling places, and counties would have to operate at least one but no more than five, with centers for each 100,000 residents located centrally in population areas. The county would be required to secure and monitor the centers with both staff and video recording, including overnight, with video recordings then retained and made available publicly. The early vote centers will be costly as we will need to provide and pay for locations and hire staffing at each one, commissioners said in January. The bill also calls for all in-person and mail-in ballots to be counted by 9 p.m. election day or 6 a.m. the following day for mail-in ballots that arrived on election day itself. The county said that though allowing them to pre-canvass earlier is a benefit, instituting a deadline to count thousands of mail-in ballots by that evening isnt feasible. Counting ballots for 24-hours straight will put an enormous burden on the election staff and we cannot guarantee the accuracy that we have already demonstrated in past elections, commissioners said. Other election bills have either already failed or remain stuck in a committee. Wolf previously vetoed House Bill 1300 over proposed changes to voter identification rules, and Senate Bill 784 remains in limbo in the state government committee. That bill would also move up deadlines for mail-in ballots, both in terms of reporting their results and in applying for them. After budget hearings in the General Assembly, the House is back in session at noon Monday to consider new bills, including House Bill 1800. Email Naomi Creason at ncreason@cumberlink.com or follow her on Twitter @SentinelCreason Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The boy stood on his tiptoes to drop a penny on the counter of the Carlisle Deposit Bank and Trust Company. Though only seven, he was adult enough to make a donation to the relief fund set up to help disaster victims on the West Shore. It was Friday, March 20, 1936, and flood coverage inundated The Sentinel newspaper. Heavy rains had swept through the region causing the Susquehanna River to overflow its banks in New York and central Pennsylvania. The boys generosity shared a column of local briefs with the story of Ruth McGowan, a dance instructor from North Pitt Street, who was marooned in Sunbury, Northumberland County, after the flood disrupted train service back to Carlisle. In Cumberland County, parts of Wormleysburg were underwater while, in West Fairview, the Himes family home on Front Street had only the roof and chimney visible. To observers, the building seemed to bob up and down in the muddy current. Elsewhere, a surge, 15 feet deep, swept through the southern end of New Cumberland trapping a mother and her infant daughter on a balcony until they could be rescued. Nearby, a gas station had burned down to the edge of the floodwater after a short circuit touched off a blaze out of the reach of volunteers from the Citizens and Elkwood fire companies. Miles away, Carlisle residents mobilized an effort that sent manpower, food, blankets and clothing eastward to the flooded area. In an ironic twist of fate, the shortage of safe drinking water prompted Carlisle Barracks to dispatch two trailer tanks of 300 gallons each to help families whose private wells and cisterns became contaminated by the run-off. On Thursday night, March 19, Army trucks transported 200 cots and 100 blankets from the local post to New Cumberland. Meanwhile, members of the Friendship and Cumberland fire companies had returned early Friday morning after nearly 21 hours of rescue work in Lemoyne using rowboats and motorboats. Carlisle Police Chief Charles Strock was busy coordinating shipments of donated food and clothing. A large truckload was sent out Thursday night followed by two more trucks on Friday. To help with water rescue, local police supervised the gathering of 26 rowboats, one motor boat and two launches. One of the most impressive things of this entire flood situation is the generous manner in which our requests for assistance have been met, Strock said. Everyone appeared happy at the chance to be of service or to give money, time or clothing. Tour through Time runs Saturday in The Sentinel print edition. Reporter Joseph Cress will work with the Cumberland County Historical Society each week to look at the county through the years. Send any questions, feature ideas or tips to jcress@cumberlink.com. Email Joseph Cress at jcress@cumberlink.com. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Two men who worked in direct care at a western Pennsylvania residential facility inflicted what a grand jury alleges was violent, demeaning and humiliating abuse on people with severe physical and mental disabilities, federal prosecutors said Friday in announcing hate crimes criminal charges. Zachary Lee Dinell, 28, and Tyler James Smith, 31, are accused of abusing people who are not able to speak to report their injuries and lack the capacity to defend themselves. Their 12-count indictment issued Wednesday claims that from mid-2016 to about September 2017 residents of McGuire Memorial in New Brighton were punched in the face and head, choked, kicked in the face, jumped on, had caustic substances and other liquids rubbed into their eyes and had liquids sprayed and thrown into their mouths. Thomas King, McGuire Memorials general counsel, said the abuse came to light when police investigating Dinell for another matter found texts and videos on his cellphone. An investigation concluded no others at McGuire were aware or involved, King said. Four lawsuits by residents or their family members have been settled by the homes insurer, King said. This was a horrible event for everyone involved in McGuire, King said Friday, noting policies were changed and security cameras installed as a result. Were trying to move forward from it. Dinell and Smith are charged with concealing material facts about a health care matter, conspiracy and 10 counts of violating the federal hate crimes statute. Neither man has a lawyer listed in the court records, and messages were left for lawyers who have represented them in prior state court proceedings related to the same allegations. The indictment said the two men encouraged each other. The grand jury said Dinell told Smith he considered burying one man in the garbage of a trash container and that he had already hurt another resident and was about to suffocate him. The two men, who are both white, used a racial slur to describe Black patients and spoke of killing the people they were paid to help, the jury said. He didnt ask to be born that way, Dinell allegedly texted Smith about a resident in January 2017. But here we are sanitizing his eyes and beating him. Many of the attacks described by the grand jury were allegedly committed by Dinell and documented in their text exchanges, including slamming, sanitizing his eyes, spraying ice cold water on a naked resident with hypersensitivity to cold, rubbing liquid irritant into a residents eyes, kicking a resident in the head and punching a resident in the head three times with his fist. Smith, the jury said, was recorded jumping on a 13-year-old resident in bed. He is accused of sending Dinell a photo of a resident with a reddish spot on a sheet near his head that Smith said was the victims blood. Dinell, a former resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, is in state prison. A magistrate judge set Smiths bail on Wednesday at $25,000. Prosecutors said Smith most recently lived in New Brighton, 44 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. Smith was fired from McGuire in September 2017, Dinell in June 2018, the jury said. The roughly 50-resident facility is an institution within the Pittsburgh Catholic Diocese and is a ministry cosponsored by the Felician Sisters of North America. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 When I was in school, completing a research paper meant visiting the library. There were sources of varying quality there, but a variety of guardrails kept that variation within acceptable bounds. These guardrails included the peer review process of academic journals and book presses, as well as the assistance of a trained librarian in the selection of appropriate and high-quality sources for my project. The world today is of course much different. While libraries and librarians still exist, many children instead turn to the internet to do research. The internet has proven to be a double-edged sword: while it has given us easy access to more high-quality information than ever before, it has also given us just as easy (if not easier) access to mountains of bad information. My colleague Lee McIntyre describes the internet in this manner: There is a scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade where he is in the room with all of these goblets and chalices and doesnt know which one is the Holy Grail. Thats where we are right now. We have the truth right in front of us, but we dont know which one it is. Steven Brill, co-founder of the news rating company NewsGuard, puts it in a similar fashion: Imagine you walked into a library, and there were a trillion pieces of paper flying around in the air, and you grabbed one, and you didnt know anything about it, or where it came from or whos financing it. Luckily, Pennsylvania school children just got some assistance in filtering through good and bad information on the internet, and it comes from the company that Brill helped found. His company, NewsGuard, reached a deal earlier this year with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to make their services available to their 1.7 million teachers around the country to use with students in the classroom. The AFT has more than 36,000 members in Pennsylvania alone. The president of the AFT, Randi Weingarten, says that, We are constantly trying to help our students, particularly our middle, high school and postsecondary students, separate fact from fiction as we help them develop their critical-thinking and analytical skills. When NewsGuard is installed on a computer, a small red, green or yellow icon appears in the top right-hand corner of the internet browser when users visit a news or information website. Red means that the site has not met their minimum standards of credibility and transparency, while green means that it has (yellow indicates humor/satire). Not all greens are created equal. Every site receives a trust score between 0-100, and green only indicates that the site scored 60 or higher (like a barely passing grade in school). If a user wants more detailed information, he/she can click on the icon, which pulls up the sites Nutrition Label, and read an in-depth analysis of how the site scores across nine criteria: 1. A record of routinely publishing accurate content. 2. Gathering and presenting information fairly and responsibly. 3. Prominently correcting and clarifying errors. 4. Handling the difference between news and opinion responsibly. 5. Avoiding false, deceptive or sensationalized headlines. 6. Disclosing ownership and financing. 7. Clearly labeling advertising. 8. Revealing who is in charge and any conflicts of interest. 9. Providing names and information about content creators. NewsGuard employs a team of trained journalists and experienced editors to review and rate websites. They employ analysts like James Warren, who amassed a wealth of journalistic experience and knowledge in his five decades in the industry in roles such as managing editor at the Chicago Tribune, chief media writer at the Poynter Institute and Washington bureau chief for the New York Daily News. NewsGuards rigorous, objective and rule-based rating process is designed so that their nine criteria are applied fairly and accurately to all sites. The process begins with a NewsGuard analyst assessing the content of the site against their nine criteria and drafting a Nutrition Label, which clearly indicates how the site fared and explains in detail the reasons behind the rating. The analyst then calls the website for comment before publishing the rating. If the website replies, their comments are included in the Nutrition Label. Then at least one senior editor and both of NewsGuards CEOs will review the Nutrition Label prior to publication to ensure that the rating is fair and accurate. The ratings are periodically updated to reflect changes in a sites credibility and/or transparency. Researchers have found that the human brain does not do a very good job of identifying reliable news sources. Our hard-wired cognitive biases ensure that we tend to look for information that confirms our existing beliefs, avoid information that does not, and interpret information to make it consistent with what we already believe. As NYU social psychologist Jonathan Haidt notes, When the facts conflict with ... sacred values, almost everyone finds a way to stick with their values and reject the evidence. In this age of misinformation and disinformation, evaluating information is difficult for everyone but especially for school children. With NewsGuard in their toolbox, hopefully students across Pennsylvania will be better prepared to consume credible information. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri House is considering a plan inspired by the behavior of one of the key figures in the events that led to former Gov. Eric Greitens downfall in 2018. Under legislation sponsored by Rep. David Evans, R-West Plains, a person subpoenaed to testify before the General Assembly could face prosecution for failing to comply with that order. In addition, the proposed law would hold a person in contempt if he or she fails to appear to testify or refuses to answer questions or produce documents requested by lawmakers. The proposal is a reaction to the conduct of Scott Faughn, who publishes The Missouri Times, a website and newspaper that caters to the states political class. Faughn was called before a special House committee investigating Greitens in May 2018 after Faughn gave $120,000 to an attorney for the ex-husband of Greitens former mistress. Faughn told the panel that the money included $100,000 for recordings the ex-husband had made of the woman discussing her 2015 relationship with the governor, which led to Greitens ouster. The remaining $20,000 was a retainer for Clayton attorney Al Watkins, who was representing the ex-husband. Committee members didnt believe Faughn when he said the money was his own, suggesting instead he was an intermediary for individuals or groups that were trying to undermine Greitens governorship. Members of the committee also said at the time it didnt make sense for Faughn to profess he didnt know who delivered $50,000 of his money to Watkins. The chairman of the investigatory panel, former Rep. Jay Barnes, R-Jefferson City, added that he was skeptical about Faughns explanation because Faughn was convicted of forgery in 2002 when he was a mayor in southeast Missouri. Faughn said he bought the recordings as part of a book he hoped to write about Missouri politics. No book has been produced. On Wednesday, Evans told members of the House Judiciary Committee that the 2018 committee realized quickly they had no way to ask a judge to hold Faughn or other potential witnesses in contempt. They recognized they didnt have the authority to get that done, Evans said. A version of the proposal has been taken up in the House for three years, but it has not been acted on in the Senate. Evans said Gov. Mike Parson, who has been a guest on a podcast hosted by Faughn, said he wouldnt sign the legislation. Evans said it is time to push the legislation through in order to avoid future problems. There needs to be a legal procedure to be able to proceed further, Evans said. After Faughns payments came to light, the Missouri Capitol News Association voted to remove The Missouri Times from the organization. The hearing on Evans bill came two days after Greitens ex-wife, Sheena Greitens, alleged in a court filing that Eric Greitens mentally and physically abused her and their children, including during the turbulent time at the end of his short tenure. The latest allegations triggered calls for Greitens, a Republican, to drop his bid for the U.S. Senate. Greitens, in a brief statement Monday, called his ex-wifes allegations completely fabricated and baseless. The legislation is House Bill 2781. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 During Black History Month in February, businesses throughout the area receive an annual letter from the African American Cemetery Association requesting contributions to help preserve the African American Masonic Cemetery formerly known as the Negro Masonic Graveyard on Colony Church Road. According to the letter, past donations have helped pay for the replacement of a rusted and sagging chain-link fence that once enclosed the cemetery with a noble, stately fence; rustic signage with newer, more complementary and distinguished signage; and six decades-old temporary markers with permanent gravestones. Additionally, the letter reads that donated funds have been added to the endowment fund, allowing the cemetery to be maintained in perpetuity. While many people have received a letter from the association or have heard through the years that there is an African American cemetery located somewhere around Farmington, most people have never driven by, much less stopped, to spend a few minutes there. Board member Larraine Amonette Robinson knows the history of the beautiful and well-kept one-acre cemetery. Although it was officially founded in the early part of the previous century, it served as a place where Black people living in the area could bury their dead for years before that. Of course, during that time, Black people werent allowed to be buried where white people were, with a few exceptions, Robinson said. Like if you were Catholic, sometimes they would make exceptions, but pretty much you had to have your own cemetery. History dictates that this cemetery was bought by three men together. They paid $10 a month to pay it off for $300. There used to be a local, Bill Matthews, who took care of it for years and years and years. I think he got a little sick and got older and is living with his son in Columbia now. Steve Slinkard has been on the board for quite a few years and has been a true, true blessing. He comes out here and does the upkeep. The Boy Scouts help him out by earning badges. The association believes there are as many as 200 unmarked graves that need to be located in the cemetery using remote sensing technology. Those graves will then need to be marked using appropriate paving stones, but the association hasn't yet raised enough funds through its annual donation drives to complete the project. Of course, its not cheap to do that, she said. So, once a year for the last few years usually during Black History Month theres a letter sent out to prospective donors, so we can get funds for the upkeep of the cemetery. Anytime anyone wants to contribute, they can always do so." Robinson has only been with the association a short time, having been added as a member of the board in 2018 after her mother passed away. My mom used to keep track of everything until she passed, she said. Robinson stressed the importance of raising funds for the cemeterys endowment fund. Volunteers mow and weed the cemetery, but we need $5,000 annually to properly maintain the cemetery, she said. Many cemeteries across our country are in disrepair, and we never want our historic cemetery to be one of those which are neglected. While the cemetery is more than a century old, there is still room in the tranquil cemetery for additional burials. There are still people being buried out here, Robinson said. The majority of the people that grew up here dont live here anymore. There are only about three families that grew up here who still remain here. My aunt used to do a reunion every year and wed make it a point to come out here and gather. Slinkard, whom Robinson expressed gratitude for due to his long-time efforts to maintain the cemetery, explained how he became a member of the associations board. Gosh, 15 or 20 years ago, a group of people here in town came to a church council meeting at Memorial United Methodist Church, Slinkard said. They said, You all have a cemetery outside of town that youre not doing much with, but you dont own. We want to help you work with it. And that was the beginning of the Preservation Association for the African American Masonic Cemetery. A really, really long name for a small organization. There were several of us in the church council meeting that said we wanted to be a part of it. I started going to a few meetings and we were making plans to get a lot of stuff done a lot of it stayed on paper. Thats the way organizations work sometimes. Bill Matthews was doing the mowing and grounds work, that kind of thing, back then. We got to the point with the preservation group that we wanted to do some things wanted to put a new fence in, new sign, do some upkeep that kind of thing and Bills health was deteriorating. Before too long, Slinkard was mowing and taking care of the grounds. I had access to the church lawnmower, he said. "I was on the board of trustees back then and I finagled them into letting me use a 60-inch cut riding lawnmower. You can tear up some grass when you can do it 5 feet at a time. So, for the last 12 or 13 years, Ive been principally doing the mowing myself. Up until the last couple of years, I had a pipeline of Eagle Scouts or Eagle Scout candidates or Scout troops who always needed community service hours that helped out. Those guys would come out and do the trim work, weed-eating and that kind of thing. In that length of time, weve put a new fence out here in front, we have a new sign. "Ive got an Eagle Scout candidate he and I are going to be working on putting together a better marking and identification system to find people who are buried out here. Over the years, our mens club, with help from the Boy Scout troop, weve pushed everything back so were now back to what we think are the marked boundary lines. I do a little cutting and trimming every year to keep things back. Both Robinson and Slinkard stressed the African American Cemetery Association is asking for the communitys support and that financial contributions are not used for any other purpose as there are no administrative salaries. Its all about preserving history and human dignity. Send donations to African American Cemetery Association, 608 Harvey Court, Farmington, MO 63640. Kevin R. Jenkins is the managing editor of the Farmington Press and can be reached at 573-783-9667 or kjenkins@farmingtonpressonline.com Love 5 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. In 2003, Funny Cide becomes the first gelding since Clyde Van Dusen in 1929 to win the Kentucky Derby. See more sports moments from this date By Ike Parrish Reporter Madison Solar, Dominion Energys nearly complete 62.5-megawatt solar farm in Orange County, will inch the company closer to its goal of powering four million homes in Virginia with solar energy over the next 15 years. Its initiative functions in congruence with the Virginia Clean Economy Act signed by Gov. Ralph Northam in 2020 with a plan to transition to 100% clean energy in the state by 2050. The solar farm in Orange, being built on 663 acres located along Route 20 in Locust Grove, will produce the equivalent of enough solar energy to power more than 10,000 homes. Madison Solar is being constructed on property purchased by Dominion Energy and once complete, 100% of its power will be owned by Northop Grumman, an aerospace and defense technology contractor. The power itself will go to Dominion customers, says Dominion External Affairs Manager Sarah Marshall. The grids kind of like the internet. Its going out to wherever the next customer is, but Northop Grumman is the offtaker whos purchasing that power. Northop Grumman is the purchaser of renewable energy for Madison Solar, however, the power produced at the facility will go directly to the grid to feed nearby dwellings and businesses, with no increased cost to ratepayers. But the project will still generate $200,000 of tax revenue annually for Orange County, says Dominion Associate Communications Specialist Lucy Rhodes. The biggest benefit for the county is really from an economic impact, says Marshall. They get the tax revenue from the facility. Marshall adds that this benefit for the county comes without the usual negative effects that a conventional large-scale power production operation might include. During construction youll have people coming in and working, she says. But afterwards they dont have 1,000 people working here every day. So, they dont have the impact on the schools, on the emergency services, that sort of thing. The project dates to 2017 when a special use permit application was submitted by SolUnesco to develop the Route 20 site. Initial local concerns included: management and accountability; the resale of energy generated locally; viewshed impacts, construction traffic, decommissioning; and benefits to the county. Marshall does admit the project contributes a significant amount of noise pollution during the construction process. Large-scale solar farms can create additional negative effects on the environment, which obligate Dominion Energy to establish environmental safeguards to mitigate impact. It plants vegetation to preserve the viewshed, creates corridors for wildlife to navigate through and around facilities, re-vegetates sites post-construction and builds sediment basins to manage stormwater runoff and limit impact on waterways, all of which it maintains through routine inspections. Ultimately, the Orange County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the special use permit, but it sat dormant until it was purchased in 2018 by Cypress Creek Renewables. The project was purchased by Dominion in 2020 and construction for Madison Solar began in July 2021. The solar development project was originally scheduled to be complete by the end of 2022. However, due to weather and supply chain issues the completion date will likely extend into 2023, according to Marshall. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A new bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Rivanna River between Pantops and Woolen Mills could be placed near the end of East Market Street and connect to property near the former State Farm office, the Charlottesville-Albemarle Metropolitan Planning Organization policy board voted 4-1 Wednesday. The decision about the bridge moves it one step closer to reality after years of discussion, as construction is still contingent on approval and funding from state. Yet the vote was semi-controversial, as many people had voiced preference for another proposed location near Riverview Park. The panel voted to support submitting the East Market Street location to the next round of the states Smart Scale process, which is the current primary method for funding large-scale transportation projects in Virginia. A 2020 study estimated locating the bridge at the East Market Street site could cost $15.4 million. The state will release a funding scenario in January, and the Commonwealth Transportation Board will decide final approval in June 2023. Funded projects get put in the states six-year improvement program and can take between four to six years to begin. Another alignment, near Chesapeake Street and Riverview Park in Charlottesville, was also under consideration. That location was the preferred option by the advisory group that consulted on the process, the MPO technical committee and community members who weighed in on a survey and at a community meeting. Both bridges would end at a path near the intersection of Pantops Drive and State Farm Boulevard. However, the MPO policy board preferred the East Market Street location because it connects two economic centers and is further away from busy Riverview Park. The East Market Street location is expected to be longer and more expensive than the Chesapeake Street location. Albemarle County Supervisor Ann H. Mallek, Albemarle Supervisor Ned Gallaway and Charlottesville Mayor Lloyd Snook, who are all MPO policy board members, supported the East Market Street location. I think it has a lower impact on the residents very much nearby, Mallek said. There are things in the Broadway corridor which the county has been planning and working on for several years, including more sidewalk connections and improvement of the connector road, which would also benefit users of the bridge, and yet not be part of our bridge project. The former Woolen Mills factory has been redeveloped into the corporate campus for WillowTree Inc., a mobile app and web development company, as well as an event space, restaurant and microbrewery, and the county recently finished an economic revitalization plan along the light industry-zoned Broadway Street. Snook said the current choice might also help in the application evaluation with the state. He said the state might view the application more favorably if we could, with a straight face, argue this economic development piece. He said neighbors to Riverview Park near the Chesapeake alignment would rather the park be a more natural kind of experience. The notion of putting the bridge in there, thereby increasing both car traffic and foot traffic and bike traffic and everything else through that area that the neighbors would rather think of as more natural, is a bit jarring to them, he said. After Snook spoke in favor of the East Market Street alignment, an audience member via Zoom said unbelievable. At a March 10 special policy board meeting to discuss the project, Annie Sutton, a Woolen Mills neighborhood resident who served on the advisory group, spoke in favor of the East Market Option. I believe it solves any number of problems, she said. It preserves the natural area of Riverview Park; it creates another badly needed access point to the Rivanna; its a simple solution to parking issues; it does not add to already overwhelming traffic in the Woolen Mills; and the alignment with Broadway provides more direct and physically easier pedestrian/bike route to downtown, not to mention the opportunities for economic development along the route. City Councilor Brian Pinkston, who is also on the MPO policy board, voted against the alignment, and said he favored the one near Chesapeake Street. Sean Nelson, Virginia Department of Transportations Culpeper District engineer, is the other voting member on the policy board. He did not specify a preference ahead of voting in favor of the East Market Street location. Over the years, multiple planning documents, including Albemarles Pantops Master Plan, Charlottesvilles Bike/Ped Master Plan, and the Rivanna River Area Plan, have called for a pedestrian and bike crossing of the Rivanna River in the vicinity of Riverview Park. Consultants for the Virginia Department of Transportation completed a feasibility study for a possible pedestrian bridge over the river in the area of Riverview Park in 2020, which identified two potential crossings of the river. In that 2020 study, the cost estimate for the Chesapeake Street alignment was $11.3 million, and the cost estimate for the East Market Street alignment was $15.4 million. Last year, the MPO policy board chose the bike and pedestrian crossing of the Rivanna River as one of four projects that will be submitted to the next round of the states Smart Scale process. The state gives submitted projects a benefit score based on safety, congestion mitigation, accessibility, land-use, economic development and environmental quality, which is then divided by the overall amount of funding that is being requested. The MPO established a framework to select up to two projects of regional interest that would benefit from additional public engagement after concerns over public processes were raised about a project to build a shared-use path in the median of Route 20 that had been submitted as a part of a pre-application for the prior round of Smart Scale. The crossing is one of the projects receiving additional engagement. A 13-person stakeholder advisory committee met from November to February to discuss the alignments and provide a recommendation to the policy board. Five committee members said at a February meeting that they preferred the Chesapeake Street option, while four preferred East Market Street. In a public online survey, 833 respondents were asked to rate the two location scenarios using a five star scale based on a map and a set of provided pros/cons. The Chesapeake Street alignment received an average of 3.98 stars, and the East Market Street Alignment received an average of 3.4 stars. Between a cable-stayed bridge, a standard truss bridge and an arched truss bridge, more online survey respondents preferred a cable-stayed bridge at either location. Nelson with VDOT said cable-stayed bridges are considered special structures. From our stance, if this structure, a cable-stayed bridge, were to be proposed and approved, the department would not like to bear the cost of that additional maintenance for those structures, he said. If a cable-stayed bridge is an option that people want, we would look for the locality or the city to come up with some type of agreement to maintain such a structure. He said VDOT doesnt have any firm data on maintenance costs, as there arent other pedestrian cable-stayed bridges in the state. The policy board members supported preference for some form of truss-style bridge. Sandy Shackleford, director of planning and transportation for the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission, said staff will be back in the coming months for a formal resolution of support for all the proposed Smart Scale projects. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Helping patients who continue to have symptoms following a bout of COVID-19 is complex and a new bill from Sen. Tim Kaine could help equip doctors on the frontline with more information and resources. A host of UVa Medical Center leaders and physicians were on hand Friday morning to share their insights with Kaine, who recently introduced a bill to improve research on the syndrome known as long COVID and provide more resources for people experiencing its impacts. Kaine, who had COVID-19 at the start of the pandemic, said he had mild symptoms like a blizzard of allergic reactions all at once but still experiences constant nerve tingling. Hes been vocal about his symptoms in order to shed light on what other people are going through. Those who have whats now considered long COVID have said the long-term consequences of the virus werent taken seriously at first. Kaines CARE for Long COVID Act would create a central database to gather long COVID patient experiences, expand research into the disease to better improve the health care systems responses as well as improve patient and physician education. The bill also would provide for better coordination among different government agencies in order to educate employers and schools on the impact of long COVID and develop partnerships so that people with long COVID can access other services such as legal assistance or social workers. The Biden administration has said that long COVID could be a disability, but recognizing that is the beginning, Kaine said. Hes also working on a bill regarding pandemic preparedness. On Friday, in a board room at the medical center, the UVa physicians said figuring out how to fund the complicated and interdisciplinary care needed for long COVID patients was essential along with determining eligibility for the care and providing a range of resources for those affected. One doctor worried that people who never took a COVID test but have long COVID might not be able to access to the needed care. The traditional service centers that weve had in place for many years dont always work and that suggests to me that theres a lot of research that needs to be done, said Dr. K. Craig Kent, the CEO of UVa Health. Kent supports the long COVID bill. UVa has established a clinic to care for patients who are recovering from COVID-19; however, theres no insurance structure that makes it fundable for the physicians, said Dr. Kyle Enfield, director of intensive care at the medical center. This ends up being a labor of love because were very interested in doing that, Enfield said. Enfield added that about half of the patients at the post COVID clinic come from disadvantaged communities and are at risk for complications Im glad that your bill will support social work and other ways to support those patients who dont have the resources that maybe the rest of us do to seek some of the care that we need because those patients really struggle just to come to the clinic to be seen, he told Kaine. Anywhere from 5% to 25% of those who had COVID-19 could develop some degree of post COVID symptoms. That would be about 450,000 people in Virginia, said Dr. Alexandra Kadl, pulmonologist at the medical center. What you see is really just the tip of the iceberg, Kadl said. At the clinic, Kadl said they are seeing patients with insomnia, depression or PTSD. Things that need a lot of attention and a lot of care that currently are really hard to provide, she said. So thats where we really lagged behind and where we really could emphasize and strengthen the system. What exactly long COVID looks like in a particular patient can vary. Typical approaches for rehab or physical therapy dont seem to work as well for this group. Helping those patients will require a paradigm shift in medicine, said Dr. Talia Pollok, a physical therapist for the medical center. We have to educate our physician colleagues and then our entire profession that they are going to have to think very differently about how to treat these patients, Pollok said. Donna Broshek directs the Neurocognitive Assessment Lab at UVa and said long COVID patients need advocates. She shared the story of a woman who was forced to go back to work before she was ready a return that didnt go well for the woman. You cant have somebody whos tired and exhausted and has cognitive issues advocate for themselves, Broshek said. Kaine, at the end of the discussion, said theres a lot more to do and learn regarding long COVID. We dont have all the answers yet, but we are devoting significant research to it, he said. By really focusing on long COVID, well learn some answers that will help people who have had other long-term consequences from different viruses. So if we all share our experiences and learn from one another, were going to not just help people who have long COVID, were going to help other people too. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Pangilinan barnstorms Northern Mindanao carrying farmers' flag MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon -- Vice-presidential candidate Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan barnstormed in Northern Mindanao Friday asking local candidates to fully implement his Sagip Saka Act should they win in the elections so that no Filipino will go hungry. At his first stop at the Kampo Juan of Bukidnon First District congressional candidate Nereus Acosta, Pangilinan said that like air, food is a right that everyone is entitled to. "Karapatan ang pagkain. Tulad ng hangin, hindi ka pwede mabuhay kung wala nito," he said. Pangilinan explained that hunger is prevalent in the Philippines because food prices are high. His Sagip Saka Law, he said, mandates local and national governments to buy directly from local farmers and fishers, ensuring the latter's income. He said that this will encourage farmers and fishers to plant and fish more. "With more supply, prices will drop. Kaya hello pagkain, goodbye gutom na," he told a crowd of farmers, young people, and other professionals. Pangilinan said that government has a budget of about P70 billion to P80 billion to spend on food. "Ngayon, binibili yan sa mga trader...Paano nga naman bibili sa magsasaka na walang business permit or BIR TIN? Pero ngayon, sa Sagip Saka, pwede na halimbawa bumili ang provincial government para sa food requirements ng provincial jail at provincial hospital," he said. Acosta, who represented the congressional district in the House of Representatives from 1998 to 2007, is seeking a comeback while his mother Socorro seeks to return as mayor of Manolo Fortich. Pangilinan is the running-mate of presidential aspirant Leni Robredo, who recently has been endorsed by several Mindanao political leaders. Linn County added one more COVID-19-related death while statewide numbers of deaths, infections and hospitalizations were steady or gradually decreasing, according to a Thursday, March 24 report from the Oregon Health Authority. Details about the death were not available. Now 13 days out from the March 12 end to Oregons mask mandate, the state so far has not seen the rebound in infection rates like those that followed the momentary end to most coronavirus restrictions in 2021. Last summer, Gov. Kate Brown signed an executive order canceling masking, distancing, vaccine requirements and indoor capacity limits June 30. By July 13, the numbers of COVID hospitalizations and cases reported to OHA had started to grow as the virus beta variant surged. The department also released details of three Linn County deaths reported the day before. A 70-year-old woman who tested positive Jan. 6 died Jan. 28 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland, Oregon while an 85-year-old man tested positive Jan. 18 and died Feb. 2 at his residence. Both had underlying conditions, according to OHA. The third, a 65-year-old woman from Linn County tested positive Jan. 18 and died Jan. 26 at her residence. She was the 6,999th to die in Oregon with COVID-19. With 20 deaths reported Thursday, Oregon has amassed 7,033 dead since the pandemic started in 2020. Total COVID-19 deaths stand at 248 in Linn County and 66 in Benton County. There were 301 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported Thursday, 13 fewer than the day before, bringing the state total to 702,566. Oregon's rolling, seven-day average of new cases decreased to 301. The daily average has continued to decay at a near-exponential rate since cases reported to the state peaked in January at more than 8,000 each day. Benton County reported 15 new cases, making its total so far 15,019. Linn County saw four new cases for a total of 26,343. About 10 in 50 people in Linn and eight in 50 people in Benton counties have had COVID cases reported to the state. Hospitalizations: As of Wednesday, 179 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in Oregon, 14 more than the prior report. Of those, 28 were in intensive care units with 12 on ventilators. Ninety-five of the states 676 ICU beds are unoccupied, a 14%, availability rate. Meanwhile, 385 of 4,253 adult non-ICU beds are unoccupied a 9% availability. Staffing limitations are not captured in OHA data and may further limit bed capacity. There were nine adult ICU beds open across the region that includes Linn, Benton, Marion, Polk, Lincoln and Yamhill counties (9%) and 50 adult non-ICU beds available (7%). Vaccinations: OHA reported 2,873 new doses of coronavirus vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry March 23. More than 3.1 million people have had at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and nearly 2.9 million people have completed a vaccine series. The seven-day running average is now 2,283 doses per day. Coronavirus infection rates are more than four times higher in unvaccinated people than people who are fully vaccinated, according to OHA data. Nationally: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 37,737 new, confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, making the U.S. case total nearly 79.7 million. There were 1,268 new deaths recorded Wednesday, bringing the countrys death toll to 972,550, according to the CDC. Alex Powers covers business, environment and healthcare for Mid-Valley Media. Contact him at 541-812-6116 or alex.powers@lee.net. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. An Albany woman wanted in connection to a February homicide was arrested by the Oceanside Police Department in California. Officers with Oceanside PD arrested Elizabeth Nicole Tyler Jimenez, 42, on March 16, according to the department's public information officer, Jennifer Atenza. Albany police had asked for the publics help in locating Jimenez around a month ago after her roommate, Elvin Al Pierce, 75, was found dead in his house in the 500 block of 26th Avenue Southeast. According to an Albany Police Department news release, Pierce died from "homicidal violence." At the time, Albany police also asked the public to be on the lookout for Pierces tan/beige 2004 Buick Park Avenue four-door sedan which was missing from the residence. The car seems to have been the key to finding the suspect. According to Atenza, Oceanside police was alerted on March 3 to the missing vehicle thanks to a camera system inside a police vehicle that automatically reads license plates. The vehicle looked abandoned, but officers suspected Jimenez was still in the area. After a thorough search of the downtown area, Jimenez wasnt located. Working with Albany officers, Oceanside police started looking for any evidence of transactions made by Jimenez at local businesses. After reviewing surveillance videos in the areas, officers were able to pinpoint Jimenez's likely location. She made a lot of effort to conceal her appearance, Atenza said. But officers did really good, thorough police work to identify her. Officers located Jimenez near that town's city hall, according to Atenza. Jimenez was held at a local jail before being extradited back to Albany. APD Lt. Buck Pearce said Jimenez is a suspect in the homicide, and at this time, there is no information on any other suspects. The investigation is ongoing. Oceanside police were fantastic to work with, Pearce said. Without their help, we wouldnt have located Jimenez. Fundraiser for the Corvallis Sister Cities Association's Uzhhorod (Ukraine) Refugee Fund. Earl Newman, an artist and screen printer who lives in Summit, has created and donated a screen-printed poster illustrating support for Ukraine. Two hundred numbered posters will be printed; several framed posters will be available. The prints will sell for $100 each to be donated to the refugee fund; framed prints will cost extra. Information: 541-760-8081 or caroltrueba@gmail.com. Fundraiser for Ukrainian refugees, through March 31, New Morning Bakery, 219 SW Second St., Corvallis. Owner Keara James will donate 20% of sales off six-packs of Hamantaschen to the Corvallis Sister Cities Association's Uzhhorod Refugee Fund. Hamantaschen are triangular cookies; New Morning's cookies have apricot, marionberry and poppy seed fillings. Rally to support Ukraine, noon to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Benton County Courthouse, 120 NW Fourth St., Corvallis. All are invited to come show solidarity with Ukraine in an event that is not antiwar or anti-Russia but pro-Ukraine. Those attending can bring Ukrainian flags, sunflowers and signs showing support. Updates on the humanitarian aspect of the war will be given. Information: 7442117@gmail.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Helios Towers has closed its acquisition of Airtel Africas towers in Malawi for a total of US$54.7 million. The deal will grant Helios Towers a further 723 sites across Malawi, with the firm anticipating US$23 million in revenue after it has controlled these for a full year. Under the agreement, Airtel Malawi will lease the infrastructure for 12 years. Helios Towers has made a number of acquisitions from Airtel Africas units; indeed, the Malawi agreement was announced at the same time as a similar deal with Airtel Madagascar which closed in November 2021. While the companies also signed preliminary agreements that would have seen Helios acquire Airtels towers in Chad and Gabon, these subsequently expired. Last month both firms agreed to scrap the Chad deal, but the Gabon purchase has been revived. Apart from its most recent acquisitions from Airtel, Helios Towers is owns tower infrastructure in Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania. Press Release March 25, 2022 Pangilinan swears in 157 new Liberal Party members in CDO CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- At the kick-off of the campaign period for local elections, vice-presidential aspirant Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan on Friday swore into the opposition Liberal Party 157 new members, mostly young people, farmers, and professionals from various parts of Misamis Oriental. At the oath-taking, Pangilinan gave the marching order to the new party members: win his tandem with Vice-President Leni Robredo and the Tropang Angat senators by going house-to-house and convincing the Andy's (undecideds) until they become Daisy's (decideds). He said that while he had wanted to simply run for the Senate re-election, Robredo was able to convince him to "fight the epic battle of our time." "At gagawin natin ang lahat huwag lang manumbalik ang pang-aabuso, kurakot, plundering at revisionism ng kasaysayan. I was a student leader who fought against the dictator, and never in my life that I imagined na makakabalik [sa poder] ang pinatalsik na na pamilya," he said. Pangilinan said the party has always been at the forefront of the fight for democracy and freedom, citing Zamboanga City Mayor Cesar Climaco, Antique Mayor Evelio Javier, and Senator Ninoy Aquino, who lived and died defending these values. "Sanay tayong tumatayo para sa ating paninindigan, binubuwis ang buhay. The same applies today when we are experiencing the worst economic crisis in 70 years and the worst health crisis in a hundred years, when millions go hungry and hundreds continue to die, and when we have a government that is stealing Covid funds," he said. Pangilinan said that instead of going to hospitals and treatment, the billions of Covid funds go into the pockets of cronies, who instead of being prosecuted are being defended, causing deaths even among medical front-liners who died prematurely due to lack of preventive personnel funds. In contrast, he said Robredo shows compassion by immediately sending out relief packs and setting up medical service operations. "Sa OVP maliwanag ang objective, magbigay ng suporta. [Sa iba], paano pagkakitaan ang Covid...Naging conduit pa ng overpriced and substandard [medical products]. Sa halip na sugpuin ang Covid, [ang objective] samantalahin ang Covid. Halimaw lang ang gumagawa niyan," he said. Bencyrus Ellorin, who organized the Liberal Party oath-taking, said the party needs to reclaim the democratic space with truth-telling as misinformation, disinformation, and fake news dominates the Internet. Ellorin said democracy-loving Filipinos were angered by Monday's rally pushing for the tandem of Robredo and Sara Duterte. "Galit ang mga tao. Alam ng tao ang pag-angat ni Leni, pag-angat ni Kiko," he said. The Egyptian National Postal Organisation and Bahrain-based Beyon Connect, a subsidiary of Batelco, reached an agreement to establish a new joint venture to deploy digital postbox solutions. According to an official statement, the agreement is in line with Egypts strategy and Vision 2030 to accelerate the digital transformation in the public sector. Beyon Connect will offer OneBox solution, the first digital postbox in the Middle East, to the joint venture company in Egypt, said the statement. OneBoxwill enables national secure communication between the public sector, private businesses, and Egyptian residents in one secure, convenient, sustainable, and spam-free digital space. Dr. Sharif Farouk, Egypt Post Chairman empahsised on the importance of this partnership with Beyon Connect that will bring to Egypt one of the most advanced technologies being used in Europe and the Middle East that will provide a secure and reliable platform as a National secure communication between the public sector, private businesses and Egyptian citizens. COVID-19 has proved the fundamental need for efficient and reliable digital services to enable nationwide effective communication in times of crisis, and the services are in line with the Egyptian government policy towards sustainable development, Sharif added. Meanwhile, the CEO of Beyon Connect, Christian Rasmussen, said: We are excited to export Beyon Connects leading market innovations of OneID and OneBox from Bahrain to create a more sustainable and secure digital backbone for Egypt. Egypt Post was established in 1865 and is one of the oldest governmental institutions not only in Egypt but also in MENA. Egypt Post is the designated postal operator of Universal Postal. Somalia-based operator Hormuud Telecom has attained a globally recognised mobile money certification from trade body the GSMA, an achievement that paves the way for the operator to contribute to Somalias stability and focus on key growth areas. Speaking to Developing Telecoms, chief executive Ahmed Mohamed Yusuf (pictured, third from right) highlighted how Somalia has come a long way in the past decade and sees emerging technologies such as mobile money as the key to aiding the country to rebuild. Somalia is still recovering from a 31-year civil war that is technically still ongoing. Its infrastructure and state institutions were destroyed during the conflict but Somalia has shown signs of recovery with infrastructure being rebuilt. However, the country still faces challenges and not having a stable currency is one of them. Around 95% of the Somali shilling is counterfeit, which pushed citizens to take up digital mobile financial services to buy basic goods and receive wages. With citizens becoming ever more reliant on mobile money, it is important service providers invest in compliance and adopt best service practices to retain trust. Thinking big picture, Yusuf believes the new accreditation will set a blueprint for other providers to follow. Hormuud received the GSMA Mobile Money certification for its EVC Plus mobile money platform which serves over 3 million customers, making Hormuud the first enterprise in the country to receive the award. The operator joins sixteen other mobile money platforms in attaining the accreditation, including Safaricom MPESA, Orange Money, Vodafone MPESA and MTN MOMO. The award was presented to Yusuf at GSMA headquarters in London today (March 25). Hormuud went through an 18-month trial with the trade body in which it completed assessments to compare its capabilities against industry best practices. These ranged from safeguarding funds, fraud prevention, security systems and data privacy. Mobile financial services are the most effective and fascinating technology right now to small businesses and individuals, it has pushed a complete transformation in Somalia, Yusuf told Developing Telecoms. Mobile financial services only launched in 2010 and Somalia moved from a cash society into a mainly digital one, claimed Yusuf. Cross border growth plans Looking ahead, Hormuud will be looking to Somalias landlocked neighbour Ethiopia for future growth. Specifically, Hormuud wants to sell wholesale broadband and data to licensed communications providers in the country within the next five years. Yusuf noted Ethiopias large 100 million population is untapped potential which can drive growth for players that can successfully launch services there. Ethiopia is a market where we can be the source of data for fibre and we started already with laying down 500km of cables along the border. Because Ethiopia is landlocked they have difficulty securing data and rely on satellites, essentially they need us and we need them. It will be a substantial revenue driver for us and if all goes well it will contribute significantly to our growth. Our long term objective is to partner with Ethiopia and expand our cables into Ethiopia, said Yusuf. Page Content MEDIA CONTACT Garret Swanson, (402) 480-0883, garret.swanson@nebraska.gov Lincoln March is Social Work Month and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) would like to thank social workers across the state for the work they do for Nebraskans. Social Work Month is a time to inform the public and stakeholders about the services social workers provide in an array of sectors including hospitals, mental health centers, schools, social service agencies, community centers, and other areas. Nebraskans become social workers because they have a strong desire to help others and make our State a better place to live for all. Social work is one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). There are almost 720,000 professional social workers in the United States and that number is expected to rise to more than 800,000 by 2030. It is critically important DHHS continues to grow the social work profession to maintain quality services and programs for Nebraskans. To do this DHHS offers tuition reimbursement, great benefits, and world-class training to individuals interested in becoming social workers. The National Association of Social Workers set the theme for this year's Social Work Month as The Time is Right for Social Work, a theme that I believe strongly underlines the importance of developing the next generation of social workers. Social workers are employed in many fields and strengthen our state every day." Said Children and Family Services Director Stephanie Beasley. Growing the next generation of social workers is critical to the wellbeing of Nebraskans. I am excited about the future of social work in Nebraska thanks to the opportunities being developed by the Department as well as private partners." Throughout March, DHHS is holding events, highlighting the successes of its social workers, and educating the public in the important role social workers play in Nebraska. Nebraskans interested in the field of social work can visit https://socialworklicensure.org/articles/become-a-social-worker/ to learn more about entering this important field. Moscow, ID (83843) Today Rain likely. High 59F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low 44F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%. After losing former President Donald Trumps endorsement, U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) lashed out at his competitor in the U.S. Senate race Katie Britt during a candidate forum in Dothan on Thursday. Brooks, who fell to third in the polls behind Britt and Mike Durant, challenged Britts dedication to her espoused political agenda during an 8-minute speech at the Houston County Republican Womens meeting at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center. A day after saying Britt is weak on border security, Brooks touted his record on the topic saying hes been ranked No. 1 by an independent government watchdog group every year that hes been a member of Congress. Folks, you have to get past the slick ads that are paid for with special interest group money who of course have a special interest in trying to keep me from getting elected and ascertain for yourself what the true facts are, Brooks said. Brooks also quoted statements that Britt, former president of the Business Council of Alabama, made while talking to the Mobile Chamber of Commerce in support of the gas tax in Alabama pushed by Gov. Kay Ivey and passed three years ago by the state legislature. I ask you all to think get past the 30-second sound bites that are crafted so cleverly by people who dont care if its the truth or not and get to the facts, Brooks said. Following Brooks speech, Britt, an Enterprise native, said her focus is getting her message out to voters. Alabamians know that this country is moving in the wrong direction in every single way and they dont want someone whos going to play political games, Britt said. I feel like Im standing on my own two feet unlike other candidates that are attempting to distort reality. In response to Brooks previous statements, Britt said she has always been in favor of a secure border. I have always been for building a wall, Britt said. That will be a top priority of mine and also putting back in Trumps Remain in Mexico policy. Brooks, who represents north Alabama in Congress, made comments that Britt has supported higher taxes on the state level in the past, but Britt said she will never vote to raise taxes and believes that the federal government has a spending problem, not a revenue problem. On day one, I am going to introduce a balanced budget amendment and tie to it that no member of Congress gets paid until they balance their budget, Britt said. I think thats only fair. Britt and Brooks will go toe-to-toe against Durant, Lillie Boddie, Karla DuPriest, and Jake Schafer in the GOP primary on May 24 in a bid to win the seat of retiring U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.). Sable Riley is a Dothan Eagle staff writer and can be reached at sriley@dothaneagle.com or 334.712.7915. Support her work and that of other Eagle journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at dothaneagle.com . A list of 89 possible names will be considered for renaming nine Army installations named for Confederate officers, including Fort Rucker. The congressional Naming Commission released the list last week. The list was developed from public submissions and visits by the commission to each of the installations. In all, the commission received 34,000 submissions that accounted for 3,670 unique names. Names have not been attached to any specific installation. The Naming Commission has until Oct. 1 to submit a naming plan with its final recommendations to the House Armed Services Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee. The Naming Commission was created to consider renaming military installations and assets that were named to commemorate the Confederate State of America or anyone who voluntarily served the Confederacy. Fort Rucker was named for Confederate officer Edmund W. Rucker, who became an industrial leader in Birmingham after the Civil War. Along with Fort Rucker in Alabama, the Army installations to be renamed include: Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort Polk, Louisiana; Fort Benning and Fort Gordon in Georgia; and Fort A.P. Hill, Fort Lee, and Fort Pickett in Virginia. Its important that the names we recommend for these installations appropriately reflect the courage, values and sacrifices of our diverse military men and women, retired Navy Adm. Michelle Howard, chair of the Naming Commission, said in a news release. We also are considering the local and regional significance of names and their potential to inspire and motivate our service members. Some of the names on the list are well-known military leaders Dwight Eisenhower, Omar Bradley and Colin Powell. But the list also includes the names of combat heroes like Sgt. Alvin York and Audie Murphy. The list features historic figures like Harriet Tubman, the former slave who led repeated missions to free other slaves through the Underground Railroad and went on to serve the Union Army as a scout, spy, soldier and nurse. Then there are names that are not as familiar. Desmond Doss, whose heroic actions during World War II were the subject of the movie Hacksaw Ridge, is included on the list as are the names Gary Gordon and Randall Shughart the Delta Force soldiers killed in 1993 in Mogadishu while trying to protect the crew of a downed Black Hawk piloted by current Alabama U.S. Senate candidate Mike Durant. Kimberly Hampton, an Army captain and the first female pilot shot down and killed by hostile fire, is on the list. Hamptons helicopter was shot down in Fallujah, Iraq on Jan. 2, 2004. Charles Kelly, who joined the Army when he was 15, serving during World War II as a combat medic and later as a helicopter pilot in Korea and Vietnam. Kellys biggest impact was flying medical evacuation missions, known as Dustoff, in Vietnam. Kelly was killed during a mission on July 1, 1964. Under heavy fire and repeatedly warned by ground forces that he should withdraw his aircraft, Kelly replied that he would leave When I have your wounded. Those were his last words before an enemy bullet pierced his heart. Michael J. Novosel Sr. served as an Air Force combat aviator during World War II, but he received the Medal of Honor for actions while serving in the Army during the Vietnam War, flying medical evacuation missions out of combat zones. A Pennsylvania native, Novosel lived in Enterprise at one point. To see the full list of names, visit https://www.thenamingcommission.gov/names. Peggy Ussery is a Dothan Eagle staff writer and can be reached at aussery@dothaneagle.com or 334-712-7963. Support her work and that of other Eagle journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at dothaneagle.com. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Officials for an Alabama school district say they are reviewing policies and procedures after an elementary student was left behind following a field trip at the Nashville Zoo. Athens City Schools said in a statement Thursday that a parent of the student involved has requested the district not to comment any more than necessary, and we want to honor that request. A student on a field trip from HEART Academy at Julian Newman Elementary School in Athens Monday apparently became separated from his group at the zoo. Nashville Zoo spokesperson Jim Bartoo said the child found a zoo employee at a restaurant in the early afternoon and said he thought he had been left behind. The zoo contacted the district, and the childs parents picked up the child. He stayed with park security, watched cartoons, and took a nap, Bartoo said. According to an Athens school spokeswoman, school officials communicated regularly with the parents and the zoo until the family arrived back in Alabama. We are so glad that the student was safe and knew what procedures to follow, and we appreciate the protocols in place at the zoo for instances such as this, Superintendent Beth Patton said. As you can imagine, we are all devastated that this occurred. We are currently reviewing this matter and our field trip procedures. A capsule containing around 400 Aedes aegypti mosquito eggs infected with the Wolbachia bacteria. Photo by VnExpress/Le Phuong Capsules containing mosquito eggs resistant to dengue fever viruses were released in southern Binh Duong's Thu Dau Mot Town on Thursday to help control the disease. The Wolbachia Project in southern Vietnam, conducted by the World Mosquito Program and collaborators, seeks to release mosquitos infected with the Wolbachia bacteria into the environment. The bacteria, a natural pathogen to several insects, would compete with viruses like dengue, Zika, chikungunya and yellow fever found inside mosquitos, thus making it harder for viruses to replicate and for mosquitos to spread the viruses to humans. Nguyen Vu Trung, head of Ho Chi Minh City Pasteur Institute, said for this project, the bacteria would be made to infect Aedes aegypti mosquito eggs. The eggs would then be contained into capsules, with each containing about 400 eggs. These capsules would be put inside water containers in 2,800 locations across Thu Dau Mot, an hour drive from HCMC. The eggs would eventually hatch and infected mosquitos escape into the environment, Trung said. These mosquitos would eventually mate with local mosquito populations, spreading the effect. Once every two weeks, the water containers would be replaced with new capsules. Capsules would continue to be introduced for around 20 weeks, and when there's enough mosquitos infected with Wolbachia in the environment, the situation would be monitored for about a year so the project results could be evaluated. Claudia Surjadjaja, regional director for the World Mosquito Program, said dengue fever is the fastest spreading tropical disease and may affect 40 percent of the world population. Using the Wolbachia bacteria for disease control is an effective method to reduce the number of dengue fever cases, she added. This is the first time mosquitos infected with Wolbachia are released in southern Vietnam as a disease control method. More mosquitos are expected to be released in Tien Giang in the Mekong Delta on Friday too. Previously, these mosquitos had already been released in Nha Trang in central Vietnam. Vietnam records around 90,000 cases of dengue fever every year on average, with 70 percent in southern Vietnam, according to Trung. Authorities excavate a site in Binh Dinh to look for remains of fallen soldiers during the Vietnam War. Photo by VnExpress/Hoai Phuc The remains of 25 Vietnam War soldiers were found in a mass grave in the south central province of Binh Dinh thanks to a tip-off from a U.S. veteran. The veteran, who is unnamed, provided the coordinates and maps to an area at Xuan Son Hill, which is now part of Hoai An District's An Nghia Commune, Ho Quoc Dung, the Binh Dinh Party Committee Secretary, said Thursday. The area was a battlefield during the Vietnam War in 1966. After two weeks of excavations, authorities found over 25 soldier remains, along with several objects. The remains would unrdergo a memorial ceremony on April 30, followed by burial at a cemetery for fallen soldiers in Hoai An District. According to information provided by the U.S. veteran and data from authorities, around 60-80 soldiers lost their lives in the Xuan Son hill area during 1966. Therefore, a search for the rest of the remains is ongoing. My Hanh could not get her prenatal check at the hospital after Shenzhen placed millions of people under a strict lockdown as part of Chinas zero-Covid strategy. The Vietnamese woman, who lives in the southern Chinese citys Yantian District, was to have had her regular check on March 15. After speaking to the local police, she got permission to go to the hospital and was escorted by them out of her apartment complex. But when they reached the main street, medical authorities at a checkpoint did not allow them to pass. "They said I can call an ambulance if it is an emergency but I should go home since it was not urgent," she says. "Now only ambulances and [essential personnel] are allowed on the streets". As the world enters the third year with the pandemic, many countries have decided to live with it. But China is an outlier that is sticking to a zero-Covid strategy, maintaining strict lockdowns, mass testing and movement restrictions. Vietnamese living in China are rattled by the spike, and some have also seen their lives upended and incomes reduced due to the stringent measures. A worker in a protective suit collects a swab from a resident at a residential compound under lockdown, following the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, China March 14, 2022. Photo by Reuters Doan Ngoc Ha of Futian District says there are many inconveniences since Shenzhen officials ordered the citys 17.5 million people to stay at home starting last week after 60 new cases were found the previous Sunday. "We must furnish a negative Covid result with the test done within 24 - 48 hours if we want to go to the supermarket". Everyone has to get tested every one or two days. If a Covid patient is found in an apartment complex, authorities isolate the whole building, she says. Hanh says local authorities visit every home to collect samples for testing. "They notify us two hours before arrival. Each person has a QR code with their personal information so that they can detect a Covid case easily". Many Vietnamese have faced ordeals as finance and technology hub Shenzhen suspended production and transportation. Nguyen Son Tung, who runs a goods transport business, still has to pay overheads though he cannot earn an income. "I must pay for the warehouse, drivers salaries, Covid test fees, and many others," he laments. Chinese customs authorities now take stringent safety measures and take hours to screen a truck now instead of the normal 10-15 minutes, which is affecting his business as trucks end up stranded on the Vietnam border. He hopes the pandemic is contained within two weeks and his business returns to normal. Hanh and Ha are unable to hide their tears when speaking about their rental and utility bills even as the strict restrictions prevent them from earning a livelihood. Hanh, a trader, says: "My supplies are limited because of this outbreak. Goods are stranded at the border and cannot be shipped to Vietnam. Ha says: "I have to pay VND18 million (over $787) a month to rent my warehouse, not to mention rent for my house and utilities". She admits to feeling the economic pinch and struggling to pay rents without an income. The one silver lining is that her landlord has not raised her rent. However, many of the Vietnamese in Shenzhen have great trust and hope in the governments zero-Covid policy. Hanh says: "I am scared of Covid since it is more fatal than common flu. In China, many people have died". Echoing her, Ha says the zero-Covid policy is essential. "Many people have been infected. I have children and so must be careful. I have read that recovered Covid patients have aftereffects for long". She believes the tough Covid policies would keep everyone safe. A resident undergoes a coronavirus test in Shenzhen. Photo by AFP Earlier this year it took China more than 20 days to contain an outbreak, and so Ha believes the current spike will be under control soon. The outbreak in China is currently spreading faster than during previous waves, with the daily caseload skyrocketing from a few dozens in February to more than 5,100 on March 15, the highest ever. This gravest outbreak in two years has forced lockdowns on virus hotspots. AFP reported that at least 13 cities were fully locked down as of Tuesday last week, and several others had partial lockdowns. Tung says, "Wuhan has taught Chinese a lesson, so they know what they should do". He says many of his Vietnamese friends in China admire the zero-Covid policy. They all see the effectiveness of this strict Covid containment policy and have been supported with food and groceries during the lockdown, he says. "China wants to protect its people because it has a huge population, and can effectively provide necessities to everyone". Last weekend the country reported its first Covid-19 deaths in more than a year when two people succumbed in Jilin Province. The deaths took the coronavirus death toll to 4,638 since the start of the pandemic. While 87.9 percent of Chinas 1.4 billion people having got two shots of vaccinates -- a high rate compared to most countries -- the numbers decline with age, with the figure dropping to 82 percent for those between 70 and 79 years, according to Bloomberg. President Xi Jinping has recently promised to tweak the Covid-fighting approach so that it is less disruptive to the economy. "I think China is doing a great job in containing the virus," Tung says. The State Department recently honored 12 women who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, strength, and leadership in improving the lives of others and their communities. The 2022 Secretary of States International Women of Courage Awards ceremony was held virtually. Secretary of State Antony Blinken introduced each award recipient starting with Rizwana Hasan, a lawyer who has led successful campaigns against commercial shrimp farming that hurt traditional fishermen, and the destruction of ecologically vital wetlands around Dhaka by unscrupulous housing corporations. Simone Sibilio do Nascimento of Brazil is a prominent prosecutor in Rio de Janeiro who has taken on corruption, militias, and drug trafficking. Ei Thinzar Maung is a democracy activist in Burma. In 2015, she was imprisoned for organizing a 400-mile march protesting a ban on student unions and teaching in ethnic minority languages. Josefina Klinger Zuniga runs an NGO that brings together local fisherman, laborers, and entrepreneurs to support tourism that protects the environment, creates jobs, empowers Afro-Colombians and Indigenous communities. Taif Sami Mohammed is Iraqs deputy finance minister and director general of the budget department, and has successfully fought government and budgetary corruption. After Liberias civil wars, in which violence against women was widespread, Facia Boyenoh Harris dedicated herself to reducing gender-based violence and increasing girls education and womens political participation. Najla Mangoush, Libyas first woman foreign minister, an expert in conflict resolution, has worked toward a more unified, democratic government. I n Moldova, Doina Gherman, a member of parliament, campaigned for Moldova to ratify the Istanbul Convention, recognizing gender-based violence as a human rights violation. As a transgender woman, Bhumika Shrestha campaigned for Nepal to add a non-binary option to citizenship documents; in 2007, the supreme court made that change. In Romania, Carmen Gheorghe fights for the rights of Roma women and girls, a group facing racism and sexism, including child, early, and forced marriages. Roegchanda Pascoe from Cape Town, South Africa is a community leader who works to reduce organized crime and gender-based violence. In December 2021, Pham oan Trang was sentenced to nine years in prison in Vietnam for her writing on democracy and human rights. We condemn her unjust imprisonment and call for her immediate release, said Secretary Blinken. These twelve women are separated by thousands of miles, said Secretary Blinken, but they are united in their dedication to serving their countries and communities with extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice. The United States stands with them. The United States condemned in the strongest terms Irans recent attack on the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps openly acknowledged responsibility for the attack, claiming its targets were Israeli strategic centers. U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said in a statement that the attack occurred without any justification. The United States, he wrote, stands with Prime Minister Kadhimi and the leaders of the Kurdistan Region, President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, in condemning this assault on the sovereignty of Iraq and its Kurdistan region. We will support the Government of Iraq in holding Iran accountable. In recent testimony before the U.S. Senate, General Kenneth McKenzie, Commander of the United States Central Command, said, Iran continues to pose the greatest threat to U.S. interests and the security of the [Middle East] region as a whole. He noted that through its proxies and clients, Iran is fomenting conflict from Yemen through the Arabian Peninsula across Iraq and Syria into Lebanon. General McKenzie also voiced concern about the remarkable growth in number and efficiency of [Irans] ballistic missile force, their UAV program, their long-range drones, and their land attack cruise missile program. State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said Irans destabilizing activities across a range of realms, including the recent missile attack on Iraq, show clearly why a mutual return by Iran and the United States to the Iran nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, is both desirable and urgent. Every challenge that we face and would face from Iran whether that is its support for proxies, its support for terrorist groups, its ballistic missile program, he said, would be all the more difficult to confront if Iran were in the possession of a nuclear weapon. The United States believes, said Spokesperson Price, that through a mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA, we can reimpose the permanent, verifiable limits on Irans nuclear program to see to it that Iran is never able to acquire a nuclear weapon. The first thing we want to do is put Irans nuclear program back in a box, to take that challenge off the table, he declared, so that, working with allies and partners we can...take on the challenge that Iran poses in these other realms more effectively. ELKO Record-shattering high temperatures are expected in northeastern Nevada heading into the weekend. Elko could see 78 degrees Friday, far above the record of 71 degrees set in 1960, according to the National Weather Service. Saturdays forecast high of 79 is also above the record 73 degrees from 1988. Sunday should match the record high at 76. Elko fell one degree short of a record on Thursday when the temperature topped out at 71. This heat will not last as a new system will be approaching the west coast late Sunday, bringing cooler temperatures and rain and snow chances for the start of next week, stated the National Weather Service. The extended forecast for Elko calls for a high of 67 on Monday along with a 40% chance of showers. The low Monday night will drop into the 30s. With a week left in March, Elko is falling behind on precipitation. The total of .57 of an inch compares with a normal mark of .74. Elko is also behind on the water year that began Oct. 1, but only by .15 of an inch. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Following a move from daily to weekly reporting of COVID-19 data, state officials are lifting a requirement that unvaccinated employees undergo weekly COVID-19 tests, while also eliminating a planned monthly surcharge for state workers who have not received a COVID vaccine. A memo sent to state workers Tuesday announcing the end of the employee COVID-19 testing program noted that almost half of the state workforce was testing weekly when the testing requirement began, resulting in about 10,000 tests administered per week. Recent data shows a steady downward trend in cases, and positive results among the state workers still required to undergo weekly testing have dropped to less than 1 percent of that group. Though the state initially took a hard-line stance on COVID-19 vaccines, threatening to fire unvaccinated employees, statistics reveal that only a handful of employees were ever disciplined and even fewer let go with no employees in the executive branch affected by the decision. In addition to the halt in testing, the Public Employees Benefits Program (PEBP) which provides health and life insurance to about 70,000 people, including state employees and their dependents voted unanimously on Thursday to roll back a decision to apply surcharges against roughly 5,000 unvaccinated state employees. The board approved the surcharges in December as a stopgap measure to cover an average of $2,700 a week for COVID testing that could no longer be supported by federal CARES Act funding. PEBP Executive Officer Laura Rich recommended removing the surcharge based on the following factors: increased vaccination rates, a decline in the number of employees with COVID and fewer cases requiring hospitalization. PEBP was set to implement the monthly surcharges beginning July 1. The program would have required all state workers and dependents without proof of vaccination or a legitimate religious or health exemption to pay a $55 monthly premium, including $175 for each dependent over 18 covered by the health plan. Without the surcharges, the governors office and finance office will be using other funds to help cover costs incurred by employee-mandated testing (approximately $1.3 million) and any potential COVID spikes in the future, according to reports included in Thursdays agenda items. During the meeting, Rich clarified that if there is another COVID variant that causes a spike and puts PEBP on the hook for high-cost claims, the governors finance office would be open to discussing solutions. The cost so far As of the end of December, roughly 5,000 state employees were unvaccinated, but an exact number that included dependents and retirees was unavailable. The costs paid by PEBP for members diagnosed with COVID-19 amounted to a little more than $2.2 million in 2020, almost $11.5 million in 2021 and nearly $2 million through Feb. 10 this year. A breakdown showing costs incurred for vaccinated and unvaccinated members was unavailable because PEBP does not have immunization information for all members. If a member received their vaccine through a community health center or somewhere that did not ask for insurance information (such as a vaccine clinic), Rich said PEBP would not have any vaccination information on record because the organization would not have paid that claim. Though PEBP does not track costs by vaccination status, Rich noted that studies show that costs among unvaccinated are much higher than those who are vaccinated. Disciplinary actions for unvaccinated workers As Nevada has navigated the pandemic, the question of vaccine mandates has spurred countless debates, deadlocked votes and various approaches to discipline surrounding employees who refuse to get a COVID-19 vaccine. But discipline policies and procedures among state agencies are not monolithic. Most employees of executive branch agencies have different policies than employees of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) and the judicial and legislative branches. Data from the Division of Human Resource management which covers most executive branch agencies from September 2021 to the present indicate that 19 state employees have received written reprimands for noncompliance with COVID policies, seven employees have received intermediate levels of discipline and no employees have been terminated for noncompliance. The state board of health in September adopted emergency regulations requiring a COVID vaccine for correctional employees and state-employed health workers, but Republican lawmakers blocked the mandate and another one affecting college students from taking effect in December. The Board of Regents voted to create a vaccine mandate for higher education system employees in late September, sending notices on Dec. 1 to nearly 1,700 employees warning them that they had about a month to comply with the directive. According to data shared by institutions at the end of December before the firings became permanent, only 2.3 percent of NSHE employees or just over 500 people remained unvaccinated. Legislative Counsel Bureau Director Brenda Erdoes said the Legislature does not have disciplinary procedures for unvaccinated workers but requests that employees working in the legislative building who are not fully boosted and vaccinated test weekly for COVID-19. To date, Erdoes said no employees have been terminated for failure to comply with the request to test. Nevadas judiciary system is not unified and each court follows different rules and regulations. The states Appellate Court, which includes the Nevada Supreme Court and the Nevada Court of Appeals, requires employees to be up to date with vaccinations. Director and State Court Administrator Katherine Stocks said the court is an at-will employer and does not have a progressive discipline policy. Five employees who did not get the vaccine were let go earlier this year, Stocks said, adding that though a few employees were granted exceptions per a return to office policy, the organization has an almost 100 percent vaccination rate. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Bloomberg: Russia says Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is coming to Beijing for a meeting to discuss Afghanistan on March 31. During that meeting, will there be an opportunity to discuss the situation in Ukraine? And will that be an opportunity for China to push for a ceasefire and protection of civilians in Ukraine? Wang Wenbin: We are speeding up preparations for the third Foreign Ministers Meeting among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan. China will continue to leverage its strength as a neighbor of Afghanistan and contribute to its lasting peace and stability. More information about the meeting will be released in due course. CRI: On March 24, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a visit to Afghanistan. Could you tell us more about that? Wang Wenbin: Yesterday, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a visit to Afghanistan, during which he held talks with Acting Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi of the Afghan interim government. This is the first visit by the Chinese foreign minister since the change of government in Afghanistan last year. The visit is of great significance as it will have a positive effect on promoting peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan and upholding peace and stability in the region. State Councilor Wang Yi noted during the talks that China and Afghanistan are friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers with bilateral exchanges dating back over a thousand years. China respects Afghanistans independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, respects the independent choices made by the Afghan people and respects the religious belief and ethnic custom of the Afghan people. China does not interfere in Afghanistans internal affairs, nor does it seek self-interest or sphere of influence in Afghanistan. As our Afghan friends often say, China is the only major country that has never hurt Afghanistan. China is ready to carry forward the traditional friendship between the two peoples and develop normal and friendly neighborly relations with Afghanistan on the basis of the five principles of peaceful coexistence, in an effort to help the country achieve true independence and endogenous development and take its future firmly in its own hands. It is hoped that the Afghan interim government can establish an inclusive political framework, adopt prudent policies and make positive efforts in line with the Afghan peoples interests and the international communitys expectations. State Councilor Wang stressed that the ETIM is a terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council and designated by the Chinese government in accordance with law. We hope Afghanistan can earnestly fulfill its commitments and take effective measures to resolutely combat the ETIM and all other terrorist forces. The Afghan side welcomed the visit by the Chinese delegation led by State Councilor Wang Yi, noting that this visit by the most important high-level delegation it had received will further strengthen the time-honored friendship between Afghanistan and China. The Afghan side thanked China for its valuable assistance, especially the much-needed humanitarian winter supplies for the Afghan people. The Afghan side stressed that the Afghan Taliban is a responsible government and would like to reiterate to China and the rest of the world that it will never allow activities by any terrorist in Afghanistan; it will never allow anyone or any organization to use the Afghan territory to conduct actions targeting other countries; and it will never allow any force to engage in activities detrimental to China. The Afghan side attaches importance to Chinas security concerns and will take concrete and robust measures to ensure safety in the whole of Afghanistan and contribute to regional security. The Afghan side expressed high appreciation for the Chinese embassys uninterrupted operation in Afghanistan, which stands as a testament to the strong relations between the two sides. Afghanistan cherishes its friendship with China, and appreciates the assistance offered by China at the most trying times, especially anti-epidemic support and direly needed humanitarian assistance. Afghanistan is ready to capitalize on its unique geographic advantage to participate more in the Belt and Road cooperation and serve as bridge in regional connectivity. State Councilor Wang said that on the premise of respecting Afghanistans sovereignty, China is ready to carry out mutually beneficial cooperation with Afghanistan in an orderly manner with a focus on improving peoples livelihood and enhancing Afghanistans capacity for self-reliant development, so as to help Afghanistan translate its rich resources into development opportunities. In this process, we will work for tangible results instead of making empty promises. China appreciates and welcomes Afghanistans active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, and will work towards extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, replicate more successful experiences, and make Afghanistan, with the geographical strength as the Heart of Asia, a bridge for regional connectivity. Reuters: A draft of a security cooperation agreement between China and Solomon Islands has recently prompted some concern from members of the Australian government. The draft of the security cooperation agreement, which was shared on social media yesterday, proposes giving China the right to use its forces to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects in Solomon Islands. It will also allow Chinese ships to visit and make stopover at this archipelago. We want to ask the foreign ministry, firstly does it acknowledge that this draft is authentic, and secondly do you have any further comment on the contents of the draft? Wang Wenbin: We have made clear our position on China-Solomon Islands policing and security cooperation on many occasions. In November last year, serious unrest broke out in Solomon Islands, putting the lives and property of the people at great risk. China firmly supports the Solomon Islands government in ending the violence and chaos and maintaining stability. China has provided multiple batches of police equipment and sent an ad-hoc police advisory team to the country to conduct training and help its police strengthen capacity-building, which has been widely praised by the Solomon Islands government and all sectors of society. As two sovereign and independent states, China and Solomon Islands conduct normal law enforcement and security cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, which conforms to international law and customary practice. Such cooperation is conducive to maintaining stability in Solomon Islands, promoting regional peace and stability, and enhancing the common interests of China, Solomon Islands and other countries in the region. TASS: The latest deterioration in the Russia-Ukraine situation will affect Chinas import of grains from Ukraine. Is China looking at this issue and trying to find new ways to ensure its food security? If Ukraine is unable to export grains including wheat, will China form new supply chains and start buying more grains from other countries such as Russia? Wang Wenbin: Please turn to the competent authorities for an answer to this question. I would like to say that the situation in Ukraine has had and will continue to have an enormous impact on the global economy and trade, finance, energy, food and the industrial and supply chains, severely affecting the normal life of people in all countries and debilitating the already struggling world economy. The momentum of global economic recovery should not be dampened and people around the world should not be made to pay the price for geopolitical conflict and major power rivalry. China will continue to play a constructive role in easing the situation in Ukraine and stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with all parties to provide more positive energy for the steady, sound and sustainable development of the world economy. AFP: The US has imposed fresh sanctions on North Korea after the country launched an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday. How does China react to this? And second question, ROK media reports say that President Xi Jinping is expected to have a phone call with the newly-elected ROK President Yoon Suk-yeol. Will the two leaders also discuss the latest North Korean missile launch? And could you also confirm whether such a call is actually going to take place? Wang Wenbin: On your first question, we have noted with concern the latest developments. It is our consistent view that dialogue and consultation is the only right path to resolving the Korean Peninsula issue. Under current circumstances, any step that might lead to further deterioration or escalation of the situation is ill-advised. It is in all sides interest to sustain the momentum for dialogue and deescalation, safeguard peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, and advance the political settlement process. It is hoped that all sides will remain calm, exercise self-restraint, stay committed to the course of political resolution, exchange good will, resume dialogue as soon as possible, and work actively to find a solution to break the deadlock. China will continue to play a constructive role in realizing the denuclearization of the Peninsula and advancing the political settlement of the Peninsula issue. On your second question, China and the ROK are important close neighbors and cooperation partners. President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Mr. Yoon Suk-yeol upon his election as President of the ROK, and expressed the positive position of attaching importance to and hoping to develop China-ROK relations. Both sides place emphasis on the guiding role of high-level exchange in bilateral friendship and cooperation. With regard to the phone call you mentioned, we will release information in a timely manner. Dragon TV: It is reported that ASEANs special envoy for Myanmar and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn paid a working visit to Myanmar from March 21 to 23. This is the ASEANs special envoys first visit to Myanmar. Do you have any comment on this latest development? Wang Wenbin: The first visit to Myanmar made by ASEANs special envoy for Myanmar is an important step in the special envoys mediation efforts following the five-point consensus of ASEAN. Myanmar is a member of the ASEAN family. China supports ASEAN in properly handling the Myanmar issue in the ASEAN way. We support Cambodia, the rotating ASEAN chair, in playing an active role and making important contributions to help all parties in Myanmar properly settle their disputes through political dialogue and resume stability and development at an early date. Reuters: I want to just follow up on the question about this security cooperation agreement between China and Solomon Islands. Specifically is the foreign ministry aware that the Australian government has already expressed concerns about this draft? Defense Minister Peter Dutton has already said that this is perhaps something that could become a Chinese military base on the islands. And so we just wanted to ask the foreign ministry whether its aware of the specific reports regarding this draft and whether you could comment on the veracity of these reports? Wang Wenbin: As I just said, China and Solomon Islands conduct normal law enforcement and security cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, which serves the interests of both countries and others in the region. We hope relevant sides will look at this in an objective and rational light and refrain from reading too much into it. It is irresponsible for a few Australian politicians to make absurd remarks about China coercing others. Such remarks intended to create an atmosphere of tension are not conducive to peace and development in the region. CCTV: Speaking on the 23rd anniversary of the start of the NATO bombing of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said in an interview on March 24, Now, after 23 years, one can see with clarity how despicable, ill-judged, unlawful and immoral this operation by 19 NATO countries was and how ridiculous, even stupid, to hear them now blaming Russia for its so-called aggression against Ukraine, adding that the morals, principles and values they constantly talk about do not exist at all. Does China have any comment? Wang Wenbin: On March 24 1999, US-led NATO forces blatantly bypassed the UN Security Council and began the 78-day incessant bombing of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, a sovereign country, in grave violation of relevant international conventions and basic norms governing international relations. In 12,000 strikes, over 10,000 tonnes of explosives were dropped and more than 3,000 missiles fired, targeting everything from medical facilities to ancient cultural relics, residential buildings and schools. Thousands of innocent civilians including three Chinese journalists were killed. During the bombing campaign, NATO even used depleted uranium bombs prohibited by international conventions, causing long-term damage to Serbias environment and peoples health. The people of Serbia will not forget NATOs aggression, nor will the people of China and the rest of the world. NATO is convening a summit on Ukraine on the 23rd anniversary of its bombing of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. I wonder if the US and other NATO members have asked themselves: What is the root cause of the Ukraine crisis? What responsibility should the US and NATO assume? Before reflecting on their crimes against the people in countries like Serbia, Iraq and Afghanistan, the US and NATO have neither right nor authority to judge others. Born out of the Cold War, NATO serves no other purpose than war. It has never contributed to peace and security of our world and will never do so. All those who truly love peace and are committed to advancing peace will resolutely reject NATOs continued expansion. CNR: According to reports, the federal government of Ethiopia declared a humanitarian truce in the Tigray region in a statement on March 24. Do you have any comment? Wang Wenbin: Recently Ethiopias government announced an indefinite humanitarian truce allowing humanitarian relief supplies into the Tigray region to improve the humanitarian situation on the ground. China welcomes this. China supports all parties in Ethiopia in bridging differences, quelling the conflict and realizing reconciliation through dialogue and negotiation, and sincerely hopes that Ethiopia will enjoy peace and stability and achieve development and prosperity. China has provided humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia, including food and vaccines, to help ease the humanitarian difficulties in the northern part of the country. Chinas special envoy for the Horn of Africa affairs of the Foreign Ministry lately visited countries in the region, including Ethiopia. Going forward, China will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia, including the Tigray region, and contribute to promoting regional peace, stability and development. Reuters: Does the foreign ministry have any details to share about Foreign Minister Wang Yis potential visit to India? Wang Wenbin: We will release information on State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yis working visit to India in a timely manner. Please stay tuned. The Paper: NATO Heads of State and Government issued a joint statement after their meeting on March 24, calling on all states, including China, to uphold the international order including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter, to abstain from supporting Russias war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions. Do you have any comment on that? Wang Wenbin: China proceeds from the merits of the matter itself on the Ukraine issue and makes effort to deescalate the situation, resolve the crisis and rebuild peace. We always maintain that nothing is more precious than peace. The pressing priority at this moment is to cease hostilities, and dialogue and negotiation is the most realistic and viable way to do so. The international community should encourage Russia and Ukraine to keep up the talks rather than the fighting. The continuation and escalation of the conflict will only cause greater casualties and serve no ones interest. Escalating sanctions will benefit only a few while making the people suffer. We always believe that security is indivisible. Seeking bloc confrontation and absolute security will only lead to the most insecure scenario. Ukraine should be a bridge for communication between the East and the West, rather than the frontline for major power rivalry. Countries in Europe should work to build a balanced, effective and sustainable regional security architecture, rather than redraw the line of confrontation between the East and the West. The US and NATO should hold dialogue with Russia, rather than start a new Cold War. We always hold that there should be no double standard in international relations. Ukraines sovereignty and security should be upheld, and Russias legitimate security concerns should also be respected. Europes peace and stability should be defended. The same goes for other countries. One shall not wage wars across the world while saying its against war, or wantonly shatter peace while claiming to uphold peace. China plays a constructive role on the Ukraine issue. We speak for justice and work for peace with a long-term vision. We support dialogue and negotiation, actively provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and other affected countries, and stand ready to work with the international community to promote the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis as soon as possible. We call on relevant parties to remain cool-headed and restrained, show political will, and make sure their rationality prevails over emotions, vision triumphs over short-sightedness, and common interests rise above selfish gains. We call for efforts to achieve a ceasefire at an early date, avoid civilian casualties, prevent a larger-scale humanitarian crisis and to realize the long-term peace and stability in Europe and beyond. Chinas position is in line with the wishes of most countries. We stand against groundless accusations and suspicions targeting China, and never accept any pressure and coercion. Time will prove that Chinas position is on the right side of history. AFP: Could you confirm the exact dates for this conference of Afghanistans neighbors? Is it starting on March 30 or 31? And in addition to the confirmed attendance by Russia and Pakistan, who else might be attending? Wang Wenbin: We will release information in due course, where you will find answers to these questions. Tom Holland has reached the stratosphere of Hollywood fame being skyrocketed there after starring as the web slinging Spider-Man for the first time at the tender age of 19. Since then, the English actor has played the role of Peter Parker in five movies with hints in the last one that he could be appearing in another sometime in the future. But he has more depth to his talent than just playing the friendly neighborhood Spidey which has made him the biggest leading man of his generation. First gracing the silver screen back in 2012 in The Impossible, he has appeared on TV and the stage. In the last year he has starred in four movies released in cinemas. Also see: Heres a look at his movies from 2021 and 2022: Chaos Walking - March 2021 Originally scheduled for release in March 2019, the premier of Chaos Walking was delayed due to major reshoots of the production and the covid-19 pandemic. This sci-fi film starring Holland and Daisy Ridley, is based on Patrick Nesss novel, The Knife of Never Letting Go. In the movie, which takes place in the not-too-distant future, Holland plays Todd Hewitt, who lives on a distant planet where there are only men, until Viola, played by Daisy Ridley, crash lands on the planet. The men on the world are all afflicted by "the Noise" which gives them the ability to hear the minds of people and animals. But with the appearance of Viola, Hewitts Noise is silenced. However, his planet is no place for her and in his promise to protect her he will discover the dark secrets of the planet and his own inner power. Cherry - March 2021 This movie is based on the semi-autobiographical novel by the same name written by Nico Walker, it is a darker role for Holland to portray. It follows the life of Cherry who after meeting his true love Emily, played by Ciara Bravo, makes a series of bad decisions taking him on a wayward journey. He goes from college dropout to an army medic in Iraq. However, upon returning stateside his PSTD goes untreated and it leads him down a road of drug use and then bank robbery to support his habit until life catches up with him. The coming-of-age story of a man struggling to find his place in the world was released on Apple TV+. Spider-Man: No Way Home - December 2021 This continuation of the Spider-Man franchise brings together Hollands Peter Parker with two previous incarnations of the web slinger played by Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire. In order to undo his unmasking, which has created conflicts for his superhero and normal life as well as endangering those he loves; Parker enlists the help of Doctor Strange to put the genie back in the bottle. However, in the intent, space and time is ripped open and the future of the Multiverse is put at risk. Spider-Man: No Way Home sees Holland joined by Zendaya as MJ, and Benedict Cumberbatch as Dr. Strange, along with a star-studded cast playing their respective villains who have fought Spider-Man over time. Uncharted - February 2022 This adaptation of the video game series of the same name, "Uncharted" is the origin story of its main character, globetrotting adventurer Nathan Drake played by Holland. Approached by Marc Wahlberg in the role of Victor "Sully" Sullivan, the two set off on a quest to recover a lost treasure that has been hidden for 500 years. They, however, are not the only ones who want to lay claim to the fortune and they cross paths with the ruthless Santiago Moncada played by Antonio Banderas. He and his family claim that they are the rightful heirs to the treasure. Headlines - Russia appears to withdraw troops from Kyiv to focus efforts on the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine - Spotify announces that it is removing its service from Russia - Ukrainian forces retake the city of Kherson from Russian control - Biden says he will "welcome 100,000 Ukrainians to the United States" in European press conference - EU signs gas deal with US to reduce reliance on Russian exports - US secretary of state, Antony Blinken: "Members of Russias forces have committed war crimes" - Ukrainian leaders accuse Russia of taking food delivery and aid workers hostage as they were entering Mariupol - India is working on currency exchange with Russia so that the countries can continue trade - President Zelenskyy reports that 100,000 people still remain trapped in Mariupol, drone footage captures the destruction - Russia claims it used a hypersonic missile in Ukraine, what is it? Russia-Ukraine: Conflict Background - Foreign fighters like "Wali" are targets of the Russian army - How many casualties has Russia suffered? - Sanctions on Russia begin to impact the cost of living around the world Related News In the midst of war the media is always searching for moments and heroes for propaganda victories. Early hope for the Ghost of Kyiv is proof of this. In recent days, the name Wali has been across the news in the last week, a Canadian volunteer sniper who has joined up to defend Ukraine. People are wondering if Russia have a similar candidate. Finding information on specific Russian soldiers is nigh impossible, but there are elements of the Russian special forces that undoubtedly include sniper units. Related stories: What units with snipers does Russia have? Early in the war much was made of daring airborne attacks on the Antonov Airport near Kyiv. Though the attack was eventually repulsed, it put on display some of Russia's special forces it has at its disposal. This attack was conducted by the 11th Guards Air Assault Brigade, before the war. The naming of 'guards' signifies them as a unit of high distinction and dates back through Russian history. Update: Victoria Roschina has been released today by Russian occupiers after several days in captivity. They forced her to record a video saying that she is thankful to Russian special forces for saving her life, @HromadskeUA reports https://t.co/kHCWrAmPYd Olga Tokariuk (@olgatokariuk) March 22, 2022 Another unit which is likely to be more well known in western consciousness are the Spetznaz GRU. This unit was formed in 1949, has has made up the bulk of Russian special forces deployment since 1990. Back in 2014, they were the 'little green men' who occupied Crimea without official badges or designation, and are highly regarded. The reason they could be known in the west is they feature prominently in video games; often a Russian faction in games like Call of Duty or Rainbow Six will have the naming and uniforms of Spetznaz units At the outbreak of war in late-February, the Spetznaz were reported to have the specific mission of assassination the Ukrainian president. The Ukrainian interior ministry reported that they were aware of Russian infiltrations into Kyiv in an attempt to complete this task. Little green men in Minsk pic.twitter.com/vAqFvJEqJz Ruslan Trad (@ruslantrad) August 28, 2020 According to our information, the enemy marked me as target No 1, my family as target No 2. They want to destroy Ukraine politically by destroying the head of state. We have information that enemy sabotage groups have entered Kyiv," President Zelenskyy said at the time. Fortunately, this mission has so far been a failure. Zelenskyy, for his part, remains in Kyiv. Who is Wali? Wali served in Afghanistan as a part of the Royal Canadian Infantrys 22nd Regiment in Kandahar. His real name is unknown; Wali is a nom de guerre. The news organization CBC reported that Wali had travelled to Ukraine through Poland to provide his support. In an interview with CBC he described the events of his journey saying that when he and three other fighters arrived they were greeted with "hugs, handshakes, flags and photos." "They were so happy to have us" said Wali, adding that when he arrived and met the Ukrainian troops they became friends "right away." Highlighting the important role of the VFF in promoting the national great unity and enhancing social consensus, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc said that last year, the VFF showed active performance in encouraging people to join hands in fighting COVID-19 and calling for joint efforts to protect the community. President Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) meets delegates at the event (Photo: VNA) In the year, the VFF raised over 21.8 trillion VND (953.15 million USD) for COVID-19 prevention and control activities, he noted. The State leader and the VFF Central Committee have worked closely together to encourage people to engage in patriotism movements and campaigns launched by the Party, State and the VFF, contributing to strengthening the national great unity, successfully completing socio-economic tasks of the country, ensuring defence-security and enhancing international relations, he said. The President and the VFF Central Committee have coordinated in designing a strategy on the building of a rule-of-law socialist State as well as in the appointment and dismissal of judicial officials and amnesty activities, he said. As the deputy heads of the National Election Council, the President of the VFF Central Committee and the Vice State President worked closely together to supervise the election activities during the elections of deputies to the 15th National Assembly and all-level Peoples Councils in the 2021-2026 tenure, President Phuc said. For 2022, he proposed that the VFF Central Committee continue to popularise the directions from Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the VFF conference on August 16, 2021 with five major tasks. The VFF should continue working to inspire peoples patriotism and national pride, raising public awareness, especially among youngsters, of the responsibility to build and safeguard the nation, he said. He also hoped for stronger engagement of the VFF Central Committee in criticising the Party's policies and States laws, building the political system, fighting corruption, promoting democracy at grassroots level, developing a learning society, and encouraging innovation and building of digital economy and digital society. He suggested that the Government, the National Assembly and administrations at all levels pay more attention to responding to the VFF's proposals and opinions./. Metinvest Mining and Metallurgical Group, owned by businessman Rinat Akhmetov, transferred $500,000 to a targeted charity fund for the purchase of protective ammunition and first-aid kits for the Territorial Defense Forces of Zapoprizhia. "By uniting for the sake of defending the independence of Ukraine and Ukrainians, we are bringing victory closer. The army and the Territorial Defense Forces protect the civilian population, and we are trying to protect and support them in the struggle for state sovereignty, our freedom and independence," head of the Metinvest Humanitarian Mission Coordination Center in Zaporizhia, director general of Zaporizhstal, Oleksandr Myronenko, who is quoted by the press service of the steel plant, said. At the same time, it is noted that the Vadym Novynsky Foundation also transferred $500,000 in support of Zaporizhia Territorial Defense Forces. The total contributions transferred to Zaporizhia Trust Charitable Fund will be used to purchase bulletproof vests, bulletproof helmets and NATO-standard first-aid kits for the defenders. According to a press release, Metinvest Group has been supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Territorial Defense Forces in the cities where the company operates since the first days of the war. Since the beginning of hostilities, more than 35,000 anti-tank hedgehogs, as well as spiked chains against wheeled vehicles and anti-landing hedgehogs, have been made from Metinvest steel. With the support of the company, the construction of the city's fortifications continues. Metinvest enterprises provide heavy special equipment and vehicles for the needs of defenders, as well as fuel, batteries and walkie-talkies. Metinvest is a vertically integrated group of mining and metallurgical enterprises. Its enterprises are located in Ukraine - in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions, in European countries. In particular, in Bulgaria there is a Promet Steel plant with a capacity of 500,000 tonnes of rolled metal per year, in Italy - Metinvest Trametal and Ferriera Valsider with a total capacity of 1.2 million tonnes per year. In the UK, the company owns the Spartan UK plant, which can produce 200,000 tonnes of rolled steel per year. The main shareholders of Metinvest are the SCM group (71.25%) of Rinat Akhmetov and Smart Holding (23.75%) of Vadym Novynsky, who jointly manage the company. Ukraine will carry out a sowing campaign wherever there are no active hostilities, as of March 25, some 150,000 hectares of agricultural land have been sown in the country, the website of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food reported on Friday. These indicators are 1.5 times higher than last year - as of March 25, 2021, some 106,000 hectares of agricultural land were sown in Ukraine as part of the spring sowing campaign. "We already see that in Kherson, Odesa, Mykolaiv, in spite of everything, the sowing campaign has begun under Ukrainian flags,", First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy Taras Vysotsky said. It is clarified that due to the military aggression of the Russian Federation in Ukraine this season, a decrease in the area under high-margin crops (sunflower and corn) is expected while increasing the area under crops that are easier to produce, but important from the point of view of food security - peas, barley and oats. "These crops used to be niche, but they are simpler in terms of technology, and, nevertheless, important for people's nutrition. Therefore, there will be such a shift from export-oriented crops to food crops for domestic consumption," Vysotsky specified. According to the ministry, Russian aggression will lead to a reduction in the area under crops in Ukraine by a third, which threatens the food security of 100 million residents of countries importing Ukrainian agricultural products, mainly from North Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Zelensky thanks EU for sanctions against Russia, but notes it is 'somewhat too late' President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the European Union for the sanctions against Russia, but noted that it was "somewhat too late." "I want to thank [the European Union]. You are united around us. One way or another, in different ways, but the main thing is that you united. And we appreciate it. You applied sanctions, we are grateful. These are powerful steps, but it was a little too late. Because if it had been preventive, Russia would not have gone to war. No one knows for sure, but in any case there was a chance," Zelensky said during a speech at the European Council. Zelensky also recalled the blocking of the Russian Nord Stream 2 project in the EU. "And that is right. But it was also a little too late. If it had been on time, Russia would not have created a gas crisis either. In any case, there was such a chance," he stressed. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing the leaders of the European Union countries regarding Ukraine's future membership in it, urged them "not to be late." "And now we are preparing Ukraine's membership in the European Union. Finally. Here I ask you do not be late. Please. During this month you have compared these worlds, and you can see everything. Who is worth what. And what Ukraine should be in the EU in the near future. At least you have everything for this. And we have this chance," Zelensky said during a speech to the European Council. At the same time, the head of state listed the EU countries regarding their position on Ukraine. "Lithuania is for us. Latvia is for us. Estonia is for us. Poland is for us. France Emmanuel, I really believe that you will be for us. Slovenia is for us. Slovakia is for us. The Czech Republic is for us. Romania knows what dignity is, which means that the decisive moment will be for us. Bulgaria is for us. Greece, I believe that with us. Germany... I'll be a little later. Portugal well, practically ... Croatia is for us. Sweden, yellow-blues should always be together. Finland, I know that you are with us. The Netherlands is rational, so we will find a common language. Malta, I believe that it will be possible. Denmark, I believe that it will be possible. Luxembourg we understand each other. Cyprus, I really believe that with us. Italy thanks for the support! Spain we will find a common language. Belgium we will find arguments. Austria together with Ukrainians, these are opportunities for you. I'm sure of it. Ireland well, practically," the president said. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, during a video message to the members of the European Council on Thursday, personally addressed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban with a request for support. "Hungary... I want to stop here and be frank. Once and for all. You have to decide for yourself who you are. You are a sovereign state. I have been to Budapest. I adore your city. I have been many times very beautiful, very sincere. And so are the people. You have had tragic moments in your life. I was on your embankment. I saw this memorial... Shoes on the Danube Promenade. About the massacres. I was with my family," Zelensky said. "Listen, Viktor, do you know what's going on in Mariupol? Please, if you can, go to your embankment. Look at those shoes. And you will see how massacres can be repeated in the modern world," he also said, adding: "And this is what Russia is doing today." "Shoes too. In Mariupol, there are the same people. Adults and children. Both grandfathers and grandmothers. And there are thousands of them. And these thousands are gone," the president said, asking Orban a question: "Are you in doubt whether to impose sanctions or not? Not sure whether to let weapons through or not? Are you at a loss whether to trade with Russia or not?" "There is no time to doubt. It's time to decide. We believe in you. We need support. We believe in your people. We believe in the European Union," Zelensky said, adding: "And we believe that at the decisive moment, Germany will also be with us". As a result of the shelling, a fire broke out at the oil depot in the village of Kalynivka, Kyiv region, the press service of the State Emergency Service reports. "On March 24, at about 20:00, in the village of Kalynivka, Fastiv District, as a result of shelling, ammunition hit an oil depot, followed by a fire," reads a message published on the Telegram channel on Friday morning. "As of 06:00 on March 25, burning of oil residues was observed within the collapse of depot. There is no threat of fire spreading outside the facility, the message said. Can the neutrino eyes of humanity, observatories such as the IceCube in Antarctica, really see neutrinos coming from deep space? The answer is beginning to come from experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) where, amongst others, the internal structure of protons is being studied. According to the latest model by physicists from the IFJ PAS, this structure seems to be richer in charm particles to a degree that makes it difficult for terrestrial neutrino observers to interpret what they see. Contrary to popular notions, the proton may consist of not three, but even five quarks. An additional pair is then formed by a quark and antiquark created in the interactions of gluons inside the proton. It has long been supposed that these 'extra' pairs can sometimes even be made of such massive quarks and antiquarks as charm. It now turns out that taking into account the intrinsic charm of protons allows us to more accurately describe the course of phenomena recently recorded in one of the low-energy experiments at the LHCb detector at the LHC. The relevant theoretical model is presented by physicists from the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IFJ PAN) in Cracow in Physical Review D. School textbooks paint a picture of the proton as a particle being a simple conglomeration of three quarks: two up quarks and one down quark, glued together by strong interactions carried by gluons. In physics, such a simplified model has not had a long career. Already at the end of the 1980s, it turned out that in order to explain the observed phenomena one has to take into account light quarks coming from the meson cloud in the nucleon (these are so-called higher Flock states). Surprisingly, the effect is not at all marginal and may represent even a 30% correction with respect to the simple three-quark model. Unfortunately, so far it has not been possible to determine how large a similar contribution from charm quarks is. "Our earlier models of charm formation have repeatedly shown agreement with experiments. At high energies of proton collisions, when two opposing beams of protons underwent mutual interactions at the LHC, we were able to describe quite well the production of pairs involving charm quarks and antiquarks. The thing is, however, that although they were formed during proton collisions, they did not come from the interior of protons. They were created as a result of the fusion of gluons that had been emitted by protons a bit earlier," says Prof. Antoni Szczurek (IFJ PAN). Hope for progress in tracing the charm inside the protons themselves was brought by recent measurements performed in the LHCb detector with a single proton beam aimed at a stationary helium or argon gas target. "When collisions occur at the highest energies at the LHC, a large proportion of particles that are products of proton collisions move in the 'forward' direction, along the proton beams. As a result, they end up in an area where, for technical reasons, there are no detectors. However, the collisions of protons with helium nuclei, which we have just analysed, took place at energies up to several tens of times lower than the maximum energies reached by the LHC. The products of collisions bounced around at greater angles, more sideways, and as a result were registered in detectors and we could look at them," explains Dr. Rafa Maciua (IFJ PAN). To describe the data from the experiment at the LHCb detector, the Cracow-based physicists used a model extended by the possibility of a charm quark or antiquark breaking out from inside the proton. Calculating the probability of such a process from first principles was not possible. The researchers therefore decided to check at what probability values the agreement between the model predictions and the recorded data would be the highest. The result obtained suggested that the contribution of charm pairs inside the proton is no greater than about 1%. After breaking out of the proton's interior, the charm quark-antiquark pair quickly changes into short-lived D0 mesons and antimesons, which in turn produce more particles, including neutrinos. This fact inspired physicists from the IFJ PAN to confront the new model with data recorded by the IceCube neutrino observatory in Antarctica. Nowadays, thanks to the techniques used, the IceCube scientists are sure that if they register a neutrino with a huge energy (of the order of hundreds of teraelectronvolts), it means that the particle came from deep space. It is further assumed that neutrinos with slightly lower, but still rare high energies, are also cosmogenic in nature. However, if a charm quark-antiquark pair can be knocked out of the proton interior, decaying in a cascade containing high-energy neutrinos, this interpretation can be challenged. Indeed, neutrinos in a certain energy range, currently being recorded, may originate not from space, but precisely from cascades initiated by collisions between particles of primary cosmic radiation and atmospheric gas nuclei. An article exploring this possibility has gone to press in the European Physical Journal C. "In analysing the IceCube observatory data, we adopted the following tactic. Let's assume that virtually all currently recorded neutrinos in the energy range we are studying originate from the atmosphere. What would the contribution of charm quark-antiquark pairs inside the proton have to be in order for us to get agreement with the measurements to date using our model? Imagine that we obtained a value of the order of one percent, virtually identical to the value from the model describing proton-helium collisions in the LHCb detector!" says Dr Maciua. The convergence of estimates for both the cases discussed above requires great caution in determining the sources of neutrinos recorded by modern observatories. However, the Cracow researchers stress that their results impose only an upper limit on the contribution of charm quarks and antiquarks to the structure of the proton. If it turns out to be smaller, at least some of the currently detected high-energy neutrinos will retain their cosmic nature. However, if the upper limit is the correct estimate, our interpretation of their sources of origin will have to change significantly, and IceCube will turn out to be not only an astronomical observatory, but also... atmospheric. The Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics (IFJ PAN) is currently one of the largest research institutes of the Polish Academy of Sciences. A wide range of research carried out at IFJ PAN covers basic and applied studies, from particle physics and astrophysics, through hadron physics, high-, medium-, and low-energy nuclear physics, condensed matter physics (including materials engineering), to various applications of nuclear physics in interdisciplinary research, covering medical physics, dosimetry, radiation and environmental biology, environmental protection, and other related disciplines. The average yearly publication output of IFJ PAN includes over 600 scientific papers in high-impact international journals. Each year the Institute hosts about 20 international and national scientific conferences. One of the most important facilities of the Institute is the Cyclotron Centre Bronowice (CCB), which is an infrastructure unique in Central Europe, serving as a clinical and research centre in the field of medical and nuclear physics. In addition, IFJ PAN runs four accredited research and measurement laboratories. IFJ PAN is a member of the Marian Smoluchowski Krakow Research Consortium: "Matter-Energy-Future", which in the years 2012-2017 enjoyed the status of the Leading National Research Centre (KNOW) in physics. In 2017, the European Commission granted the Institute the HR Excellence in Research award. The Institute holds A+ Category (the highest scientific category in Poland) in the field of sciences and engineering. Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Ukrainians who managed to escape from captivity of the Russian occupiers report mass cases of torture, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine Iryna Vereschuk said. "In recent days, I have received many messages from people who managed to escape from the captivity of the invaders. They report mass cases of torture," the Deputy Prime Minister said. At the same time, she said that Ukraine will find every occupier and their "henchmen" who resort to war crimes, and will bring them to the strictest accountability, in particular, in the Hague court. "All the Russian military must know: we will not let you escape punishment for the crimes you have committed! You will be responsible for the crimes committed to the fullest extent of the legislation - domestic and international. Do not think that your names are unknown to us!" Vereschuk said. The leaders of the states and governments of the member states of the European Union demand that Russia immediately stop hostilities against Ukraine and withdraw its troops. "The European Council demands that Russia immediately stop its military aggression in the territory of Ukraine, immediately and unconditionally withdraw all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine, and fully respect Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence within its internationally recognized borders," the report says. "Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine grossly violates international law and is causing massive loss of life and injury to civilians. Russia is directing attacks against the civilian population and is targeting civilian objects, including hospitals, medical facilities, schools and shelters. These war crimes must stop immediately. Those responsible, and their accomplices, will be held to account in accordance with international law. The siege of Mariupol and other Ukrainian cities, and the denial of humanitarian access by Russian military forces are unacceptable. Russian forces must immediately provide for safe pathways to other parts of Ukraine, as well as humanitarian aid to be delivered to Mariupol and other besieged cities," it reads. "The European Council urges Russia to urgently guarantee safe passage to civilians entrapped in all other war zones to a destination of their choice, to immediately release all hostages, to provide uninterrupted humanitarian access and to establish humanitarian corridors. It also urges Russia to fully respect its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, and abide by the recent order by the International Court of Justice," it says. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with Speaker of the Saeima of the Republic of Latvia Inara Murniece, Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania Viktorija Cmilyte-Nielsen and President of the Riigikogu of the Republic of Estonia Juri Ratas who arrived in Kyiv. According to the presidential press service, Zelensky noted the importance of their visit to Ukraine, despite the difficult situation that arose due to the Russian invasion. "From the first hours you are with us at the level of leaders, at the level of nations. That is why we are grateful to you. In Ukraine, everyone understands this, everyone appreciates it," he said. "The highest trust of the people of Ukraine is in your countries and in Poland, it is true. This corresponds to the steps you have taken towards Ukraine," the president added. Zelensky also expressed gratitude for signing a joint statement "On the Urgent Need to Modernize the Air Defense of Ukraine," which was signed by representatives of the parliaments of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. "We welcome all the legislative initiatives in support of Ukraine that you are talking about and fulfilling in your parliaments, as well as in the international arena. You were also among the first to help with weapons," he said. According to the President, in order to effectively protect citizens, including civilians, Ukraine needs weapons air defense, aircraft and armored vehicles. Turkey continues to maintain contacts with both Ukraine and Russia, and the primary task of its diplomacy is to achieve a settlement of the situation, the Anadolu agency quoted Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as saying. "We maintain diplomatic contacts with both sides, discuss all proposals and support all initiatives aimed at establishing peace," he said at a press conference following the NATO summit in Brussels. Erdogan noted that Turkey maintains special relations with both countries. "For this reason, the first task of Turkish diplomacy is to stop hostilities. Peace in Ukraine must be ensured according to a formula that will suit the two countries and the world community. It must be a stable and strong peace," the Turkish President added. Over the past week, there has been an increase in the number of new resumes posted on the website of the grc.ua recruitment portal by 69% and by 30% in the number of reviews for vacancies compared to the previous week, according to a press release from the portal. "The labor market has recovered from a complete freeze and exists in the conditions of war. Ukrainians left without work as a result of the cessation of the functioning of their companies or due to moving to another region feel the need for a new job," the report says. At the same time, there are few vacancies that have opened since the start of the war, but they do exist. Most job offers are in retail trade. In order to provide the population with food and basic necessities, retailers are trying to keep their stores open. Salesmen and cashiers were also in demand specialists in peacetime. Now there are more job offers in retail trade than in other professional areas - 42% of all current vacancies in Ukraine. Specialists in the field of transportation, logistics, warehouses and foreign economic activity (8% of all current vacancies) are in demand. There are not as many job offers in the field of information technology as in peacetime - only 7% of all relevant ones. There are also jobs in companies in the sectors of oil and gas (6%), business services (6%) and metallurgy and metalworking (5%). The top ten industries with slightly more jobs than others also include extractive industry (4.3% of all vacancies), agriculture (4.1%), financial sector (3.4%), medicine pharmaceuticals, pharmacies (2.6%) and food (2.5%). At the beginning of the war, many of the vacancies from the opening companies were on a volunteer basis. However, Ukrainians need not only work, but also wages. If we analyze all the vacancies open today, then the average salary in them is UAH 26,900. The largest number of job offers (40%) with a salary of UAH 16,600, another quarter (26%) of vacancies indicated a salary of UAH 26,300. Almost a sixth of vacancies offer UAH 35,900 of monthly compensation. In 12% of the vacancy, the salary is from UAH 45,600. The highest salary from UAH 55,300 is offered in 6% of vacancies. The Russian military began to have problems with financing, the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported. "After the promised payments to the military of the occupying army, the Russian military units had problems with financing. As it turned out, the payment of these expenses was not provided for in the budget. And due to the unsatisfactory state of the financial system of the Russian Federation due to the sanctions imposed, it is impossible to find additional funds in the budget," a Facebook message from the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense said on Friday. According to the Defense Intelligence, in the temporarily occupied Crimea, after the payment of 'travel allowances' to those who participated in the war against Ukraine, the limit of funds for military units was completely exhausted in February. There is no funding for any payments for March. "The situation is similar with the payment for the participation in the war of mercenaries of Russian 'private military campaigns'. Among them, cases of refusal to travel to the territory of Ukraine become more frequent. The reason is the failure to fulfill the terms of the contracts concluded. The militants do not receive funds for participating in hostilities, compensation for injuries and the promised 'social guarantees," the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported. Presidents of the and the United States Ursula von der Leyen and Joe Biden issued a joint statement calling on Russia to stop the war it is waging against Ukraine and assuring support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. The text of the joint statement was circulated on Thursday in Brussels. "We are united in our condemnation of Russia's unjustified and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who are bravely defending their homeland, and we call on Russia to end the brutal onslaught against its neighbor. We are united in our support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. And we are united in our resolve to defend our shared values, including democracy, respect for human rights, global peace and stability, and the rules-based international order," the statement reads. "Today, we are continuing coordinated transatlantic efforts to support the Ukrainian people, impose severe costs on Russia for its unjustifiable actions, and strengthen the resilience of our democracies, economies, and societies," according to the statement. "The United States and the European Union have strengthened and aligned their sanctions regimes, together with like-minded partners across the world. Additionally, efforts should be stepped up to coordinate responses against sanctions evasion," the presidents said. "We continue to mobilize and coordinate significant humanitarian relief to support people within Ukraine, those who have been forced to flee, and those affected by the severe impacts Russia's war is causing around the world. This includes more than $1 billion in new humanitarian assistance the United States is prepared to provide on top of the nearly $300 million already contributed and EUR 550 million from the EU. The United States and the European Union are coordinating closely to ensure that their efforts on temporary protection and humanitarian admission, including resettlement or transfers, are complementary and provide much-needed support to Ukraine's neighbors," according to the statement. "We are announcing new actions to bolster democratic resilience and defend human rights in Ukraine and neighboring countries," the statement reads. "The United States and the European Union are supporting the work of war crimes documentation experts who are gathering evidence on the ground in Ukraine. We are taking further, concrete steps in our energy cooperation to ensure the security of supply and to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels. In order to prevent a potential food crisis triggered by price hikes and disruptions to food supply sparked by Putin's war in Ukraine, we intend to redouble our combined efforts to increase global food security and provide direct food aid, where warranted, to our partners worldwide," the presidents said "We will advance our cooperation on cybersecurity through a variety of actions, from supporting the Government of Ukraine on cyber resilience and cyber defense to aiming to combat the abuse of virtual currency," they said. On the morning of March 25, Russian invaders fired artillery and Grad multiple launch rocket systems at a city clinic in Kharkiv's Osnoviansky district, where humanitarian aid was given out, as a result of which people died, head of the Kharkiv regional military administration Oleh Synehubov said. "Seven people were injured, of which four died," Synehubov wrote on his Telegram channel on Friday. He said that the enemy is purposefully shelling points for issuing humanitarian aid. "Obviously, the enemy wants to sow panic and prevent the receipt of humanitarian aid. Yesterday afternoon, Russian troops also fired on the distribution point of Nova Poshta, six people died, 17 were injured," Synehubov wrote. The invaders shot local residents in the yard of their own house in Konotop district of Sumy region, the prosecutor's office launched an investigation. "According to the investigation, on March 24, 2022, servicemen of the armed forces of the Russian Federation shot two residents in their own yard in Velyky Sambir village, Konotop region. A 62-year-old man and woman died from gunshot wounds," the Prosecutor General's Office said in a telegram channel on Friday. Under the procedural leadership of the Konotop District Prosecutor's Office, a pretrial investigation is being carried out into violations of the laws and customs of war (part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). On March 24, almost 43,000 people cross western border of Ukraine for exit, over 19,000 for entry - State Border Guard Service Almost 43,000 people crossed the state border from Ukraine to the EU and Moldova on March 23, while the day before there were more than 43,000, the State Border Guard Service said on Thursday. "The data of the last few days indicate that the passenger flow on the western section of the border remains stable," the agency reported. The State Border Guard Service said that about two-thirds of those who left went to Poland, which corresponds to the average values. According to it, the flow of people entering Ukraine on March 24 remained the same as the day before - more than 19,000, including almost 16,000 citizens of Ukraine. "The vast majority are men who are ready to defend the country. Since the beginning of the open armed aggression, more than 400,000 of our compatriots returned to Ukraine," the State Border Guard Service said. It reports that all checkpoints on the western border (except "Dzvinkove") operate around the clock. The State Border Guard Service also reported that over the past day the number of registered vehicles with humanitarian cargo exceeded 670, while in previous two days they were registered 750-760. According to the UNHCR, as of 13:00 on March 23, a total of 3.67 million people left Ukraine since the beginning of the war, of which Poland received 2.17 million, Romania and Moldova - 633,06, Hungary - 330,880, Slovakia - 260,240, Russia - 271,250, Belarus - 5,570. Passenger traffic across the western border of Ukraine, thousands Date From Ukraine Including to Poland Into Ukraine Including Ukrainians Number of vehicles 24.3 43 28 19 16 13 23.3 43 28 19 16 13 22.3 45 30 18 15 12 21.3 42 29 17 14 11 20.3 47 30 20 17 14 19.3 50 45 21 17 14 18.3 50 32 19 15 13 17.3 55 33 18 15 14 16.3 69 47 17 14 14 15.3 75 52 16 13 13 14.3 71 48 15 13 13 13.3 62 41 17 14 15 12.3 77 51 19 14 15 11.3 75 49 18 15 14 Data: State Border Guard Service The official portrait of the seven-member Expedition 67 crew. From left are, Flight Engineers Robert Hines of NASA; Samantha Cristoforetti of ESA (European Space Agency); Denis Matveev of Roscosmos; Commander Oleg Artemyev of Roscosmos; and Flight Engineers Sergey Korsakov of Roscosmos; Jessica Watkins of NASA; and Kjell Lindgren of NASA. Credit: NASA. The 10 Expedition 66 crew members aboard the International Space Station wrapped up the workweek exploring ways to adapt to microgravity, cleaning up after a spacewalk, and completing robotics work. The orbital crewmates also prepared a crew ship for departure and checked emergency gear. NASA Flight Engineers Raja Chari and Kayla Barron took turns in the Columbus laboratory module on Friday studying how astronauts manipulate objects for ESA's (European Space Agency) GRIP experiment. The duo sat in a specialized chair making gripping motions and tapping gestures as video cameras monitored their activities. Results may inform the design of intelligent spacecraft interfaces for a variety of gravity environments on lunar and planetary surfaces. Chari also joined ESA Flight Engineer Matthias Maurer in the U.S. Quest airlock for cleanup duties after this week's spacewalk. The duo spent six hours and 54-minutes during a spacewalk on Wednesday installing thermal gear and electronics components on the orbiting lab. Maurer later tested the EasyMotion suit that stimulates muscles while working out on the U.S. Destiny laboratory module's exercise cycle. Researchers are exploring the effectiveness of the suit which may enhance and shorten the duration of working out in weightlessness. NASA astronauts Tom Marshburn and Mark Vande Hei worked throughout the day on maintenance activities. Marshburn serviced components on a unique incubator that can generate artificial gravity inside the Cell Biology Experiment Facility. Vande Hei cleaned ventilation systems inside station crew quarters. Vande Hei is now turning his attention to his upcoming crew departure on March 30 with cosmonauts Anton Shkaplerov and Pyotr Dubrov. He ended Friday finalizing computer tasks necessary before he returns to Earth. Shkaplerov scanned and loaded cargo inside the Soyuz MS-19 crew ship that will take the trio home. Shkaplerov also joined Dubrov and evaluated the lower body negative pressure suit for its ability to counteract the effects of weightlessness on the human body. Dubrov also partnered with Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Korsakov as they completed check out activities of the European Robotic Arm's controls inside the Nauka multipurpose laboratory module. Korsakov also had a session with cosmonauts Oleg Artemyev and Denis Matveev reviewing station emergency procedures and hardware. NASA's Flight Readiness Review for Axiom Mission 1 Concludes The Flight Readiness Review for Axiom Mission 1 has concluded, and teams are proceeding toward launch of the first private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. Pending range availability, launch is targeted no earlier than Sunday, April 3, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center's in Florida. During the 10-day mission, the crew will spend eight days on the International Space Station conducting scientific research, outreach, and commercial activities. On-Orbit Status Report Payloads: Cold Atom Lab (CAL): A visual inspection was performed of the CAL moderate temperature coolant jumper, and any coolant observed was cleaned up. The CAL produces clouds of atoms that are chilled to about one ten billionth of a degree above absolute zero -- much colder than the average temperature of deep space. At these low temperatures, atoms have almost no motion allowing scientists to study fundamental behaviors and quantum characteristics that are difficult or impossible to probe at higher temperatures. In microgravity, researchers may be able to achieve even colder temperatures than what is possible on the ground, and observe these cold atom clouds for longer periods of time. EasyMotion: EasyMotion data was exported to a Tablet for downlink. The EasyMotion investigation uses whole body Electro-Myo-Stimulation (EMS) with a wearable body skin suit for an ISS crew member to perform pre- and post-flight EMS-assisted exercises. EMS technology initiates spontaneous (involuntary) activation of global musculature (muscle, tendon, fascia) to be monitored (muscle tone/tension and stiffness) in-flight using the non-invasive Myoton technology that is currently aboard the space station for the Myotones investigation. Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF): A crewmember removed the slide rail from the CBEF Micro-G Sample Tray. The CBEF, a JAXA subrack facility, is an incubator with an artificial gravity generator. CBEF is housed in the Saibo (living cell) Experiment Rack with the Clean Bench (CB). GRIP: Crewmembers performed GRIP science sessions in the seated position. The GRIP experiment studies the long-duration spaceflight effects on the abilities of human subjects to regulate grip force and upper limbs trajectories when manipulating objects during different kind of movements such as oscillatory movements, rapid discrete movements, and tapping gestures. Touching Surfaces: A crewmember performed the last Touching Surfaces event and then deinstalled all five Touch Arrays from COL, LAB, Node 2 and Node 3. Previous space research conducted during short-term flight experiments and long-term environmental monitoring on board orbiting space stations (such as MIR or the ISS) suggests that the relationship between humans and microbes is altered in the crewed habitat in space. This interdisciplinary project Touching Surfaces aims to investigate novel, laser-structured antimicrobial surfaces onboard the ISS. The realistic testing of the tailor-made nanostructured antimicrobial surface in space allows for the determination of the most suitable design for antimicrobial surfaces for terrestrial applications such as public transportation and clinical settings, as well as future human space mission and habitation design. Universal Intelligent Glass Optics (UNIGLO): The spool and preform sample was exchanged and the ground initiated a run. UNIGLO tests the effects of microgravity on a glass optics module capable of processing various types of complex glasses. The module uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help adapt materials processing techniques to the microgravity environment and a sensor based on laser-Doppler interferometry to measure the effects of microgravity on processing complex glasses for a variety of applications in space and on Earth. Systems: Post-Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Activities: Post-Radiator Beam Valve Module (RBVM) Jumper Install EVA activities continued today with the Airlock deconfiguration to prepare Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs) and equipment for long-term stowage, as well as a reconfiguration of the EVA D5 Camera for Intravehicular Activity (IVA) use. The lithium-ion batteries were installed into the Battery Stowage Compartment for post-EVA 80 Autocycle. Crew obtained a feedwater sample from the EMU Display and Control Module (DCM) water poppet prior to recharging the EMU feedwater tanks to satisfy maintenance requirements for on-orbit stowage using iodinated water. High Definition EMU Camera Assembly (HECA) power was terminated after files were downlinked, and EVA tools were stowed. Urine Transfer System (UTS) Activities: The crew swapped the Backup with the Offload and stowed the Backup . The is a water container intended for short-term storage and manual water transportation between facilities, and are also used to store water and urine for disposal. The Pretreated Urine Hose was also inspected for kinks or pinches between the UTS and Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC) as part of WHC troubleshooting operations. The WHC is currently Go for use. External Wireless Instrumentation System (EWIS) Network Control Unit (NCU) Troubleshooting: As part of the setup for troubleshooting activities for EWIS NCU functionality, the crew configured a Space Station Computer (SSC) client to directly connect to a suspect EWIS NCU via serial interface. MCC-H remotely logged in to perform the troubleshooting steps. After troubleshooting, the serial cable was disconnected and the laptop returned to its original location. Crew Handover Activities: In preparation for crew handover between the 67S crew and 65S crew, the Starboard Crew Quarters (CQ) was cleaned, including intake and exhaust ducts, fans, and airflow sensors. The 65S crew also reviewed the Emergency Hardware Familiarization On-Board Training (OBT) with the 67S crew. Other 65S crew departure preparations included cleaning up data on the SSCs and tablets. Completed Task List Activities: PAM Familiarization Big Picture Words Review Light Installation at JPM1OF3 Today's Ground Activities: All activities are complete unless otherwise noted. UHF 2 Activation/Deactivation BCDU Firmware Load Comm Configuration During an EMER OBT Look Ahead Plan Saturday, March 26 (GMT 85) Payloads: Standard Measures Saliva collect (NASA) Systems: Soyuz Nominal Descent Training EVA Tool Stow Sunday, March 27 (GMT 86) Payloads: Standard Measures Saliva collect and Urine setup (NASA) Systems: Crew Off-Duty Day Monday, March 28 (GMT 87) Payloads: ANITA-2 Sample Collects (ESA) CAL MTL Jumper Leak Check (NASA) GRIP Supine Session (ESA) IGO Sample Exchange (NASA) J-SSOD-21 Removal (JAXA) JWRS Item Gather (JAXA) Plant Habitat-05 Harvest #4 (NASA) Standard Measures Saliva and Urine Collect (NASA) TOILET Leak Inspect and Air Filter and PT Tank Install (NASA) VEGGIE Monitoring Review (NASA) Systems: Stowage Consolidation In JEM Review Toilet System BPW for Phase 2 Ops Node 3 Toilet Leak Inspection Toilet Air Filter Install Toilet Pretreat Tank Install T2 Daily Inspection 65S Crew Departure Prep Cygnus Transfer Cargo Ops EHS TOCA WRS Sample IFM Node 3 Hatch Inspect EMU Helmet Troubleshooting EWIS NCU Replacement Today's Planned Activities: All activities are complete unless otherwise noted. HRF Generic MELFI Sample Retrieval and Insertion Operations HRF Generic Saliva Collection Stow Standard Measures Body Sampling Survey Standard Measures Body Sampling Collection Standard Measures Body Sampling Stow GRIP Big picture reading Cell Biology Experiment Facility Slide Rail Removal Standard Measures Fecal Collection Standard Measures Fecal Collection Stow Environmental Health System (EHS) Acoustic Monitor Setup Acoustic Monitor Setup for Static Measurements Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Air Lock Deconfiguration Photo/TV Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Camera Disassembly Crew Dragon Tablet Sync/Stow Urine Transfer System Backup EDV Swap Installs Li-Ion Batteries into Battery Stowage Compartment Urine Transfer System Offload EDV Swap EWIS Network Control Unit SSC Troubleshooting Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Feedwater Sample In Flight Maintenance (IFM) Crew Quarters (CQ) Starboard Cleaning Waste Hygiene Compartment Urine Transfer System Pretreated Urine Hose Inspection Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Water Recharge Inventory Management System (IMS) Conference Touching Surfaces - Touching, taking pictures, deinstallation and stowage Cold Atom Lab MTL Jumper Leak Check Intelligent Glass Optics Sample Exchange On-board Training (OBT) ISS Emergency Hardware Familiarization GRIP science performance in seated position Health Maintenance System (HMS) ISS Food Intake Tracker (ISS FIT) High Definition EMU Camera Assembly Terminate Crew Departure Preparations for Return to Earth US Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Tools Stow Health Maintenance System (HMS) Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Inspection Swap SSC (Station Support Computer) 19 and 22 Swap Treadmill 2 Daily Inspection EWIS Network Control Unit to SSC connection teardown. HRF Generic Saliva Collection Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Liudmyla Denisova, Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights, calls on European countries to take measures to counter the trafficking of Ukrainian women and children forced to migrate due to hostilities in Ukraine. "The wave of war migrants from Ukraine to neighboring countries increases the risk of them falling into a situation of human trafficking. Women, children and persons with disabilities are especially vulnerable. In European countries, there is an increase in cases of labor and sexual exploitation, the forced use of people, in particular children," the Ombudsperson said in a message on the Telegram channel on Friday. So, in particular, Denisova's message says that facts have been revealed when pimps hunt Ukrainian women near refugee shelters under the guise of offering transport, work or housing in Lublin, Poland. "Groups of people are also working, posing as volunteers, trying to lure women into unknown cars," the ombudsperson said. She said that in response to these facts, the European Commission launched a network of coordinators to combat human trafficking. "I urge European countries to take measures to prevent violations of the Council of Europe Convention on Measures to Combat Trafficking in Human Beings, which will exclude the possibility of Ukrainian citizens falling into such situations. It is especially necessary to improve border checks in order to protect children, including those left unaccompanied," the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights said in the statement. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that he could hold new meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the coming days as part of ending the war in Ukraine, Sabah reported. "I can meet with Putin in the next few days to evaluate the meetings that there were at the NATO summit, and then I plan to say to him: "Now you should be the architect of the next step for peace." We should work to resolve the conflict encouraging a dignified way out of the situation," the publication quotes him as saying after returning from an emergency NATO summit in Brussels. Erdogan also said that Ankara does not intend to impose sanctions against the Russian Federation because of Turkey's energy needs. In addition, the president rejected an earlier proposal to transfer to Ukraine the S-400 air defense systems purchased from the Russian Federation. Erdogan noted that Ankara's position on the S-400 has not changed, and this is "a settled matter." The day before, the Turkish president said that Turkey continues to maintain contacts with both Ukraine and Russia, and the primary task of its diplomacy is to achieve a settlement of the situation. Red Cross to send $6 mln in aid from Samsung to needs of most vulnerable segments of Ukraine's population South Korean company Samsung Electronics will allocate $6 million for the Red Cross Society of Ukraine. The company said in a release on Friday that $1 million of the allocated funds will be used to provide consumer electronics, while remaining $5 million will be used to purchase food, water and essentials for people in shelters, medical equipment and medicines, as well as children's things and nutrition. "Many people today found themselves in a difficult situation. Entire families are forced to leave their homes, not knowing what awaits them tomorrow. It is our responsibility as a socially responsible company to provide all possible assistance in such difficult times," President of Samsung Electronics Ukraine Danny Ryu is quoted in the message. The report also states that since February 24, the Red Cross Society of Ukraine has been using resources to help the population of Ukraine: more than 200 organizations in all regions of Ukraine, 500 employees, 6,000 volunteers, of which 3,000 are reserve volunteers, help Ukrainians around the clock. "Now, to help the population, the Red Cross of Ukraine, first of all, needs first aid kits and medical supplies for the wounded. IDPs and people in shelters are in dire need of food, personal hygiene products and medicines, and we are grateful to Samsung Electronics for the quick response and substantial assistance to the least protected sections of the civilian population," Maksym Dotsenko, General Director of the National Committee of the Cross of Ukraine, is quoted in the message. Samsung noted that in the future they will do everything possible to support Ukrainians who are most in need of help. Poland will seek further tightening of sanctions against Russia, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said in Brussels on Friday. "The unity of our positions is important not only within the EU, but also within NATO. The need for unity and far-reaching sanctions is obvious. Poland requires further sanctions, and I am convinced that the next package will be prepared soon," the Polish information portal Interia quoted him as saying. At the same time, Morawiecki pointed to the need for immediate sanctions that would have an impact on Russia right now, and not in the future. In particular, the prime minister noted, "Poland actively supported the need to limit the purchase of hydrocarbons [in Russia]. However, according to him, "Germany, Austria and Hungary are more restrained, they refrain from stopping purchases from Russia." The best way to stop Russia's military actions in Ukraine is to apply economic sanctions against Moscow, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo believes. "The consequences of these economic sanctions are very strong. It's hard to wage a war if it's not supported by the economic machine," De Croo told reporters in Brussels on Friday ahead of a second-day EU summit meeting on events in Ukraine. "The Russian economic machine was already quite weak, and every day the application of sanctions weakens it even more," the prime minister argued. He added that the war in Ukraine affects many countries due to high energy and food prices. "The sooner this war is over, the better the whole world will feel," De Croo said. According to him, solidarity with Ukraine is due to the fact that countries that comply with sanctions will survive the difficulties. "But it's better if we stick together. It's better if we apply these sanctions in the same way. And not only European countries, but all countries of the world," the Belgian prime minister said. The Russian occupation troops continue their attempts to build up a grouping and blockade Chernihiv, without stopping the shelling of the city's infrastructure, the Ministry of Defense reports in operational information as of 12.00 Friday. "Aerial reconnaissance using unmanned aerial vehicles continues. In order to reduce resistance from the civilian population, leaflets were distributed by the enemy," the report says. The enemy is also trying to hold positions on the approaches to Sumy and Kharkiv and continues to use aircraft and artillery to destroy residential areas of cities. The Russian invaders continue to use artillery and aviation fire on the infrastructure of peaceful cities in Donetsk direction. Near the city of Izium, Kharkiv region, the invaders attempted to break through the defense of Ukrainian troops from the south, near Kamianka, and were stopped near Tykhotske. There is an destruction of the wedged enemy. The advance of the invaders in the direction of the city of Brovary, Kyiv region, did not give success, the invaders were immediately stopped, went on the defensive and are trying to gain a foothold in their positions, the Ministry of Defense reports. In Volyn direction, the enemy did not take active actions, however, the likelihood of involving the armed forces of Belarus in aggression against Ukraine is assessed as high. In Polissia, the enemy also did not carry out offensive operations, but fired at the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Nova Buda, Nalyvaykivka, Ozerschyna. A field camp of the group of troops of the Eastern Military District has been deployed in Chornobyl area. In the Tauride direction, in the temporarily occupied territories, preparations for the establishment of occupation authorities continue, in particular, by the forces of the National Guard units. The occupiers are building up the ship fleet in the Sea of Azov. A small minesweeper "Valentyn Pikul", a missile boat "Naberezhnye Chelny" and two landing craft were recorded to pass through the Kerch Strait in the northern direction, the report says. Boiko calls on deputies of local councils from Opposition Platform for Life to create deputy groups 'Platform for Life and Peace' during ban on party Leader of the Opposition Platform - For Life party Yuriy Boiko called on deputies of local councils of all levels elected from the Opposition Platform for Life to create parliamentary groups "Platform for Life and Peace" in the councils during the suspension of the party's activities, the website of the political force reports. "I call on the deputies of local councils of all levels, elected from the Opposition Platform for Life, to support this initiative. Unite for joint work, create deputy groups "Platform for Life and Peace" in local councils. Don't let anyone shatter our team!" Boiko said. The politician said that in this way the deputies from the Opposition Platform for Life will continue to work, since this is their duty to the voters and Ukraine. In Russia, there is a poor level of Russia has poor level of raise of reservists to be sent to Ukraine of reservists to be sent to war in Ukraine, adviser to the head of the President's Office of Ukraine Oleksiy Arestovych has said. "There is a low morale [among Russian servicemen] and, most importantly, a poor level of Russia has poor level of raise of reservists to be sent to Ukraine of reservists. Many Russian servicemen refuse to go to Ukraine. There are several reasons: the heavy losses they suffer and rumors about them that have already reached Russia's territory," Arestovych said at a briefing at the President's Office. In particular, the battalion task group of the 200th separate motorized rifle brigade suffered significant losses in Ukraine. "Out of 648 servicemen, 645 were killed. Three remained and two of them were wounded," he said. "Despite the intimidation of the personnel of the seventh Airborne Assault Division from Novorossiysk with imprisonment of up to two years for refusing to take part in the war against Ukraine, about 50% of the personnel of one of the regiments of the division wrote a report refusing to participate in hostilities in Ukraine. We know about the refusal of the personnel of the National Guard unit and the police to come here. There are 15 such persons in Rostov-on-Don. Now they are being persecuted by the Russian authorities," Arestovych said. He also confirmed the death of the commander of the 49th Combined Arms Army of the Southern Military District of Russia, Lieutenant General Ryazantsev Yakov, at the airfield in Chornobayivka and the military personnel of the seventh Airborne Assault Division, whose command post is also located at the airfield in Chornobayivka. Regarding the situation at the front, according to Arestovych, during the day the enemy tried to deliver separate missile strikes, but their intensity is much less than in previous days. Russian troops avoided the use of manned aircraft in favor of UAVs for reconnaissance. The Ukrainian Air Force and Air Defense destroyed several of their devices, including cruise missiles. The strategic goals of Russia include the capture of Kyiv, but this will not happen in the coming weeks due to the insufficient number of forces from the enemy, Brigadier General and Deputy Chief of Staff of the Command of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Hruzevych has said. "There is such a possibility in their plans, but this will not happen in the coming weeks. The enemy does not have the required forces. The enemy is now moving, accumulating, patching together logistics, trying to bring in fresh forces. For strategic purposes, to capture the capital, this may be in the plans, but today he does not have enough strength and means," Hruzevych said during a briefing at the Ukrainian media center in Kyiv on Friday. According to him, the steadfast defense of Kyiv, the successful battle formation and active actions of the Ukrainian military make the capture of Kyiv by the enemy almost impossible. "In order to capture the capital, it is necessary to have three or even five times more forces than he has now," he said. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Ukraine and Russia are likely close to reaching a consensus on four out of six negotiation points, Milliyet publication has reported. "Here are six points of the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. But none of the parties accepts six of these six points. In particular, a situation arises as if there is an agreement on four points," Erdogan said, answering questions from journalists after his return from the extraordinary summit of NATO heads of state and government, Milliyet quoted him as saying. According to him, one of the points is specifically related to the NATO issue. "At first, Ukraine was obsessed with this issue, but later Zelensky began to speak out that he could retreat from NATO membership. Another issue is the issue of accepting the Russian language as an official language. Zelensky also acknowledged this. Russian is spoken almost everywhere in Ukraine "There are no problems on this issue either. Disarmament is another issue. Of course, Ukraine is a state, so there is no question of accepting disarmament from A to Z. But this issue is not incomprehensible either. In other words, the Ukrainian side stated that here too certain concessions can be made," the Turkish president said. Erdogan said that the fourth issue on which Ukraine has agreement "is what they call collective security," and Ukraine has also shown a positive approach in this regard. "But, of course, Ukraine is not so comfortable in matters of Crimea and Donbas," Erdogan added. Interfax-Ukraine agency has no confirmation of this information from official sources in Ukraine. By Trend Turkey will temporarily stop the export of red meat, with the exception of Azerbaijan and Northern Cyprus, Trend reports citing TASS news agency. The decision to limit exports is associated with an increase in prices for red meat in the local market, the report noted. Turkey is introducing a ban on the export of cattle, lamb, and goat meat to ensure supplies in the local market and maintain a balance of supply and demand. As of March 24, 2022, the KSE Institute estimated damage to Ukraine's infrastructure from the war in the country at $62.9 billion, or UAH 1.8 trillion, while its analysts increased the amount by $3.5 billion over the past week, according to a press release from the analytical division of the Kyiv School of Economics KSE Institute. "Compared to the data released on March 17, taking into account the new received more accurate damage data [as a result of which certain loss items were revised downward], the net increase [in damage indicator] was $3.5 billion," KSE Institute said on Friday, citing data analysis from the Russia Will Pay project. The analysts estimate that since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the occupiers had damaged, destroyed or seized at least 4,431 residential buildings, 92 plants or businesses, 378 educational institutions, 138 healthcare facilities, eight civilian airports and 10 military airfields, seven TPP and HPP. At the same time, over the course of one week, the analysts received more detailed data from the Ministry of Infrastructure on the destruction of infrastructure facilities, on the basis of which, in a number of areas railway infrastructure, bridges and bridge crossings, civil airports the damage assessment was lowered. n Melitopol, Zaporizhia region, some 70 Russian servicemen refused to follow orders from their leadership and take part in hostilities, according to Zaporizhia regional military administration. "On March 24, 2022, information was received that 70 Russian servicemen staged a riot in the units of the Russian occupation forces stationed in Melitopol, refused to follow the orders of their leadership and participate in hostilities against the defenders of Zaporizhia," spokesperson of Zaporizhia regional military administration Ivan Arefyev said on the website on Friday. In this regard, spokesperson said: "We advise the invaders: surrender, get a chance to stay alive." According to Arefyev, when the village of Malynivka was liberated, the Ukrainian servicemen replenished their fleet of military equipment. "Now the defenders have a Russian T-72B3 tank," the spokesperson said. In addition, Arefyev said that the occupiers did not stop shelling the civilian infrastructure of Zaporizhia region, artillery strikes were carried out on the city of Huliaypole. "Data on civilian casualties are being specified," he said. According to the report, in Polohy the enemy arranges provocations aimed at blaming and discrediting the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "For example, the occupiers go around the city quarters and warn about 'shelling' that allegedly will be from the side of the defenders of Ukraine. Therefore, I officially announce that the military personnel who hold the defense in Zaporizhia direction, military operations that may pose a threat to the life and health of the civilian population in cities and villages, have not carried out and are not conducting, the Russian occupiers regularly try to discredit the Armed Forces of Ukraine in order to cover up their own crimes against civilians," Arefyev said in the statement. Employees of the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) of Ukraine have completed the transfer to the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences (NAAS) of a 276-tonne batch of agricultural fertilizers worth $151,000, which belonged to the aggressor country of Russia, the agency said on its website on Friday. It is specified that on February 28, at the checkpoint in Mohyliv-Podilsky (Vinnytsia region), customs officers stopped a train en route from Russia to Moldova, in which, among other cargo, the indicated batch of ammonium sulfate belonging to the aggressor country of Russia was found. The State Bureau of Investigations said the property belonging to Russia was revealed as part of an investigation into the fact of possible abuse of official position by customs officials (Part 2 of Article 364 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). According to the statement, the day before the fertilizers were handed over to the enterprises belonging to NAAS. As reported, in early March, the Verkhovna Rada passed law 2116-IX, which allows the forced seizure of objects of property rights of Russia and its residents located in Ukraine. The decision to forcibly confiscate in Ukraine objects of property rights of Russia and its residents is taken at the initiative of the Cabinet of Ministers by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and put into effect by a presidential decree. The draft decision must contain: a list and identification of objects of property rights subject to compulsory seizure; names of persons whose objects of property rights are subject to compulsory seizure; the timing of the forced withdrawal of each object. Poland, Slovenia and the Czech Republic have prepared a 10-point plan to support Ukraine and end the war, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said. "I know that Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky was grateful for our visit with Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Jarosaw Kaczynski, the leader of my Law and Justice Party. But he and the rest of Ukraine are right to expect far more from us. In addition to cutting off payments for oil, gas and coal as soon as possible, Poland, Slovenia and the Czech Republic have prepared a 10-point plan to support Ukraine and bring an end to the war," Morawiecki wrote in an article for Politico on Friday. He noted that, firstly, it is necessary to disconnect all Russian banks from the international payment system SWIFT. "Otherwise, the Russian economy will adapt to the new conditions within a few weeks," Morawiecki wrote. According to him, secondly, it is necessary to introduce a unified policy of asylum for Russian soldiers who refuse to serve the criminal regime in Moscow. "Third, we must completely stop Russian propaganda in Europe. Freedom of speech does not mean the right to lie. Fourth, we must block Russian ships from our ports. Fifth, the same blockade must be put in place for road transport in and out of Russia. Sixth, we must impose sanctions not only on oligarchs but on their entire business environment," Morawiecki said. The prime minister believes that, seventh, it is necessary to suspend the issuance of visas to all Russian citizens who want to enter the EU. "The Russian people must understand that they will bear the consequences of this war. And it is our hope that they will turn their backs on Putin," he said. "Eighth, we must impose sanctions on all members of Putin's party, United Russia. They know perfectly well what is happening in Ukraine, and their complicity is indisputable," he said. "Ninth, we must put in place a total ban on the export to Russia of technologies that can be used for war. And tenth, we must exclude Russia from all international organizations. We cannot sit at the same table as criminals," the Polish prime minister said. At the same time, Morawiecki stressed that if this does not stop the war, then we must go further and protect the people of Ukraine with our own shields. "In Kyiv, we proposed a peacekeeping mission under the aegis of NATO and other international organizations. If we cannot introduce effective sanctions, we have no choice: We must protect the people of Ukraine with our own shields. If we want to restore peace, Putin needs to know where the red line is the line he cannot cross. The fact that Russia has a nuclear arsenal cannot be an excuse for passivity. We must be cognizant of this threat, but it cannot hold us back. Otherwise, Putin will only go further," he said. Morawiecki said that the proposed plan was not only possible but necessary. "What will we do if Putin reaches for Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, next? Or if he attacks Vilnius and Warsaw? What if he wants to occupy Helsinki? Will we start taking this threat seriously only when he sends tanks to Berlin? The line must be drawn, and it must be drawn now," the head of the parliament said. Plane carrying Duda made emergency landing in Warsaw, he flies to Rzeszow to meet with Biden on another media The plane carrying Polish President Andrzej Duda on board after taking off from Warsaw Chopin Airport was forced to return due to a malfunction, after which the head of state flew to Rzeszow, where he was to meet with U.S. President Joseph Biden, on another plane, according to the website of the Polish radio station TVP24 on Friday. "The plane was forced to return, landed safely [in Warsaw] at 13.40," spokesperson of Chopin airport Piotr Rudzki said, without naming the reasons for the forced return of the plane. Minister of Culture and Information Policy Oleksandr Tkachenko holds Russian cultural and media figures responsible for promoting the idea of "great Russia" in the world. "For former colleagues in the field of culture and media. You have declared war on us. Do not hesitate. You have worked hard on this. Sorting money all over the world, promoting your 'Russian world.' Now this 'world' of yours is killing civilians in my country. Who were not waiting for you here. It was you who chose the one who gives the orders. It is your responsibility for those who promoted and bought the ideas of 'great Russia' in the world, packaging it into a cultural product," Tkachenko said on the Telegram channel. The minister said this is about the Russian heritage, some of which "managed to steal for themselves, starting from Russia, originally from Kyiv, ending with all the great immigrants from Ukrain Gogol, Chekhov, Tchaikovsky, Malevich, Repin." "We are talking about the cultural figures of Putin's Russia. You either closed your eyes, but more often passionately supported your self-imagined god leader. And they blessed him for wars, for murders, for imprisonment, including your own colleagues and fellow citizens. It meant little to you," Tkachenko said. He said that now the blood for the murders of Ukrainians does not lie on their hands. "If you want to live in North Korea, that is your choice. You do not deserve more. Cultural isolation is what awaits you. We will do everything to close cinema and theater festivals, concert venues and joint cultural projects with the civilized world in front of you," the minister said. During the day, Russia continued to regroup troops in order to build up strike groups to resume offensive operations, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has said. In particular, the enemy is taking measures to restore combat capability, replenish ammunition and fuel and lubricants in order to ensure readiness for offensive operations. According to latest update, as of 18.00 in certain directions, the enemy is trying to conduct assault operations, does not abandon attempts to inflict fire damage on individual units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As reported, Kyiv defense forces continue to repel the enemy's offensive, inflict fire damage on him and hold certain lines. In the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, the invaders continue to terrorize the local population, carry out the forced removal of people to the Russian territory. In order to intimidate the local population, Russian occupiers carry out chaotic shelling of settlements, seize vehicles and personal belongings. In temporarily occupied Luhansk, in the local hospital, the occupiers placed a military hospital, fully occupied by the wounded servicemen of Russia. Part of the hospital is reserved for the storage of corpses, due to the fact that local morgues are overloaded. Zelensky discusses with Erdogan results of NATO summit, threat of food crisis, ways to prevent it Zelensky discusses with Erdogan results of NATO summit, threat of food crisis, ways to prevent it KYIV. March 25 (Interfax-Ukraine) President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has discussed with President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan the results of the NATO summit held the day before, the threat of a food crisis and ways to prevent it. "Talked to Recep Tayyip Erdogan about the results of the NATO summit. Exchanged assessments of the current diplomatic efforts. Discussed the threat of the food crisis and ways to prevent it. I am grateful to Turkey for its support," Zelensky said on Twitter. On Friday, Russian invaders launched a missile attack on the territory of the Command of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Vinnytsia, as a result of which several structures were damaged. "Today, March 25, around 4:30 p.m., the Russian invaders launched a missile attack on the territory of the Ukrainian Air Force Command in Vinnytsia. In total, the Russians fired six cruise missiles. Some of them were shot down by air defense. The rest hit several structures, causing significant damage to the infrastructure," the press service of the Command of the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported on Facebook. According to the report, the consequences of the missile attack are being specified at the moment. On Friday, servicemen of the anti-aircraft troops of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine shot down three Russian cruise missiles, the press service of the Pivden Air Command has reported. "Today, March 25, in Odesa region, soldiers of the anti-aircraft missile forces of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine "landed" three more Russian sea-based cruise missiles that brought death to peaceful cities," the Pivden Air Command said on Facebook. By Trend Russia is grateful to everyone, including Turkey and Azerbaijan, who express their readiness to contribute to a diplomatic settlement of the situation in Ukraine, Russia's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said during a briefing, Trend reports. "We have never refused the assistance that countries have offered. Now we are considering all constructive proposals. We respond to useful, effective initiatives, at least those that can lead to some results. On the other hand, meetings for meetings and initiative for initiatives is also not an option. Therefore, everything that is constructive will be considered. At the same time, we are grateful to everyone who, even in words, expresses their readiness and choice in favor of such mediation and assistance to a diplomatic settlement, which is also underway," she said. The issue of the exchange of Ukrainian civilians captured by Russian occupiers remains open, Deputy Prime Minister for the Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories Iryna Vereschuk has said. "We have the opportunity to exchange military personnel, but now the question of what to do with our mayors, Ukrainian activists, civilians, who are actually hostages, has not been resolved. How to deal with them now and how can international humanitarian law protect them? As we do not have civilian hostages. We are not terrorists, we cannot take civilians hostage and turn them into an exchange fund," Vereschuk said during the national telethon on Friday. She said that at present the Russian side is thinking what answer to give to Ukraine and what to report to the International Committee of the Red Cross. On March 29, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) will hold a fundraiser in the city of Columbia (the United States) for Ukrainians who suffered from Russia's military invasion, PR Newswire said. According to it, the fundraising is designed for a wide range of legal entities and U.S. citizens, the event will be attended by two former governors, Jim Hodges and George Pataki, as well as members of the Ukrainian community, the faith community, business leaders and students. The UN said the war unleashed by Russia in Ukraine is having an unprecedented negative impact on food security in a world still roiling from COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to bringing over 3.5 million additional refugees in Europe over the past three weeks, the war in Ukraine has led to a sharp increase in global transaction costs, with immediate consequences for the world's poorest and most vulnerable people. Russia sticks to ultimatums in talks with Ukraine, we need sanctions, military assistance to stimulate constructive approach Kuleba Russia is still putting forward ultimatums in negotiations with Ukraine, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said. "No consensus in the negotiations yet. Ukraine's position is clear: ceasefire, security guarantees, no compromises on territorial integrity. But Russia sticks to ultimatums," Kuleba said on Twitter on Friday. In order to stimulate a more constructive approach from Russia, Ukraine needs two things: more sanctions against Moscow and more military aid for Kyiv, he said. Ihor Zhdanov, Information Defence Informational Defence of Ukraine provides a daily review of the military-political situation in Ukraine, morning of March 25th, based on an analysis of open sources. 1. The russian occupiers have not achieved success in any of the operational areas and have sustained heavy losses as a result of counterattacks by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the combined forces are conducting a sustained defence operation in the Donetsk, Slobozhanskyi and partly Tavriia directions in the designated operational zone, focusing on preventing the enemy's breakthrough. During the previous day, Ukrainian soldiers repulsed 9 enemy attacks, destroyed 12 tanks, about 20 units of armoured and automotive equipment and 9 artillery systems. The enemy lost more than 200 servicemen. Air defence units shot down two enemy planes and 2 UAVs. The large landing ship "Saratov" of the Black Sea Fleet of the occupiers was destroyed in the captured russian port of Berdiansk. The fire spread to other ships, fuel, and ammunition. The Ukrainian authorities exchanged prisoners of war with representatives of the russian federation in the format of ten for ten. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded the title of hero-city to Okhtyrka, Bucha, Irpin, and Mykolaiiv. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine stated that according to the information received, the military-political leadership of the russian federation has decided to adjust plans for further hostilities on the territory of Ukraine because the goals set before the war with Ukraine were not completed in a timely manner. According to Information Defence experts, the main strategic goals of military aggression after their adjustment are the following: 1) the capture of Kyiv and the creation of a pro-Russian puppet government; 2) creation of a land corridor: at least from Mariupol to the Crimea, providing the peninsula with Ukrainian water. As a maximum - the creation of such a corridor to Transnistria, the blockade of maritime trade routes of Ukraine; 3) access of russian troops to the administrative borders of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. 2. The russian occupiers continue to violate international humanitarian law. russian aggressors continue to kill Ukrainian children. During the month of war in Ukraine, the russian occupiers took the lives of 128 children, seven of whom died in the past day. The Office of the Prosecutor General provided tragic statistics. At the same time, the number of injured increased to 172 children. The highest number of victims was recorded in the Kyiv region - 64, the Kharkiv region - 43, the Donetsk region - 43, the Chernihiv region - 32, the Mykolaiiv region - 24, Kyiv City - 16, the Zhytomyr region - 15, the Kherson region 15, and the Sumy region - 14. According to UNICEF, one month of the war in Ukraine has led to the resettlement of 4.3 million children - more than half of the country's 7.5 million children. More than 1.8 million children have moved to neighbouring countries as refugees, and 2.5 million children have become internally displaced people within Ukraine. russian invaders continue to attack civilians on a daily basis. About 200 civilians have been killed since the russian invasion in Chernihiv. In the Kyiv region, the police received more than 100 reports of shelling of civilians in just one day. In the Donetsk region, 200,000 people have no access to drinking water due to the fighting of the russian occupiers. At the moment, there is a threat that in the coming weeks the Donetsk region may be cut off from water supply altogether, said Liudmyla Denisova, Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. On the night of March 24th, the russian troops fired rockets at residential areas in the city of Okhtyrka in the Sumy region, killing the local people. In Kharkiv, the russians fired long-range weapons at the Nova Poshta checkpoint, where Ukrainians were receiving humanitarian aid, having killed six and wounded 15 people. As a result of an attack by the russian occupiers of the village of Yavkine in the Mykolaiiv region, three people were lost and 13 were wounded. During the past 24 hours, 5 people were killed and 8 wounded in the Luhansk region, during the night the russian military destroyed houses in Rubizhne, and at least two people were killed. Peaceful resistance of Ukrainian citizens continues. In Kherson, captured by the russian military, the flag of Ukraine was raised again on the city council building. russian occupiers forcibly deport Ukrainian citizens to russia. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports that in the districts of Kreminna and Rubizhne, instances of forced evacuation of Ukrainian citizens by the occupiers and their deportation to the territory of the Voronezh region of the russian federation have been confirmed. In occupied Dokuchaievsk (ORDO), the russians have set up a filtration camp for civilians trying to leave Mariupol. The abduction of civilians and their hostages continue. In the part of the Kharkiv region occupied by racist troops to terrorize locals, the invaders persuade collaborators to kidnap children. According to the operative units of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, people who agreed to work for the invaders kidnapped children from a resident of one of the cities of the Kharkiv region. In Kherson, the russians abducted Dmytro Afanasiev, a deputy of the Ship District Council and head of the EU faction. 3. Under attacks by the russian occupiers, evacuation through humanitarian corridors continues. On March 24th, 7 humanitarian corridors were confirmed between the Ukrainian authorities and the russian occupiers for residents of Mariupol, the Donetsk region, and residents of Zaporizhzhia and Kyiv regions. According to the Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk, all 7 planned humanitarian corridors from settlements where active hostilities are taking place were successful. Today 2,717 Mariupol residents arrived from Mariupol by their own transport to the city of Zaporizhzhia. Once again, a convoy of humanitarian aid and evacuation buses was not allowed to enter the city. From the town of Polohy in the Zaporizhzhia region, 117 people could have been evacuated, including 35 orphans from a local boarding school. It was not possible to evacuate from the temporarily occupied Melitopol. Humanitarian cargo was delivered to Polohy and Melitopol. 509 people were evacuated from the villages of Velyka Dymerka, Bohdanivka, and Bervytsia to Brovary in the Kyiv region. In general, 3,343 people were evacuated from 7 humanitarian corridors during the day on March 24th from settlements where active hostilities are taking place. 4. Political and socio-economic situation in Ukraine. The total direct losses of small and medium-sized businesses during the four weeks of the war are estimated at $80 billion and the estimated reduction in Ukraine's GDP in 2022 due to declining business activity is 21%. This is stated in the Advanter poll Group together with business clubs of Ukraine and the Center for Economic Recovery. Minister of Social Policy Maryna Lazebna has stated that UAH 5 billion a month is a sum that should be paid to the refugees. In particular, this is a monthly housing assistance program, which will pay 2-3 thousand hryvnas. It is estimated that about 2 million people who have been forced to flee their homes due to active hostilities will apply for housing assistance. Conditions for doing business in Ukraine are being simplified. The Verkhovna Rada implemented a law on exemption from customs duties and value added tax on imports of goods imported by enterprises. The Verkhovna Rada passed a bill on criminal liability for illegal photography and video of the movement of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and international military assistance during martial law. Ukraine has simplified external independent evaluation, abolished state certification, and entrance exams due to hostilities. 5 . International support and assistance to Ukraine. NATO Summit. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to the North Atlantic Alliance to provide weapons to protect against the russian attack, disclosing details of the Ukrainian request. The head of state stressed that he asked NATO to provide Ukraine with one percent of Alliance aircraft, tanks, as well as volley fire systems, anti-ship weapons and air defence equipment. The President of Ukraine stressed that Ukraine is grateful to all allies for the military assistance already provided, but it is not enough to effectively stop the russian offensive. The heads of state and government of 30 NATO countries issued a statement following a summit in Brussels on Thursday, in which they expressed their position on russia's war against Ukraine. Leaders called on president putin to immediately end the war and withdraw troops from Ukraine, and for Belarus to stop its co-participation in the war. NATO members say Ukraine has a fundamental right to self-defence, so they have stepped up their support and will continue to provide further political and practical support to Ukraine. The leaders said that any use of chemical or biological weapons by russia would be unacceptable and would have serious consequences. The leaders stressed that large-scale sanctions had been imposed to end the war against russia, and said that Allies remained determined to maintain coordinated international pressure on russia. They specifically called on China to maintain international order and refrain from supporting russia's military efforts in any way, as well as refraining from any action that helps russia circumvent sanctions. In response to russia's actions, the Alliance decided to establish four additional multinational battle groups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. Meeting of the G7 member countries. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls on the G7 countries to create an effective system of security guarantees for Ukraine and the region, capable of stopping any aggressor in 24 hours. The head of state also appealed to the G7 to disconnect russia from GPS services and completely block russia's financial system. Leaders of the G7 (Germany, the UK, the US, Canada, France, Italy, and Japan) are set to hold president of the russian federation putin as a person responsible for the war against Ukraine. It is noted that to this end, the G7 leaders will continue to work with allies and partners around the world. In addition, G7 leaders are committed to working closely with other governments to implement similar sanctions already in place by the G7, as well as to prevent sanctions from being evaded or circumvented, which could reduce the impact of sanctions. The US President Joe Biden is in favour of excluding russia from the G20, and if it fails, to invite Ukraine to the summit. European Union Summit. The leaders of the EU member states have pledged to support Ukraine and help with post-war reconstruction, according to the EU summit. Given the devastation and enormous losses that Ukraine has suffered as a result of russian military aggression, the EU is committed to supporting the Ukrainian government in an emergency. And after the war, to help rebuild the country. In order to assist, the European Council is immediately launching a Solidarity Trust Fund in Ukraine. In addition, the European Council calls for a timely international fundraising conference within the Solidarity Trust Fund of Ukraine. A landmark visit in support of Ukraine. The speakers of the parliaments of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania arrived in Kyiv on a visit, despite fighting in the capital and the threat of shelling. Ukraine is negotiating security guarantees with the United States, the UK, Germany, France, and Turkey. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba noted that Moscow demands unacceptable concessions from Ukraine during the talks, while Ukraine is interested in only three things. These are security guarantees, recognition of territorial integrity within the Crimea and Donbas, and a ceasefire and withdrawal of enemy troops. According to Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine should receive security guarantees not only from russia, but also from other countries. At the same time, security guarantees should be similar to Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, i.e. in case of an attack on Ukraine, its security guards must provide our country with all necessary military, economic, and other assistance within 24 hours and impose sanctions on the aggressor country. Most Belarusians are in favour of the immediate withdrawal of russian troops from their country. According to the Chatham House poll, only 3% of Belarusians believe that their country should fight against Ukraine together with Russia. At the same time, the majority of respondents are against the shelling of Ukraine from the territory of Belarus (67%) and in general against the use of the territory of Belarus as a springboard for war with Ukraine (52%). 6. Provocations and fakes of russian aggressors. On March 24th, a group of russian propagandists arrived at the occupied Chernobyl nuclear power plant to make a new fake "movie" about the station. In this way, the invaders want to convince the IAEA of the "normality" of nuclear terrorism and hide the real state of affairs with radiation leaks and environmental pollution. russia spreads misinformation in the IAEA about the alleged detention of russian nuclear power plants at the Rivne nuclear power plant. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine emphasizes that there were no russian nuclear specialists at the Rivne NPP. Four armed citizens of the russian federation accompanied the cargo of nuclear fuel, which arrived at the nuclear power plant by February 24th, 2022. After handing over the cargo to the Ukrainian side on March 23rd, disarmed russian citizens left the territory of Rivne NPP The Ministry of Defence of russia said that the fund of the son of US President Hunter Biden and philanthropist George Soros were involved in the financing of "biolabs" that no one in Ukraine has seen, except the kremlin propagandists. 7. Political and socio-economic situation in russia, the impact of international sanctions on it. Sanctions against russia continue to expand. The UK has added 26 legal entities from russia and Belarus to the rehabilitation list, including Alfa Bank and russian Railways. The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation has issued a 30-day license to curtail UK-sanctioned banks. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced new sanctions against 160 members of the russian federation Council for facilitating the invasion of Ukraine. Japan will freeze the assets of another 25 russians and ban exports to 81 russian organizations. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba said that if EU states agreed to russia's demand to pay for russian gas in rubles, they would help the aggressor killing Ukrainians. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has rejected russia's demand that the EU and the US pay for russian gas in rubles, as most existing gas purchase agreements require payment in euros or US dollars. The German Ministry of Economy intends to reduce its dependence on gas from russia from 55% to 30% in 2022. The Polish oil and gas company PGNiG has stated that it does not see the possibility of switching to the ruble in the calculations for the supply of russian gas. The largest Japanese oil refineries, Eneos and Idemitsu, will stop buying russian oil after fulfilling current agreements. The possibilities of using russia's gold and foreign exchange reserves are significantly limited. The United States has clarified that the sanctions it has previously imposed also apply to transactions involving gold from the Central Bank of russia, the National Wealth Fund or the russian Ministry of Finance. Sanctioned russian funds frozen in Switzerland have reached 5.75 billion Swiss francs - 6.2 billion US dollars, and this figure may increase. The russian stock market continues to stagnate and fall. International rating agency Fitch Ratings has cancelled ratings of all russian companies and their subsidiaries that have come under EU sanctions. The index of the Moscow Stock Exchange on the first day of trading after a month's break rose by 4.43%. The RTS index ended the day falling by 9.11%. Trading on the russian stock market has not been held for three weeks. According to the decision of the Central Bank, the Moscow Stock Exchange on February 28th suspended trading in securities after the collapse on February 24th on the day of russia's declaration of war against Ukraine. Sanctions continue to negatively affect the russian economy. The russian company Severstal has not been able to pay its debts to Eurobonds before the end of the grace period due to the blocking of funds by the bank. This was reported by Bloomberg. This could be the first russian company that has experienced a technical default since the russian invasion. More than 20 enterprises of the russian military-industrial complex have suspended their activities totally or in parts due to lack of components and parts, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Tour operators have begun to offer russians tours abroad to obtain Visa and Mastercard bank cards from foreign banks. Apple e-wallet Pay does not allow russians to add new Mir banking cards. The wallet also disabled the ability to pay from previously added cards. The devaluation of the ruble and logistical problems could lead to a drop in alcohol imports to russia by 20-40% year on year. In particular, Dmitry Isachenkov, the director for development of the alcohol company Ladoga, gives such an assessment. According to him, this can be compared with the consequences of 2014. Italian enterprise for alcoholic beverages Davide Campari-Milano NV will limit to the required minimum business in russia. Philip Morris board of directors and top managers are working on options for an orderly exit from the russian market. Swedish company Postnord Sweden has not received or sent postal items to and from russia and Belarus since March 24. ServingHIM Delivers Ukrainian Refugee Assistance with $200K+ in Matching Gifts from Texas Donors Faith Partners at the Romanian and Moldovan Borders Available for Media Interview NEW PROVIDED BY ServingHIM March 25, 2022 PLANO, Texas, March 25, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- Texas-based Christian ministry and nonprofit organization ServingHIM (Healthcare International Ministries) announced today the organization has received a new $108K donor match from a local benefactor as part of its ongoing campaign to support Ukrainian refugees at the borders between Romania and Moldova. Volunteers from ServingHIM's partner churches and clinics are providing food, housing, supplies, transportation, and comfort to refugees there right now. Since 1998, the Texas-based nonprofit ServingHIM has worked with a network of evangelical churches throughout Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. These local partners, including Romanian American Missions (RAM), are providing continuous requests for funds and supplies based on their work in areas of greatest need in this ongoing crisis. The latest $108K donor match deadline is April 3, 2022. A pastor in Moldova shares, "In Chisinau, the refugee traffic is picking up. Last night we had four vans filled with 61 refugees arrive. Most have already departed to Romania and Germany, and we are preparing for 100 more tonight. Our volunteers are preparing three meals a day for refugees housed in our church. Donations are being used for gas, electricity, heaters, kitchen supplies, transportation, and other essentials to support these efforts." In Braila, Romania, ServingHIM also works with the Diaconia Medical Clinic, the medical outreach arm of the local church. The facility opened 25 years ago as a one-room clinic and has grown, with ServingHIM's support, to a 40,000 square foot primary care facility with 27 medical providers that saw over 20,000 patients last year. ServingHIM is also raising funds to build a new Surgical Hospital, which will provide Romanian and U.S. doctors the opportunity to treat patients in surgical conditions, a need that has only grown over the past month as refugees from Ukraine flee with war-related injuries. "Through our contacts on the ground in Ukraine, we know of many pastors who have chosen to stay with their flocks, endangering their own lives, until they can no longer serve," said Dr. Kevin Seidler, President of ServingHIM. "To help, we are requesting funds and supplies to meet the needs of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters. Our partnership with a broad network of churches across the area allows us to deliver these funds and supplies directly to those who are most in need." To give, please visit: https://www.servinghim.org/ To follow updates from the team on the ground, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ServingHIM2 Available for Media Interview (English Speakers) Iosua Faur, Pastor, Braila, Romania Providing shelter, food, transportation, and legal support Catalin Croitor, Pastor, Regional Baptist Association of Suceava, Romania Hosting refugees in their home as well as converted church spaces Media Contact: Jennifer Winn, Executive Administrator, 972-370-4441, info@ServingHIM.org About ServingHIM ServingHIM is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that started with a mission trip to Braila, Romania in 1998 to provide dental care. Now in its 25th year of mission work, ServingHIM also sends mission teams to Guatemala and Moldova, providing health and dental care to those in need at clinics, villages, and community health fairs. SOURCE ServingHIM CONTACT: Jennifer Winn, Executive Administrator, 972-370-4441, info@ServingHIM.org The statement of the Armenian Foreign Ministry on March 24, which contains accusations against Azerbaijan in connection with the alleged escalation of the situation in the region, is another attempt to mislead the world community, the Foreign Ministry has reported. According to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, the process of clarifying the location of positions and deployment points is underway in the region, and there are no reasons for hysteria. The Armenian side is engaged in disinformation, artificially inflating this issue, the statement said. As for the technical problems that have arisen over the past few days on the gas pipelines of the region due to weather conditions, Armenia deliberately uses this situation as an instrument for political manipulation, the ministry noted. "Armenia kept Azerbaijans Nakhchivan with a population of more than 400 thousand people in a gas blockade for many years, for 30 years used the Sarsang Reservoir as a tool for environmental terror against the population of Azerbaijan, for a long time denied the existence of maps of minefields, continues to hide information about the fate of about 4,000 Azerbaijanis who went missing in the early 1990s. Now Armenia is making similar unfounded accusations against Azerbaijan, which is political hypocrisy," the ministry added. "Today, the only way to ensure peace and stability in the region is the full implementation of the provisions of the signed joint statements, including the complete withdrawal of the remnants of the Armenian illegal formations from the region and the normalization of relations based on the principles of international law," ministry noted. It's time to get down to real work, not political manipulation, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The trip is designed to underscore Washington's willingness to defend NATO allies, as fears rise that the month-old war in Ukraine could yet spark what Biden has called "World War III". Fearing further escalation, cautious European Union, NATO and G7 leaders in Brussels shied away from Ukraine's request for more advanced weapons systems and a blanket embargo on Russian oil and gas at a trio of Brussels summits Thursday. That prompted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to pointedly question whether some allies -- particularly those in Europe -- were doing enough, quickly enough. "You have applied sanctions. We are grateful. These are powerful steps. But it was a little late," he told EU leaders via video link, suggesting the invasion and untold bloodshed could have been prevented. With his calls for fighter jets, missile defence systems, tanks, armoured vehicles and anti-ship missiles seemingly stalled, he warned Europeans about the cost of further delay. Naming each EU member state in turn, he thanked countries including Poland and Estonia for their support, noted German backing came "a little later" and singled Hungary out for censure. "You have to decide for yourself who you are with," Zelensky told Hungary's rightwing populist leader Viktor Orban, who has close ties to Moscow. Zelensky said more weapons and more pressure on Moscow were urgently needed to help besieged Ukrainian cities. "Listen, Viktor, do you know what's going on in Mariupol?" he said. "There is no time to hesitate. It's time to decide already." Some in the West fear transferring ever-more lethal weapons to Ukraine could spark further escalation from Moscow that might prove cataclysmic. Russia is already accused of using phosphorus bombs and indiscriminate shelling of civilian areas -- something the United States has branded a war crime. And the Kremlin has pointedly refused to rule out using nuclear weapons, while producing a steady flow of disinformation about chemical and biological weapons that Washington says could be used as cover for their deployment by Moscow. NATO leaders on Thursday decided to bolster their chemical and nuclear defences and announced the deployment of further troops to Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Bulgaria in case Russia expands its attack beyond Ukraine. In Poland, Biden will meet members of the US 82nd Airborne Division, part of NATO's increasingly muscular deployment to its eastern flank. He will also receive a briefing on the dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine, which has seen more than 3.5 million people pour out of the country, mostly to Poland. The UN believes that more than half of Ukraine's children have already been driven from their homes, "a grim milestone that could have lasting consequences for generations to come", according to Unicef chief Catherine Russell. "Every day it's 20, 30 times we go to the basement (to shelter)," said a sobbing 37-year-old Vasiliy Kravchuk in the garrison town of Zhytomyr. "It's difficult because my wife is pregnant, I have a little son." Hellscape While Ukrainian forces have stalled the initial Russian invasion and even launched some successful counterattacks, there are early signs that both sides are digging in for a long and bloody war that neither can easily win. "It is obvious that the operation will continue until the objectives set by the president of the country are achieved," former president and top security official Dmitry Medvedev told Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. In Mariupol about 100,000 civilians are said to be trapped in the southern port city with dwindling supplies of food, water and power, and with encircling Russian forces slowly grinding the city to dust. Russia's highly censored media has broadcast aerial footage that appeared to be from Mariupol, showing a hellscape of charred and pocked apartment blocks spread across a singed and blackened wasteland. Presenters blamed the devastation on Ukrainian "nationalists". The city is a treasured prize for Russia as it would enable a land bridge between Russian-annexed Crimea and regions already controlled by Russian proxy forces in eastern Ukraine. Kremlin-allied Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov on Thursday claimed his forces had pierced Ukrainian defences to take Mariupol's city hall and hoist Russia's flag. That claim was not verified, and Ukraine's armed forces said Russia was still trying to sack Mariupol "without success". While some civilians have been able to flee to Ukrainian-controlled territory, local officials said as many as 15,000 Mariupol residents have been forcibly deported to Russia. Counterattack In recent days Ukraine has also shown its ability to go on the counter-attack, seemingly pushing Russia's military out of some towns near Kyiv and hitting valuable Russian targets in the south. Ukraine on Friday claimed it had destroyed or damaged a small flotilla of Russian warships in the port city of Berdyansk. According to the Ukrainian armed forces, Russian landing ship the "Saratov" was destroyed, and the landing ships "Caesar Kunikov" and "Novocherkassk" were damaged. Images from the scene showed a large Russian warship ablaze at dockside, with other vessels steaming away from the inferno. British military intelligence said the attack on "high-value" targets also destroyed an ammunition storage depot and was part of a broader strategy of Ukraine targeting vulnerable Russian supply lines. "Ukrainians will continue to target logistical assets in Russian-held areas," the UK Ministry of Defence said. "This will force the Russian military to prioritise the defence of their supply chain and deprive them of much-needed resupply for forces." But it is far from clear that Ukraine can push the Russian forces out. For now, the West seems content to squeeze Russia's economy and Putin's inner circle. The European Union and the G7, also meeting in Brussels on Wednesday, pledged to block transactions involving the Russian central bank's gold reserves, to hamper any Moscow bid to circumvent Western sanctions. And a series of countries announced asset freezes and travel bans on more Kremlin-connected individuals. There was no agreement to halt oil and gas imports from Russia, which fill Moscow's war chest to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars per day. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will ask Russian leader Vladimir Putin to be an "architect of peace" and stop the war in Ukraine, Turkish media reported Friday. Erdogan, who has been trying to broker peace between Moscow and Kyiv, made the comments while returning from a emergency NATO summit in Brussels. Erdogan said he would telephone Ukrainian President Volodmyr Zelensky on Friday and speak to Putin at the weekend or early next week, in comments published by the private NTV broadcaster and other media outlets. "We should tell (Putin) you should be the architect of the step to be taken for peace," Erdogan said. "We should look for a way to resolve this issue by telling him 'make an honourable start'", said the Turkish leader, who has held direct talks with Putin. An ally of Kyiv and a NATO member, Turkey has been trying to broker peace while declining to join Western sanctions against Russia. Erdogan also said he would review the NATO summit's results with Putin and Zelensky. NATO on Thursday announced new troop deployments to Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Bulgaria and a plan to bolster chemical and nuclear defences. Erodgan also said Russia and Ukraine appeared to have reached agreement on the four out of six negotiating points: Ukraine's withdrawal from NATO, the use of Russian in Ukraine, disarmament and security guarantees. "Of course Ukraine is a state. It's out of the question (for Kyiv) to accept disarmament from A to Z but the Ukrainian side said some compromises might be made there," said Erdogan. But he made clear that Ukraine was not that flexible with the status of the breakaway pro-Russian Donbas region and Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Turkey hosted the Russian and Ukrainian foreign ministers in the southern resort of Antalya this month. Erdogan has repeatedly said his country is ready to be a venue for a meeting between Putin and Zelensky. Search Keywords: Short link: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Friday compared Europe's tactics to those of Nazi Germany, slamming historic sanctions against Moscow and saying the term "total war" has been borrowed from Hitler's playbook. "They have declared a true hybrid war, a total war against us," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at a meeting in Moscow. "This term -- used by Nazi Germany -- is now used by many European politicians when they say what they want to do with Russia." He said European officials were making no secret of their goals -- to "destroy, break, annihilate and suffocate the economy and Russia as a whole." Since President Vladimir Putin sent troops to pro-Western Ukraine on February 24, the West has pummeled Moscow with unprecedented measures, making Russia the most sanctioned country in the world. Moscow has said it aims to "de-militarise" and "denazify" Ukraine. The Soviet Union's role in defeating Hitler's Germany in 1945 remains a huge point of pride in Russia and lies at the centre of Putin's patriotic discourse. Putin has denounced the West's economic "blitzkrieg" and compared the sanctions to "anti-Semitic pogroms carried out by Nazis". He has also accused the West of working to weaken Russia with the help of "national traitors". Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt and Malawi discussed means of boosting cooperation in the fields of electricity and energy during a meeting Friday between Egypt's ambassador in Lilongwe Mohamed Al-Sharif and Malawi's Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola. The meetings was held two weeks after Malawi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian El-Sewedy Group to establish a solar power plant with a capacity of 50 megawatts. Matola said the MoU represents "an important" step toward developing electricity generation in his country and thus contributing to achieving the Malawian development goals, according to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Malawi's first ten-year plan of its Strategy 2063 is focused on promoting energy production, the minister added. He also expressed his gratitude for the efforts made by Egypt through the Egyptian Agency for Partnership for Development (EAPD) in building the capacities of Malawian cadres in a number of specialisations in the energy field. "Malawi is counting on the Egyptian expertise in developing its energy sector, especially in terms of introducing electricity in the countryside and remote areas," the statement cited Matola as saying. Egypt has engaged in numerous development projects in a number of African countries. Established in 2014, the EAPD, aims at putting the countrys comparative advantages and technical expertise into play for the benefit of the global south, and in particular Africa and the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The agency adopts a demand-driven approach by responding to the priority needs of the countries of the south, especially of Africa. The EAPD is based at the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is administered by a secretary-general appointed by the foreign minister. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's cabinet said on Friday that preventative measures against coronavirus will remain in place during mass night prayers (Taraweeh) in the holy month of Ramadan, which starts on 2 April. The Taraweeh special prayers Muslims perform during the month of fasting shall not exceed 30 minutes, with all precautionary measures and social distancing to be in place to control the spread of pandemic, a statement by the Cabinet's Media Centre said. Having contacted the Ministry of Religious Endowments, which is responsible for administrating mosques nationwide, the media centre denied reports that prayers will be allowed in mosques without any regulatory measures. The ministry told the media centre that the prayers will be held in mosques like last year, the statement added, noting that the weekly Friday prayers also will be held during Ramadan in accordance with all previously announced precautionary measures. In February, the endowments ministry announced the re-opening of womens prayer halls at mosques during Ramadan 2022 if precautionary measures are followed ending a two-year ban. Womens prayer areas at mosques have been closed since 2020 in an attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Capped at 30 minutes, the Taraweeh prayers were allowed at mosques for men in 2021 after a one-year ban. In Ramadan 2020 when the pandemic hit Egypt, the Taraweeh prayers were only authorised at some mosques with a limited number of worshipers, and banned elsewhere nationwide. According to the endowments ministry, the ban on Ramadan charity banquets which are traditionally held publicly in the streets as well as late-night prayers (Tahajjud) or seclusion in mosques for a period of time in Ramadan (Itikaf) will remain in effect for the third consecutive year. Search Keywords: Short link: Female foreign ministers from 16 countries around the world said Friday they are "deeply disappointed'' that Afghan girls are being denied access to secondary schools and called on the Taliban to reverse their decision. Afghanistan's Taliban rulers unexpectedly decided against reopening schools on Wednesday to girls above the sixth grade, reneging on a promise and opting to appease their hard-line base at the expense of further alienating the international community. So far, they have refused to explain the sudden decision. "As women and as foreign ministers, we are deeply disappointed and concerned that girls in Afghanistan are being denied access to secondary schools this spring," the foreign ministers of Albania, Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Bosnia, Canada, Estonia, Germany, Iceland, Kosovo, Malawi, Mongolia, New Zealand, Sweden, Tonga and Britain said in a joint statement. They said the decision "is particularly disturbing as we repeatedly heard their commitments to open all schools for all children.'' "We call upon the Taliban to reverse their recent decision and to grant equal access to all levels of education, in all provinces of the country," they added. The world has been reluctant to officially recognize Afghanistan's new rulers, concerned the Taliban would impose similar harsh measures and restrictions, particularly limiting women's rights to education and work, as when they previously ruled the country in the late 1990s. The ministers said they "watch closely whether the Taliban deliver on their assurances.'' "We will measure them by their actions, not by their words,'' they said. "The scope and extent of our countries' engagement in Afghanistan beyond humanitarian assistance will be tied to their achievements in this regard.'' They said access to education is a human right to which every girl and woman as entitled, and that "no country can afford to not take advantage of the potential and talent of its entire people.'' Search Keywords: Short link: International interest in Lebanon has waned due to the Russian war in Ukraine, with this taking an economic and political toll as elections approach in May, writes Al-Ahram Weekly The Russian war in Ukraine has added another dimension to the already complex economic and political crises that have been plaguing Lebanon. The severe deterioration in living standards in the country, as manifested in rising food and fuel costs, is certain to grow more acute due to the sudden spikes in the global prices of these commodities following the outbreak of the war. The price of wheat has shot up by record amounts on the international markets because much of the world depends on wheat from Russia and Ukraine. Lebanon imports 66 per cent of its wheat from Ukraine and 12 per cent from Russia. The rest comes from nearby Moldavia and Romania. Lebanese silos were once able to store a four to five-month strategic reserve of important grains. But these facilities were entirely destroyed in the Beirut Port explosions of August 2020, making Lebanon more dependent than other countries on regular shipments of wheat. According to the Lebanese finance minister, the country has wheat reserves for only a month or a month and a half, and he has cautioned the public not to panic or to start hoarding flour. Such remarks have not been reassuring. Lebanon must find alternative sources of wheat, but switching sources would inevitably lead to price hikes. Importing wheat from the US or South America would bring a steep rise in shipping costs, and it would also take longer. Relying on alternative markets in Germany or France would reduce shipping costs, but wheat from there would still cost more than the government has been spending to provide bread. Any increase in the allocation for wheat would further burden a budget that is already severely strained due to the economic crisis that has been ongoing since October 2019. Perhaps to compensate for this, the Lebanese minister of industry has prohibited the export of some foodstuffs produced in Lebanon without direct permission from his office. He said that he wanted to study how these foodstuffs might be used to meet the needs of the domestic market. The list includes meat, fowl, fish products, processed fruit and vegetables, some dairy products, cooking oil, and some milled products. The question of fuel is even more problematic. Fuel in Lebanon is subsidised by the state, meaning that the government pays for it twice: once to import it from abroad and once to subsidise it. It is used to generate electricity for the national grid as well as to operate the private generators that people rely on during blackouts. The operating hours of the national electricity grid in Lebanon have been sharply reduced over recent months, meaning that privately owned generators running on diesel have become the main source of electricity for hospitals, government offices, businesses and domestic use. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the cost of diesel in the global market has skyrocketed, translating into a 30 to 40 per cent price hike on the price of diesel in Lebanon. The owners of private generators have been forced to cut back their electricity generating hours, and 20 to 30 per cent of the consumers of these services have been forced to cancel their subscriptions. Because the national electricity grid in Lebanon is so weak, the country could be plunged back into total darkness, as occurred in August last year. At that time, the problem was solved by urgent fuel deliveries. This time round, purchasing additional fuel from abroad at the new prices would tax the budget with heavy costs, if the government could afford them at all. The transportation sector in Lebanon is also at risk. Rising fuel prices even before the Ukraine crisis had forced people to cut down their working hours in order to save on transportation costs. The operations of many public services were obstructed as a result, and some had to stop working for a while. The police and army were among the most important institutions affected because many of their personnel could not afford the cost of transportation to report for duty. In January, the government increased the transportation allowance it gives public and private-sector workers. This brought working hours back to normal for a while, but with the sudden surge in fuel prices due to the war the government may have to increase the allowance again. Since last September, Lebanon has begun to expand its social-security networks, launching support programmes and instituting painful economic-reform measures that have entailed lifting subsidies on some basic goods and automatically causing their prices to go up. The Ministry of Social Affairs has received over 580,000 applications for its Aman (Security) programme that targets the most impoverished Lebanese families. The programme is currently determining which applicants meet its criteria. An estimated 150,000 families have qualified for monthly assistance worth about US$25 per family plus US$20 per family member up to six persons for a year. In addition, 87,000 of the families with the programme will receive schooling assistance for a year. Due to its limited resources, the ministry has been forced to eliminate some applicants in favour of needier ones, however. The rapid economic deterioration in Lebanon has made it necessary to expand the safety net, and as the government began financial payments under the Aman programme, another one has been introduced. Instead of reducing the prices of basic goods for all consumers, ration cards will now be distributed to the neediest. However, this programme, too, has run up against bureaucratic obstacles. One is that the World Bank wants to ensure that the Aman programme is fully transparent in how it registers and distributes aid before it supports another project such as the ration-cards programme. Over the past three years, international donor agencies have lost confidence in government agencies in Lebanon, and they are insisting on major structural reforms before reopening the taps. For example, the funds that the international community pledged to Lebanon after the Beirut Port explosions were held up until the formation of a government of technocrats, which did not happen until September 2021. In the year and a half before that, squabbling among the Lebanese political elites prevented the country from benefiting from the outpouring of international sympathy after the explosions. The international communitys enthusiasm for helping the country gradually dwindled. The delay was also in large measure due to the stalled negotiations between Iran and the world powers over Irans nuclear programme. Tehran, through conditions set by its Lebanese ally Hizbullah, dragged its feet on facilitating the formation of a new Lebanese government while it tested the pulse of the Western powers it was negotiating with over the resumption of the nuclear agreement. The new government was only formed after a widely reported telephone conversation last September between the French and Iranian presidents that helped to kickstart a resumption of the negotiations and refreshed the climate for renewed support for Lebanon. Three weeks ago, Iran and the West were on the verge of signing an agreement on Tehrans nuclear programme, but then Russia invaded Ukraine, diverting world attention from the talks in Vienna. An agreement would have led to a breakthrough in Lebanon by mitigating the divided countrys political polarisation. But now that the talks in Vienna have been put on hold, so too has the opportunity to restore calm to Lebanon. Iran has remained neutral on the war in Ukraine because it does not want to ruin the progress it has made in the talks. However, when Russia became the new target for Western sanctions, just as Iran was about to be released from their stranglehold, Moscow threw a spanner in the works. It insisted on receiving written guarantees from Washington that Russia would not become a victim of further sanctions on the grounds of its involvement in Iranian oil, defence, and nuclear industries. The question now is whether Russia will find a back door out of the Western sanctions related to Ukraine thanks to its cooperative activities with Iran, or whether the US will refuse the guarantees and further postpone a deal with Iran. Regardless of the outcome of the negotiations, Lebanon has lost a lot because of the Russian war in Ukraine. Perhaps the worst is that international attention has turned away from the country to support another more urgent cause, namely Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees. The Syrian refugees in Lebanon have also lost out because of the declining international interest in helping them and the narrowing opportunity for a solution to the Syrian conflict that could pave the way to their safe and voluntary return to their homes. While Russia is engaged in a heated confrontation with the West against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, progress towards a political settlement in Syria is unlikely. No solution is possible without Russia, which dominates Syria militarily. Until recently, Lebanon had expected the elections scheduled for mid-May to bring to power a new political elite that would usher in significant change in government policies and make it possible to rescue the countrys fragile economy. However, with international attention now lying elsewhere, the Lebanese elites might see this as a chance to postpone the elections or to tamper with the polls in order to escape their anticipated punishment at the ballot box. Despite shifting alliances and the rise of new political leaders from the grassroots movement that began in 2019 and other developments that have raised the hopes the Lebanese have pinned on the forthcoming elections, the growing complexity and duration of the war in Ukraine and the continued focus of international attention there could seriously jeopardise the polls and delay the political change that Lebanon so desperately needs. The writer is a researcher at Al-Ahram Centre for Political and Strategic Studies. *A version of this article appears in print in the 24 March, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Search Keywords: Short link: By Trend Approximately 89 per cent of land required for Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has been acquired by the Centre, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday. The execution of Mumbai-Ahmedabad high speed rail (MAHSR) has been delayed especially due to delay in land acquisition in the state of Maharashtra and consequent delays in finalisation of contracts as well as adverse impact of Covid-19, the minister said in his written reply to a question in Lok Sabha. Out of the total 1,396 hectares of land required for MAHSR project, about 89 per cent, approximately 1,248 hectares, has been acquired, he noted. In Maharashtra, 68.65 per cent out of the total 297.81 hectares needed for the project has been acquired, he stated. Five villages in Palghar district in Maharashtra have passed the proposals in Gramsabhasto oppose the land acquisition for the MAHSR project, he said. These five villages are Warkhunti, Kallale, Man, Khaniwadi and Sakhare, he noted. In Gujarat, 98.76 per cent out of 954.28 hectares needed for the project has been acquired, Vaishnaw said. The Centre has acquired 100 per cent of the 7.9 hectares of land needed for the project in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, he noted. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NSHRCL)is constantly pursuing the villagers by highlighting the benefits of the project, handsome compensation amount and rehabilitation and resettlement provided to the land losers of the affected villages, he said. President Joe Biden will hear directly from U.S. troops stationed near Poland's border with Ukraine on Friday and learn about the growing humanitarian response to the millions of Ukrainians who are fleeing to Poland to escape Russia's assault on their homeland. Biden planned to meet with members of the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, who are serving alongside Polish troops. He arrived Friday afternoon at the airport in Rzeszow, the largest city in southeastern Poland, where some U.S. troops are based about an hour's drive from the Ukrainian border. He will be in Warsaw on Saturday for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and others. The Polish leader was to welcome Biden at the airport on Friday, but his plane was delayed by a technical problem. The European Union says some 3.5 million Ukrainians, half of them children, have fled the country, with more than 2.2 million ending up in Poland. The U.S. Congress this month approved spending more than $13 billion on humanitarian and military assistance for Ukraine. The administration has begun allocating those funds. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will hear directly from the American troops and humanitarian experts about the situation on the ground and "what further steps need to be taken to make sure that we're investing'' U.S. dollars in the right place. Biden, who spent Thursday lobbying U.S. allies to stay united against Russia, speculated that what he sees in Poland "will reinforce my commitment to have the United States make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine.'' Speaking in Brussels after meetings with other world leaders, Biden said he had visited many war zones and refugee camps during his political career and "it's devastating'' to see young children without parents or men and women with blank looks on their faces wondering, "My God, where am I? What's going to happen to me?'' He said Poland, Romania and Germany shouldn't be left on their own to deal with the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. "This is an international responsibility,'' Biden said shortly after he announced $1 billion in additional assistance to help Ukrainian refugees. He also announced that the United States would take in up to 100,000 of those refugees. The White House has said most Ukrainian refugees eventually want to return home. Biden said the United States is obligated to be "engaged and do all we can to ease the suffering and pain of innocent women and children and men`` who make it across the border. He said, "I plan on attempting to see those folks ... I hope I get to see a lot of people.'' Some refugees interviewed Friday at the train station in Przemysl, Poland, said they hoped to eventually return to Ukraine. They also weren't very hopeful about Biden's visit. "For sure I do not have any expectations" about Biden, said a tearful Ira Satula, 32, from Kremenchug. Satula was grateful for all the support and Poland's warm reception. "But home is home, and I hope we'll be there soon," Satula said. Olga Antonovna, 68, from Chernigov, said "it's really 50-50" that Biden will help enough. "I think that we needed help a long time ago, long before,'' she said. Sullivan said Biden will give a speech Saturday on "the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world.'' Search Keywords: Short link: Bitcoin on Friday rose above $45,000, boosted by talk that the Kremlin could accept the world's biggest cryptocurrency in exchange for Russian gas. It climbed above the key trading level for only the third time this year and remains far below record levels. President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said Russia would accept only rubles for gas deliveries to "unfriendly countries", which include all EU members, after Moscow was hit by unprecedented financial sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine. The following day, a member of the Russian parliament reportedly said that countries that hadn't imposed sanctions could use local currencies and even bitcoin in exchange for its gas. "The news sent bitcoin's price (higher)... yet there are a couple of questions that hang in the air," said Swissquote analyst Ipek Ozkardeskaya. "China hates bitcoin; will it change its mind to buy cheap Russian oil?" She questioned also whether the West would "tolerate Russia going around sanctions via bitcoin". European Central Bank chief Christine Lagarde this week spoke of her concern that cryptocurrencies were already being used as a loophole to avoid sanctions against Russia. Lagarde said she was "most concerned" about the high volume of rubles being converted into crypto assets. She and other central bankers around the world have long been critical of unregulated cryptocurrencies, that are highly volatile and could leave investors exposed to heavy losses as well as gains. Marcus Sotiriou, analyst at UK-based digital asset broker GlobalBlock, said talk of petro-bitcoin instead of petro-dollars added "another narrative" to the cryptocurrency. Another bitcoin price boost could come from US energy giant ExxonMobil using surplus natural gas -- that is usually burned during extraction -- to supply electricity for mining of the cryptocurrency, according to Bloomberg. Mining for bitcoin relies on massive computers that use huge amounts of energy. "The fact the fourth-largest oil company in the world is integrating bitcoin into its operations is also a very bullish signal" for prices, said Sotiriou. "More importantly though, this integration allows bitcoin to be mined in a more environmentally friendly manner." Search Keywords: Short link: "With a focus on reuniting families," the United States will welcome 100,000 Ukrainians and invest $320 million to support democratic resilience and defend human rights in Ukraine and neighboring countries, the president said. At his news conference, Biden said the United States is committing more than $1 billion in humanitarian assistance "to help get relief to millions of Ukrainians affected by the war in Ukraine." Biden confirmed the issue was raised during his meetings with other world leaders on Thursday as they marked one month since Russia invaded Ukraine. Asked whether Ukraine needs to cede any territory to achieve a cease-fire with Russia, Biden responded, "I don't believe that they're going to have to do that," but that is the judgment of Kyiv to make. The U.S. president also said at the headquarters of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization that Russia should be removed from the Group of 20 major economies and that Ukraine be allowed to attend G20 meetings. "It would trigger a response in kind," Biden replied to a reporter's question during a news conference. "Whether or not you're asking whether NATO would cross (into Ukraine to confront Russian forces), we'd make that decision at the time." There will be a Western military response if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine, U.S. President Joe Biden said Thursday. NATO announced earlier Thursday that the defense alliance would bolster its capabilities after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had called on the organization's leaders to provide more weaponry to his country "without limitations" as Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its second month. Zelenskyy's appeal came as Biden met with NATO leaders to discuss their short- and long-term response to the Russian invasion. Addressing the summit via video, Zelenskyy said his military needed fighter jets, tanks, and improved air and sea defense systems, as he warned Russia would attack NATO member Poland and other Eastern European countries. "Russia has no intention of stopping in Ukraine," he declared. "It wants to go further. Against Eastern members of NATO. The Baltic states. Poland, for sure." A White House statement issued Thursday said "between now and the NATO summit in June, we will develop plans for additional forces and capabilities to strengthen NATO's defenses." A Biden administration official told reporters that Zelenskyy did not reiterate on Thursday his demand for a no-fly zone, which NATO previously rejected on the grounds it would lead to direct conflict between NATO and Russia. NATO members said in a joint statement after the summit that they would "accelerate" their commitment to invest at least 2 percent of their national budgets on the alliance, allowing for a significant strengthening of its "longer term deterrence and defense posture." The alliance also vowed to "further develop the full range of ready forces and capabilities necessary to maintain credible deterrence and defense." In addition to participating in the NATO talks, Biden met Thursday with G7 leaders and the European Council. The White House on Thursday announced a new round of sanctions targeting 48 Russian state-owned defense companies and more than 400 Russian political figures, oligarchs and other entities -- an action Biden said was being done in alignment with the European Union. Britain said Thursday its new package of sanctions includes freezing the assets of Gazprombank, a main channel for oil and gas payments, as well as Alfa Bank, a top private lender in Russia. Oil tycoon Evgeny Shvidler, Sberbank CEO Herman Gref and Polina Kovaleva, stepdaughter of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, are among individuals sanctioned. China has criticized the sanctions imposed on Russia and has drawn warnings from Biden about not helping Russia evade the measures. Asked about his recent phone discussion on the topic with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Biden said he had made clear to Xi "the consequences of him helping Russia," but, he noted, "I made no threats." The U.S. president heads to Poland on Friday, a visit that will also spotlight the millions of Ukrainians who have become refugees since Russia started the war. "I plan on attempting to see those folks," Biden told reporters amid speculation he might go to Poland's border with Ukraine. "I guess I'm not supposed to say where I'm going, am I?" The White House announced Thursday plans for the United States to welcome as many as 100,000 Ukrainians and others fleeing the Russian invasion of the eastern European nation. In a statement on its website, the White House said the plan is part of a larger $1 billion humanitarian aid package to assist all those affected by "Russia's war in Ukraine." The White House said while it expects most Ukrainians will choose to remain in Europe close to family and their homes, the refugees will be welcomed through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and other usual legal pathways. The statement says it is also looking to expand and develop new programs focusing on Ukrainians who have family members in the United States. Refugee advocates welcomed the announcements but questioned the administration's abilities to move refugee processing faster than its current pace. Sunil Varghese, policy director at the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), said in a statement the Biden administration is right to respond to the crisis in Ukraine with "compassion" and "bold action," and advocates await more information on the program. "Unfortunately, refugee resettlement continues at a glacial pace, and significant investments and innovations are required to ensure the Biden administration's intentions can be made reality. We look forward to receiving more details about the program to protect vulnerable Ukrainians and encourage the administration to issue a clear plan to fulfill its promise to rebuild the refugee admissions program as a whole," he wrote. The U.S. Refugee Admissions program was dramatically cut under the previous Trump administration, leaving fewer resources within the government and resettlement agencies to handle the significant increase of refugee applications and arrivals. Korea has sent bulletproof helmets and other defensive military and medical supplies but no weapons to Ukraine. The Defense Ministry on Thursday said US$800,000 worth of supplies, including tents, first aid kits and medicine, have been sent on civilian and chartered planes. Since the Russian invasion began just over a month ago, Ukraine has been asking for military and humanitarian aid, including rifles and anti-tank missiles, but Korea says it cannot send arms. The ministry said it could send additional supplies. North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile towards the East Sea from Sunan in Pyongyang on Thursday afternoon, the first since November 2017. The ICBM seems to have been improved in terms of both altitude and range and could have the capability to strike major cities in the eastern part of the U.S. The missile was fired at a high angle to reach a maximum altitude of 6,200 km, contradicting the North's previous claims that it is a space rocket aimed at putting several "military reconnaissance satellites" into orbit. Satellite rockets normally fly at a low altitude of 500 to 700 km. According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff here, the ICBM reached the altitude of 6,200 km an hour and 10 minutes after launch and then flew about 1,080 km horizontally. That is 1,725 km higher and 130 km longer than the rocket fired four years and four months ago. The altitude is considered the highest in the world's ballistic missile history. With the launch, the North has officially scrapped a moratorium on ICBM and nuclear tests it declared in 2018 after leader Kim Jong-un warned this January that the moratorium would have to be "revised." North Korean state media confirmed the launch on Friday morning, saying Kim "directly guided" the test of a "new type" of intercontinental ballistic missile that is North Korea's biggest to date. He said it was vital to nuclear deterrence. He added Pyongyang is preparing for a "long confrontation with U.S. imperialism" and is ready to check and contain any military attempt by the U.S. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (center) walks with defense officials in Pyongyang on Thursday, in this photo from the [North] Korean Central News Agency the following day. Condemnation was swift. The South Korean military fired a Hyunmu-2 surface-to-surface missile, an ATACMS missile and a Haeseong-2 ship-to-surface missile two hours later. In an emergency National Security Council meeting President Moon Jae-in "strongly condemned" the ICBM launch. He said Kim "scrapped the moratorium on ICBM tests he declared to the international community" and the launch "posed a serious threat to the Korean Peninsula and the international community and clearly violated UN Security Council resolutions." It was the first time Moon used the expression "condemn" since the regime tested its last ICBM in November 2017. The U.S. said the launch "is a brazen violation of multiple UN security council resolutions and needlessly raises tensions and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region," according to White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki. The annual Jeonju International Film Festival will hold a special screening event for renowned director Lee Chang-dong this year. The event will feature the world premiere of his latest short film, "Heartbeat," and screenings of seven of his other works, including "Oasis" (2002), for which he won best director at the Venice Film Festival, and "Poetry" (2010), which won best screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival. "Heartbeat," his first film in four years, was produced with the participation of the World Health Organization. "Lee Chang-dong: The Art of Irony," a documentary directed by French filmmaker Alain Mazars that examines the director's style, will also be world premiered. The festival runs from April 29 to May 8. President-elect Yoon Seok-youl is expected to talk with Chinese President Xi Jinping over the phone on Friday. This will be the first time Xi has had a telephone conversation with a South Korean president-elect since he rose to the top office in March 2013. Kim Eun-hye, a spokeswoman for Yoon, told reporters Thursday that their phone conversation will take place "this week." She added that it was unprecedented for Xi to speak to a foreign leader before he takes office. Yoon has already spoken with the leaders of the U.S. and Japan. Yoon and Xi are expected to touch on the rapidly changing security situation on the Korean Peninsula after North Korea launched a new intercontinental ballistic missile, as well as an emerging cold war between the U.S. and China. "The need for a phone call arises from our close cooperation with China on Asia-Pacific and Korean Peninsula issues and new South Korea-China relations that will be sought by the Yoon administration at a time when North Korea is raising military tensions," Kim said. By Miya Tanaka, KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 18:43 | All, Feature, Japan Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's whirlwind trip to Brussels to meet U.S. and European leaders was the latest sign of how the Asian country is committed to working with international allies and partners to decisively respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Japan's tough line now contrasts with its tepid response to Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, reflecting its concern that any tolerance of the Kremlin's attempt to alter the status quo by force could only embolden China, which has grown more assertive in the Indo-Pacific. But questions remain as to whether the unprecedented level of sanctions unleashed by the world's leading democratic economies will pressure Russia to give up on its monthlong invasion and will help deter what could be the next Ukraine -- Chinese military action against Taiwan. "We were able to affirm our resolve that the G-7 will lead efforts to defend the international order," Kishida said Thursday after attending the Group of Seven meeting with his counterparts from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the United States plus the European Union during his less than 12-hour stay in Belgium. James Schoff, a former senior adviser for East Asia policy at the Pentagon, said Japan, the world's third-largest economy, moving in line with the United States and European countries in punishing Russia over its aggression was "really important to helping to make the sanctions more effective, psychologically and in concrete terms." As the sole Asian member of the G-7, Japan also has an important role to play, including connecting what is going on in Europe to other strategic predicaments that require continued attention, said Schoff, who is currently a senior director at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA in Washington. "China is the most obvious one because it's the one that's most likely to behave the way Russia is behaving," he said, thinking of Taiwan, a self-ruled democratic island that Beijing views as a renegade province awaiting reunification, by force if necessary. In lockstep with other G-7 countries, Japan has imposed severe economic sanctions on Russia, including those targeting President Vladimir Putin and business oligarchs who are enabling the war, restrictions on transactions with its central bank and exclusions of certain banks from the world's main international payment network. In addition, Japan has decided to provide bulletproof vests and other supplies to Ukraine, a rare delivery of defense equipment to a warring party that is restricted under the Asian country's post-World War II pacifist Constitution. Ken Jimbo, a professor of international relations at Japan's Keio University, said Tokyo's moves may not be as dramatic as Berlin's policy shifts in the wake of the Ukraine crisis, including Germany's decisions to end its traditional restraint on supplying lethal weapons to war zones, increase its defense spending and halt a key natural gas pipeline linking it to Russia. But they clearly demonstrated Japan's resolve to stand up to Russia, even though doing so could complicate Tokyo's efforts to place more emphasis on China when allocating defense resources, Jimbo suggested in an audio recording recently posted by the Royal United Services Institute for Defense and Security Studies, a think tank in Britain. The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden has touted the "united front" against Russia that includes some key allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, such as Australia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore. In Asia, however, the reaction to Russia's aggression has been mixed. There is concern that China could provide military and financial support for Moscow's war effort despite warnings from Washington that it will face "consequences," while India, which has long-standing military ties with Russia, has not condemned the invasion. China and India were among the 35 countries that abstained from the vote on a U.N. General Assembly resolution in early March deploring Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Four countries -- Belarus, Eritrea, North Korea and Syria -- joined Russia in voting against the resolution. Biden recently signaled his disappointment that, in terms of responding to Russia's aggression, India was not fully on board with other members of the "Quad" -- a group also including Australia and Japan that his administration views as key to counteracting China's growing clout in the Indo-Pacific. India is "somewhat shaky," the U.S. president said, while noting that Japan "has been extremely strong" and so has Australia in dealing with Russia's aggression. Schoff said he still believes the West "will be able to apply very damaging economic pressure on Russia" through sanctions, but added it is "just not going to be fast enough in terms of its impact unless we're surprised by some kind of political upheaval in Russia that we don't see right now." Michael Green, an expert on Asia at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said he does not agree with the argument that the United States should not be overly invested in the Ukraine crisis because of the challenge posed by China, which the Biden administration has singled out as the only competitor potentially able to mount a challenge to an open international system. If Moscow prevails in the war, there would be significant demand for U.S. ground forces to deal with the Russian front, and that "in the long run, would be a much larger distraction and pull the resources away from the Pacific than if we invest now in deterring and complicating Russian ambitions," he said. Schoff, meanwhile, said China still seems "extremely dedicated to absorbing" Taiwan and is "taking notes" on developments in Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including the ability of the United States and its allies to convincingly isolate the "perceived bad actor" using nonmilitary means in an effective way. "If Putin fails...to achieve his objectives (in the war) and suffers in the meantime, I think we may have bought ourselves a few extra years of caution on the Chinese front." Related coverage: G-7 to tackle Russia sanctions evasion as invasion marks 1 month U.N. assembly calls for protection of civilians in war-torn Ukraine Japan to step up sanctions on Russia with ban on luxury car exports KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 22:30 | All, Japan Around 7 percent of all foreign children in Japan of elementary to junior high school age, or 10,046 children, may not be attending school, government data showed Friday. But the number of such absentee school children as of May 2021 was down by almost half, or by 9,425, since the last survey by the education ministry, conducted in 2019. Elementary and junior high school education is not compulsory for foreigners, unlike for their Japanese peers. But they can receive public education for free if they wish. The ministry says the improvement since 2019 is possibly attributable to its efforts to encourage school boards to help more foreign children attend school. The survey was carried out in 1,741 municipalities across Japan, covering 133,310 foreign children listed on resident registries. It found that 649 children did not attend school but could not confirm the school attendance status of 9,397 children. The ministry says it will encourage local governments to enhance their awareness about the situation and to be proactive in reaching out to foreign families. The data showed that 1,214 municipalities have more than one foreign child who is of compulsory-education age. Of these, 85.3 percent have created school registers for foreign children, and 85.9 percent have sent school information to foreign families before their child becomes eligible to enter first grade. Additionally, the ministry found 47,627, or 40 percent, of all foreign pupils going to public elementary through high schools or special schools need Japanese-language support in their daily or school lives. This is the highest number since such a survey was first conducted in fiscal 1991, which the ministry attributes to an increase in foreign children attending public schools. The ministry says it will study further whether children are being excluded from normal classrooms because of a lack of Japanese-language ability. To help foreign children, it has decided to introduce a system to recognize special Japanese instruction classes in high schools as a formal unit, starting from April 2023. By Trend The United States will provide more than $1 billion in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, U.S. President Joe Biden has announced, Trend reports citing Interfax. "We're prepared to provide more than $1 billion in new funding towards humanitarian assistance," Biden said at a press conference in Brussels on Thursday. In addition, the U.S. is ready to accept up to 100,000 refugees from Ukraine. "The United States plans to accept up to 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing their war-torn country," he said. KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 20:18 | World, All China on Friday reiterated its opposition to punitive sanctions on Russia over its aggression against Ukraine, one day after the North Atlantic Treaty Organization urged Beijing not to support Moscow. "Escalating sanctions would only harm many people," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters, adding Beijing will not accept "any pressure and coercion" on the Asian country. Wang's remarks came after the U.S.-led security alliance called on China to "abstain from supporting Russia's war effort in any way, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia circumvent sanctions" in a statement issued after the NATO summit. China will support dialogue, provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and try to promote the political resolution of the crisis in tandem with the international community, Wang said. With the war in Ukraine intensifying, China has still shied away from condemning Russia's attack on Ukraine, while opposing sanctions imposed mostly by Western nations such as the United States. China may be reluctant to join hands with democratic countries in punishing Russia with sanctions as it could benefit from being the only major economy to continue trade with Russia, foreign affairs experts said. Related coverage: G-7 to tackle Russia sanctions evasion as invasion marks 1 month FOCUS: Japan action boosts G-7's Russia response, but effectiveness unclear NATO expected to urge China to refrain from aiding Russia war: chief KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 14:46 | All, Japan Japan's financial watchdog may take punitive action against alleged market manipulation by major Japanese brokerage SMBC Nikko Securities Inc., Shunichi Suzuki, minister in charge of financial services, said Friday. "As the Financial Services Agency, we will take strict measures if necessary, depending on developments in the investigation," Suzuki, who is also finance minister, said. The brokerage's deputy president, Toshihiro Sato, who supervises its equity department, was arrested on Thursday for allegedly placing large buy orders for an individual stock on April 8, 2021, to stabilize the price before selling it in violation of the financial instruments and exchange law, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors the same day indicted five other executives of the company, believing they systematically conducted similar transactions between December 2019 and November 2020. They also charged the company itself. The arrests and indictments were "extremely regrettable," Suzuki said. "Securities houses and their executives are those who must dedicate themselves to securing fair transactions in the market," he said. "This case of alleged organized unfair deals is far from this, and could shake the trust in the market." As punitive measures, the FSA can issue a business improvement order to urge the company to clarify the responsibilities of the management as well as rebuild its governance system. In 2012, the FSA issued the order to SMBC Nikko after a former corporate officer at the brokerage was indicted over an insider trading scandal. Related coverage: SMBC Nikko Securities deputy chief arrested for alleged market manipulation SMBC Nikko Securities workers nabbed for alleged stock manipulation KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 19:26 | All, Japan A court in northern Japan on Friday ruled against the removal by police officers of hecklers from the site of a 2019 stump speech by then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Sapporo. The Sapporo District Court ordered the Hokkaido government to pay a total of 880,000 yen ($7,200) to two citizens, saying the police action infringed the freedom of expression guaranteed under the Constitution. The plaintiffs, Masae Osugi, 34, and Kio Momoi, 26, had demanded a total of 6.6 million yen in compensation. Presiding Judge Takashi Hirose said the situation was not life-threatening or posing a risk of physical harm, based on video taken at the scene. He also said the police actions exceeded their authority granted to prevent crimes. According to the ruling, Osugi and Momoi shouted "Step down, Abe" and "No tax hike" when Abe was delivering a campaign speech around JR Sapporo Station on July 15, 2019, for a House of Councillors election. Police officers surrounded Osugi and Momoi and forced them to move to the back of the crowd. Momoi was followed by a police officer for a while. "I am happy that the ruling clearly states the removal was unjust," Osugi said. Abe's office said it is not planning to release any statement or speak to the media over the court decision due to his tight schedule. The Hokkaido police said they will thoroughly go over the ruling and decide their response. Osugi and Momoi filed lawsuits with the district court in December 2019 and February 2020, respectively. The court granted payments of 330,000 yen for Osugi and 550,000 yen for Momoi. They had filed criminal complaints against police officers, but prosecutors made a no-indictment decision. Related coverage: Ex-Japan PM Abe wants attempts to alter status quo in Asia quashed Ex-PM Abe says Japan should discuss nuclear sharing arrangement Tokyo prosecutors will not indict ex-PM Abe over dinner spending scandal KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 21:27 | All, Japan A Japanese court on Friday sentenced a 61-year-old man to 14 years in prison for a drunken driving accident that left two elementary school children dead and three others severely injured near Tokyo last year. The Chiba District Court found Hiroshi Umezawa guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol when he crashed into a group of pupils heading home from school on a street in Yachimata, Chiba Prefecture, in June last year. In the trial, prosecutors condemned Umezawa for what they said was one of Japan's worst-ever cases of drunken driving, demanding 15 years in prison for him. Related coverage: Driver admits drinking alcohol before accident that killed 2 kids 2 killed as truck driven by drunk man hits kids near Tokyo The court found that Umezawa had continued to drive drunk since 2020 at the latest. "Although he had to keep safety in mind as a professional driver of a heavy truck, he continued to drive drunk easily," Presiding Judge Daisaku Kaneko said in handing down the ruling. Umezawa admitted to the charge of dangerous driving resulting in injury or death and apologized to the bereaved families. The defense counsel asked for leniency, saying he is remorseful. Bereaved family members expressed their reluctance to accept the ruling, saying the maximum 15-year jail term sought by prosecutors already felt inadequate, and that they cannot understand why the eventual sentence was an even shorter 14 years. Prosecutors pointed out that Umezawa often drove under the influence of alcohol, drinking even while working. Before the accident, he drank 220 milliliters of "shochu" distilled liquor he had bought at a convenience store, they said. Alcohol in excess of the legal limit was detected when he took a breathalyzer test after the accident, police said. Two boys, aged 7 and 8, respectively, were killed in the accident while two other boys and a girl were seriously injured. Umezawa drank alcohol at a rest area on an expressway during work around 3 p.m. on June 28, 2021, before driving on a street in Yachimata around 3:30 p.m., where he dozed off and crashed into the group of school children, according to the ruling. KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 12:43 | All, Japan Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and his South Korean counterpart Chung Eui Yong agreed Friday that their countries will resolutely respond to North Korea, following its launch of a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile. Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi also said that Pyongyang's firing of what its state-run media reported was a new "Hwasong-17" ICBM on Thursday has elevated the level of its security threat. After speaking with Chung by phone, Hayashi told reporters that they "strongly condemned" the latest move by Pyongyang, which was a "clear and serious challenge" to the international community. They also confirmed the importance of their bilateral and trilateral cooperation with the United States toward the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, according to Hayashi. "We will keep cooperating with the United States, South Korea and other like-minded nations," he said. Meanwhile, Kishi told a press conference that Pyongyang's missile launch on Thursday was "a serious threat to the peace and stability of Japan and the international community, moving to a different dimension from its series of previous missile launches." The ICBM, the first launched by the North since November 2017, was assessed as capable of traveling over 15,000 kilometers and reaching "the whole of the U.S. mainland including its East Coast" if following a normal trajectory, according to Kishi. "We cannot tolerate North Korea conducting this missile launch that could escalate its provocations against the international community at a time when the world is focusing on Russia's aggression against Ukraine," Kishi added. According to the official Korean Central News Agency, the missile was fired from Pyongyang International Airport and traveled up to a maximum altitude of 6,248.5 km and a distance of 1,090 km during its 68-minute flight before hitting a target in the Sea of Japan. The missile test came as Tokyo, Seoul and Washington are bracing for increased missile and nuclear activities by Pyongyang ahead of April 15, when North Korea will mark the 110th anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, its founder and the grandfather of current leader Kim Jong Un. Related coverage: North Korea says it launched Hwasong-17 ICBM on March 24.: state-run media FOCUS: North Korea's ICBM launch comes amid dysfunction of U.N. over Ukraine North Korea fires new type of ICBM in large-scale test KYODO NEWS - Mar 26, 2022 - 06:03 | All, World The Russian military said Friday it has started a military exercise involving more than 3,000 troops on a chain of islands including those disputed with Japan, Russian news agency Interfax reported. It is the first drill on the disputed islands off Japan's northernmost main island of Hokkaido since Russia's Foreign Ministry announced earlier this week it will suspend territorial talks with Japan. Russia is withdrawing from the talks over Tokyo's sanctions against Moscow in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine. Some hundreds of military vehicles are participating in the drill under a scenario of launching a counterattack against enemy forces attempting to land. Russia is seen as building up its forces on the islands, called the Northern Territories by Japan and the Southern Kurils by Russia. The territorial dispute has prevented the two countries from concluding a postwar peace treaty. Japan claims the Soviet Union illegally seized the four islands -- Kunashiri, Etorofu, Shikotan and the Habomai group of islets -- soon after Japan's surrender in World War II in August 1945, while Moscow argues the move was legitimate. KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 21:20 | All, Japan Japan is planning to ban exports of luxury cars to Russia as early as next week as part of its expanded sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, government officials said Friday. Japan has been stepping up pressure against Russia with the United States and European countries as the war in Ukraine drags on despite a global outcry. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at a Group of Seven industrialized nations' meeting on Thursday that more Russian individuals and entities will be added to its sanctions list and that exports of luxury goods will be banned. The planned export ban is also expected to cover jewelry and artworks, but details of the measure will be decided by considering steps taken by the United States and members of the European Union, according to the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Japan's fresh export ban is aimed at adding pressure on oligarchs who have been supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin financially. Cars make up a large portion of Russia-bound shipments from Japan, which totaled 627.8 billion yen ($5.2 billion) in 2020, according to government data. Of the total, autos such as passenger cars, buses and trucks accounted for around 42 percent, or 263.2 billion yen. Around 190,000 passenger cars, both new and second-hand, were exported to Russia, and the envisaged ban may cover used cars. "We will examine which items should be targeted by the ban while minimizing the negative impact on Japanese companies' earnings," a government official said. Japan imposed a similar ban on luxury goods exports to North Korea in 2006 after Pyongyang announced it conducted a nuclear test. Japan has since totally banned imports from and exports to the country. Russia's aggression against Ukraine has already been met with a slew of sanctions, including freezing the Russian central bank's assets, banning key Russian financial institutions from a major international payment system, and imposing export bans and controls. Joining the United States and European countries, Japan also decided to strip Russia of its "most favored nation" status, which has given Moscow the best possible trade terms on key products under World Trade Organization rules. In his virtual address to Japanese lawmakers, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday asked Japan to ramp up sanctions, specifically calling for a ban on trade with Russia to stop what he described as the "tsunami" of invasion. Kishida vowed to consider additional punitive measures against Russia and support conflict-hit Ukraine after listening to Zelenskyy's speech. Japan's hardening of its stance on Russia since its military attack on Ukraine begun on Feb. 24 was followed by Moscow's abrupt announcement to suspend bilateral negotiations with Japan toward a post-World War II peace treaty. A long-standing territorial dispute over islets off Hokkaido in northern Japan has hampered progress in peace treaty talks. Tokyo maintains that the islands, called the Northern Territories in Japan and the Southern Kurils in Russia, were illegally seized by the former Soviet Union while Moscow claims they obtained them legally as a consequence of World War II. Related coverage: G-7 to tackle Russia sanctions evasion as invasion marks 1 month Japan to slap new sanctions on Russia defense officials over Ukraine Japan to revoke Russia's "most favored nation" status over Ukraine KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 20:44 | All, World South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday asked Chinese President Xi Jinping to work together to tackle issues related to North Korea, his spokeswoman said, a day after Pyongyang fired a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile. "Yoon stressed that public concerns have grown big as tensions escalate following North Korea's serious provocation," the spokeswoman said after the president-elect and Xi held phone talks. Yoon of South Korea's conservative main opposition party called on Xi to "cooperate closely to achieve permanent denuclearization of North Korea and stable management of political conditions on the Korean Peninsula," she added. This was the first time for a Chinese political leader to talk over the phone with a South Korean president-elect. On Friday, North Korea confirmed it fired a new "Hwasong-17" ICBM under the guidance of leader Kim Jong Un, threatening peace and stability in the region. Yoon has pledged to put more pressure on North Korea in tandem with its security ally, the United States, while criticizing incumbent left-wing President Moon Jae In who held summits with Kim three times from April 2018 through September that year. Yoon and Xi, meanwhile, agreed to improve Sino-South Korean relations, as this year marks the 30th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties, the spokeswoman said. In South Korea, anti-China sentiment has been spreading since a performer clad in a traditional Korean "hanbok" dress appeared in the opening ceremony of the 17-day Beijing Winter Olympics through Feb. 20 representing ethnic Koreans in China. Some South Koreans regarded it as cultural appropriation by China. As Xi has been eager to boost his influence to secure a controversial third term as leader at the ruling Communist Party's twice-a-decade congress in the fall, China is believed to be trying to improve relations with its neighbors such as South Korea. Related coverage: North Korea raps S. Korea's president-elect for threatening security FOCUS: South Korea's president-elect may not work for North's denuclearization South Korea's next leader Yoon vows future-oriented ties with Japan KYODO NEWS - Mar 25, 2022 - 22:07 | All, World, Japan Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has sounded out U.S. President Joe Biden about visiting Japan in late April, government sources said Friday. The proposal was made when Kishida had a brief conversation with Biden in Brussels on Thursday where a summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations and an emergency meeting of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization were held, the sources said. Japan is arranging to host a summit of the so-called Quad group that also involves Australia and India in Tokyo by June. The outlook for realizing Biden's first visit to Japan since assuming office in January 2021 on the occasion of the quadripartite gathering remains uncertain, however, due to the war in Ukraine. Australia is also expected to hold a general election by May, the sources said. "We are making arrangements to set a date but nothing specific has been decided yet," Japan's top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told a press briefing on Friday, when asked about the timing. Kishida and Biden agreed during their conversation in Brussels to strengthen the bilateral alliance via dialogue, using such occasions as the U.S. president's planned visit to Japan. Kishida, who took office in October, had initially hoped to visit the United States for a summit with Biden but surging COVID-19 cases forced him to give up on the idea. The forthcoming Quad summit would be an opportunity for the four nations to deepen cooperation in the fields of security and economy in the Indo-Pacific region where China's clout has been increasing. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has raised concern about its ramifications for the region. During a visit to India earlier this month, Kishida agreed with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi that they will not tolerate any attempt to change the status quo by force in the Indo-Pacific or anywhere. As India has traditionally close ties with Russia, how far the Quad members can show their unity over the crisis in Ukraine has been in focus. Related coverage: FOCUS: Japan action boosts G-7's Russia response, but effectiveness unclear Biden, Kishida agree to hold N. Korea "accountable" after ICBM test Mayors request Biden visit Hiroshima, Nagasaki Simelokuhle Zibengwa, a stone sculptor at Chitungwiza Arts Center, works on a rock to make a sculpture in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) by Tafara Mugwara CHITUNGWIZA, Zimbabwe, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Firmly grasping a hammer and chisel, Simelokuhle Zibengwa, a stone sculptor, effortlessly pounded on a small chunk of rock. White-ish fragments fell off as she carefully hammered through the stone. After a while, and with a great deal of effort, a figure of a rabbit could be seen taking shape. Zibengwa's works of art are not just a marvel to the onlooker, they narrate different tales through the use of stone-carved sculpture. The renowned artist uses figurative art in the form of rabbits to tell stories of human life, particularly women's day-to-day struggles. "The rabbits are not realistic wild rabbits. They are creative abstracts, and they describe human lives," Zibengwa told Xinhua. She said by employing personified rabbits, her art aims to create art that provokes an emotional response to the onlooker. One of Zimengwa's pieces depicts a rabbit playing an African drum. Another one shows a rabbit mother showing affection to her child. "The trait of a rabbit that influenced my decision to do rabbit-themed art is how brave rabbits are portrayed in fairy tales that we were told (as children) about hare and baboon. In the end, you would see the hare displaying bravery, even in difficult circumstances, the hare would prevail," she added. Historically, the Shona people who occupy present-day Zimbabwe have employed folk tales to shame bad behavior, to educate and to preserve cultural norms, values and history. Grandmothers, who were often tasked with taking care of children, narrated the tales, which often involved personified animal characters. One of the famous folktales in which ancient society shamed bad behavior is the story of the hare and the baboon, in which the baboon was outwitted by the hare. "Rabbit art speaks of women's daily lives. It narrates how they live with their children, how they celebrate life, and it also teaches, particularly girls who engage in drug abuse not to abuse drugs," Zibengwa said. Today, artists like Zibengwa are carving their place in the male-dominated art industry, playing their part in preserving the old tradition of using personified animals to tell stories. As the world marks women's month, Zibengwa and other female sculptors at Chitungwiza Arts Center near Harare are using art to reclaim their narrative. Ever since the center opened its doors in 1997, it has been providing a platform for women, youths and the disabled to get exposure from experienced artists. Unlike Zibengwa, Lorraine Mamvura focuses on realistic art, creating lifelike sculptures of human female figures. "My art focuses on women because I want to embrace and showcase the importance of a woman in society," said Mamvura. Her pieces of art include full-size figures and small pieces. One of the pieces on display speaks of the pandemic, with prevention measures inscribed on the stone. "So my art is all about explaining the roles of a woman, our day-to-day encounters that we face every day," she said. "Part of my artwork portrays love, mothers love, mothers care, a mother should take care of her loved ones," Mamvura added. Another artist, Agness Mpariwa focuses on abstract art, which does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but instead uses shapes and forms to achieve its effect. "My art is called abstracts, they are visual forms that portray love, and reflect beautiful colors, the environment of beautiful things that I encounter, but in abstract forms," Mpariwa said. Her art also expresses things that are not visible such as emotions or feelings. "The message that I put through is that we should love one another," she said. In addition, Mpariwa said the viewer can also imagine their narrative by looking at the piece. Zimbabwe has a long history of employing stone works as a means of construction, decorations and as a way of preserving history. The country's name "Zimbabwe", which means houses of stones, stems from a Shona term for historical Great Zimbabwe, a medieval city that was constructed from carved stone with no mortar used. Much of the stone used in Zimbabwean sculpture belongs to the Serpentine family, a type of sedimentary, metamorphic stone that can be found in a wide variety of colors. The country's famous stone sculpture industry attracts a fair share of foreign visitors every year, contributing to the tourism sector. Works by some of the country's renowned female artists have been exhibited around the world. Simelokuhle Zibengwa, a stone sculptor at Chitungwiza Arts Center, polishes her sculpture in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Lorraine Mamvura, an artist focusing on realistic art at Chitungwiza Arts Center, works on an artwork in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Simelokuhle Zibengwa, a stone sculptor at Chitungwiza Arts Center, shows her rabbit sculptures in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Lorraine Mamvura, an artist focusing on realistic art at Chitungwiza Arts Center, shows her pandemic-inspired artwork in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Agness Mpariwa, an artist focusing on abstract art, works on a rock at Chitungwiza Arts Center in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Agness Mpariwa, an artist focusing on abstract art, shows her artwork at Chitungwiza Arts Center in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) Lorraine Mamvura, an artist focusing on realistic art at Chitungwiza Arts Center, is seen with her artworks in Chitungwiza, a town south of Harare, Zimbabwe, on March 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) By Trend The U.S. should readmit Ankara to a joint F-35 fighter jet program and deliver Patriot missile defense systems to the country without conditions, Turkish Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun has said, Trend reports citing Hurriyet Daily News. Altun penned an op-ed in the U.S. daily Wall Street Journal in response to another opinion piece that suggested that Turkey should send Ukraine the Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems. In his op-ed, headlined, Turkey Says No Deal on S-400 for Ukraine, Alt?n said that while such a deal was quite unrealistic today, this idea presents an opportunity to discuss the problems Turkey has experienced lately with the West. Turkey, which views European Union membership as a strategic objective and takes pride in its NATO membership, expects to be treated by the West as it deserves. It would take confidence-building measures, not so-called informal proposals, to repair the relationship. Turkey paid $1.4 billion for the fighter jets, but Washington took Ankara out of the program in 2019 because Turkey bought the Russian S-400 defense system after its efforts to acquire U.S. Patriot missiles were rebuffed. The U.S. claimed the Russian system was a safety risk, but Turkey maintained that the S-400 would pose no threat to NATO or its armaments because it would not be integrated into the alliances systems. JERUSALEM, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Israel announced on Friday it will host meetings with four visiting foreign ministers this Sunday and Monday. The U.S. secretary of state, and foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Morocco, and Bahrain will arrive in Israel for a series of "historic" diplomatic meetings at the invitation of Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, according to a statement released by the ministry. Israel signed an agreement with the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco to normalize ties in 2020. The agreement came as part of the so-called Abraham Accords, in which Sudan also agreed to normalize ties with Israel. This file photo shows a fruit vendor Richard Dzimiri going about his work in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Oct. 21, 2020. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara) The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between China and Zimbabwe will pave the way for the southern African country to export citrus fruits to its Asian partner, giving Zimbabwe access to a market worth 500 million U.S. dollars annually and opening new avenues for local farmers who have previously largely depended on the European market. HARARE, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's national trade development and promotion organization ZimTrade has welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between China and Zimbabwe to pave the way for the southern African country to export citrus fruits to its Asian partner. The export deal will give Zimbabwe access to a market worth 500 million U.S. dollars annually and open new avenues for local farmers who have previously largely depended on the European market. The fruits to be exported include oranges, mandarins, lemons, limes, tangelos and grapefruits. This file photo shows a Zimbabwean fruit vendor waiting for customers in front of a closed branch of Allied Bank in central Harare, Zimbabwe, Jan. 9, 2015. (Xinhua) ZimTrade chief executive officer Allan Majuru told Xinhua that the signed protocol was a market access requirement that allowed Zimbabwe direct access into the Chinese market. "Zimbabwe is home to some of the top-quality citrus fruits in the world, which are already performing well in international markets such as Europe," said Majuju. "As Zimbabwe is focusing on diversifying its export markets, China is a market with the potential to be a leading importer of Zimbabwean citrus fruits." He declared that the signing of the protocol fed well into ZimTrade's National Export Strategy which prioritized diversification into non-traditional markets. "The protocol covers plant health issues such as pests and diseases. Having it in place opens up the Chinese market, which is one of the biggest and fastest-growing markets in the world," Majuru said. "Now the Zimbabwean farmers are working on building corresponding capacity to supply the required quantities." Zimbabwe is currently working on scaling up production in its horticulture sector to meet the growing demand for citrus fruits worldwide. The Chinese Embassy in Harare also welcomed the signing of the protocol, saying that the Chinese market would soon enjoy the "sweet and juicy Zimbabwean citrus." "China will open a Green Channel for the export of African agricultural products. It will benefit more Zimbabwean farmers," the embassy said on its Twitter account. TEHRAN, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has reaffirmed Iran's red lines, such as lifting sanctions "to the maximum," for reaching an agreement in the nuclear talks in Vienna, the Iranian Students' News Agency reported Friday. Abdollahian made the statement during his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut on Thursday, highlighting Iran's determination to defend the red lines set for the nuclear talks to safeguard its interests. "We are optimistic and serious about the outcome of the Vienna talks. In our view, the agreement should be such that lifting of sanctions is done to the maximum," he told Mikati. "We want the agreements to be in a way that benefits the region and expands our good relations with the countries of the region," the Iranian top diplomat noted. Meanwhile, the Lebanese prime minister expressed hope for the success of the talks in the Austrian capital, agreeing that a positive deal would benefit the region including Lebanon. Abdollahian expressed the same point of view in another meeting with Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri during his visit to Lebanon, according to Tasnim news agency. Iran signed a landmark nuclear deal with world powers in 2015. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed unilateral sanctions on Iran. Since April 2021, eight rounds of talks have been held in Vienna between Iran and the remaining parties to the deal, namely Russia, China, France, Britain, and Germany, with the United States indirectly involved, in a bid to revive the deal. BAGHDAD, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Iraq's northern city of Mosul, once a battleground for fierce battles to dislodge militants of the extremist Islamic State (IS) group, held a four-day festival for traditional music in a bid to breathe life into the worst destroyed areas of the city. "The Mosul Festival of Traditional Music is the first festival held in the city. It aims to revive traditional music in Mosul and introduce new talents," said Farah Qadour, a senior official of a local nongovernmental organization (NGO) participating in the festival, told Xinhua on Friday. Up to 12 Iraqi orchestras and five musical bands from Europe will give eight concerts during the festival running from March 24 to 27. The musical event is organized by several Iraqi NGOs with the support of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), according to Qadour. "We insisted on holding the concerts in this part of the city (western Mosul) to bring back normal life by the performance of the city artists," she said, referring to the western side of Mosul which was the most affected part of the city by the battles against the IS militants. "Four artistic musical bands represent the cultural and heritage diversity of Nineveh Province," Faris Sabah, an official of a local NGO, told Xinhua. The western side of Mosul, the capital of Nineveh Province, witnessed the fiercest battles as Iraqi forces pushed IS militants into the strip of land along the bank of the Tigris River. Desperate militants increasingly resorted to suicide attacks and showed stiff resistance in the narrow alleys of densely-populated neighborhoods. A large part of Nineveh came under IS control in June 2014, when government forces abandoned their weapons and fled, enabling IS militants to control parts of Iraq's northern and western regions. In July 2017, Iraq formally declared that Mosul, the country's second largest city, was liberated from the IS after nearly nine months of fierce fighting to dislodge the militants from their last major stronghold in the country. Photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows cave dwellers in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving.(Photo by Saifurahmad Safi/Xinhua) BAMIYAN, Afghanistan, March 25 (Xinhua) -- For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving. "I have been living here in this cave for years. Lately, we have lived day and night without fuel or food," said 50-year-old Zarifa Gull Ahmad. Ahmad's husband is disabled and she claims that her family is the most deprived in a region of many poor households. "We have no food to eat and no money to buy any. There are nine of us, and our only food is dry naan," said Ahmad. After the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan after 20 years of presence in the country, more than 22 million out of some 35 million Afghans are facing acute food shortages, according to aid agency reports. "My 13-year-old son works on the streets and earns 30 to 40 afghanis (about 0.5 U.S. dollars) a day to buy naan. I will not let him go to school because he has to work and support our family," Ahmad said. U.S. President Joe Biden has reportedly split 7 billion dollars of frozen Afghan assets equally between the families of victims of 9/11 and humanitarian assistance for Afghans, a decision that has been almost universally condemned. "I am the only breadwinner of my family. My husband is a drug addict who left home long ago. My children and I have to work every day to survive," another cave dweller Noria, 30, told Xinhua. Noria gets money by cleaning houses, and washing clothes and carpets. "I do laundry and carpet cleaning and sometimes people help me with food. I am working to earn a bit more than 100 afghanis each day. "Once I got a bag of flour, 14 kg of beans and peas, and a bottle of cooking oil from a non-governmental organization." In Bamiyan province, once home to the giant Buddhas of Bamiyan which were destroyed in 2001, there are thousands of caves that accommodated monks centuries ago, and are currently serving as shelters for thousands. "I work as a laborer. I used to earn 400 afghanis each day but nowadays it's more like 200 afghanis," said 37-year-old Hassan, head of an eight-member family. Hassan, who looks older than his real age, said, "It is winter season and I have not worked for three months. Often my family's only meal is pieces of naan, sometimes rice, but never meat or fruit." (1 U.S. dollar equals about 88.4 afghanis) Photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows cave dwellers in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving.(Photo by Saifurahmad Safi/Xinhua) Photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows young cave dwellers in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving.(Photo by Saifurahmad Safi/Xinhua) Photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows cave dwellers in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving.(Photo by Saifurahmad Safi/Xinhua) Photo taken on March 19, 2022 shows cave dwellers in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan. For the whole of history, people have lived in caves in Afghanistan. Many people had no choice but to take up residence in one, and in central Bamiyan province many families find themselves forgotten and starving.(Photo by Saifurahmad Safi/Xinhua) KRALJEVO, Serbia, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Serbian people marked another Remembrance Day for Victims of the NATO Aggression on Thursday. It's the 23rd anniversary of the beginning of the 78-day attack spearheaded by the United States that took away lives of many civilians and brought immense material damages. Thousands of Serbians gathered at a square in Kraljevo to commemorate the deaths of thousands of innocent people. Produced by Xinhua Global Service TEHRAN, March 25 (Xinhua) -- All foreign forces should pull out of Syria "immediately and unconditionally," Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, Majid Takht-Ravanchi said, the Iranian state TV reported Friday. Addressing a UN Security Council session on Thursday, the Iranian diplomat accused foreign forces in Syria of "plundering" the war-ravaged country's natural resources and of violating Syria's sovereignty, the UN resolutions, and the UN charter. "Therefore, all occupying and uninvited foreign forces, including American troops, must leave the country immediately without any preconditions," he was quoted as saying. He also condemned the airstrike on Damascus by Israel on March 7, saying attacking the Syrian capital was in flagrant violation of the international humanitarian law. Takht-Ravanchi also pointed to the catastrophic consequences of western sanctions on all aspects of the Syrian people's lives. Iran has been a major ally of the Syrian government in its fight against the armed rebels since 2011. CAIRO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- China and Egypt are willing to strengthen cooperation in information technology and digital capacity building, the Chinese Embassy in Cairo said on Friday. In his meeting with the Egyptian Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat, Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang said China would like to work with Egypt to deepen their cooperation in the fields of digital economy and communication technology, among others, according to a statement from the embassy. Over the past few years, the political trust between China and Egypt has continually strengthened, and their practical cooperation has yielded remarkable results, said Liao. He said China would encourage Chinese enterprises to come and develop in Egypt, facilitating the country's digital transition and social and economic development. For his part, the Egyptian minister praised the depth of Egyptian-Chinese relations, noting that their bilateral cooperation in the field of communications and information technology witnessed a leap in recent years. Talaat hoped that the two sides could further their cooperation and explore new horizons for cooperation in areas of common interest. By Trend Presidents of Turkey and France Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Emmanuel Macron held a meeting on the sidelines of an extraordinary summit of heads of state and government of NATO member states in Brussels, Trend reports citing a statement of the Elysee Palace. During the meeting, the leaders of the two countries discussed the situation in the South Caucasus. "Macron said France is determined to find a permanent political solution to the crisis between Azerbaijan and Armenia within the framework of the Minsk Group. Macron expressed satisfaction with the efforts made to normalize relations between Turkey and Armenia." The parties also discussed the latest developments in Ukraine. 20:24 (GMT+4) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in Brussels, Trend reports citing Turkish media. The leaders' meeting took place on the sidelines of an extraordinary summit of heads of state and government of NATO member states in Brussels. The talks were held at the headquarters of the North Atlantic Alliance closed to the press and lasted 50 minutes. JUBA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The World Food Program (WFP) on Friday condemned Thursday's attack on a convoy carrying humanitarian supplies in Jonglei State that left three people killed. WFP said in a statement issued in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, that the commercial convoy of 44 trucks carrying WFP food assistance came under attack from armed gunmen between Gadiang and Yuai in Jonglei State. "This is completely unacceptable," said Adeyinka Badejo, acting Country Director for WFP in South Sudan. Badejo added that this incident is the third ambush in Jonglei state in the past four months. WFP disclosed that similar attacks occurred in December 2021 and March 2022 respectively. "These continued attacks and looting only serve to make humanitarian work increasingly challenging and sabotage life-saving food assistance destined for vulnerable communities. Further attacks on humanitarian convoys will put humanitarian assistance at risk where WFP will be forced to suspend its food assistance in greater Jonglei until there is a conducive environment for humanitarians in the area," added Badejo. WFP urged the government to bring the perpetrators of these attacks to justice and to safeguard the safety and security of humanitarian staff and assets. WFP said it has invested considerable efforts to negotiate humanitarian access in hard-to-reach areas to ensure isolated and marginalized people receive the assistance they need. It, however, noted that it's the transitional unity government's responsibility to ensure safety and security for the population and the humanitarian community. The UN agency called on the government to investigate incidents involving attacks on humanitarian workers or cargo. YAOUNDE, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Hospitals in Cameroon's Southwest region have been swamped with hundreds of patients as cholera death toll surged to 44, a health official in the region told Xinhua on Thursday. "It is a very serious situation," Filbert Eko Eko, public health chief of the region, said. Over 1,700 cases have been reported in the region from March 11 to 23, according to figures released by the Southwest Regional Delegation of Public Health. At least 14 people died of the disease between Wednesday and Thursday, raising the death toll to 44 in the last two weeks, Eko said. "We have cases practically all over our region. Our three major treatment centers are completely overpowered," Eko toll Xinhua on phone. He said the hospitals do not have enough beds for patients, some of whom are staying in tents or along hospital corridors. The situation is dire in the seaside resort town of Limbe, where at least 400 infections were detected on Wednesday, according to officials. Eko blamed the outbreak mainly on the lack of clean water and public latrines in the region. On Wednesday, the region's governor, Bernard Okalia Bilai, urged local officials to build toilets in the affected areas within 30 days. HARARE, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe will hold its first by-elections in two years Saturday following the lifting of the suspension of elections by the government in a bid to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Observers have said that the by-elections, in which 28 parliamentary and 122 council seats will be up for grabs, will provide contesting parties with ideas on how they will fare in 2023 harmonized presidential, parliamentary and council elections. President Emmerson Mnangagwa's ruling ZANU-PF and opposition leader Nelson Chamisa's Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) appear to be the main contenders, with the largest opposition party in Parliament, MDC-T led by Douglas Mwonzora, also coming in as a notable contender. Most of the seats fell vacant throughout the period of the elections ban after MDC-T recalled parliamentarians and councilors. Mnangagwa and Chamisa have held rallies in several parts of the country, which were attended by huge crowds, and both have expressed confidence in winning the majority of the vacant seats. ANKARA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkey, France and Italy have decided to resume defense cooperation talks over Eurosam's SAMP/T missile system, the state TRT broadcaster reported Friday, quoting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "There were some steps we have taken between Turkey and France. We have decided to continue our efforts in the Turkey-France relations, and even to revive the steps we have taken as Turkey-France-Italy," Erdogan told journalists on his flight from Belgium to Turkey, referring to the trilateral cooperation negotiations over Eurosam's defense systems. The Turkish president elaborated on his meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi on the sidelines of a NATO meeting in Brussels on Thursday. "We discussed that issue with Draghi just as we discussed it with Macron. Draghi also brought up this issue in his meeting with Macron after me," he said. In 2019, Turkey, France and Italy signed a letter of intent to strengthen defense cooperation aimed to jointly develop an anti-ballistic missile system based on the SAMP/T of the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium. In 2018, Turkey awarded Eurosam and Turkish companies Aselsan and Roketsan a contract for a 18-month joint study of the needs and priorities for the potential project. The deal between Turkey and Eurosam came at a time when Ankara saw fierce pressure from the United States over its procurement of Russia's S-400 air defense systems. However, France blocked progress in the joint production program after Turkey launched Operation Peace Spring in northern Syria in 2019, Ismail Demir, head of the Turkish Defense Industries Directorate, told local media in January 2020. In October of 2019, the French National Assembly, the lower house of the parliament, approved unanimously a resolution condemning Turkey's Operation Peace Spring. Incumpliendo una de sus mayores promesas tras tomar el poder a la fuerza en agosto de 2021, los talibanes cancelaron las clases para ninas de secundaria este 23 de marzo, solo horas despues de la reapertura en el primer dia del nuevo ano escolar en Afganistan. Un portavoz de los fundamentalistas senalo que las adolescentes deberan esperar un "segundo permiso del Emirato Islamico", como se autodenomina el gobierno de los extremistas, sin aportar mas detalles de la repentina decision. Entre lagrimas y decepcion, cientos de ninas afganas debieron salir de las aulas de clase este miercoles 23 de marzo cuando se disponian a iniciar el nuevo ano escolar. Tras meses de espera, la ilusion volvio a romperse. Cuando los talibanes tomaron el poder en agosto de 2021, las escuelas cerraron debido a la pandemia del Covid-19, pero solo los ninos y las ninas mas pequenas pudieron reanudar las clases dos meses despues. Existia el temor de que los talibanes cerraran toda la educacion formal para las menores, como lo hicieron durante su primer periodo en el poder, entre 1996 y 2001. Lo que se temia, quedo confirmado. "Informamos a todas las escuelas secundarias de ninas y aquellas escuelas que tienen estudiantes femeninas por encima del sexto nivel que estan fuera hasta una proxima orden", senalo el Ministerio de Educacion. La noticia causo confusion y angustia por el repentino cambio de medida, tras las reiteradas promesas de los fundamentalistas a la comunidad internacional cuando retomaron el poder a la fuerza de que cambiarian sus directrices de linea dura hacia las ninas y mujeres, incluida la educacion. Las estudiantes, tristes, tomaron sus pertenencias y se marcharon. "Veo a mis alumnas llorando y reacias a abandonar las clases () Es muy doloroso ver llorar a tus alumnos", dijo Palwasha, maestra de la escuela de ninas Omra Khan, en Kabul. Las justificaciones de los talibanes Los fundamentalistas no han explicado claramente las razones del cierre de educacion que apunta solo a las adolescentes ni por cuanto tiempo se extendera. Sin embargo, indicaron que el acceso a las aulas estara clausurado hasta que se elabore un plan de acuerdo con la ley islamica. Leer mas El Ministerio de Educacion sostuvo que reabrir las instituciones educativas siempre fue un objetivo de los nuevos gobernantes, pero que no cederan ante la presion internacional. "Lo estamos haciendo como parte de nuestra responsabilidad de brindar educacion y otras instalaciones a nuestros estudiantes", afirmo el portavoz Aziz Ahmad Rayan. Los talibanes habian insistido en que querian asegurarse de que los colegios para adolescentes de 12 a 19 anos estuvieran segregados y funcionaran de acuerdo a los principios islamicos. El Ministerio de Educacion tambien justifica que enfrenta una escasez de maestros, muchos de los cuales huyeron entre las miles de personas que salieron del pais cuando los insurgentes volvieron a tomar las riendas de Afganistan. "Necesitamos miles de maestros y para resolver este problema estamos tratando de contratar nuevos maestros de manera temporal", agrego Rayan. No obstante, varias naciones y organizaciones internacionales han ofrecido pagar a los maestros. "Cual sera nuestro futuro?" Aun si las adolescentes logran volver a las aulas, sigue existiendo una cadena de barreras para que las ninas retomen su educacion con normalidad. Muchas familias sospechan de posibles actos violentos por parte de los talibanes, por lo que se muestran renuentes a permitir que sus hijas salgan de sus hogares. La ultima vez que los talibanes gobernaron Afganistan, entre mediados de la decada de los 90 y principios de los 2000, prohibieron la educacion femenina, asi como la mayoria de empleos para las mujeres. Los insurgentes han impuesto una serie de restricciones a las mujeres, prohibiendoles acceder a puestos de trabajo gubernamentales, controlan la ropa que usan e impiden que viajen solas fuera de sus ciudades. Tambien han detenido a varias activistas por los derechos de las mujeres. Pocos dias despues de la caotica salida de las tropas occidentales, lideradas por Estados Unidos despues de 20 anos en el pais, la mayoria de las 250 juezas con las que contaba Afganistan denunciaron que tuvieron que ocultarse o huir. Una de ellas conto a Reuters como fue perseguida por hombres que una vez, en su calidad de magistrada, habia encarcelado y que fueron liberados por los talibanes tras su violento regreso. Ante las innumerables barreras, otros encuentran poco sentido en que las ninas se eduquen. Aquellas ninas que finalizaron su educacion terminaron sentadas en casa y su futuro es incierto, lamento Heela Haya, de 20 anos, originaria de Kandahar y quien decidio abandonar la escuela. Es comun que los estudiantes afganos pierdan partes del ano escolar como resultado de la pobreza o el conflicto, y algunos continuan las lecciones hasta el final de su adolescencia o principios de los 20. Ademas, siguen vivos los recuerdos de las mujeres y ninas que recibieron parte de las peores vejaciones en medio de las estrictas reglas islamistas que impusieron. Entre ellas, la prohibicion de hablar en voz alta en publico, transitar fuera de sus hogares sin un pariente de sangre, mostrar cualquier parte de su cuerpo o asomarse a los balcones. Muchas fueron azotadas o lapidadas por el incumplimiento de cualquiera de sus normas, un horror cotidiano que ahora se teme vuelva a extenderse con el resurgimiento armado de los insurgentes. Estados Unidos y la ONU condenan el cierre de la educacion para las ninas La enviada de Naciones Unidas para Afganistan, Deborah Lyons, califico los informes del cierre como "perturbadores". "Si es cierto, cual podria ser la razon?", cuestiono. La comunidad internacional ha hecho del derecho a la educacion para todas las personas en suelo afgano un punto conflictivo en las negociaciones sobre la ayuda economica y el reconocimiento del nuevo regimen taliban. Human Rights Watch tambien planteo la cuestion de las pocas vias que tienen las ninas para desempenarse tras recibir educacion. "Por que tu y tu familia harian grandes sacrificios para que estudies si nunca puedes tener la carrera que sonaste?", apunto Sahar Fetrat, investigadora de Human Rights Watch. "La ONU en Afganistan deplora el anuncio de hoy de los talibanes de que estan ampliando aun mas su prohibicion indefinida para que las estudiantes de mas de sexto grado puedan regresar a la escuela", afirmo mediante un comunicado la Mision de las Naciones Unidas en el pais (UNAMA). El encargado de negocios de Estados Unidos para esa nacion, Ian McCary, quien actualmente reside en Qatar, aseguro que estaba profundamente preocupado por el cambio de postura. "Esto es muy decepcionante y contradice muchas garantias y declaraciones de los talibanes", sostuvo. Los talibanes buscan dirigir el pais de acuerdo con su interpretacion de la ley islamica y, al mismo tiempo, acceder a miles de millones de dolares en ayuda que necesitan desesperadamente para evitar la pobreza y el hambre generalizados. Sin embargo, por ahora parecen no estar dispuestos a modificar sus posturas de vieja data que vulneran los mas minimos estandares de los derechos humanos. Con Reuters, AFP y AP ABO - Group Ghent, 25th of march 2022, 18:30 Press release / Regulatory Information In addition to the annual results that will be announced today after closing time, ABO-Group reports that it has recently acquired the trading fund of two specialised Dutch companies. On the one hand it concerns the soil department of Colsen, an agency based in Hulst (Zeeland). This division will be integrated and acquired by ABO-Milieuconsult, the soil division of ABO-Group in the Netherlands. On the other hand, it involves Geo-Supporting, based in Lisserbroek, which specialises in in-situ geotechnical investigations. The activities and employees will be integrated in Geosonda bv, the geotechnical CPT division of ABO-Group. In addition, part of the shares of A. F. van der Burg Beheer BV, director of Geosonda bv, will be exchanged for shares in ABO-Group of the CEO. This transaction will take place next week. The CEO, Frank De Palmenaer, says: "These small specialised niche players are an essential reinforcement of our geotechnical and soil consulting services in the Netherlands. ABO will therefore be able to draw on Geo-Supporting's and Colsens extensive customer base of many years. About ABO-Group Environment ABO-Group is a specialised, listed engineering office focussing on geotechnology, environment and soil remediation. Through its consultancy and testing & monitoring departments, ABO-Group is active in Belgium, the Netherlands and France, as well as internationally. ABO-Group guarantees its customers a sustainable solution. For a more detailed description of the operations of the group, please consult the ABO-Group website (www.abo-group.eu). For more information: Frank De Palmenaer CEO ABO-Group Environment nv frank.depalmenaer@abo-group.eu T +32 (0)9 242 88 88 Attachment By Jarrett Renshaw RZESZOW, Poland, March 25 (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday landed in Rzeszow, Poland, on Friday to get a firsthand look at international efforts to help some of the millions of Ukrainian refugees fleeing war in their country, and speak to American troops bolstering NATO's eastern flank. While at Rzeszow-Jasionka Airport, Biden was to receive a briefing on the humanitarian response to help civilians sheltering from Russian attacks inside Ukraine and to respond to the growing flow of refugees fleeing Ukraine. Biden told reporters in Brussels on Thursday that his visit will "reinforce my commitment to have the United States make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine." Afterward, Biden was to meet with soldiers from the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division stationed there as part of NATO's protection of the alliance's eastern flank. In the evening, Biden was to travel to the capital Warsaw for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda. On Saturday, he was scheduled to give what the White House described as a major address. Poland hopes that Biden's visit will underline the security assurances already made by the United States that it will defend "every inch" of NATO territory. Warsaw is keen to see even more U.S. troops stationed on NATO's eastern flank. Poland is also likely to raise the idea of an international peacekeeping mission involving troops being stationed in Ukraine, an idea first proposed by ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski during a trip to Kyiv. En route to Poland on Air Force One, national security adviser Jake Sullivan briefed reporters. Asked whether Russia would try to bomb convoys carrying supplies to Ukraine over land through NATO countries, Sullivan said: "We are doing contingency planning for the possibility that Russia chooses to strike NATO territory in that context or in any other context. Story continues "And the president has been about as clear as one can be about his absolute determination to respond decisively, alongside the other members of our alliance if Russia attacks NATO," Sullivan said. He also suggested the United States and its allies could still impose new measures to punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. "Of course, there are additional measures to tighten the screws on sanctions, and we will be constantly reviewing those," he said. Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation" to disarm its neighbor. Kyiv and its Western allies call it an unprovoked war of aggression and say Russia's true aim was to overthrow the government of what President Vladimir Putin regards as an illegitimate state. (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw, Alan Charlish and Steve Holland; Additional reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Heather Timmons and Jonathan Oatis) Back in 1991, the year the Soviet Union collapsed, Olga Fedorenko set out on a path from Kharkiv, Ukraine. Her journey eventually landed her in Coventry. Earlier this month, with Kharkiv under siege, Fedorenko's 75-year-old mother fled the city, wondering about the prospects of finding refuge with her daughter in Rhode Island. On March 11, Kharkiv's mayor told reporters that the city had endured 16 days of relentless shelling by Vladimir Putin's forces. He said 400 apartment buildings had lost heat, and he appealed to residents to seek shelter in the city's subways. Olga's mother flees the bombardment At 6 a.m. that same day, Olga's mother, Anna Strelepska, her 53-year-old sister and her 18-year-old nephew had boarded a train. It did not budge until 9 p.m. In a war zone: Troubled RI veteran finds both fatherhood and unending war in Ukraine Olga Fedorenko's family in Ukraine. Her mother, right, fled the besieged city of Kharkiv on March 11, with her sister, second from left, and her sister's younger son, far left. Her sister's older son, Alex Sydlyruk, 32, has remained in Kharkiv to help civilians who can't leave, Olga says. Then, in darkness and war, it rolled out of the city, through besieged Kyiv and farther west. Locals brought food to the refugees during stops in western cities, Olga says. In Lviv, Olga's sister, Tetiana, and her nephew, Egor Sydlyruk, who is military age, found housing with relatives. Olga's mother, who came down with COVID-19 during the trip, continued to Poland and traveled on to Munich, Germany, says Olga. Anna hoped to join Olga in Rhode Island. But her passport was expired, Olga says. Then they learned that the United States was not accepting refugees from Ukraine even refugees with passports, and even those with close relatives in the United States who were ready to support them. Olga Fedorenko, 51, of Coventry, stood by anxiously as her 75-year-old mother, her sister and her nephew fled the besieged Ukrainian city of Kharkiv earlier this month and trekked all the way to Munich, Germany. Olga, who is a nurse practitioner, called Sen. Jack Reed's office. She fretted about her mother's finances and her need for medication. She said the office couldn't provide much help. She wondered why Ukrainian refugees like her mother were being denied passage when President Joe Biden and Gov. Dan McKee had both said they would welcome refugees from Ukraine. She said she felt 'betrayed' by the U.S. government. Story continues And then, on Thursday, the United States announced that it anticipates receiving about 100,000 refugees in the months to come. "Nice," said Olga, who seemed buoyed. She recognized that her mother's crisis wasn't solved. Millions of refugees have fled Ukraine. Keeping the faith: Woonsocket priest who grew up in Ukraine offers prayers for his homeland, and the US For the record: Ukrainians in RI fear 'threat of oblivion' and denounce Putin's propaganda UNICEF, the United Nations children's agency, has reported that more than half of Ukraine's children have been driven from their homes. At this point, Olga's hometown of Kharkiv looks nothing like the city she visited in 2019. About 600 residential buildings were destroyed as of Tuesday, according to the mayor. In Providence, Kathy Cloutier, executive director of Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island, said Thursday that the refugee-resettlement agency is ready to support Ukrainian refugees in Rhode Island. "We welcome all who wish to call Rhode Island home, Cloutier said. For more information about Dorcas's work, visit diiri.org. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Woman from Coventry, RI, hopes mother from Ukraine can come to US Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, one of the worlds leading luxury hospitality companies, and Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the developers of the Diriyah master plan, have announced plans for Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. A 300-year-old site located just outside of Riyadh, Diriyah is considered to be the birthplace of the Kingdom and the capital of the first Saudi state. The area is home to the Unesco World Heritage Site, At-Turaif, the valley and lush palm groves of Wadi Hanifah, and will soon include the Diriyah development an acclaimed project that pays homage to the history of Saudi Arabia. Located 15 minutes from the centre of Riyadh, Diriyah will comprise 13 unique districts inclusive of residences, hospitality offerings, office space, retail, museums, cultural institutions, outdoor attractions and more. The development is a key driver of the Kingdoms Saudi Vision 2030. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority, commented: It is a delight to be partnering with Four Seasons. Renowned for their unforgettable guest experiences, Four Seasons is working alongside DGDA to elevate what travellers can experience within Diriyah, showcasing their timeless approach to hospitality whilst staying true to Diriyahs rich cultural past. We are excited to share further developments on this project in the coming months. Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia will include approximately 150 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, expansive meeting and event spaces, a wellness spa with seven treatment rooms and a fitness centre, as well as two outdoor pools with private cabanas. The Hotel will also offer four culinary outlets, including a poolside restaurant and Sunset lounge. The Diriyah development will become one of the Middle Easts most walkable, pedestrianised cities, and upon completion will be the worlds largest cultural and heritage site. It has been designed to honour the heritage of the area with traditional Najdi architectural design principles, including low-rise, compact and organic architecture, rooftop terraces, decorated doors, and large courtyards. Each district within the development will be highly walkable with easy connections to the sights and attractions within the area. Diriyah is an exceptional project that speaks to the tremendous growth and economic development in the region, while remaining deeply rooted in the destinations historic and cultural past, says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Saudi Arabia is an important growth market for Four Seasons, and we are proud to be part of Diriyahs exciting future. We look forward to partnering with DGDA to bring the Four Seasons luxury experience to life within this iconic, landmark development. The hotel will be located adjacent to Diriyahs culturally rooted district along the Wadi Hanifah escarpment, with incredible views towards the west and the Unesco World Heritage Site, At-Turaif. Inspired by local tradition, the hotel design will have a unique aesthetic that is being developed by leading design architects, Aedas and Elastik interior designers. Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia will join Four Seasons growing portfolio of properties in the Middle East and will be a short drive from the existing Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre. - TradeArabia News Service Safari and Chrome apps European lawmakers have agreed on new rules which they hope will curb the dominance of Big Tech companies. Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), giants such as Google and Apple will be forced to open up their services and platforms to other businesses. Major technology firms have long faced criticism that they use their market dominance to squeeze out competition. "What we want is simple: fair markets...in digital," said EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager. "Large gatekeeper platforms have prevented businesses and consumers from the benefit of competitive digital markets," she said. The announcement is the biggest regulatory move yet from the EU to act against what it defines as "anti-trust" or anti-competitive behaviour from mainly US technology businesses. "The agreement ushers in a new era of tech regulation worldwide," said German MEP Andreas Schwab, who led the negotiations for the European Parliament. Under the proposed Digital Markets Act, Apple would be forced to open up its App Store to third-party payment options instead of users being forced to use Apple's own payment system. It is something Apple has been fighting in the US during a high-profile court battle with Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite. Google will be asked to offer people who use smartphones which run on the company's Android operating system alternatives to its search engine, the Google Maps app or its Chrome browser. Apple would also be forced to loosen its grip on the iPhone, with users allowed to uninstall its Safari web browser and other company-imposed apps that users cannot currently delete. The targets of the law include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, the App Store, Google Play and many other services belonging to large tech firms. The EU wants to give users more choice over how people send messages. The new rules would require that technology make their messaging services interoperable with smaller competitors. Story continues However, Apple said it was "concerned that some provisions of the DMA will create unnecessary privacy and security vulnerabilities for our users". Meanwhile, Google said: "While we support many of the DMA's ambitions around consumer choice and interoperability, we're worried that some of these rules could reduce innovation and the choice available to Europeans." EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager said technology's "gatekeepers" must take responsibility The law will only affect companies with a value of more than 75bn (63bn), annual sales of 7.5bn and at least 45 million monthly users. Legislation was originally proposed by Ms Vestager just over a year ago in reaction to what she felt was monopolistic behaviour from Big Tech. She was known to be frustrated by how mainly large, US tech companies had managed to delay and even thwart EU attempts to fine them. "The gatekeepers - they now have to take responsibility," Ms Vestager said on Thursday. Once implemented, the law will give Brussels unprecedented authority in regulating major tech companies. Many major US tech companies have huge lobbying operations in Washington, and have been emphasising that such laws punish successful American companies. However many US politicians are also keen to clip the wings of Big Tech, with bills currently going through Congress that would also rein in their power. With the deal reached by negotiators, the DMA now faces final votes in the European Parliament as well as by ministers from the EU's 27 member states. Company Logo Dublin, March 25, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Biologics Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization Profiles and Growth Opportunities" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report provides comprehensive insights into the global biologics contract development and manufacturing organization (bio-CDMO) market, including emerging trends, growth opportunities, and profiles of leading bio-CDMOs and their business model evolution. The growth of next-generation biologics and personalized therapies and the emergence of small and midsize biotechnology companies drive bio-CDMOs toward becoming end-to-end integrated service providers for better customer value creation. Next-generation biologics require outsourcing in the early stages of development. With limited or no in-house bioprocess development capacity for new modalities, big pharmaceutical firms and small and emerging biotechnology companies seek outsourcing for these services. To support the outsourcing demand, bio-CDMOs expand to provide contract research services, leading to their adoption of the CRDMO model: contract research, development, and manufacturing. Company profiles included in this research service offer a brief overview of the bio-CDMO's value proposition and strategic analysis. The report also emphasizes key strategic collaborations and expansion plans across the biopharmaceutical market. Recent expansion activities in the market reflect the increasing role of bio-CDMOs as a strategic partner in developing new modalities. Bio-CDMOs build capacity and capability to support modalities such as cell and gene therapy and mRNA. The biopharmaceutical market is skewed toward these modalities following the success of mRNA technology in COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics. Research Highlights Role of bio-CDMOs in COVID-19 vaccine scale-up Key trends shaping the bio-CDMO industry In-house versus outsourcing manufacturing capacity of biologics Key themes driving collaborations/expansions Recent notable acquisitions and capacity expansions by leading bio-CDMOs Story continues Key Topics Covered: 1. Strategic Imperatives Why Is It Increasingly Difficult to Grow? The Strategic Imperative The Impact of the Top Three Strategic Imperatives on the Global Biologics CDMO (Bio-CDMO) Industry Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine 2. Growth Opportunity Analysis Scope of Analysis Key Trends Shaping the Bio-CDMO Industry Growth Drivers Growth Restraints Role of Bio-CDMOs in COVID-19 Vaccine Scale-Up Key Manufacturing Partnerships with Bio-CDMOs for Approved COVID-19 Vaccines-United States Key Manufacturing Partnerships with Bio-CDMOs for Approved COVID-19 Vaccines-Europe In-House versus Outsourcing Manufacturing Trends Key Themes Driving Bio-CDMO Collaborations/Expansions Recent Notable Acquisitions Capacity Expansion Plans-Tier I Companies Capacity Expansion Plans-Tier II/III Companies Capacity Expansion Plans-Specialized CDMOs and Other Companies Transition from CDMO to CRDMO 3. Company Profile-Lonza Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 3. Company Profile-Samsung Biologics Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 4. Company Profile-Boehringer Ingelheim BioXcellenceT Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 5. Company Profile-Thermo Fisher Scientific Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 6. Company Profile-WuXi Biologics Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 7. Company Profile-Catalent Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 8. Company Profile-AGC Biologics Business Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 9. Company Profile-WuXi AppTec Business Overview Revenue and Technology Overview Value Proposition Strategic Analysis 10. Growth Opportunity Universe Growth Opportunity 1 - Strategic Partnerships to Facilitate the Transition from CDMO to CRDMO Growth Opportunity 2 - Expand Manufacturing Capacity for pDNA Growth Opportunity 3 - Small-scale Agility to Support Specific CGT Needs of Emerging Biopharma Companies For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rlywyg CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com 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 Latest grant to the UNCF rounds out MetLife Foundations $5 million commitment to racial equity announced in 2020 NEW YORK, March 25, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MetLife Foundation is providing an additional $1 million to the UNCF to help finance scholarships at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). MetLife President and CEO Michel Khalaf announced this commitment last night during the 2022 UNCF annual gala held in New York City. At the event, Khalaf also accepted UNCFs Legacy Partner Award on behalf of MetLife. MetLife has partnered with the UNCF since 1946. The latest $1 million grant will fund the new MetLife Foundation Legacy Endowment Scholarship. This program is being established alongside the MetLife Foundation Scholarship Fund a UNCF program established in 2020 to support African American students majoring in business, accounting or finance at HBCUs. The latest grant also completes the commitment MetLife Foundation announced in June 2020 to provide $5 million over three years to advance racial equity in the United States. "MetLife Foundations ongoing support of underserved and underrepresented communities is part of MetLifes broader commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion," said Khalaf. "The culmination of the $5 million pledge to advance racial equity serves as a launchpad for broader efforts were undertaking to reduce inequality, create economic stability, and build a more inclusive and confident future for all." Yesterday, MetLife announced a comprehensive set of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals to be achieved by 2030. As part of the seven new goals, MetLife committed to originate $1 billion in investments that advance firms owned by women, minorities and disabled persons, and to spend an additional $1.6 billion with diverse suppliers. In addition, MetLife Foundation committed to providing $150 million to support underserved and underrepresented communities. Click here for more information on MetLifes commitment to DEI. Story continues About MetLife MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates ("MetLife"), is one of the worlds leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management to help individual and institutional customers build a more confident future. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 markets globally and holds leading positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com. About MetLife Foundation At MetLife Foundation, we are committed to expanding opportunities for low- and moderate-income people around the world. We partner with nonprofit organizations and social enterprises to create financial health solutions and build stronger communities, while engaging MetLife employee volunteers to help drive impact. Our financial health work has reached more than 17.3 million low- and moderate-income individuals in 42 countries. Learn more at MetLife Foundation. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220325005080/en/ Contacts Rachel Pokay 331-452-4122 rpokay@metlife.com TAMPA, Fla., March 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On Thursday, March 24, 2022, the Norman Parathyroid Center broke its own record for the most parathyroid surgeries performed in a single day with 65% of patients traveling from another state or country. Hospital for Endocrine Surgerys global patient distribution over the first 12 weeks of 2022. As a world-wide destination for the surgical treatment of parathyroid tumors, the Norman Parathyroid Center's caseload offers an insight into the return of medical tourism in the US following the pandemic's shuttering of domestic and international travel. The Center performed 30 parathyroid operations in one day breaking their previous record of 27 set last month. Medical tourism is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the US annually, with patients from all over the world traveling to the US to have specialty surgery at centers of medical excellence. Because nearly 60% of parathyroid operations performed historically at the Norman Parathyroid Center are on patients living in other states or countries, the practice has been used as a barometer of the health of the overall medical tourism industry in the US and is one of the highest volume medical tourism centers in the world. "Medical tourismthe traveling of patients to seek expert medical carewas dramatically affected by travel restrictions for the past two years because of the pandemic. Of course, this included patients with cancers and tumors of all kinds," says Dr. Jim Norman, founder of the Norman Parathyroid Center. "But the decrease in patient travel is much more complex than simple flight restrictions. Even when the restrictions were lifted, many patients who would benefit by traveling to see an expert surgeon were reluctant to do so because of their advanced age, their underlying disease, and their associated morbidities which they felt put them at increased risk to travel. Only in the past few months are these patients showing a return to near pre-pandemic medical travel." The surgeons of the Norman Parathyroid Center recently united with those of the Clayman Thyroid Center and Carling Adrenal Center under one roof at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery. Those surgeons now make up the highest volume endocrine surgery practice in the world and offer additional insight into the health of medical tourism in the US. Thursday's 30 parathyroid operations included patients from 12 US states, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Since the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery opened in January 2022, the surgeons have operated on patients from all 50 states and 32 countries including the United Kingdom, Mexico, Serbia, India, Spain, Australia and more. Story continues During the pandemic, the Center had a 99% decrease in patients traveling from other countries for thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal surgery during 2020, and an 90% decrease in 2021 compared to their baseline in 2019. These decreases are typical for other hospitals and surgeons who have a high volume of foreign patient travel. The resurgence in medical tourism for the Center started in October and picked up further in January. Twenty-six patients from Canada have sought treatment with the practice in 2022, which is about 75% of 2019 rates, but far above 2020 and 2021. "I asked my endocrinologist and he told me right to my face 'If it was my neck, and my vocal cords, you better believe I'd go to the guys who do parathyroid surgery all day long, every day. The guys in Tampa do 100 times more parathyroid surgeries than anyone in this state," said one of Thursday's patients who traveled to Florida from California. "Patients needing specialty surgery are behaving more and more like consumers and shopping to find the best for themselves and their family," said Dr. Gary Clayman, founder and Chief of Surgery at the Clayman Thyroid Center. "They are willing to avoid the local hospital general surgeon and travel to another city, state, or country for their specialized surgery. They are putting their health first. They are willing to travel to have the best care from the best surgeons with the best possible outcome." The Norman Parathyroid Center has consulted on more than 60,000 patients with parathyroid disease (hyperparathyroidism). The Center has always enjoyed a vast network of patients from around the globe with one thing in common their desire to be cured of their parathyroid disease. As a long-time barometer of medical tourism, nearly 60% of the practice's patients travel for surgery from another state or country. This is made even easier for traveling patients now that the surgeons operate out of the new Hospital for Endocrine Surgery, which is located in close proximity to Tampa International Airport. The practice has several hotel partners who provide a shuttle service from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the new hospital to make the process for traveling patients as easy as possible. "Their hotel recommendations and shuttle service were amazing," said another patient. "From scheduling, to registration, to nurses, to cafeteria staff, to the incredible surgeons this is truly the dream team and the reason why I traveled so far. I couldn't believe it when I woke up and it was all over. Tears of joy rolled down my race. I can't wait to see how my life continues to improve. To anyone suffering with the symptoms of parathyroid disease, don't wait. It won't get better on its own. Get on a plane and travel to Tampa to get cured. About the Norman Parathyroid Center: Located in Tampa, Florida, the Norman Parathyroid Center is the leading parathyroid gland tumor treatment center in the world, performing nearly 3,800 parathyroid operations annually. Well known for cure rates over 99% via an operation that typically lasts about 20 minutes, the Norman Parathyroid Center's success centers on a teamwork approach by the most experienced parathyroid surgeons in the world. www.parathyroid.com| (813) 972-0000 About the Clayman Thyroid Center: Founded by one of the nation's best-known thyroid surgeons, the Clayman Thyroid Center is the highest volume thyroid cancer referral center in the United States. The Center boasts the most experienced thyroid surgeons in the US who provide personalized care allowing the greatest opportunity for cancer cure, wellness, and cosmetic and functional outcomes via all types of thyroid surgery from minimal incision to scarless thyroid surgery to advanced cancer care. www.thyroidcancer.com | (813) 940-3130 Contact: Julie Canan, Director of Marketing (941) 468-3002 | juliec@parathyroid.com Norman Parathyroid Centers US patient distribution since moving into the brand-new Hospital for Endocrine Surgery 12 weeks ago. Norman Parathyroid Centers team of expert parathyroid surgeons pictured in front of the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa, Florida. Located in Tampa, Florida, the Norman Parathyroid Center is the leading parathyroid gland tumor treatment center in the world, performing nearly 3,800 parathyroid operations annually. (PRNewsfoto/Norman Parathyroid Center) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/norman-parathyroid-center-sets-new-operation-record-signaling-the-return-of-medical-tourism-301510305.html SOURCE Norman Parathyroid Center Klaipedos Nafta Notice is hereby given that on the initiative and by the resolution of the Board of AB Klaipedos nafta, legal entity code 110648893, with the registered office at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda (hereinafter - the Company), Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company will be held on 22 April 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in the Companys office at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda, in the administrative office of the Company (in the hall of the meeting on the 2nd floor). Agenda of the meeting: Announcement of the Auditors Report regarding the Financial Statements and Annual Report of the Company for the year 2021 to the shareholders; Announcement of the Annual Report of the Company for the year 2021 to the shareholders; Approval of the audited Financial Statements of the Company for the year 2021; Approval of the appropriation of profit (loss) of the Company for the year 2021; Approval of Report on the remuneration of the Company; It is recommended that all shareholders participate in the meeting by completing the general ballot paper and submitting it in advance to the Company. Please inform us about the need to physically attend the General Meeting of Shareholders no later than 3 business days before General Meeting of Shareholders via below specified emails. In all cases, Shareholders of the Company without personal protective equipment will not be allowed to participate in to the General Meeting of Shareholders. The Company reserves the right not to allow participation in to the General Meeting of Shareholders for those shareholders whose health condition are reasonably doubtful. The shareholders will be registered from 09:00 a.m. to 09:55 a.m. The persons intending to participate in the meeting shall have a personal ID document (an authorized representative shall have an authorization approved under the established procedure. The natural persons authorization shall be notarized. An authorization issued in a foreign state shall be translated into the Lithuanian language and legalized under the procedure prescribed by the laws). Story continues A shareholder or his proxy shall have the right to vote in writing in advance by filling in a general ballot paper. At the request of the shareholder, the Company shall send a general ballot paper to the shareholder by registered mail free of charge at least 10 days before the meeting. The filled-in general ballot paper and the document attesting the voting right shall be submitted to the Company no later than until the meeting, sending by registered mail or providing them at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. The shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes may propose additions to the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders by submitting with every proposed additional item of the agenda a draft resolution of the general meeting of shareholders or, when no resolution is required, an explanation. Proposals on addition to the agenda shall be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and r.valunas@kn.lt . The agenda shall be supplemented if the proposal is received no later than 14 days before the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. If the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders is supplemented, the Company shall notify on the additions no later than 10 days before the meeting in the same ways as in the case of convocation of the meeting. The shareholders, who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes, at any time before the general meeting of shareholders or during the meeting, may propose new draft resolutions on items which are or will be included in the agenda of the meeting. The proposals may be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and r.valunas@kn.lt . The shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company in advance questions relating to the items on the agenda of the meeting. The shareholders may submit their written questions to the Company on business days or send by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice no later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company will reply to the questions by e-mail or in writing before the meeting, except the questions which are related to the Companys commercial (industrial) secret, confidential information or which have been submitted later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company does not provide the possibility of participating and voting at the meeting by means of electronic communications. The shareholder shall have the right to authorize through electronic communications means another person (natural or legal) to participate and vote in the meeting on behalf of the shareholder. No notarization of such authorization is required. The shareholder must confirm the proxy issued through electronic communications means by an electronic signature developed by a secure signature-creation device and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholder shall inform the Company on the proxy issued through electronic communications means to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and r.valunas@kn.lt no later than until the last business day before the meeting at 10:00 a.m. The proxy and the notice must be issued in writing. The proxy and the notice to the Company shall be signed with the electronic signature but not the letter sent by e-mail. By submitting the notice to the Company, the shareholder shall include the internet address from which it would be possible to download software free of charge to verify the shareholders electronic signature. The record date of the meeting shall be 14 April 2022 (only those persons who will be shareholders of the Company at the close of the record date of the general meeting of shareholders or their authorized persons, or persons with whom an agreement on assignment of the voting right has been executed, may participate and vote at the general meeting of shareholders). The record date which entitles shareholders to receive a portion of the Companys profit (dividend) 6 May 2022. The shareholders of the Company may familiarise with the draft resolution of the meeting and the form of the general ballot paper under the procedure prescribed by the laws in the registered office of the Company at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda (tel.: 8 46 391636), or on the Companys website at http://www.kn.lt/ . The following information and documents shall be provided on the abovementioned internet website of the Company: - The notification on convocation of the meeting; - Total number of the Companys shares and the number of shares with voting rights on the convening day of the meeting. Mindaugas Kveksas, Chief Financial Officer, +370 614 82665. Orinta Barkauskaite, Head of Communication +370 611 27985 Attachments Russian President Vladimir Putin Russian Ambassador to Italy Sergey Razov filed a lawsuit on Friday against the Italian newspaper La Stampa after it published an analysis suggesting killing Russian President Vladimir Putin as a means of stopping the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The analysis, titled "If killing Putin is the only way out," said that killing the Russian president might be the only option if all others are exhausted, Reuters reported. Razov believed that the Italian news outlet was condoning and soliciting a crime to happen from their analysis, according to Reuters. "Needless to say that this goes against the rules of journalism and morality," the Russian ambassador told reporters. But the editor of La Stampa said in a video on its website posted in response that the Russian ambassador's remarks were hypocritical given Russia's own history. He also said the conclusion the analysis came to was that killing Putin could worsen the conflict and that killing tyrants was often not productive. "We do not take lessons from an illiberal regime that slaughters humanity and truth," Massimo Giannini said, according to Reuters. The analysis comes as Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) received blowback several times for calling for Putin's assassination. During a press conference earlier this month, a reporter asked him if he still stood by his previous comments calling on Putin to be killed. "Yeah, I hope he will be taken out one way or the other," Graham said. "I don't care how they take him out. I don't care if we send him to the Hague and try him. I just want him to go. Yes, I'm on record," Graham added. "And if [the late Sen.] John McCain were here, he'd be saying the same thing, I think." However, Republicans and the White House have distanced themselves from Graham's rhetoric, saying it was not a good idea. NEW YORK, March 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard" or "we"), one of the largest shareholders of Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) ("Huntsman" or the "Company"), with an ownership interest of approximately 8.8% of the Company's outstanding shares, today announced that it has delivered an open letter to Huntsman shareholders. The full text of the letter to Huntsman shareholders follows: Dear Fellow Shareholders, As you know, Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard" or "we") is one of the largest shareholders of Huntsman Corporation ("Huntsman" or the "Company"), with an ownership stake of approximately 8.8% of the Company's outstanding shares. While we are disappointed by the results of this election, we appreciate the significant number of shareholders that voted for change. In fact, based on preliminary results, it appears as though less than 50% of the shares outstanding supported the Company's contested nominees. We hope that the Board recognizes that this clearly shows that shareholders not only expect management to fulfill its promises, but also expect the Board to hold management accountable for these promises. Since our involvement with Huntsman, the Company has made a series of new promises to shareholders, including: Promise to generate at least $1.4 billion in Adjusted EBITDA in 2022 with Adjusted EBITDA margins of approximately 17%. Promise to maintain an Adjusted EBITDA to Free Cash Flow conversion of at least 40% beginning in 2022. Promise to achieve the following segment-level Adjusted EBITDA margins by 2024: Promise to achieve total Company Adjusted EBITDA margins of 18 20% by 2024. Promise to complete a $1.0 billion share repurchase program within the next two years (i.e. by the end of 2023). Promise to eschew large acquisitions and spend less than $500 million on any single transaction. Promise to conduct a strategic review of the Textile Effects business. Promise to align 100% of the Company's incentive cash bonus program to the achievement of the Adjusted EBITDA margin, optimization program, and free cash flow targets set out at the 2021 Investor Day. Promise to have 70% of equity-based compensation tied to achievement of three-year relative TSR goals and two-year corporate free cash flow targets. Story continues We expect Huntsman's management team, the Board, research analysts, and shareholders to keep these specific promises as a checklist for accountability. We also expect the Company to understand that shareholders deserve to see Huntsman transformed into a company that executes with excellence. While we may not be on the Board, rest assured that we will be watching with great interest. Once again, thank you for your support. Best Regards, Jeffrey C. Smith Managing Member Starboard Value LP About Starboard Value LP Starboard Value LP is a New York-based investment adviser with a focused and differentiated fundamental approach to investing primarily in publicly traded U.S. companies. Starboard seeks to invest in deeply undervalued companies and actively engage with management teams and boards of directors to identify and execute on opportunities to unlock value for the benefit of all shareholders. Investor contacts: Gavin Molinelli, (212) 201-4828 Patrick Sullivan, (212) 845-7947 www.starboardvalue.com Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/starboard-delivers-letter-to-huntsman-shareholders-301510826.html SOURCE Starboard Value LP Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai has announced the appointment of its management team, led by Ranjit Phillipose, Area Director - Middle East and General Manager. Phillipose brings with him over 29 years experience in the hospitality industry and a wealth of knowledge to this role. He is joined by Greg Kocsis, Hotel Manager; Dorsai Khaghani, Director of Sales & Marketing; Lionel Dousse, Director of F&B; Sonu Koithara, Executive Chef; and Dr Arun Aravind, Director of Spa. We are very pleased to have launched Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai this month. We look forward to establishing the Taj Exotica name in the region and to showcase Tajness to our esteemed guests. As a brand we take pride in everything we do, and the team will embody this in the ethos of their work. I'm confident every guest will enjoy the resorts unique offerings and world-class hospitality," said Phillipose. Philliposes professional achievements include overseeing multiple hotel openings and rebranding projects across IHCL hotels, resorts and palaces in Asia, UK, the USA and the Middle East. His accolades include being a recipient of the JRD Tata Award for Quality and Excellence, winning the prestigious Best New Hotel in the MENA region at the Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Awards 2020 (Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers), Favourite Business Hotel at the 2017 Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Awards (Taj Dubai) and Best of Best Hotels 2011 by Robb Report and 100 Best Suites, Elite Traveler USA (Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives). In 2018, 2019 and 2020 Ranjit was recognized by Hotelier Middle East as one of the most influential professionals in the industry in the Power 50 list. Originally from Hungary, Greg Kocsis is an experienced Hotel Manager and seasoned hospitality professional with extensive international experience in the luxury market, having previously worked in Beverly Hills, Miami, Barbados, London, Oman and Maldives for leading hotel brands over the course of 18 years. A highly accomplished sales & marketing professional with over 15 years of experience, Dorsai Khaghani has led a number of successful launches of some of Dubai's biggest and most successful hotel brands. She prides herself on truly understanding the Middle East market when it comes to what guests really want. With achievements such as being named one of the top 25 women in hospitality in 2020 and the Best salesperson of the year' in 2017 both by Hotelier Middle East, Dorsai brings her award-winning experience to Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai. The Swiss-born Lionel Dousse brings 14 years of experience to his new role having previously worked in various countries, including Djibouti, Ghana, Latvia, and most recently, the UAE. He specialises in creating dining concepts for pre-opening restaurants and bars. Originally from Kerala (India), Chef Sonu Koithara believes in the importance of working with quality ingredients, a philosophy he will bring to each dish he curates at Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, The Palm, Dubai. Having been a part of the IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited) for over 15 years, Chef Sonu has been an integral part the culinary teams for several hotels in India and recently in Dubai with the opening of Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Taking a whole new meaning to holistic wellness, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai will house its very own resident Ayurvedic expert. Dr Arun Aravind, a seasoned wellness professional, joins the team with over 22 years of experience and brings in-depth knowledge of the ancient practice of Ayurveda to JIVA, our award-winning spa. TradeArabia News Service Statement from the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food on the resumption of PEI potato exports to the United States Statement from the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food on the resumption of PEI potato exports to the United States Canada NewsWire OTTAWA, ON, March 24, 2022 OTTAWA, ON, March 24, 2022 /CNW/ - The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, issued the following statement regarding the announcement that the United States will soon resume imports of Prince Edward Island (PEI) table stock potatoes into the continental U.S. with reasonable science-based conditions. "Today's news is important for PEI potato growers. I know the last few months have been incredibly difficult for potato farmers, producers, and everyone on the Island. This reopening comes at a critical time for the industry. Potato exports are essential for the livelihoods of so many Islanders, and I am confident that this decision by the U.S. will give farmers the predictability and assurances they need for the next potato growing season. The United States Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) has completed their pest risk analysis and concluded, like Canada, that the trade of PEI table stock potatoes can be done safely. This U.S. decision follows the successful re-opening of the Puerto Rican market on February 9, 2022. The Government of Canada appreciates the U.S.'s ongoing technical collaboration in resolving this issue based on science, which highlights the importance of our bilateral collaboration. Open, predictable, science-based international trade is essential for Canadian businesses and provides stability for our producers and international partners. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will work in collaboration with industry to implement the new export requirements for the U.S. in short order. The Government of Canada has unwavering confidence that the trade of PEI potatoes is safe. This is welcome news, as table stock potatoes represent the biggest proportion of PEI's exports of fresh potatoes to the U.S. Story continues We will continue to take a Team Canada approach to ensure continued confidence in the safety of PEI potatoes. As part of these efforts the CFIA is completing the ongoing investigations in PEI and technical work to provide USDA APHIS with the necessary, science-based assurances in order to fully restore the trade." Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn Web: Agriculture and Agri-Food SOURCE Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada VANCOUVER, BC, March 25, 2022 /CNW/ - Western Copper and Gold Corporation ("Western" or the "Company") (TSX: WRN) (NYSE American: WRN) has filed its Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2021 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Western Copper and Gold Corporation Logo (CNW Group/Western Copper and Gold Corporation) The Company filed Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2021, with the SEC on March 25, 2022. The Form 40-F includes Western's Annual Information Form ("AIF"), audited consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"). The Form 40-F is available for viewing and retrieval through EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml. The Company has also filed its AIF, audited consolidated financial statements, and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2021 with the appropriate Canadian regulatory bodies. These filings are available for viewing on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The filings described above are also available on the Company's website: westerncopperandgold.com/investors/forms. Western will also provide a copy of the filings to any shareholder, without charge, upon request. Requests may be made by email, telephone, or regular mail. ABOUT WESTERN COPPER AND GOLD CORPORATION Western Copper and Gold Corporation is developing the Casino Project, Canada's premier copper-gold mine in the Yukon Territory and one of the most economic greenfield copper-gold mining projects in the world. The Company is committed to working collaboratively with our First Nations and local communities to progress the Casino project, using internationally recognized responsible mining technologies and practices. For more information, visit www.westerncopperandgold.com. On behalf of the board, "Paul West-Sells" Dr. Paul West-Sells President and CEO Western Copper and Gold Corporation Cautionary Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Information This news release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning anticipated use of proceeds from the Private Placement. Statements that are not historical fact are "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward looking information" as that term is defined in National Instrument 51-102 ("NI 51-102") of the Canadian Securities Administrators (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible" and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved. In making the forward-looking statements herein, the Company has applied certain material assumptions including, but not limited to, the assumption that general business conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner. Story continues Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual results, performance or achievements of Western and its subsidiaries may differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks involved in fluctuations in gold, copper and other commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties related to raising sufficient financing in a timely manner and on acceptable terms; and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in Western's AIF and Form 40-F, and other information released by Western and filed with the applicable regulatory agencies. Western's forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and Western does not assume, and expressly disclaims, any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. SOURCE Western Copper and Gold Corporation Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/March2022/25/c6749.html A judge on Friday denied a request to entirely dismiss a lawsuit alleging that members of the Spotsylvania County School Board violated Virginias Freedom of Information Act. John Martin, Westmoreland General District Courts presiding judgewho came in to hear the petition after two Spotsylvania judges recused themselvesgranted a request to dismiss certain counts but denied others, meaning that the case will be heard again. Specifically, Martin found the lawsuits allegations that Board Chair Kirk Twigg willfully and knowingly violated FOIA when he declared and conducted an unlawful closed meeting without holding a vote to go into closed session and that Vice Chair April Gillespie and members Lisa Phelps and Rabih Abuismail also violated FOIA by following him into the meeting have merit and should be heard. The closed meeting in question resulted in the firing of then-Superintendent Scott Baker. The lawsuit is being brought by Makaila Keyes, a sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University and 2019 graduate of Courtland High School. Keyes is represented by Frederick Edwards. Jeremy Capps, attorney for Twigg, Gillespie, Phelps and Abuismail, did not try to argue that Twigg did not violate FOIA by entering a closed meeting without properly asking for a motion and holding a vote to enter the meeting, but suggested the action amounts to a procedural violation. He argued that a board is able to go into a closed meeting whether or not it is on a published agenda as long as the substance and nature of the closed meeting is stated, which he said did occur. His main argument was that Keyes does not have standing to bring a lawsuit against the board on the issue of the closed meeting, because the subject of the closed meeting as announced did not affect her, her family or her property. Only a person denied of their rights and privilege can enforce FOIA, Capps said. Martin asked Capps if he could point to any case law to support this argument, and Capps said there isnt any. Edwards argued the law states the FOIA is to be liberally construed to promote an increased awareness by all persons of governmental activities and afford every opportunity to citizens to witness the operations of government. He said the law is clear in stating that meetings require notice, whether they are open or closed. In the case of the closed meeting that resulted in Bakers firing, no notice was given, he said. Martin asked Edwards to respond to the question of whether Keyes has standing to bring the lawsuit. Yes, sir, any person has rights, Edwards said. We believe the FOIA act at its core is about transparency and accountability. The legislature agrees and has given teeth to hold officials accountable. We believe that not to recognize this would hamper future efforts to hold elected officials accountable. If there is a violation, you as a citizen have a right to enforce that. In his judgement, Martin noted that the law does not distinguish between a violation and a procedural violation and said he tends to believe that any citizen can enforce a violation of FOIA. It is there to protect the rights of the public, he said. The next hearing of the case is scheduled for April 29. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Orange County Sheriff's Office is looking for a man who is suspected of sexually assaulting a child. Eddie Monroe Crawford, 41, is charged with rape, forcible sodomy and other sexually violent crimes, Sheriff's Lt. Becky Jones said. Jones said Crawford's last known address was in the 28,000 block of Bellewood Acres Lane in the Rhoadesville area. He previously lived in Greene County, where the Sheriff's Office has been working with Orange authorities in the investigation. Crawford is described as being 6 feet 2 inches tall, 180 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. He is known to carry a firearm and police are urging residents not to approach him. Anyone with information about Crawford's whereabouts is asked to call the Orange Sheriff's Office at 540/672-1234. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A pleasant Friday will be followed by a period of cool and blustery conditions in Fredericksburg. Remember that promise of warm moist air invading Fredericksburg and vicinity midweek behind a warm front? Yeah, that never happened. Most local thermometers never rose to the 60-degree level, while clouds and rain hung around much longer than forecast. That warm front stubbornly remained stuck farther south, and a late March version of the generally undesirable cold air damming wedge formed. ThisFridaymorning commuters have had to contend with fog around the area. Although a weak cold front finally edged east of the area last night a low pressure wrinkle formed along it over central Virginia. That kept moisture around long enough for temperatures to fall near the dew point, with fog being the result. Fortunately, that cold front (labeled #1 on the graphic) is scooting off the coast, which is allowing drier air to work into the Fredericksburg area. Thus the fog will erode and the sun will return later Friday morning. With 1015 mph westerly winds ushering in dry air, plus the strong March sunshine, temperatures this afternoon will finally work their way into the low 60s. Fredericksburg area folks who enjoy a warmer regime should bask in the mildness as today looks to be the warmest of the next several days. Per the graphic, a very progressive weather pattern is setting up, with a series of cold fronts swooping south and east out of Canada. Boundary #2 will cross the Blue Ridge later today, bringing some clouds along with cooler and drier air. Temperatures Friday night will drop into the low 40s ahead of cold front #3. This next boundary will be a part of a vigorous Alberta clipper, typically a wintertime system. This clipper will bring moisture and even colder air back into the region on Saturday. The overall result will be a Saturday with showers and possible afternoon thunderstorms even as temperatures top out only in the mid-50s. The mountains of West Virginia will see several inches of snow from this system, and it wouldnt be out of the question for Fredericksburg area folks to see some frozen precipitation in the form of graupel. Cold front #4 will then zoom through the area on Sunday, reinforcing the cold air via gusty northwest winds. Even though sunshine will be abundant on the latter day of the weekend high temperatures will struggle to reach the 50 degree mark. And by Monday morning thermometers in and around Fredericksburg will sag into the mid-20s. With the average daily highs at 60 degrees at this point in March, suffice it to say, itll be significantly cooler than normal. Happy Friday! King George County officials covered various aspects of the Service Authority, past and present, during a two-hour discussion this week, but didnt make any headway on whether the Service Authority should become a county department instead of operating as a separate entity. As participants pointed out, many aspects of water and sewer operations already fall under the countys purview. The Service Authority uses the same county attorney and engineer as well as the finance and human relations departments. But it doesnt pay for any of those services and Chris Miller, who is the county administrator and the Service Authoritys interim general manager, suggested that should change if the authority remains independent. He also said the authority has some personnel policies that run contrary to county practices. For instance, the Service Authoritys general manager gets to call the shots on all the day-to-day personnel decisions, Miller said. If there would be a dispute between the general managers decision and HR, then the general managers decision would carry, he said. There also have been times when the Service Authority has given merit pay increases at different times than the county, causing issues with uniformity, he said. At the suggestion of the Service Authority Board of Directors, Miller put together a proposal to merge water and sewer operations with the county and create a separate public works department. Thats how its done in several surrounding counties including Caroline, Spotsylvania and Stafford. Tuesdays meeting between the Service Authoritys board and the countys Board of Supervisors was the first joint session to discuss what promises to be a complicated and convoluted matter. But then, so is the very nature of the King George County Service Authority. It was created 30 years ago when the county bought a number of old and dilapidated water systems and combined them under one operation. Even though the Service Authority was supposed to stand on its own financially, the county put in money quite a few times, said Cathy Binder, who serves on the Board of Supervisors and the authoritys board. There has been a co-mingling since 1992, said Binder, who researched the Service Authority history. Im going to be very frank and honest and say it has not been done right from the very beginning. Until 2016, those elected to the Board of Supervisors also served as the authoritys Board of Directors. Former Supervisor Ruby Brabo pushed six years ago for residents who are also Service Authority customers to serve on its board. Now, three of the five directors of the Service Board are residents and twoBinder and Annie Cupkaare elected officials. Miller came to King George as county administrator in July 2021, then the following month, former Service Authority general manager Jonathon Weakley resigned to work in his native county of Madison. King George hasnt been able to find a replacement for Weakley because of staff shortages in the wastewater industry, so Miller has served as interim general manager. To add to the chaos, there were problems before Weakleys arrival with a general manager who ignored serious violations from the state and put the Service Authorityand the countyin a precarious position. Many of the problems from the previous managers tenure, including an extreme lack of maintenance, have been corrected. But the Service Authority continues to charge exorbitant user rates because its carrying $23 million in debt from previous acquisitions and repairs. Service Authority Directors Jim Morris and Allen Parker expressed their support for a merger to streamline operations. For all intents and purposes, we are a utility without the benefit of being a utility, Parker said. Theres a bad disconnect that allows it to not run properly. Supervisor T.C. Collins continued to belabor a point hes made repeatedly since he joined the board in Januarythat he was not privy to any discussions on the matter of merging. Others explained that Service Authority members had talked about the idea individually with Miller and asked him to put together a proposal. Miller presented a timeframe of how it might be accomplished, if both boards agreed. Collins said it looked like the decision already had been made because one item in the memo said all personnel and financial functions of the Service Authority would be coordinated by the countys department, effective Tuesday. Miller explained that as the person charged with daily operation of both the Service Authority and county departments, he had authority to make that decision. All other aspects of a possible merger would have to be approved by both boards, Miller said. Collins repeatedly stated he wanted to see all the options for the Service Authority before making a decision. Finally, Parker told him he was getting wrapped around things a little too much. Your decision is whether or not you think this a good idea, not bringing up another 5,000 options that might work, Parker said. If Collins had other suggestions for the Service Authority, he could propose them to his representative on the Board of Directors for consideration, Parker said. Other options mentioned have included hiring an outside company to manage operations or selling it to a private company. During the public comment portion of the meeting, Virginia Aquas president John Albauch said his company was interested in buying the Service Authorityand that the price was negotiable. Jeff Stonehill, chairman of the Board of Supervisors, acknowledged that the easy way out would be to sell. Get $30 million, wash away the debt and have someone else deal with it. But, he said, turning it over to a private company would mean elected officials have no authority over it and cant help when a constituent brings up concerns about bad water or bad service. The two boards did not make any decisions or plan any more joint meetings. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LOS ANGELES, CALIF. A federal jury in Los Angeles on March 24 found First Congressional District Rep. Jeff Fortenberry guilty of one count of concealing conduit campaign contributions and two counts of lying to federal agents. Fortenberry, a Republican, is in his ninth term representing most of southeast Nebraska, including Cass County. Fortenberrys trial centered around alleged actions by Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury who, according to the FBI, had been funneling money through various people into the campaigns of four Republican lawmakers, including Fortenberry. According to the prosecution, Chagoury gave a bag of $30,000 cash to Tloufic Baaklini, who passed it to Los Angeles resident Dr. Eli Ayoub. Ayoub gave it to his relatives so they could write checks to Fortenberry at an L.A. fundraiser in 2016. It is illegal for U.S. elected officials to accept foreign money. In a June 4, 2018, phone call, recorded by the FBI, Ayoub told Fortenberry three times that Baaklini provided $30,000 in cash and the cash probably came from Chagoury. The prosecution said those other political candidates allegedly targeted by Chagoury got rid of their money soon after learning it was suspect, while it took Fortenberry two-and-a-half years to get rid of his, which went to charity. Prosecutors also pointed out several lies that they say Fortenberry told during interviews with the FBI about that money. On the other hand, defense attorney John Littrell criticized the lead FBI agent in the case Todd Carter for a memo he wrote in which he laid out, before interviewing the congressman, that he would be seeking to charge Fortenberry with concealment of conduit contributions and, if he lied, making false statements. If you already have plans to indict someone, this is not a search for the truth, Littrell said. This is a setup. He also noted that Fortenberrys campaign had $1.5 million in its coffers and that theres no way Fortenberry would have put his reputation on the line for just $30,000. Nevertheless, the jury of four men and eight women deliberated less than two hours before returning with their guilty verdict. U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. set sentencing for June 28. The congressman faces up to five years in prison on each count, although he also could receive supervised release. Ironically, he does not have to give up his congressional seat. Federal law requires members of Congress to give up their seats only for crimes that are tied to treason. Fortenberry, a 61-year-old Republican, is the highest-ranking elected official to be convicted of a felony in Nebraska history. After the trial, Fortenberry told reporters on the scene that his attorneys plan to appeal the verdict. Earlier this year, Fortenberry announced he would seek another term in Washington. He faces several Republican challengers in the May primary. Two Democrats, including State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, also are vying for the seat. When reporters asked if he would continue his campaign, Fortenberry said he and his family are going to sit down and evaluate next steps. Todd Cooper reported from Los Angeles for this story. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Dennis Pavlik, a prisoner of war during the Korean War, will be the guest speaker at a program from 1:15-3 p.m. Friday, April 1, at the Scribner-Snyder High School in Scribner. The program, which is free and open to the public, is being sponsored by the area Men in Mission organization. Pavlik, 90, served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. While serving in the 555th Field Artillery during the Korean War, Pavlik was captured on July 14, 1953, when his unit was outflanked. He spent six weeks as a prisoner of war, held by the North Koreans until being released as part of Operation Big Switch, in which prisoners from all sides were returned to their sides. Pavlik was awarded a number of medals, including Bronze Star with V for valor, Good Conduct Medal, POW Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two Battle Stars, United Nations Service Medal and the Korean Presidential Unit Citation. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1954. He and his wife live in Omaha. Pavlik worked to establish a prisoner of war monument for many years. In 2008, his and others efforts resulted in the erection of the monument in Memorial Park in Omaha. In his presentation at Scribner-Snyder High School, Pavlik will relate his experiences as a prisoner of war, and will discuss what the prisoners of war endured and suffered in defending the freedoms we enjoy. This is the seventh year that Men in Mission has presented a program at either Scribner-Snyder or Logan View High Schools. The last two had to be canceled because of COVID-19. For more information, contact Ben Schole at 402-654-2489 or Jim Ebel at 402-664-2459. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. WATERLOO Relatives of a man who was shot and killed Tuesday morning said the slaying was over a $40 debt. Police said they were called to Dorray Darnell Coopers apartment at 627 W. Second St. around 4:10 a.m. and found LaVance Cooper suffering from a single gunshot wound to the abdomen. Paramedics took him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. He was 41. By the end of the day, Waterloo police arrested Dorray Cooper, 58, LaVances second cousin, on charges of first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm. Police said Dorray Cooper shot LaVance Cooper with a handgun. Relatives said LaVance had borrowed money from his second cousin, and Dorray Cooper wanted to be paid back. The two got in an argument over the money while they were drinking at the apartment, Maruice Smith, a family member, said he had been told. He got upset and shot him, Smith said. Wow, over $40 youll shoot your own cousin. Smith remembers LaVance Cooper as a quiet person who usually kept to himself. He said LaVance had been a minister at Union Baptist Church. He was a good kid, Smith said. He was a good guy and doing the right thing. Bond for Dorray Cooper was set at $500,000 during a Wednesday initial appearance in court. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A company in Herman was among three recognized recently by the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) at the 2021 NBDC Business Awards. Birds Eye Robotics in Herman received Innovation Business of the Year Award. The company supports poultry farmers through their autonomous robotic solutions, which includes broiler houses, commercial feeders, water lines and migration fences. NBDC awards businesses that demonstrated business success through job creation and sustainability, sales growth, successful government contracting, innovation in product or service offerings, and other business achievements, according to a recent press release. Catherine Lang, state director at NBDC, commended Birds Eye Robotics and other businesses. It is an honor to come together to celebrate these extraordinary businesses and share their stories, Lang said. The other two businesses were Appsky in Omaha, which received Champion of Small Business, and Fuller Construction in Chadron, which received Government Contractor of the Year. Appsky is an agency specializing in design, software, and consulting. Appsky works with development of custom software for businesses. Fuller Construction provides construction services in Northwest Nebraska and surrounding areas. During the past 63 years, Fuller Construction has completed almost 5,000 projects, including: residential, commercial, industrial, retail and healthcare. Fuller is also responsible for many government projects. Their accomplishments and growth over the last year are quite impressive, Lang said. They are wonderful examples of how businesses are the backbone of Nebraska, while creating jobs, building strong communities and supporting the Nebraska economy. The awards ceremony took place March 14, at the AKRS Champions Club in Lincoln. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The next Annual General Meeting (AGM) of International Air Transport Association (IATA) and World Air Transport Summit will now take place in Doha, Qatar in June, hosted by Qatar Airways, it has been revealed. This is will be the second time that the global gathering of aviations top leaders will be held in Qatar, the first being in 2014. The events will be held from June 19 to 21, 2022. Originally, the 78th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit were planned for the same dates in Shanghai, China, hosted by China Eastern Airlines. The decision to change the venue reflects continuing Covid-19 related restrictions on travel to China. It is deeply disappointing that we are not able to meet in Shanghai as planned. In the meantime, we are pleased to be returning to the dynamic aviation hub of Doha and the warm hospitality for which Qatar Airways, our host airline, has become famous," said said Willie Walsh, IATAs Director General. "This years AGM will be an important opportunity for aviations leaders to reflect on the shifting political, economic, and technological realities facing air travel as the industrys recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic gathers pace, he added. - TradeArabia News Service After her husband died, Gul Saka managed to survive by doing odd jobs and collecting a meager pension from the Afghan government. Now the widow is struggling to feed her 10 children amid a devastating economic and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, where millions are on the brink of starvation. Afghanistan, one of the most aid-dependent countries in the world, rapidly slid into crisis after losing most international development funding and humanitarian assistance after the Taliban seized power in August. Our lives are now so miserable that even death looks better, Gul Saka told RFE/RLs Radio Azadi. We often go hungry. A staggering 95 percent of people are going hungry in Afghanistan, according to the United Nations. That percentage rises to nearly 100 percent in households headed by women, including the country's estimated 2 million widows. Since the Taliban toppled the Western-backed Afghan government, Gul Saka has not received her pension. The odd jobs she used to do have also dried up. And many of the foreign nongovernmental organizations that helped the poor and vulnerable have left the country. Meanwhile, the price of basic food staples has skyrocketed even as unemployment has soared. Prices have increased dramatically, said Gul Saka, who lives with her three sons and seven daughters in a crammed mudbrick house in Tarin Kowt, the provincial capital of the southern province of Uruzgan. There is no work. I cant even get anything from begging. The Taliban is not recognized by the international community and is under punitive sanctions, complicating efforts by foreign donors to reach millions of Afghans in urgent need of assistance. Gul Saka, who lost her husband a decade ago, laments that the little aid that is flowing into Afghanistan is not reaching the neediest. "After they [the Taliban] seized power, we have not seen any aid," she said. Begging For Flour Durkhanai, another widow in Tarin Kowt, said her family is eating only a fraction of the food they were consuming before the Taliban takeover. "We need to skip lunch now," the mother of five told Radio Azadi. We only eat half a loaf of bread for lunch. Previously, Durkhanai said her family could afford to eat three times a day and buy eggs, vegetables, and even meat occasionally. Those items are now luxuries, she said. "Now I beg for flour," said Durkhanai, who used to do household chores to earn a living. "The families who were once prosperous are becoming poor, too. Durkhanai said that soon she will not be able to afford the $30 monthly rent for her familys dilapidated mudbrick house. She said skyrocketing food prices have forced her family to spend all their money on food. If we dont find work, we will not be able to survive for long, she said. Famine-Like Conditions In a report released on March 17, the World Food Program (WFP) said that almost 100 percent of female-headed households in Afghanistan are facing "insufficient food consumption" and are employing "crisis-level coping strategies." Households headed by women are the most vulnerable group among the nearly 9 million Afghans whom the WFP warns are at risk of famine-like conditions. The agency estimates that some 23 million Afghans, or over half of the country's estimated 38 million population, are expected to be acutely food insecure this year. "In Afghanistan, because of decades of war, female-headed households [and] widows are struggling," Shelley Thakral, a spokeswoman for the WFP, told RFE/RL. "They are facing a very acute shortage of food, which is very worrying." Years of severe drought and decades of conflict had forced more than 18 million Afghans to seek humanitarian aid before the Taliban takeover. But since the militant group seized power, Western donors have suspended aid, the economy has collapsed, and millions of Afghans have lost their jobs. Amid the economic and humanitarian crisis, hunger has become widespread. Thakral said food insecurity in Afghanistan is "alarming," with more than 66 percent of Afghans having resorted to desperate coping mechanisms. Some Afghans have sold their kidneys and others have sold their children in a desperate bid to survive. Women and children are the most vulnerable to hunger. Earlier this year, UNICEF warned that some 1.1 million Afghan children under the age of 5 risked dying of severe acute malnutrition while more than 3.2 million children faced malnutrition. Since January, roughly 13,000 newborns have died from malnutrition and hunger-related diseases, according to Human Rights Watch. Thakral said that the WFP aims to provide food aid and vocational training to some 18 million Afghans, including widows, this month. Orzala Ashraf Nemat, the exiled head of the Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit, an independent think tank that was based in Kabul, said households headed by women are finding it difficult to access aid in the deeply conservative and patriarchal country. If a food distribution center is already crowded by men, it makes it difficult for women to access it, she told RFE/RL. Aid agencies definitely require separate centers for women -- particularly women heading their households to access aid, she said. They are particularly needed in hard-to-reach areas. Nemat said that in order to alleviate the food crisis in Afghanistan the international community needs to give Afghans development assistance to grow their own food. Longer-term assistance is needed to help people in standing on their own feet and not be dependent on food aid from outside, she said. For now, many Afghan widows are simply fighting to survive. Khaista Lala lives in a crumbling mudbrick house in the eastern city of Jalalabad with her six daughters and two sons. She said her sons have resorted to scavenging for plastic waste and selling it to buy food for the family. We hear that there is a lot of aid coming to Afghanistan, but we have not seen any so far," she said. Welcome to Gandhara's weekly newsletter. This briefing brings you the best of our reporting from Afghanistan and Pakistan. If youre new to the newsletter or havent subscribed yet, you can do so here. Taliban backtracks on girls' education I write about why the Taliban made a last-minute U-turn on reopening girls high schools in Afghanistan, a move that sparked global condemnation. Observers said the about-face reflected a rift between the Talibans relatively pragmatic political leaders and the hard-line clerics who are bent on imposing their fundamentalist interpretation of Islamic law. The only way a sudden reversal like this takes place is a decision from the Amir, said Barnett Rubin, a former U.S. government adviser on Afghanistan. He said Taliban leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada overruled an initial decision to reopen girls high schools after encountering resistance from ultraconservatives in the militant group. Veteran Swedish aid worker Anders Fange said the Taliban is obsessed with retaining power and maintaining internal cohesion. They are obviously worried about internal tensions, and they try to avoid worsening these internal tensions, he said. In an interview with RFE/RL's Radio Azadi, female student Safa described her bitter disappointment at the Talibans decision. In the past, I had a lot of hope and dreams," she said. "But, unfortunately, [the Taliban] has shattered our dreams and destroyed our wishes." (Radio Azadi interviewed an Afghan mother who was banned from receiving an education during the Talibans first stint in power in the 1990s. More than 20 years on, her daughter is enduring the same fate.) Afghan widows struggle amid rising hunger I write about how Afghanistans estimated 2 million widows are struggling to feed their families amid a worsening hunger crisis. Some 95 percent of the country's 38 million people are going hungry. Our lives are now so miserable that even death looks better, said Gul Saka, a widow in Uruzgan. There is no work. I cant even get anything from begging. Households headed by women are the most vulnerable group among nearly 9 million Afghans who the World Food Program warns are at risk of "famine-like" conditions. Overall, 23 million Afghans face acute food shortages this year. Longer-term assistance is needed to help people in standing on their own feet and not be dependent on food aid from outside, said Afghan scholar Orzala Ashraf Nemat. Rising child labor in Afghanistan Radio Azadi reports on the increasing number of child laborers in Ghor, where poverty has forced young children to take on low-income jobs and work in often appalling conditions. Our economic situation forced me to work, said an 11-year-old boy, who earns less than $1 a day working in a blacksmiths workshop in the provincial capital, Firoz Koh. I wish I could go to school, but our economic problems prevent me from doing so." Ex-Afghan policewoman still in Taliban custody Radio Azadi writes about Alia Azizi, who remains in Taliban custody five months after she was detained by the militants. She has not been formally charged. Anyone accused of a crime has the right to be heard fairly in a court of law, said Amna Mayar, a women's rights campaigner. Azizi's family has not seen her since she was detained. The Taliban has dismissed calls by rights groups to free her. I hope you found this weeks newsletter useful, and I encourage you to forward it to your colleagues. If you havent subscribed yet, you can do so here. I encourage you to visit our website and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Please note that I will be away next week, so we will not be sending a newsletter. Yours, Abubakar Siddique Twitter: @sid_abu P.S.: You can always reach us at gandhara@rferl.org. Matt Riviere is the father of two sons, Steven and Andrew. They were born just 20 months apart, Riviere said during a March 24 press conference at the state Capitol. They died on the same day. Both had mental health issues. Andrew, 21, was bipolar, Steven, 19, struggled with anxiety and depression, he said. "They were the best of friends and worst of enemies growing up," Riviere said, adding the boys had a great childhood, growing up in a stable and fun family. Riviere's sons started on their road to drugs by using flavored vape, which turned to vaping nicotine, then to pot, then dabbing and then finally to trying oxycodone. Riviere said the pills were counterfeit and laced with fentanyl. His sons died on July 25, 2021. Every day he sees his son's pictures from when they were babies to when they became young, rambunctious boys and finally when they became adults. Their urns sitting on his fireplace constantly remind him of how their lives were tragically and unexpectedly taken, Riviere said. They would have been the first to admit they made a stupid choice, but they never should have died from experimenting with what they thought was a non-deadly drug, he said. "They were poisoned, killed murdered by people who have no regard for human life," Riviere said. Before his sons' deaths, Riviere said he'd never heard of fentanyl and didn't know anything about it. Every day since then, he'd see a story about how the drug takes lives. It is now his duty to tell his sons' story, he said. Riviere was among more than a dozen families that attended a news conference on Thursday, when officials announced legislation intended to address both the shortcomings in state law, as well as the need for more education and treatment of those who are addicted to the drugs fentanyl is mixed with. The fentanyl legislation comes amid heightened attention to the drug's increasingly deadly impact in Colorado. Fatal overdoses involving the drug have skyrocketed since 2015, the product of shifting economics and priorities within the illicit drug trade and accelerated by the pandemic. More than 800 Coloradans died after ingesting fentanyl in 2021, according to state data. That represents a roughly 50% increase from 2020 and more than triple the number of deaths from 2019. The families shared stories of love, heartbreak and death. Some hold out hope that, by telling the stories of their loves ones lost to fentanyl, it would make a difference to a country grappling with the deadly opioid epidemic. They also hope that Colorado's policymakers would listen, particularly since they see gaps in the pending fentanyl legislation. Aretta Gallegos of Northglenn lost her 25-year-old daughter, Brianna Mullins, to fentanyl poisoning on April 14, 2021. Struggling to talk about what happened to Brianna, she said her daughter was a caring wife, mother and daughter. She did not want to die, and would never have left her son, Aaron, whom she loved more than her life, Gallegos said. Brianna was sexually assaulted and that trauma stayed with her, leading her down the path to drugs, Gallegos said. "She looked for ways to numb her pain." Brianna finally agreed to seek help, but later that night she died after taking a Percocet laced with fentanyl. "We wake up every day reliving the same nightmare, that she is gone," Gallegos said, adding that also came with the knowledge that no one has faced punishment for her death. Gallegos said the authorities classified her death as an overdose and went on their way. "Her life mattered, and her death mattered," Gallegos said. "The difference is that Brianna's death was never investigated." That's despite the fact that the family knows from her cellphone who gave her the pill that took her life, Gallegos said. If it were your family, Gallegos added, "wouldn't you want to know who sold them the poisoned pill?" Gallegos and other families at the news conference pointed to what they believe is one of the gaps in the bill no money for investigations into fentanyl deaths, such as her daughter's, and into the drug dealers who peddled the deadly substance. "It could happen to your child, to any of your children," Gallegos said. "We will not be silent until someone is held to account for these poisonings." Andrea Thomas of Grand Junction lost her daughter Ashley, 32, in 2018 to a fentanyl-laced Percocet that looked just like her prescription. Since then, Thomas said she tries to bring awareness about fentanyl , and founded Voices for Awareness. No one is immune from fentanyl, she said. People can buy drugs on social media platforms just as easily as they could order a pizza online. If someone goes onto social media apps, "you'll find an array of drugs. It's like a telephone book," Thomas told Colorado Politics, adding kids, who are unsuspecting, often experiment, and they don't know what they're getting. She views addressing the sale of fentanyl via social media as a federal issue. She added that advocates have pleaded with those platforms to make changes to safeguard children. So far, however, her group and others have gotten nothing but excuses, she said. Still, she and many others would like to see a state response to selling the deadly substance on social media, she said. Tami Gottsegen lost her Braden Burks, 24, on Jan. 11, 2019. Braden suffered from sleeplessness and got what he thought was oxycodone from a high school acquaintance that would help him sleep. It turned out to be counterfeit and pure fentanyl. The person who provided Braden with the pill is now in federal prison, Gottsegen told Colorado Politics. But there are no state laws to hold someone accountable for providing fentanyl resulting in death, so her son's case was addressed through federal law. The pending state legislation seeks to address that issue by going after drug peddlers with harsher penalties. Under the legislation, possession of less than 4 grams of fentanyl is still a misdemeanor under the legislation, but any possession of fentanyl with an intent to distribute, no matter how much, is a minimum class two drug felony. That charge can result in a two to four years in prison, plus fines of $2,000 to $500,000. The charge comes with an sentence enhancement that can add an additional two years. Gottsegen hopes the bill will make it easier for detectives to find those who distribute fentanyl. "We need stricter laws," Gottsegen said. "We can educate our kids, but have to find a way to keep it off our streets." She said the bill is a start, but she urges policymakers to review it in a year and see if it's truly making a difference. People hold signs in January during the Celebrate Life Rally and March, hosted by the Archdiocese of Denver and Respect Life Denver, at the state Capitol. Thousands attended the annual event honoring courageous mothers. Saudi Arabia has reopened the visa-on-arrival programme for holders of valid visas for the US, UK and Schengen area, effective immediately. The move comes two weeks after the country lifted all Covid-related entry restrictions and returns Saudi to pre-pandemic levels of openness. Citizens of any country who hold one of the three visas and who are travelling on one of the countrys national carriers Saudia, Flynas or Flyadeal can now receive a 12-month tourism visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia without needing to apply in advance. Visitors holding a valid US, UK or Schengen visa must have used it at least once to enter the issuing country or region in order to qualify for a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia. Visitors will also need to purchase Covid-19 insurance, which they can do at any of Saudi Arabias international airports. Citizens of any country eligible for the e-visa programme, which was introduced in 2019, may also receive a visa on arrival, regardless of the airline they are travelling with. One of the most accessible destinations Restoring the visa-on-arrival program marks the final step in returning Saudi to a pre-pandemic level of openness and makes it one of the most accessible destinations in the world for leisure, business and religious travel, said Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia and Chairman of STA. This decision by the government will further support the many thousands of people who depend on tourism for their livelihoods while welcoming the world back to the destination with the warm hospitality for which the Saudi people are renowned. On March 6, Saudi Arabia announced the lifting of all travel restrictions put in place to protect people from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Visitors to Saudi no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a PCR test to enter the country. The red list of countries not allowed entry has been discontinued. Institutional quarantine requirements have been entirely removed, and social distancing rules have been lifted. Masks are required in enclosed public places only. 11 new destinations created Saudi opened to international leisure travellers in September 2019, less than six months before its borders were closed due to the pandemic. The country shifted its tourism strategy to focus on building domestic visitation, opening 11 destinations and creating more than 270 tourism packages. As a result, Saudi recorded two successive years of growth in leisure travel without seeing a concomitant surge in Covid cases, the statement said. Saudi Arabia has emerged from the pandemic with a burgeoning leisure and entertainment sector that includes some of the largest events in the world as well as a compelling cultural tourism offer and an increasing number of local companies dedicated to tourism, said Al Khateeb. We look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world eager to explore the authentic home of Arabia. - TradeArabia News Service The long-anticipated bill that intends to confront Colorado's growing fentanyl problem is now public. House Bill 1326 ramps up criminal penalties for distribution of fentanyl, including a felony 1 drug charge for distribution that results in death. District attorneys have requested the provision, arguing current state law allows only for an involuntary manslaughter charge in those circumstances. Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate, but 80 to 100 times more powerful than similar drugs, including morphine and codeine, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. It's now commonly mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines or even street marijuana, in part because it's cheaper to produce and far more potent. The fentanyl legislation comes amid heightened attention to the drug's increasingly deadly impact in Colorado. Fatal overdoses involving the drug have skyrocketed since 2015, the product of shifting economics and priorities within the illicit drug trade and accelerated by the pandemic. Colorado's fentanyl crisis: Full coverage Fentanyl has flooded Colorado. Fatal doses involving the drug have skyrocketed since 2015, and last year, more than 800 Coloradans died after More than 800 Coloradans died after ingesting fentanyl in 2021, according to state data. That represents a roughly 50% increase from 2020 and more than triple the number of deaths from 2019. House Speaker Alec Garnett, D-Denver and Rep. Mike Lynch, R-Wellington, officially introduced HB 1326 on Friday. In the Senate, Sens. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood and John Cooke, R-Greeley, will carry the bill. Under the legislation, dealers caught with equipment tied to fentanyl production, including pill presses, would face felony 1 drug charges. But HB 1326 also includes a "Good Samaritan" clause. Someone who provides fentanyl whether intentional or not but calls 911, stays on scene, and cooperates with first responders or law enforcement to help someone who is overdosing would face lesser than a felony 1 drug charge, even if the recipient dies. The bill doesn't change the statutes on simple possession, which is at the heart of complaints about a 2019 law that decriminalized possession of Schedule II DEA drugs, including heroin, cocaine, meth and fentanyl. That law makes possession of 4 grams or less a misdemeanor. That gap has drawn complaints from sheriffs and chiefs of police. Another section of the bill deals with education. Sponsors point to the fact that fentanyl can now be found in virtually every street drug, including marijuana, and that one pill can kill. The bill calls for a rigorous public education campaign that includes the availability of test strips from K-12 schools, colleges and universities, community and religious organizations. Those test strips, in turn, can be distributed to those who use street drugs in hopes they will test their drugs before taking them. The bill also provides those same organizations with access to opiate antagonists, used to treat overdoses, such as Narcan and Naloxone. The bill's final major provision deals with treatment. Supporters, including Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, pointed out that addicts need treatment, not jail time, and the bill sets up mandatory treatment for those caught with drugs that contain fentanyl and which fall under the 4-gram threshold. Sponsors intend to use about $29 million in American Rescue Plan Act money to pay for the test strips and opiate antagonists, while general fund dollars are expected to cover other costs. HB 1326 is assigned to the House Judiciary Committee, but won't be acted on until after the House wraps up its work on the 2022-23 state budget, called the Long Appropriations Bill, which is expected to be introduced in the House Monday and will take up most of the week. A male inmate at the El Paso County jail died Friday afternoon after authorities found him unresponsive in his cell, officials with the El Pas Community workers wearing protective suits watch over a masked resident twirling a dragon-shaped ribbon near a barricaded coronavirus testing site setup in Beijing. The fast-spreading subvariant omicron BA.2 is testing China's zero-tolerance strategy, which had kept the virus at bay since the deadly initial outbreak in the city of Wuhan in early 2020. A coalition of law enforcement organizations on Thursday criticized a sweeping approach to the fentanyl crisis in Colorado, saying it doesn't do enough to crack down on those who possess the deadly drug. But harm-reduction and addiction experts have taken the opposite position, warning that proposed changes to the state's drug code would have unintended consequences and send more people struggling with a variety of addictions into the criminal justice system. The disagreement gets at the heart of the challenge fentanyl poses to anyone attempting to stem its distribution or help its users. The drug's potency and lethality in small quantities pose complications to attempts to lower penalties for all substance use, and its presence in other drugs makes targeting it specifically nearly impossible. After decades of a drug war, the United States is facing its worst-ever overdose crisis, prompting harm-reduction advocates to call for a shift away from incarceration. But that same overdose rate is drawing outcries from law enforcement and other public officials, who decry state policies they say have restricted their ability to respond to the crisis. Fentanyl's unique properties do not make it an easy drug to legislate. A synthetic opioid, used legitimately as an anesthetic, fentanyl is potent and deadly in small doses, and it has increasingly displaced heroin on the street, experts say. Unlike legitimate opioid pills, with strict dosing and quality standards, fentanyl is created and pressed into shape by drug manufacturers, and its presence is increasingly found in other drugs, from heroin to cocaine. In Colorado, deaths tied to fentanyl have erupted since 2015, increasing nearly twentyfold to more 800 deaths in 2021. As lawmakers and advocates began working to address the crisis, they had to parse out how to legislate a drug powerful enough to kill in small quantities and present in other substances without "obliterating," as Christie Donner of the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition put it, the work policymakers have done to lower penalties for illicit substance use. The result was released this week: a bill that would, among other things, tighten criminal penalties for possession with intent to distribute any amount of a substance or mixture containing fentanyl. While state leaders praised the measure, multiple groups battling the crisis on the front lines remain critical. The law enforcement groups, representing the state's county sheriffs, police chiefs and the state Fraternal Order of Police, said in a joint statement that the bill draft "falls short of protecting our communities" because it doesn't "reestablish firm criminal consequences for dealing and possessing deadly amounts of this dangerous drug." They criticized a bipartisan 2019 bill that made it a misdemeanor to possess up to 4 grams of many substances, including fentanyl. They praised harm-reduction provisions of the bill which include improved treatment in correctional settings, more money for naloxone and a statewide education campaign as "critically important components" of the response to fentanyl. But they said failing to make possession of any amount of fentanyl a felony will "only lead to more tragedy for Coloradans." "This drug is so deadly that possession of any amount should have a felony consequence," the groups wrote. "Since no amount of fentanyl is safe, this coalition will seek amendments to elevate 'simple possession' to a felony." Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen said on Wednesday that no amount of fentanyl is safe on the city's streets and that more than one person on average is dying from a fatal drug overdose in Colorado's capital city every day. He said he doesn't know how anyone could justify allowing possession of up to 4 grams of fentanyl to remain a misdemeanor. Asked if the coalition would oppose the draft as written, spokesman Bill Ray said in an email the groups will work to amend it but won't take a position until it's been formally introduced before the legislature. Asked if he otherwise supports the elements of the draft, Pazen re-iterated that he feels no amount of fentanyl is safe and possessing it should warrant a felony. But public health and harm reduction experts warned that the language already in the legislation, which tightens laws and penalties for those convicted of possessing and intending to distribute substances containing fentanyl, will have unintended consequences and that cracking down on simple possession will ensnare a broad swath of drug users statewide. Don Stader, an addiction medicine physician and the founder of the Colorado Naloxone Project, said he is concerned about the draft of the bill released this week. As written this week, the draft would tighten intent to distribute laws for any substance containing fentanyl. But because fentanyl is increasingly found in other substances, primarily heroin but also in meth and cocaine, people caught with smaller amounts of those drugs would be roped in, he said, whether they knew fentanyl was present in the substances or not. As the bill is drafted now, Stader thought the proposed change would incarcerate many people addicted to fentanyl who never intended to distribute fentanyl or other substances. Lisa Raville, of the Harm Reduction Action Center, echoed that sentiment and argued that many users also sell to pay for their own use. Raville and others said they are even more concerned about what law enforcement seek: making possession of any amount of a substance containing fentanyl a felony. Because fentanyl can be present in other substances, she said, "all drug possessions would be felonies." "We have an unpredictable drug supply, so a lot of people are going to be walking around with fentanyl and have no idea," she said. The result, she continued, would be more felonies, which would translate to more people struggling with employment and housing. Despite its intense lethality and potency, fentanyl is knowingly ingested by many opioid users because heroin is increasingly difficult to find on the streets and because of their addiction, Raville and Donner, of the reform coalition, said. For people with an opioid-use disorder, the choice is withdrawal, often without treatment or support, or what substance is available on the street, they said. Raville said making possession of any amount of fentanyl a felony would incarcerate a broad swath of people who may or may not know what they're taking. Donner said it would "obliterate" changes to Colorado's drug laws, which have shifted toward misdemeanors and emphasized treatment for low-level drug possession. Last Friday on the eve of Holi, several mosques in Delhi did not hold congregational prayers allegedly under the direction of police. Muhammad Raafi | TwoCircles.net Support TwoCircles NEW DELHI The barring of congregational Friday prayers in at least 16 mosques in New Delhi has enraged the minority Muslim community living in the capital city. On Friday, March 18, policemen allegedly barred Muslims from participating in the congregational Friday prayers in Panchsheel and surrounding areas. On March 18, it was Shab-e-Barat (a major festival of Muslims) and the day coincided with Holi. Imams of mosques in Delhi allege that Juma namaz were disallowed by Delhi Police in 16 mosques on 18 March. On Friday, March 18, Muslims were stopped by Delhi Police officials from offering Juma prayers at the Lal Gumbad mosque in Panchsheel Enclave, Delhi. 1/n pic.twitter.com/q12eePF2aP Arbab Ali (@arbabali_jmi) March 22, 2022 Neyaz Ahmad, Imam (a person who leads the prayers) of the Lal Ghumbad mosque in Panchsheel Enclave told TwoCircles.net that as he was preparing to lead the prayers, a posse of policemen arrived at the mosque and told him to not hold the prayers. Lal Ghumbad mosque is a 500-year-old protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Ahmad, along with other people who had assembled at the mosque for prayers, tried to reason with the policemen. But they did not respond, Ahmad said. This is for the first time, Ahmed said, that he witnessed this. He has been leading the prayers at the mosque for many years. He said he thought that it was because of Holi. But then, the situation in the area has always been peaceful, he said. A few meters away from Lal Ghumbad mosque is the Zeenat-ul-Quraan madrasa. The students of the madrassa also offer their congregational prayers at the same mosque. Muhammad Zeeshan, a 17-year-old student of the madrassa said that he saw five policemen at the gate of the mosque. They told people who had converged for the prayers that the prayers have been barred at the mosque. Those who were coming from the prayers were not allowed to enter, Zeeshan said. Muhammad Furqan, a resident of the Panchsheel area said that he tried to ask for a written order from the police but was told that there was no such order and that it was to be communicated verbally. Javaid Ahmad, the president of the Lal Ghumbad mosque said that he tried to reach out to the police but was not provided with any information. However, all the mosques where the congregational prayers were barred have continued with the daily prayers. Since Friday, in fact also on the same day, we have been performing daily prayers at the mosque, Ahmad said. At another mosque, Neeli Masjid, in the Hauz Khas area, Muslims were disallowed to offer congregational Friday prayers on March 18. Neeli Masjid is also under the protection of the ASI. The caretaker of the mosque, Khalid Ahmad, said that it had never happened before. He said that the cops refused to share any reasons with him. Reacting to the barring of Friday prayers, Zafar ul Islam, the former Chairman of the Delhi Minority Commission, said that it indeed was unprecedented. The atmosphere in the country is such that they (government) do not bother to ask the Muslims about the decisions, Islam said. Islam is an author and journalist based in New Delhi. He is currently the editor and publisher of the newspaper The Milli Gazette. Islam said that there are speculations that the possible reason for this sudden prohibition on prayers could be Holi. But, Islam said, the matter could have been resolved cordially by changing the timing of the prayers. Many mosques in Lucknow changed the timings of congregational prayers. The same could have happened here. But you know the atmosphere is such No namaz: Police disallowed Friday namaz in 16 mosques in Panchsheel area of Delhi. Imam of an old mosque said this is the first time in fifty years that namaz was stopped here. From today's Inquilab. pic.twitter.com/dNdCHwKgT0 Zafarul-Islam Khan (@khan_zafarul) March 20, 2022 He said, otherwise also, there was no need to bar the congregational prayers since the Holi celebrations last up to mid-day. Islam said that while Delhi Police has said that prayers was barred due to Shab-e-Baraat alleging that the youth act mischieviously. Shab-e-Barat is a late-night event and the police were lying, he said. Shaan Muhammad, a resident of Delhi said that stopping Muslims from offering prayers was against fundamental rights. Muhammad said that the police should make it public as to who ordered them to stop congregational Friday prayers. Barring Muslims from offering Juma (Friday) congregational prayers is not only an attack on our fundamental rights but is a form of oppression. It is problematic and wrong on the part of the Delhi Police that they did not show any written order to the mosque authorities, he said. While the ASI has denied issuing any such order, the Delhi police are tight-lipped about the issue. TwoCircles.net attempted to reach out to multiple police officials but the officials either did not receive calls or feigned ignorance about the issue. The story will be updated as and when the officials respond to our queries. Muhammad Raafi is a journalist based in New Delhi. He tweets at @MohammadRaafi First batch of AstraZeneca antibody drug Evusheld arrives in Vietnam Facilities of Tam Anh General Hospital in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City on March 24 received the first batch of Evusheld, a drug developed by AstraZeneca to fight COVID-19 infection by combining two long-acting monoclonal antibodies. The first batch of AstraZeneca antibody drug Evusheld arrives in Vietnam (Photo: dangcongsan.vn) The shipment has been made on the basis of a contract for 20,000 doses signed with AstraZeneca by the Vietnam Vaccine Joint Stock Company (VNVC) on November 2, 2021. In terms of storage, the drug must be preserved at temperatures between minus two and minus eight degrees Celsius. The prescribed two doses are given at one time, with the preventive effect thought to last for six months. According to a representative of Tam Anh Hospital, they will charge VND19.7 million, equivalent to US$866, for administering the drug, including the administration of two doses and health checks both before and after. The hospital revealed that thousands of people have since registered to be injected with the antibody drug. As a result, the injection process will begin on March 26 at all facilities of Tam Anh General Hospital in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Evusheld, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, serves as a prevention therapy for people in high-risk groups. It is capable of helping to protect them from COVID-19 infection before they are actually exposed to the virus. It represents the first pre-exposure prophylaxis product created to tackle COVID-19, with the exception of vaccines. In contrast to typical vaccines which are available, Evusheld helps inoculated individuals by producing a necessary amount of antibodies in order to protect them against COVID-19, with an efficiency rate of up to 83%. Those who are unable to be given any of the existing COVID-19 vaccines due to potentially serious side-effects to any of its components such as severe allergy and anaphylaxis can instead choose to get the Evusheld injection. Unable to digest upward mobility of many erstwhile untouchables, Dalits now face caste violence over the most mundane things including a moustache. Smitha R | TwoCircles.net Support TwoCircles NEW DELHI Often associated with masculinity and virility, the not-so-humble moustache can sound the death sentence in India if it is sported by a man from the wrong caste. Rajat from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, Suresh Vaghela and Piyush Parmar from Viramgam and Gandhinagar respectively in Gujarat and Jitendra Pal Meghwal from Pali in Rajasthan all paid dearly for sporting a moustache. Meghwal was the latest casualty in the long list of Dalits killed by upper caste men for daring to do caste inappropriate things. In this case, his family claimed he was murdered for haviing a lifestyle and moustache that the upper caste did not deem appropriate for a Dalit. The Rajasthan police, however, has clarified that Meghwal was stabbed over a rivalry after he filed a case against the accused in 2020. Interestingly, that case too pertained to the men beating up Meghwal for daring to make eye contact with them. Rajat from Uttar Pradesh was attacked and had his moustache forcibly shaved off in July 2021 by Thakur men who allegedly claimed it was their sole prerogative to keep one. Between 2017 and 2021, Suresh Vaghela and Piyush Parmar were just two of the several instances of Dalit men getting beaten or stabbed for having a moustache in Gujarat. This is also a reflection of the larger trend of rise in violence against Dalits as many of them challenge deep-rooted caste discrimination practices and systems including the belief that only upper caste men can grow a moustache or shape their moustache in a certain way. The National Crime Records Bureau in its report said crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs) of which Dalits are a part rose by 9.4% in 2020 despite it being a pandemic year. Of the 28 states and nine Union Territories, 17 registered a rise in atrocities against SCs. A total of 50,291 cases against SCs were registered in 2020 against 45,961 in 2019. Only 216 cases from the 50,291 resulted in convictions in 2020. UP reported the highest number of atrocities (12,714) against SCs, followed by Bihar (7,368), Rajasthan (7,017) and Madhya Pradesh (6,899). Rajasthan had the highest crime rate (which measures such cases relative to the population) against SCs. Bhanwar Meghwanshi, an author and social activist who has extensively worked on caste issues in Rajasthan, told TwoCircles.net that the attacks over moustache is a reflection of a deeper malaise. All men irrespective of their caste kept moustaches in Rajasthan. So moustache per se cannot be the trigger or it could be more about the style of moustaches that Dalit men are sporting and putting up on social media. Certain moustache styles, like moustaches twirled upwards, were always associated with kshatriyas (samants), Meghwanshi said. He said in this case, the accused does not belong to the kshatriya caste and in fact is a Rajpurohit, who call themselves the priest of the kings. In all probability the attack has more to do with other caste dynamics than the moustache, he said. Meghwanshi, who authored the book I Could Not Be Hindu:The Story of a Dalit in the RSS, believes that as Dalits gain upward mobility many upper caste people are unable to come to terms with their crumbling prestige. They still believe that Dalits should know their place and act accordingly. This means they should not dress, behave or celebrate the way upper caste people do, including showing off clothes, or riding a horse during a wedding, he said. In the Pali incident, Meghwanshi said the murdered youth was active in the Dalit movement that focused on gaining self-respect for the community and this could have rubbed many people the wrong way. Smitha R is a journalist who has covered health, environment and social issues for over a decade for leading national and international media. She tweets at @SmithaR12 Barry Fagin is Senior Fellow at the Independence Institute in Denver. His views are his alone. Readers can write Dr Fagin at barry@faginfamily.net. Jimmy Sengenberger is host of The Jimmy Sengenberger Show Saturdays from 6-9am on News/Talk 710 KNUS. He also hosts Jimmy at the Crossroads, a webshow and podcast in partnership with The Washington Examiner. A man holds his head as he stands in his apartment in a multistory house that was destroyed after a Russian attack Thursday in Kharkiv, Ukraine. GREENSBORO N.C. A&Ts Mister and Miss will make history on Sunday, as award presenters for the 94th Academy Awards. Joshua Suiter and Zaria Woodford will take the grand stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The invitation and opportunity mark the first for any historically Black college or university student. See their reaction to the news here. I wanted the position of the 87th Miss North Carolina A&T State University to serve, represent, and uplift the African American, HBCU and Greensboro community," Woodford said in Friday's news release from A&T. "Participating in the 2022 Academy Awards is affording me the opportunity to do all three on a scale larger than I could have ever imagined, Woodford said. I am blessed to be participating in the occasion and intend to make my university, community and the hard-working individuals of the Oscars proud in this role. Woodford and Suiter, who are studying pre-law and professional theater, respectively, spent the past week rehearsing, recording and engaging in tours and interviews, getting the full Oscars experience. Preparation for the Oscars has been a very thorough and smooth process," Suiter said in the news release. "We start early in the morning and have been rehearsing on how to be the best trophy presenters in any given situation." "There are so many moving pieces to this awards show," Suiter said. "Everyone is working well and the professionalism is great all around the board. Ive really enjoyed just being in the mix and behind the scenes. As producer of this years award ceremony, Will Packer, a graduate of Florida A&M University, had a goal of highlighting HBCUs at the Oscars. Packers production company selected Mister and Miss N.C. A&T to be the very first HBCU king and queen to be featured. As the students prepare to shine on stage, A&T alumnus Terrence Jenkins, known as Terrence J, will co-host the coveted red carpet show. Paul Tazewell has designed costumes for casts from Broadway's "Hamilton" and "The Color Purple," to the 2021 film "West Side Story." Now Tazewell has designed an outfit for his mother to wear to Sunday's Oscars ceremony, where he will vie for the Best Costume Design award for Steven Spielberg's film version of "West Side Story." A graduate of the UNC School of the Arts, he is the first African American male costume designer to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Costume Design. Barbara Tazewell traveled Friday from her Asheboro home to Hollywood for Sunday night's ceremony, where she will sit with her son. She will see her Oscars ensemble when he brings it to Los Angeles this weekend. He didn't want to run the risk of mailing it. She knows it will be black and white, and likely pants with a long tunic top and a scarf. "I said, 'But Paul, what if it doesnt work right or fit right?'" Barbara Tazewell said before leaving Asheboro with other family members. "He said, 'Thats OK, Ill bring my sewing kit and my scissors and it will work.' But he took measurements and everything and asked what style I liked. So Im sure it will be fine." No doubt it will be more than fine, just like his costume design for stage, screen, dance and opera. Paul Tazewell received the 2016 Tony Award for Best Costume Design for "Hamilton." In 2016, he and his design team were awarded an Emmy for their work on "The Wiz Live!" He has received six Tony Award nominations for Costume Design, four Helen Hayes Awards for Outstanding Costume Design, and two Lucille Lortel Awards (for "On the Town" and "Hamilton"). He received Princess the Grace Statue Award from the Princess Grace Foundation, which is given to artists of excellence in various disciplines. Tazewell grew up in Akron, Ohio. Although he never lived in North Carolina except for college, he has relatives and connections here. His mother, her sister Linda Brown and brother Raymond Brown are nieces and the nephew of Willa Player, the first Black woman in America to head a four-year college when she served as president of Bennett College from 1955-66. Barbara Tazewell graduated from Bennett. She retired from teaching English and French, the latter at St. Augustine's College in Raleigh. She says that she's excited and a little nervous about attending the Oscars for the first time. Both she and her son are thrilled about his nomination for a top award for artistic and technical merit in the film industry. "He works very hard," Barbara Tazewell said. "And if you have seen 'West Side Story,' how they have updated it and everything is really great." Her sister Linda Brown of Greensboro said that she, too, is proud of her nephew's nomination. "The boost that it gives his career will be there, whether he wins or not," Brown said. Paul Tazewell also was honored to work with the famed director Spielberg, Barbara Tazewell said. This film version of "West Side Story" has been nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Tazewell is up against costume design for "Cruella," "Cyrano," "Dune" and "Nightmare Alley." The film has at least one more North Carolina connection: Ariana DeBose of Raleigh was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for taking on the iconic role of Anita. Barbara Tazewell said she hopes her son wins the Academy Award. "Paul kind of takes it very philosophically," she said. "He says, 'If I win, thats great. And if I dont, Im just so thrilled to have been nominated.'" "I feel that way, too," she said. "I think he should win. But if he doesnt win, its still wonderful that he was nominated." Contact Dawn DeCwikiel-Kane at 336-373-5204 and follow @dawndkaneNR on Twitter. Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. GREENSBORO Burglaries rank No. 3 in calls for police service, Police Chief Brian James said Thursday, and most turn out to be nothing. We responded to about 98 to 99% of false alarms, James said at a City Council retreat. Of 10,798 alarm calls the city responded to in 2020, only 153 were actual burglaries. And only five suspects were arrested at the scene, James said. So he presented a plan to require alarm companies to verify an alarm is valid before calling 911 with a few exceptions. That would include alarms at schools, banks or panic alarms. Officers also would automatically be dispatched to alarms between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., which James said statistics show are more likely to be legitimate. The city hopes to begin notifying alarm companies and their customers about the proposal in April and give them a 60-day period to get registered with the city so the plan can be implemented by June 1. A six-month study would determine how the new system impacts crime rates and response times. With the police department struggling to fill positions, James said this is a good way to free up officers to tackle real crimes. City officials expect pushback from alarm companies, who will be forced to put into place some sort of alarm verification. As it stands now, however, we are their labor when were responding out to those calls, James said. Based on studies of similar programs elsewhere, James said he expects responses to alarm calls to drop by 95%. The majority of these calls are in low-crime areas, pulling officers from places where they are most needed, he said. I think we can we can distribute our resources a lot better than that, James said. Officers instead could be spending time getting to know people in their coverage areas, he added, pointing to the community policing concept hes made a focal point of his tenure. On the downside, James said, there could be a delay in response time for burglary alarms verified as legitimate. But, because of the low on-scene arrest rate, I think the benefit outweighs the cost, James said. The chief also gave a presentation on the citys crime statistics: Violent crimes dropped about 3% between 2021 and the previous year, from 2,749 to 2,665. Homicides and rapes decreased by 15%, with 53 homicides and 75 rapes reported in 2021. Aggravated assaults increased 30%. James said this partly is because that category now includes child abuse under federal reporting guidelines. Aggravated assaults with a firearm decreased by 17%. Robberies increased 7%. Robberies with a firearm decreased by 18%. In order to meet the citys goal to decrease violent crimes by 20% from 2019, the city must have 2,199 or fewer of these crimes by the end of this year. James also noted that the city took more than 1,900 guns off the street in 2021 a record number. Contact Kenwyn Caranna at 336-373-7082 and follow @kcaranna on Twitter. GREENSBORO More students will get tutoring help in more subjects thanks to $2 million in federal dollars newly earmarked for Guilford County Schools. Its part of the $1.5 trillion miscellaneous spending bill signed into law by President Joe Biden last week. Superintendent Sharon Contreras indicated Thursday she expects to be able to offer tutoring to thousands more students with the money. Guilford County Schools started its district-wide tutoring program last school year as a strategy to help combat learning loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. District leaders focused first on math for middle and high school students an area where they were seeing the highest learning loss. Theyve since added math for elementary students as well as some assistance in literacy. The districts tutoring program so far has served an estimated 3,900 students, Contreras said. With this new funding, the district expects to expand literacy tutoring, add science assistance and offer writing help for high school students in preparation for college. The district employs about 564 tutors, according to Contreras, who range from graduate assistants at UNCG and N.C. A&T to high school students and teachers to community partners. U.S. Rep. Kathy Manning, whose congressional district includes all of Guilford County and parts of Forsyth County, joined Contreras for the announcement on Thursday. Manning said she was not sure when the district will receive the money, but should know soon. We are just thrilled to be able to support the incredible program you have put together, she said. Contreras said the district has been recruiting additional tutors and is ready to start spending the money when it arrives. Currently, the program is funded through a mix of federal COVID-19 stimulus dollars and money from several philanthropic organizations. By using graduate assistants as tutors, Contreras said the program is also providing the district with a new pool of potential teachers. Many of them had not thought about going into teaching, but are now interested, she said. So it is mutually beneficial. Faith Freeman, who oversees the tutoring program, said that the effort focuses on high dosage tutoring meaning, at least three separate tutoring sessions of half an hour to an hour each week using tutors who consistently work with the same child or children. Manning said she reached out to school leaders, local governments and social service agencies last year when she learned about a new process by which federal funding could flow directly to local governments and nonprofits for community projects. Guilford County Schools pitch for its tutoring program was among the responses she received. Manning said she and her staff selected the best candidates and advocated on their behalf to the heads of the relevant congressional committees. I am pleased that our collaboration with our communities and our hardworking Congress paid off, she said. Contact Jessie Pounds at 336-373-7002 and follow @JessiePounds on Twitter. GREENSBORO Guilford Countys school board is calling on the state to pay for districts to fully transition from diesel school buses to electric ones. That call comes as the state begins experimenting with providing some districts with electric school buses. North Carolina has five on order, paid for with federal dollars from a settlement with Volkswagen and approved by the N.C. State Board of Education early this month. The buses are expected to go into service next school year in Cabarrus, New Hanover, Randolph, Rowan and Transylvania counties. Bettye Jenkins, a member of the Guilford County Board of Education, made the proposal at the boards March 8 meeting to include the request to the state as part of the districts annual legislative agenda. Our policy committee met on Feb. 22, and we heard from the community members about the importance of the role that a school district can play supporting more reliable and affordable clean energy future, Jenkins said. Electric school buses are more efficient and cost-effective. They also help reduce pollution, keeping our communities healthier. The legislative agenda, voted on by the board, outlines actions the board would like to see from state and federal lawmakers. The board voted 7-2 to pass this years agenda, which also included many longtime district legislative requests such as increased overall funding for education, simplified funding formulas, and increased pay for teachers, principals and school bus drivers. Before Jenkins made her proposal, Jean Pudlo, a member of the group Solar Power Now, spoke during the public comments section of the meeting and called on Guilford County Schools to take a forward-thinking approach to energy use. She recommended adding solar panels at district facilities, increasing building energy efficiency, and switching to electric buses. This reduces toxic fumes, which our students are exposed to, while greatly reducing the use of petroleum which is damaging our atmosphere, she said. Board member Pat Tillman said he had spoken with members of the group, and with Thomas Built Buses, a High Point-based bus manufacturer that has added electric buses as part of its lineup. He called electric vehicles the way of the future, and pointed out that power companies have also been taking an interest in electric bus projects. There are a lot of operating cost efficiencies built in over time, he said. I think its certainly a good strategy to be approaching our legislators. One of the potential advantages of electric school buses that power companies and others have suggested is that buses could help store energy and sell it back to the grid in peak electricity use times or become a powerful mobile electric backup during a power outage. During a crisis, we could use these buses to be part of a microgrid to power emergency response centers, said Mark Webb, senior vice president and chief innovation officer for Dominion Energy, a utility based in Richmond, Va., told the New York Times in 2020. Electric buses can provide major savings in maintenance, due to a simpler drive-train with fewer parts, and in fuel costs, because electricity is significantly cheaper to buy than diesel. However, the sticker prices for the buses are also higher. Whether a buyer can make back that difference long term in maintenance and fuel costs depends on factors like total miles driven and the specifics of the purchase deal. Kevin Harrison, the section chief of transportation services for the North Carolina Department of Public Instructions District Operations Division, said in an email the North Carolina General Assembly allocates money to school districts for the regular replacement of school buses based on a replacement cycle with criteria set by the state. They also provide transportation funding to school districts, he said, with the state covering most of the costs of busing students to and from school. He doesnt think that with current prices the long-term potential savings in maintenance and fuel from going electric would be enough for the state to fully make back its money on paying for an electric bus versus a diesel one. It costs the state about $100,000 to pay for a new diesel bus, he said, but a new electric bus, plus site work and installation for the charging stations, is about $420,000 to $430,000. On average, he wrote, their school buses have about 219,000 miles on them at the time they sell them and use 33,000 gallons of diesel fuel over their lifetime in North Carolina. The state spends a fraction of a dollar per mile on parts and maintenance. Average costs per gallon over the last 14 years have ranged from about $1.40 to $3.20, based on state term pricing. Still, he said, the direct costs arent the whole story. There are clearly great benefits to electric buses on many fronts that you cant always put a number to, including better localized air quality for the kids in the bus and at the school, and as such I believe they are the future of transportation, Harrison wrote. The market will grow, he said, as batteries continue to improve and costs to buy the buses fall. Grant programs, like the one that is funding the five electric buses for school districts, help get that process jump-started. Putting electric school buses in use can help the state better understand what the break-even point would be, he said, and to help the electric buses gain acceptance with students, parents, drivers and mechanics. Right now, thats where federal money is coming into play. He said he anticipates many more new buses being ordered as part of a second round of the Volkswagen settlement as well as with funding from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill that is being handled by the Environmental Protection Agency. Information about how to participate in the next round of the Volkswagen settlement program will be going out in the next few weeks, he said. In addition, districts could go their own way and make their own proposals, he wrote, as districts are allowed to fund their own replacement school buses if they so desire. Contact Jessie Pounds at 336-373-7002 and follow @JessiePounds on Twitter. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. GREENSBORO They have dreams. He has dreams. But while the students of the Greensboro College Middle College are imagining leaving the area for life elsewhere, new City Manager Taiwo Jaieyeoba wants to create a place so wonderful they will want to stay or come back. Jaieyeoba spoke with high school students Wednesday and took their questions on everything from job opportunities and Black-owned businesses to crime and homelessness during an event at Greensboro College. The Greensboro College Middle College is a high school located on Greensboro Colleges campus, where juniors and seniors can take a mix of high school classes and college courses. Principal LaToya Caesar-Crawford came up with the idea for the event after attending one of Jaieyobas community listening sessions and realizing that student voices were missing from the conversation. She said she was familiar with Jaieyeoba as the former head of planning in Charlotte. In the last 20 years, Caesar-Crawford said shes seen that city North Carolinas largest focus more on equity, job opportunities and innovation. When I see the city of Greensboro, I see the same opportunities and the same magic that could happen here, and I want our kids to be part of that conversation, she said. Early in the program, Caesar-Crawford asked students if they planned to live in Greensboro after college. No one raised their hands. So its time to ask the hard questions, right? she said. Some students shared questions they had prepared ahead of time all of them respectful, but many challenging. One student asked about a comparison of spending and investments or lack thereof in eastern Greensboro versus the western part of the city. Another asked about attracting science, technology, engineering and math businesses. Yet another student asked Jaieyeoba his vision of Greensboros future. Jaieyeoba said that in five to 10 years, he pictures a street-car system in the center of Greensboro, connecting the east to the west. He also sees a reshaped skyline and improved roads connecting downtown with the interstate. More young people will be sharing their ideas and running for elected office. And he envisions Greensboro continuing to attract new businesses and residents while remaining affordable and drivable. Students on Wednesday shared positive impressions of Jaieyeobas presentation and answers. Mostly, they said, they want to leave so they can experience something new. Timothy Benton, a junior, said that hes actually considering living in Greensboro after college more now, based on what the city manager had to say. Amya Simon, a junior, said there are lots of good things about Greensboro, but she is also unhappy with the violence here and the ways it has touched her life. She said shed like to try a similar city, like maybe Winston-Salem, Charlotte or somewhere in Virginia. Its not that she doesnt realize there can be violence in other cities, but she thinks that the experience would at least give her something to compare with time spent here. Caesar-Crawford said shed love for her students to consider making lives in Greensboro and taking part in efforts to make the city a better, more equitable place. I think that would be awesome, but certainly, again, even if they dont, I just want them to know they can use their voice anywhere, she said. They can lift their voice up in any city. Contact Jessie Pounds at 336-373-7002 and follow @JessiePounds on Twitter. HIGH POINT The development team behind a proposed Publix-anchored shopping center in north High Point took its case to a skeptical audience of neighbors Wednesday. Asa Harris of Harris Development Partners in Raleigh told residents at a community meeting in advance of next months zoning hearing on the project that the team is offering changes to its architecture, lighting and screening that are above and beyond the citys requirements. I know a lot of folks here may not be in favor of this development, said Harris, whose firm is assisting primary developer Halvorsen Holdings of Boca Raton, Florida. You may not leave supporting this development, but we hope you leave more informed than you came. Halvorsen Holdings has applied to rezone 12 acres at the southeast corner of Skeet Club Road and Johnson Street from a residential single-family district to a conditional zoning retail center use and to amend the citys land-use plan for the property from low-density residential to support commercial development at the intersection. The developer brought a similar case before the city last year but withdrew it in the face of neighborhood opposition and a negative vote from a city advisory board. This time, Harris said, the architecture of the shopping center has been changed completely so that it has more of a residential character that blends in with surrounding neighborhoods. In addition to a 48,000-square-foot Publix grocery store, the development would have two outparcels, he said. One building would have a drive-thru window, but would be limited in use to a coffee shop and couldnt be a fast-food restaurant, under the conditions the developer is offering. The other could be an office building or restaurant without a drive-thru. Harris said the developers traffic study determined that most of the trips to and from the site would be by the roughly 9,000 residents who live within a four-minute drive, which means that surrounding roads wouldnt be overburdened with additional vehicles. If we were building a Wegmans or a Costco or something regional, you would be adding trips, he said. The developer is also offering conditions to limit the hours of operation of trash and delivery trucks to the shopping center. The development proposal includes a plan to preserve the historic Mendenhall-Blair House, which dates to the Underground Railroad of the 19th century, on the 12-acre site. Rick Moore, who lives across the road from the site, said he was not impressed with the modified proposal. Its very obvious that we dont want this in our neighborhood, he told Harris. Why not take this north where you have more of a commercial area? Other residents who attended the meeting agreed that the proposal was still out of character with the surrounding area, even with the concessions being offered. It doesnt really matter what they do, were not in favor of it, said Susan Cox, whose neighborhood abuts the zoning site. There are three grocery stores within 10 minutes of our house. Mark Petro, who lives farther away from the site, said he remained opposed to it because it would add to the already heavy traffic volumes that affect his neighborhood. He said he did not see anything at Wednesdays meeting that would lead him to support the developers plans. Historic Princeville, on the banks of the Tar River in eastern North Carolina, is one hurricane away from disaster. The town, which stakes its claim as the oldest in the U.S. founded by Black Americans nearly 140 years ago, has flooded many times. Two hurricanes 17 years apart created catastrophic flooding in the town, which was built on swampy, low-lying land. The town also has endured racism, bigotry and attempts by white neighbors to erase it from existence. Now, with an ever-changing climate, the future is uncertain. Hurricanes are likely to be more intense, and melting glaciers are causing sea levels to rise, making more flooding inevitable. North Carolina jails saw a record number of deaths due to suicide or substance use in 2020, according to a new report from Disability Rights North Carolina. There were a record 56 deaths in North Carolina jails in 2020, despite estimates that nationwide lockups reduced their populations by a quarter in just months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the report found. Of those deaths, 32 were due to suicide or related to substance use, an increase from previous years. By comparison, there were 30 people who died from suicide or substance use in the states jails in 2019 and 22 in 2018. The rise in deaths by suicide occurred despite new regulations requiring jails to have suicide prevention programs. Jails are required under state law to be operated so as to protect the health and welfare of prisoners and provide for their humane treatment. This report demonstrates North Carolina needs more stringent oversight of our jails, said Susan Pollitt, Criminal Justice Supervising Attorney at DRNC, in a news release. That the number of deaths by suicide actually increased during the same year jails were required to put in place suicide prevention programs should be an emergency wake up call to legislators, sheriffs, jail administrators, and our communities. Oversight over jails Unlike the North Carolina prison system, which is controlled by the state government, jails across the state are controlled by individual, elected sheriffs. Comprehensive oversight and monitoring of jails is hard to come by. Even statewide records that DRNC collects to track jail deaths take a long time to receive, and a number of reports are required to determine the actual cause of death, NC Health News previously reported. Its almost impossible to track non-fatal drug overdoses or attempted suicides. State Rep. Carla Cunningham, D-Charlotte, filed a bill at the state legislature in May which would have required the state Department of Health and Human Services to conduct compliance reviews following reports of an attempted suicide. Cunningham started looking into jail oversight after a 17-year-old died in the Mecklenburg Jail North Juvenile Detention Center. I started looking at it closely and saw that yes, these things were happening in facilities, Cunningham previously told NC Health News in an interview. And that it really is not a lot of oversight or a collection of the data The information is there, but youve got to dig for it. The bill didnt pass during the legislative session. Cunningham said one reason it may not have moved ahead is because some legislators didnt want to put additional stressors on sheriffs. As a former nurse, Cunningham said data is key in the medical field, and jails often become safety nets for medical and mental health crises. Mental health issues are personal to Cunningham, whose son has an intellectual disability and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Health crises in jails People with serious mental illness are 3.5 times more likely to be sent to a jail or prison compared to a hospital. This is partly because some illnesses, such as substance use disorder are criminalized. Police are also often called to respond to people in mental health crises and transport them to the hospital in handcuffs, a practice known as involuntary commitment. NC Health News previously reported on this practice and its consequences. Jails, especially smaller jails, often do not have the resources to help people with medical conditions. Local jail deaths due to drugs or alcohol intoxication have more than quadrupled across the country from 2000 to 2018, according to national data compiled by the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics. Experts expect these numbers to only get worse, as more powerful drugs such as fentanyl take over the drug supply. North Carolina reported a 40% increase in overdose deaths statewide in 2020 compared to 2019, a recent report from NCDHHS found. A single life lost to an overdose is a life we should have saved, DHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley said in a news release. Stress, loss of housing and loss of employment for those in recovery caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a backslide in our fight against substance use disorders. In order to prevent future deaths, DRNC recommended that jails: Require sweeping statewide suicide prevention measures in the state jails. Give incarcerated people adequate medical care. Improve transparency about conditions in the states jails. Adequately fund NCDHHS jail regulation unit. Take part in Stepping Up campaigns, which fight mental illness with treatment instead of incarceration. The North Carolina Sheriffs Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment from NC Health News. The organization released in January an update of its Report on Law Enforcement Professionalism, which recommended funding to increase and make mental health and substance abuse resources more readily available in North Carolina and making mental health professionals, instead of police, responsible for the transportation of someone in a mental health crisis. These appalling in-custody deaths are the direct result of NCs continued failure to improve mental health and substance use services in NC jails and communities, Pollitt said in the release. We cannot allow this inhumane suffering and loss of life to continue when there are remedies that can be affordably and effectively implemented. This article first appeared on North Carolina Health News and is republished here under a Creative Commons license. North Carolina Health News is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit, statewide news organization dedicated to covering all things health care in North Carolina. Visit NCHN at northcarolinahealthnews.org . As we enter the weekend, those of us in good health who have access to adequate medical care might want to take a moment to remember those who arent and dont. Medical care for all of those who need it is an elusive goal for many in the state, some of whom suffer from serious and complex conditions. COVID worsened the situation for many of them. Some North Carolina legislators and activists have been working for years to institute the Medicaid expansion that has been so beneficial in other states since it first became available, via the Affordable Care Act, in 2012. Its been a struggle, largely because of the reluctance of the Republican-led majority in the legislature. But now we see another hopeful crack in the wall that may let in more light. A legislative committee led by two Forsyth County Republicans, Rep. Donny Lambeth and Sen. Joyce Krawiec, has been meeting regularly to consider whether the time is finally right to expand Medicaid, the Winston-Salem Journals Richard Craver reported. Its a move that could benefit about 650,000 North Carolinians who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid coverage, but not enough to get help in the private insurance marketplace. Earlier this month, the committee heard from state Medicaid officials who described those who would benefit, which includes low-income parents earning between $8,004 and $30,305 annually; low-income adults without children making less than $17,774 annually; and some 14,000 N.C. military veterans. This shouldnt be a shock to anybody that most of the people in our state who are uninsured are poor, Dave Richard, head of the states Medicaid program, said. It doesnt mean that they are not working. It means that they are poor. The committee also heard from former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who helped begin Medicaid expansion in his state in 2014. Great states can not only take care of some of the people, but they have to take care of all of the people in one way or another to make sure that they have an opportunity to be able to have a decent life and to figure out what their God-given purpose is, Kasich said. Others told the legislative committee that expansion was fiscally responsible, improved health outcomes and reduced the number of services for which hospitals wouldnt otherwise be reimbursed. It all seems to confirm the advice weve repeated from other medical authorities for years: All around, it would be a good deal especially with the federal government paying 90% of the cost for expansion. Dr. Jennifer Sullivan, a former Indiana Cabinet secretary who now works for Charlotte-based Atrium Health, said that Indiana covers the states 10% share with the help of an assessment fee paid by hospitals. Gov. Roy Cooper has proposed a similar fee to handle our states share. Sullivan also warned, though, that expansions savings might not be immediate. Providing for those who have been unable to receive medical care for years while they were uninsured might be expensive initially. Fiscally conservative people know that its always best to pay as you go, if not ahead, rather than allow debt to accumulate. But we didnt do that here. Medical care is costly, even for those who have robust insurance. Surprise medical bills for services unknowingly received out of insurance networks, for instance, can quickly add up. Nearly 1 in 10 adults 23 million Americans owe significant medical debt, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation report released earlier this month. As of last June, 43 million Americans had medical bills on their credit reports amounting to $88 billion and it only became worse during the pandemic. In response, several major credit bureaus, including Equifax, Experian and Transunion, have begun to remove or limit medical collection debt from consumer credit reports. Its as if theyre conceding that medical debt shouldnt count because its unavoidable. Its even less avoidable for people with limited means. Many North Carolinians are desperate for access to adequate and affordable health care. Our legislators should perhaps set aside a few culture-war issues and work on this instead. Voters should support those who can provide effective solutions, or at least improvements, even if they involve compromise. Editors note: The Helena Independent Record has been receiving daily emails from Valerie Hellermann of Helena, who is executive director with Hands On Global and now helping Ukrainian refugees. She is among the members of Hands on Global who traveled to Siret, Romania, on the Ukraine-Romania border, to establish a medical relief team for those fleeing the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This is the latest in a series of emails Hellermann has sent to the newspaper and others. Portions of this email have been edited for clarity. This beautiful child we saw in (the) clinic today has just lost her father. He was a civilian soldier fighting for his homeland in Kyiv. This is the painful reality of war, fatherless children and a young widow. Fighting continues, bombs continue to be dropped. The humanitarian corridors were supposed to be open for some hours yesterday for food water and medical supplies but were not. Starving people and denying them basic water and medical care is another tactic. It is inhumane. The IDP (internally displaced persons) are near mental breaking points. So many complain of stress and inability to sleep. Sleep can be difficult with nightly visits to the bomb shelters during the air raids Lina has arrived today from Norway, Vicky returns to Demark tomorrow and Georgia back to Idaho the next day. Two more team members due in sat as we transition to the next team. It has been a very good team, high functioning. I love this part of the work how we can come together from different parts of the globe and within hours be a functioning team delivering medical care and somehow in sync. Valerie Hellermann Hands On Global, Helena Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Editor's note: The Helena Independent Record has been receiving daily emails from Valerie Hellermann of Helena, who is executive director with Hands On Global and now helping Ukrainian refugees. She is among the members of Hands on Global who traveled to Siret, Romania, on the Ukraine-Romania border, to establish a medical relief team for those fleeing the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Portions of this email have been edited for clarity. Oh, the stress of war on the human body and soul. Today we held so many weeping people in our arms. And people who never had high blood pressure with blood pressures so high. This gentleman who is alone in the shelter with no family, who has lost his home to bombings, came to us with a headache and stress. His blood pressure was 210/135. He was so sad and so alone. We comforted him as best we could and treated his hypertension. He gave us tearful hugs of thanks when he left. We were working in an old defunct childrens hospital from the 1950s, shut down in the late 1970s. A member of the community got it opened up to house 350 refugees. It was pretty dark and dreary with barely functional rusted plumbing. There was no electricity today. A woman who is one month older than me, but looked ages older, came to the clinic because she had some broken ribs. Her story: she was from a smaller village outside Kyiv and when the bombs came she ran outside and fell, hitting her head and breaking 2 ribs. She laid there terrified listening to the bombs for several hours unable to move hoping for an ambulance that never came because there were so many wounded. A neighbor found her and helped her but the hospital was full of more serious trauma patients. She was able to contact her daughter in another town who came for her and then had an agonizing many-hour car ride to safety in Chenevitzi. She was still in much pain and likely had a concussion as she was vomiting. The health care system here is stressed beyond capacity even here in this city which is considered safe and not under attack. All resources go to the front. There is a shortage of everything. Today, on our return to the Romanian border there was another air raid alert for western Ukraine. It comes on the radio and there is the siren in the background with a loop of an announcer saying Attention attention air raid alert. Take the most necessary things. Take your documents Shut off the gas, lights, water. Leave your house, look for a shelter or go outside. Help the sick, help the old, help your neighbor, do not panic! The bombing was south of Kyiv about 400 km away. Valerie Hellermann Executive Director Hands On Global Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 3 Angry 0 A federal jury this week awarded a Great Falls woman $75,000 after finding a probation officer's excessive force caused her injuries in a parking lot scrum in 2020. Carrie Gregory sued state probation authorities in 2020 in U.S. District Court in Great Falls for her injuries a fractured elbow and a sprained wrist and for law enforcement's failure to maintain surveillance footage of the event. According to court filings, Gregory in May 2020 had brought her son to the probation and parole office, where he was to be taken into custody for parole violations. While her son was being arrested, probation and parole officer Tomeka Williams arrived on scene and "performed some sort of aggressive maneuver on (Gregory's) arm and forced her head onto the hood of a vehicle," the lawsuit states. Williams initially planned to press charges against Gregory after the incident, claiming Gregory had injured the officer. But after Gregory's defense attorneys requested several times that law enforcement preserve the video that captured the episode, the Great Falls probation and parole office said it was dropping the charges. According to court filings, the Great Falls probation office told Gregory's attorneys that it was "unable to secure a copy of the video" and the next day said the footage was "long gone." U.S. District Judge Brian Morris sanctioned the state in March for spoiling the evidence that could have proved Gregory's claim and found Williams did use excessive force. The only questions left to be decided by the jury during the trial were whether Williams' excessive force caused Gregory's injuries and, if so, what damages to award Gregory. After a three-day trial and three hours of deliberation, the jury concluded the officer's excessive force indeed had caused Gregory's injuries, and awarded her $75,000 in damages. The jury also found the state's probation office was negligent in its actions following the parking lot incident. The jury also found Williams' actions did not justify an award for punitive damages, and that the state's negligence did not cause Gregory to suffer severe emotional stress. "We just are so grateful for the work of the jury in protecting their fellow citizen and it was a long two-year battle to hold the state accountable and we hope to see justice for Carrie Gregory," said her attorney Daniel Flaherty on Thursday. The case is not yet closed. Attorneys fees are yet to be decided before the jury verdict could potentially be appealed to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The Montana Department of Corrections, under which the probation and parole office exists, declined to comment on the verdict Thursday. The Great Falls Police Department and Officer Scott Fisher were initially named as defendants but were dismissed from the case on March 8 after settling with Gregory. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 3 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The first rule of intelligent tinkering is to save all the pieces, advised wildlife biologist Aldo Leopold. In ecology that means saving diverse niches, all the habitat types necessary for native species to thrive. That is appropriate for our public lands. But some public land users are taking the best, the highest-grade resources for private uses. When the best is gone, they go after the next-best, and then the next-best. This is the high grading downward spiral. Grazing, for example, had so damaged public lands in the West, and each cow required so much arid land, that neither private landowners nor the states would accept ownership of those lands, so the lands were formally placed under federal protection. That was the origin of what is today the Bureau of Land Management. Yet, by permit, commercial livestock grazing continues to degrade public lands by extracting grasses, forage, and water; by displacing native wildlife, introducing invasive plants, and disturbing the soil biome. This damage covers about half of the public lands in grazing allotments. The proposed Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act is based on a collaboration seeking what works only for people rather than building a scientific foundation of what works for healthy forests and wildlife. This act provides for roads, trails, and logging in sections with the best resources available, despite the sections being critical habitat for the grizzly bear and other wildlife and fragmenting the remaining habitat. The new Custer Gallatin National Forest plan similarly gives recreationists high-grade habitat. It also reduces the acreage under protection for wilderness qualities and wildlife. Given the thousands of miles of bike trails, off-road vehicle paths, etc., available on public lands in Montana, why expand such recreation into roadless wildlands at the expense of the land and wildlife? High-grading disrupts wildlife, reduces biodiversity, introduces invasive species, and contributes to erosion, sediment runoff into streams, and the land drying out. Furthermore, wildlife in proximity with people is an invitation for zoonotic diseases, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and severe acute respiratory syndromes like COVID. Pieces are lost when high-graders rule the day. The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act represents a better approach. This bill is a product of collaboration that uses science as the guiding principle to determine what is best for the land and wildlife. What's good for the forests, meadows, and grasslands, for the riparian areas and wetlands, creeks and rivers, is good for wildlife and for people! Climate change will affect species in different yet linked ways. Climate change is already shifting seasons, shifting stressors, shifting species, and presenting more extreme and variable weather. Conservation of native vegetation and healthy soils is cheaper than artificial methods of capturing carbon. Thats the premise of 30x30, protecting 30% of the land by 2030. Wildlife need diverse niches to survive in a changing world, as well as to survive through their annual cycles and their life cycles. Birds are an excellent indicator of the health of the environment, and bird populations are plummeting down three billion birds, nearly 30%, in the past 50 years, according to a study published in the journal Science in 2019. Western forest birds are down about 50%. Ecological forestry is bird friendly forestry. Different species of birds need different habitat and different habitat at different stages of any birds life. As an agency, the U.S. Forest Service has adopted ecological forestry in principle because each type of habitat is important healthy forests. Each niche is a piece of our natural heritage. Lets not give away pieces of Montana. Lets save all the pieces. Anne Millbrooke is a writer living in Bozeman. Love 4 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 4 Todays Highlight in History: On March 25, 1931, in the so-called Scottsboro Boys case, nine young Black men were taken off a train in Alabama, accused of raping two white women; after years of convictions, death sentences and imprisonment, the nine were eventually vindicated. On March 25: In 1634, English colonists sent by Lord Baltimore arrived in present-day Maryland. In 1894, Jacob S. Coxey began leading an army of unemployed from Massillon (MA-sih-luhn), Ohio, to Washington D.C., to demand help from the federal government. In 1911, 146 people, mostly young female immigrants, were killed when fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Co. in New York. In 1915, the U.S. Navy lost its first commissioned submarine as the USS F-4 sank off Hawaii, claiming the lives of all 21 crew members. In 1947, a coal-dust explosion inside the Centralia Coal Co. Mine No. 5 in Washington County, Illinois, claimed 111 lives; 31 men survived. In 1954, RCA announced it had begun producing color television sets at its plant in Bloomington, Indiana. In 1960, Ray Charles recorded Georgia on My Mind as part of his The Genius Hits the Road album in New York. In 1965, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. led 25,000 people to the Alabama state capitol in Montgomery after a five-day march from Selma to protest the denial of voting rights to Blacks. Later that day, civil rights activist Viola Liuzzo, a white Detroit homemaker, was shot and killed by Ku Klux Klansmen. In 1987, the Supreme Court, in Johnson v. Transportation Agency, ruled 6-3 that an employer could promote a woman over an arguably more-qualified man to help get women into higher-ranking jobs. In 1990, 87 people, most of them Honduran and Dominican immigrants, were killed when fire raced through an illegal social club in New York City. (An arsonist set the fire after being thrown out of the club following an argument with his girlfriend; Julio Gonzalez died in prison in 2016.) In 1996, an 81-day standoff by the anti-government Freemen began at a ranch near Jordan, Montana. In 2012, President Barack Obama arrived in South Korea, where he visited the Demilitarized Zone separating the South from the communist North, telling American troops stationed nearby they were protectors of freedoms frontier. Pope Benedict XVI, on his first trip to Latin America, urged Mexicans to wield their faith against drug violence, poverty and other ills, celebrating Mass before a sea of worshippers in Silao. In 2017, a scuffle broke out at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Southern California where supporters of President Donald Trump were marching when counter-protesters doused organizers with pepper spray. Stars and fans gathered for a public memorial to honor the late mother-daughter film stars Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. In 2020, the Senate unanimously passed a $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic; the largest economic relief bill in U.S. history included direct payments to most Americans, expanded unemployment benefits and $367 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers were forced to stay home. In 2021, Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed into law a Republican-sponsored overhaul of state elections that included restrictions on voting by mail and greater legislative control over how elections are run. A final vote count from Israels election showed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and right-wing allies had fallen short of winning a parliamentary majority; Netanyahu would leave office and become opposition leader. Pulitzer Prize-winning Texas author Larry McMurtry died at 84; hed won the prize for Lonesome Dove and also wrote The Last Picture Show and Terms of Endearment, which became Oscar-winning films. Childrens author Beverly Cleary, the writer behind the popular characters Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins, died at the age of 104 in Carmel Valley, California. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHICAGO - Many companies are again calling employees back to the office, after two years that saw staff return in fits and starts as COVID-19 surged and relented. But the ways office workers are returning have changed. Many are required to spend fewer days in the office, and that trend might be here to stay. Tractor-maker John Deere, which recently announced a new, 35,000-square-foot office space at trendy Fulton Market, has moved to fully remote or hybrid work for the long term. Employees are encouraged to be on site one or two days a week, or one week a month, but managers and employees ultimately determine what the flexible schedule looks like. The new Chicago office space is seen as a collaborative office space to convene, connect and innovate, spokeswoman Jen Hartmann said in an email. At JPMorgan Chase, some employees are in the office five days a week. Others work on a hybrid schedule, depending on their role, spokesman Brian Hanover said. The banking giant owns and occupies much of the 60-story Chase Tower downtown. How employees return to the office, and how often theyre there, could affect the future of downtown Chicago. Fewer office workers is one of several changes that could reshape the face of downtown as the city tries to emerge from the pandemic. Companies are also recognizing increasing demand from employees to work from home, which has provided safety and convenience for office workers for much of the pandemic. One head count of people returning to offices showed Chicago occupancy was at nearly 35% of pre-pandemic levels during the second week in March, after dipping during the surge of the omicron variant earlier in the year, according to an analysis by security company Kastle of its own building entry data. A separate survey of 68 Chicago executives taken in December found most thought employees would return to the office by the end of March. The largest share about 43% thought employees would return three days a week, according to the survey, conducted by a business group aiming to drive the return of downtown. A return to the office might be more feasible now, said Derrick Johnson, president of the board of downtown building association BOMA/Chicago. The end of Chicagos mask mandate seems to have made some people feel more comfortable in office settings. Some of the logistical concerns that prevented a return to work earlier in the pandemic, like how to care for children who had not yet returned to school, have been resolved, he said. Weve hit a point where everyone that wanted to get the shot and get boosted has done so, he said. We kind of understand what COVID means to our life, where for a lot of this period, we didnt really understand. Johnson is a senior vice president at real estate developer Zeller, where most corporate employees have been back in the office four days a week for months, he said. He thinks companies will eventually bring people back to the office five days a week. Employees benefit from being around others who dont think like them, and young workers benefit from mentorship, he said. But Steven Davis, a professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business who is studying working from home, said hybrid schedules for office workers arent likely to change anytime soon. Two years of practice, improved technology and increasing demand from employees to work from home has made the concept more palatable for employers, he said. And an ongoing survey conducted by Davis and researchers at other universities shows employers are increasingly warming up to the idea of employees working from home part of the time. Employers are faced with three choices when it comes to working from home, he said: allow remote work, pay employees higher salaries to compensate for not offering remote work, or accept that they might lose current and future employees if they dont offer remote work as an option. Most will likely make remote work feasible, Davis said. The key is to divide up work days so that employees are in the office on days they are doing tasks that will benefit from proximity to their co-workers. That division might make managers jobs more difficult, but will benefit employees who can save time on getting ready and commuting, he said. Before COVID, for most workers, working remotely for much of the week was not really an option and that meant employers did not really need to respond to it, he said. Because their employees who wanted that option didnt really have a way to make it happen. Now, they do have a way to make it happen. One company that has embraced a hybrid schedule is Molson Coors, where employees are in the office at least Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Company executives think employees work best together, and beer is a social industry, spokesman Marty Maloney said. But the company also wanted to provide flexibility, and recognized the world has changed. As long as the schedule keeps working the company has no plans change it, though it could adjust if future developments with the pandemic call for it, Maloney said. Engineering firm ESD brought its roughly 230 Chicago employees back to the office part time at the beginning of March, after several changes to planned start dates, Executive Chairman Raj Gupta said. For now, in consideration of health concerns, employees are divided into two groups, who each come in two days a week. In six months, if nothing changes, Gupta plans to move to a hybrid schedule where most employees can choose three days a week to come in with the expectation that if a big deadline is coming up or a client or co-workers have urgent needs, an employee will come in. The decision reflects a recognition that employees might have family or other commitments, Gupta said. The company also already had allowed remote work for employees who lived elsewhere in the country or had specific family needs. It can make a hybrid schedule work because it is a service company. Im very comfortable with it, he said. And we really had no choice. And if we didnt have that two-year period to work out the kinks and everything, it probably would be a little disconcerting to automatically go to three days a week for the whole company, but since weve been working for two years remotely anyway, Im much more comfortable with it, he said. The company moved onto floors 53 and 54 of Willis Tower in 2018, shortly after redevelopment work began at the tower. Even with the hybrid schedule, the office space is worth it to Gupta, because collaboration and development of younger employees is key to the design firm. The building and the companys unique office setup could also help recruit new hires. Now that employees arent in the office every day, the company could take some of its existing space and reconfigure it, he said. ESD isnt the only company that recently returned at Willis. Average daily occupancy at the tower shot up by about 45% between the first week of February and the first week of March, a spokesman said. Traffic in the buildings new food court and retail space followed similar trends. A few blocks south, the Old Post Office welcomed its first tenants months before the pandemic sent office workers home in March 2020. Two years later, on a Wednesday in mid-March, 1,600 workers swiped into the building, which is expected to house around 10,000 employees when fully occupied, said Bryan Oyster, the buildings general manager. About a week and a half before, between 750 and 1,000 workers swiped in. Uber Technologies, one of the buildings large tenants, opened its office in the fall for employees who chose to come in. The company sought to sublease some of its space before the pandemic shutdowns, and later put its construction on hold because of the virus. It plans in the coming months to have employees working there half the time, said Rachel Perl, Ubers head of U.S. North regulatory strategy and operations, in a statement. The Old Post Office is 97% leased, but not all tenants have moved in, according to the leasing agent, the Telos Group. Much of the leasing took place during the pandemic, and tenants designed their spaces with the intent to have employees back a few days a week, Matt Whipple, one of the leasing agents, said. For those who have moved in, the building is trying to match companies efforts to encourage employees to come in a few days a week, Oyster said. That can mean moving a scheduled building happy hour from a Friday to a Wednesday, when more tenants are in the building. As it adjusts, the Old Post Office is getting ready for an influx of workers for the first time. Now is the first time were actually going to see everyone start to come in at the same time, Oyster said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 After the Illinois House and Senate voted to pass legislation to partially pay down the states unemployment insurance trust fund debt, top Democratic leaders gathered for a Statehouse press conference to boast about their accomplishment. Yes, they admitted, it was only a partial pay-down. The debt is $4.5 billion, and they patched it with $2.7 billion in federal money from the American Rescue Plan Act. But the Democrats pointed out Illinois is using a higher percentage of its federal ARPA aid on its debt than surrounding states, including neighboring Indiana. Most states had to borrow money from the federal government when the 2020 COVID shutdowns created an unprecedented flood of unemployment benefit applications and states simply didnt have enough money on hand to meet the enormous demand. But the Democratic spin avoided the fact that surrounding states didnt have the same level of crushing debt as Illinois. While Indiana and Illinois both underfunded their trust funds before the pandemic began, Indianas resulting problem wasnt as great as Illinois partially because that state was more aggressive about reopening businesses earlier during the pandemic than Illinois was. But that Hoosier decision came with a different and much more devastating cost because Indianas COVID death rate is significantly higher than Illinois rate, and its even higher when you look at the figures after vaccines were widely available. And, perhaps more to the point, Indiana and other states, unlike Illinois, used a significant chunk of their Trump-era CARES Act allotment to pay down their trust fund debts, so their resulting need for ARPA money to shore up their funds just wasnt as critical as ours. Illinois budget situation at the height of the pandemic was, of course, worse than surrounding states because of decades of fiscal mismanagement here, so the CARES Act money was desperately needed elsewhere. Business groups were generally upbeat after the bills passage. A joint business statement called the legislation a positive step toward addressing the massive shortfall in the trust fund. Were hopeful that negotiations will continue to resolve the remaining balance of this unprecedented deficit, said the statement from the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, Illinois Manufacturers Association, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Businesses of Illinois and the Associated General Contractors of Illinois. The appreciation from business groups was definitely not matched by the Republicans tone. They fretted that since all the debt wasnt eliminated, the rest would have to come from employer tax hikes and worker benefit cuts. Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie issued a statement predicting that the bill will have a devastating impact on businesses the same businesses whose industry representatives called the same bill a positive step. The Republican crocodile tears over potential benefit cuts for unemployed workers is super-rich for a party that almost uniformly demanded that those very same unemployment benefits be slashed last year so that the resulting poverty would force people back to their lousy jobs. I mean, I was born at night, but not last night. The Democrats were also quick to point out that not a single congressional Republican voted for ARPA in the first place. So, Illinois Republicans are angry about not getting their way on how the ARPA money was spent when their party didnt want the ARPA money to begin with. The Democrats showed some political acumen by including other debt elimination in the bill, including paying off all the remaining debt in the College Illinois program and spending $300 million more on pension debt than required by law. The package also included paying off close to a billion dollars in past-due debt for public employee and retiree group health insurance. The bills provision is a godsend for Springfield-area health providers, which have dealt forever with a state that has shown little to no interest in their fiscal well-being. Yet, every Republican in that region voted against the bill, including appointed Rep. Sandy Hamilton (R-Springfield). Hamilton is challenging Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield), and her No vote will likely be used against her this fall. But, hey, the states wealthiest resident Ken Griffin is basically calling the shots for the GOP this election year because he has an abundance of what Republicans so desperately need right now: Cash money. And you could bet your house (and the Senate) that Griffin would be very angry if the Republicans signed on to any sort of measure that could possibly involve future tax hikes on businesses. Griffin was also no fan of the federal ARPA program, by the way. Rich Miller publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 7 This summer, hundreds of local children may lose access to nutritious meals if Congress does not take action. Two years ago, Feeding Southwest Virginia and food banks throughout the country sprang into action to ensure children and families received food at home during the pandemic. Congress responded by clearing the USDA to pass child nutrition waivers that created more flexibility to serve children facing hunger. Last week, Congress failed to extend these child nutrition waivers in the FY22 omnibus appropriations bill. As a result, more than 1,100 children in far Southwest Virginia (south of Wytheville) may suddenly lose access to daily nutritious meals this summer, equating to more than 140,000 meals. Across the U.S., children will miss out on more than 95 million meals this summer according to Share our Strengths No Kid Hungry campaign. Congress decision is disappointing, and vulnerable children will miss out on meals they need to learn, grow and thrive. Since 2020, Congress has allowed the USDA to operate under child nutrition waivers that suspended regulations that were not safe nor feasible during the pandemic, such as requiring children to consume meals onsite in a congregate setting. These waivers allowed local childrens meal programs in Southwest Virginia to safely and swiftly distribute food through grab-and-go methods sometimes enough food for several days. Many new meal programs also stepped up to fill in the gaps during this time. Without further action from Congress, child nutrition waivers will expire on June 30. While these waivers were not permanent, the end came with little notice. In less than three months, meal programs will be forced to transform the way they have operated for the past two years. Many meal sites that cannot meet the requirements will be forced to shutter leaving children without meals that they rely on. In far Southwest Virginia, 19 of Feeding Southwest Virginias partner meal programs likely will not reopen this summer, and four potential new sites will not be able to join. The halt to child nutrition waivers is jarring in Southwest Virginia, a region disproportionately affected by child food insecurity. In 2019, more than 20% of children in far Southwest Virginia were food insecure according to Feeding Americas Map the Meal Gap study. The child food insecurity rate is even higher in many counties, especially in rural counties. The child food insecurity rate was 28.2% in Buchanan County and 25.7% in Dickenson County. The decision will be particularly devastating to rural areas, like far Southwest Virginia, that already face hunger at higher rates. Feeding America reports that 86% of the counties in the U.S. with the highest percentage of children at risk for food insecurity are rural. By placing more restrictions on meal times and discontinuing grab-and-go options, the end of child nutrition waivers will make it harder for rural children to reach meal sites. Feeding Southwest Virginia is urging Congress to take action, and we are calling on our neighbors to join us in advocating for children facing hunger in Southwest Virginia. Today, one in five children in far Southwest Virginia is food insecure. If our neighbors link arms to urge Congress and the White House to create a solution, thousands of children facing hunger will again have access to meals this summer. Pamela Irvine is the president and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. A body found in Alexander County has been identified as that of 54-year-old Hiddenite resident Kenneth Dale Walker, who was reported missing a month ago. Volunteer firefighters who were searching for Walker came upon the body Monday afternoon off Sulphur Springs Road at a location almost a mile from Hiddenite Elementary School. Sheriff Chris Bowman said he could not release any information on the cause of death. The sheriffs office is asking anyone with information on the circumstances to call their office at 828-632-1111 or 828-632-2911 or Alexander County Crimestoppers at 828-632-8555. An EF1 tornado caused damages in Alexander County during a storm Wednesday night, the National Weather Service says. The tornado touched down in the northwest section of Alexander County, a news release from Alexander County said. There was a five-to-six-mile stretch of wind damage that included damage from the tornado, which had winds of at least 110 mph. Several houses sustained damage during the severe storm, with many downed trees, the release said. No injuries have been reported, the release said. Representatives from the Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina, office of the National Weather Service surveyed the damages left behind in Alexander County on Friday. The North Carolina Department of Transportation sent road crews to clear fallen trees along Mount Olive Church Road on Friday morning. Around 12 pine trees fell onto a house on Archie Mountain Lane in Alexander County during the storm, homeowner Tommy Simmons said. His wifes car was badly damaged when trees fell on it, crushing the roof of the car and shattering the windshield and drivers side window. Trees also damaged Simmons truck, leaving the hood dented and a crack in the windshield. Simmons and his wife were home at the time of the storm. He said around 11 p.m. the house vibrated and they heard a loud thud. His wife realized a tree had fallen onto the house. He said it all happened so fast, he could have slept right through it. After it happened, Simmons said he and his wife came outside with flashlights, but didnt know how bad it was until Thursday morning. We came out at seven oclock the next morning and it was a different world it was like a war zone, he said. Trees surrounding the Simmons home were blown over and the tin roof of a neighboring house had been mostly ripped off. Simmons said he was impressed by the support he received from neighbors, including some he had never met before. Neighbors brought chainsaws and a tractor to clear trees out of the driveway and the road. Theres no doubt in my mind, were where we need to be, Simmons said. Weve been here nine months. It makes me feel much better to see that kind of neighborhood interaction. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Russias annexation of Crimea in February of 2014 was widely condemned by the international community. Though sanctions were levied in response, Putin stayed firm. Over time, Russias possession of Crimea became somewhat normalized. The annexation is still viewed as a violation of international law. But as time passed, it seemed that not much could be done to reverse what had happened. How did Putin get away with it? The annexation, though morally reprehensible, was a politically savvy move. It was broadly popular at home. Attention was diverted from Russias ailing economy. Western sanctions caused some discomfort, but Putin now had a scapegoat for Russias economic woes if needed. In annexing Crimea (along with supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine), Putin pursued a more limited goal than he is currently seeking. At the time of the annexation, there was speculation that Putin would go further and take action on other areas where ethnic Russians resided, such as in parts of Georgia or Moldova (or even in the Baltic states). Or that the Russian military would attempt to take over Ukraine in its entirety. But Putin avoided the temptation. In doing so, the Russian military pursued a fait accompli strategy, an approach in which a state imposes a limited gain without permission in an attempt to induce the adversary to relent rather than escalate in response, as explained by Georgia State University political science professor Dan Altman. This contrasts with a brute force strategy in which coercion is used to overtake another state militarily. States employing a fait accompli strategy seek to avoid escalation to war whereas using a brute force strategy initiates war. There are several historical examples of states using a brute force approach in wars of conquest. Poland was overtaken by neighboring rivals in 1795. Paraguay was overrun in 1870. The United States occupied the Dominican Republic from 1916-24. Poland was invaded and dismembered for a second time at the beginning of World War II. But since the end of the Second World War, wars of conquest have been rare. States have been constrained by a territorial integrity norm, according to which there is a right to the preservation of state borders. Violations of the norm through wars of conquest are met with resistance. Though such wars have become rare, states still at times have success acquiring territory through limited land grabs using a fait accompli strategy. Because such action is not as severe as wars of total conquest, international opposition tends to be more limited. Whereas Putin was able to get away with annexing Crimea, he will not be so lucky when it comes to the current full frontal assault on Ukraine. His overreach has provoked a much stronger response. Opposition is likely to continue until Russia withdraws. The occupation will never be normalized. Given that would be violators of the territorial integrity norm presumably know that engaging in wars of conquest using a brute force strategy will result in international opprobrium and efforts to reverse gains, why do such wars, though rare, still occur? Evidence from the Persian Gulf War suggests that strategic miscalculation may play a role. When Iraq invaded Kuwait in the early 1990s, Saddam Hussein did not, it seems, believe that the United States would intervene militarily. Rather than signaling in advance that an invasion of Kuwait would be met with force, American officials equivocated. Saddam seemed to believe that casualty aversion would keep U.S. forces at bay, or, if not, would at least lead to withdraw as casualties mounted. When Putin was deciding whether or not to invade Ukraine, President Biden made it clear that the United States would not intervene militarily were an invasion to occur. Putin perhaps consequently believed that he would be able to successfully overtake Ukraine despite it being in violation of the territorial integrity norm. But he perhaps did not anticipate the amount of pushback he would receive. The costs of the invasion, given outside military and logistical support for the Ukrainians fighting against Russian forces coupled with far-reaching economic sanctions, will be high. Putins most significant miscalculation, though, was to underestimate the strength of the nationalist resistance that Russian forces would face upon entering into Ukraine. Given Ukraines historic, ethnic, and linguistic ties to Russia (stronger in the east than elsewhere in Ukraine), Putin may have believed some of his own rhetoric about being greeted as liberators. Instead, resistance has been fierce. Annexing Crimea in 2014 was a gambit that paid off. But this time Putin has gone too far. Going beyond the use of a fait accompli strategy was a strategic mistake. Like every gambler, he will one day lament that he did not quit while he was ahead. David R. Dreyer is a political science professor at Lenoir-Rhyne University. Email him at David.Dreyer@lr.edu. " " Elizabeth 'Mum Bett' Freeman was the first female enslaved person to sue for and win her freedom. Library of Congress A Revolutionary War-era court case that granted an enslaved woman freedom from her cruel enslavers. A benevolent white lawyer turned employer. A name change at a crucial turning point. These are all moments in Elizabeth Freeman's life. Her story or at least what we know of it reads like a tale of grit and justice that's ripe for Hollywood dramatization. But, in reality, the circumstances of Freeman's triumph were rooted in necessity and survival. Freeman called Bett before she chose her new moniker was born into slavery on an unknown date in the 1740s. By either inheritance or purchase, Freeman was enslaved as a child by Colonel John Ashley and his wife, Hannah. At the Ashley house in Sheffield, Massachusetts, Freeman did domestic work, served visitors and dealt with the reported brutality of Hannah Ashley. Advertisement But by 1780, Freeman had become aware that documents like the Declaration of Independence and Massachusetts Constitution espoused the ideas of freedom and equality as birthrights. Freeman determined that she, too, was entitled to freedom by law. In the wake of other enslaved Black people and abolitionists who took their claims to court, Freeman decided to sue for her freedom. She had the help of lawyers Theodore Sedgwick and Tapping Reeve to do so. This wasn't a common course of action. Some enslaved people weren't aware that they could petition for their freedom and win, nor did they have the resources to do so. On top of that, challenging the law and one's enslavers could be risky and futile. However, freedom suits, or instances when enslaved people filed lawsuits against their enslavers to gain their freedom, weren't unprecedented in colonial times. Many of these suits were brought by men, and many of the claimants challenged the legitimacy of their own enslavement rather than the entire institution of slavery. For instance, Elizabeth Key sued for her freedom in Virginia in 1656 on the basis that her father was a free white man and she was a Christian, conditions that entitled her to freedom by English common law. L'Merchie Frazier an artist, educator, and director of education and interpretation at the Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket speaks about the many reasons for enslaved people petitioning for freedom and about their awareness of the ability to do so. "Maybe [the enslaved petitioners] haven't been manumitted [set free] when their contract says they should be manumitted," says Frazier. "Maybe they should be, at this point in time, earning wages for their service. There are distinct differences in cases where petitions are brought, but they are not without the knowledge that they exist. They're not existing in a vacuum." Some enslaved people found ways to organize to win their freedom, she says. Freeman asserted that she was free according to the rules that American politicians enshrined in governing documents. Catharine Maria Sedgwick, the daughter of lawyer Theodore Sedgwick, later wrote about Freeman's convictions. Sedgwick quoted Freeman: "I am not a dumb critter, won't the law give me my freedom?" Sedgwick went on to say about Freeman, "I can imagine her upright form as she stood dilating with her fresh hope based on the declaration of her intrinsic inalienable right." Freeman helped raise Catharine Sedgwick, and Catharine's records of the life of her beloved "Mumbet" have provided historians more information about Freeman's history than they would have had otherwise. " " It was in this house in Sheffield, Massachusetts, that Mum Bett lived as an enslaved person owned by Colonel John Ashley and his wife, Hannah Ashley. Heidi De Vries /Flickr (CC By 2.0) Freedom suits were often unsuccessful, resulting in neither the emancipation of the plaintiff nor the abolition of slavery in the place where the case was brought. But some, including Brom and Bett v. Ashley, were stories of liberation. Freeman's lawyers decided to add Brom, one of four other enslaved people at the Ashley estate, to the suit. Freeman may have sought the help of Theodore Sedgwick since he visited the Ashley house, or Sedgwick and Tapping Reeve may have pursued Freeman and Brom in order to test whether slavery was legal in Massachusetts under the new state constitution. Either way, Sedgwick got a writ of replevin, which is an order authorizing the retaking of property by its rightful owner, from the court ordering John Ashley to release Freeman and Brom because they were not his property. He refused to release them and was ordered to appear in court. On Aug. 21, 1781, Sedgwick and Reeve argued before the Court of Common Pleas in Great Barrington that slavery was unconstitutional, since the Massachusetts Constitution stated that "all men are born free and equal." The next day, the jury determined that Brom and Freeman should be emancipated. The two were awarded 30 shillings in damages, and Ashley had to pay 5 pounds, 14 shillings, and 4 pence in court costs. Upon her victory, Freeman took her new name, an assertion of her newfound independence. The outcome of Freeman's case, and the cases of an enslaved man named Quock Walker who won his freedom in 1781, showed that the legal (and moral) foundations of the institution of slavery were disintegrating. These cases marked the beginning of the end of slavery in Massachusetts according to the 1790 census, no enslaved people lived in the state. That said, the state constitution was not amended to outlaw slavery, and people remained in bondage as chattel slavery became obsolete in Massachusetts. Freeman went on to work for the Sedgwicks, providing her services in the household and community as a servant, midwife and governess. In a reversal almost too improbable for a third act, Freeman became one of the first women in Massachusetts to own property. She bought a home and land of her own, amassing enough wealth and property to create a will a couple of months before she died in December 1829. The items she owned and chose to pass down shawls, gowns, earrings, quilts, spoons and gold beads, among other objects tell a story about her character and what she valued, despite the lack of first-person accounts of Freeman's life. "As we see her life unfolded in the ways that are accessible to us," says Frazier, "we find a woman who is not deterred from her honesty, her truth and her will to be free." Now That's Fitting Elizabeth "Mum Bett" Freeman died at what was believed to be the age of 85 Dec. 28, 1829. She is the only non-family member buried in the Sedgwick family plot in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. While the European Union (EU) stands second in global dairy product exports, the forecast has turned a bit cloudy these days. By 2030, there could be a 20-million pound gap between forecasted growth in global dairy demand and the projected growth in milk production. At a time when the world wants dairy, the question arises, Who will produce the milk? Europe is creating disincentives in livestock agriculture. My colleagues who run large dairy organizations in Europe tell me that milk production may no longer grow there due to disincentives for animal agriculture, shared Rick Smith, president and CEO of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA). From milk to manure The Dutch went from having a milk quota to having a manure quota, said Mary Ledman, global dairy strategist with Rabobank. That manure quota involves the EUs strong commitment to curtailing climate change. According to the highly regarded Science family of journals, Ecological damage from manure fumes has triggered calls for drastic change to agriculture. In Europe, the Netherlands is the epicenter for the governments counter offensive on climate. However, its farmers are piping mad as Erik Stokstad shared in his article, Nitrogen crisis from jam-packed livestock operations has paralyzed Dutch economy. What could this situation have in store for global dairy? I expect the next wave of Dutch dairy immigration in the next five years, said Ledman at DFAs annual meeting on March 22. When that takes place, some Dutch dairy farmers will sell their quota and their land and come to the U.S. to farm, she said. Further fueling this projection, the highly regarded dairy economist added, The Dutch are even talking about whole farm buyouts. Prior to the events unfolding in Eastern Europe and the Ukraine, some of those Dutch farmers may have picked up roots and purchased farms in that region. Not any longer, said Ledman, as the U.S. offers the best opportunity to run a successful dairy business. To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2022 March 24, 2022 Friday, March 25 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Heavenly Hot Dogs at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 301 Mount Olivet Road, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free delivery for orders of more than $15, and takeout is available. Homemade desserts and chicken noodle soup are available. For more information, visit www.mtochurch.com or call 704-782-8846. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 26 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot Dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcome at 704-782-1785. Monday, March 28 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Tuesday, March 29 Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Ceremony Honoring Vietnam War Veterans will be at American Legion Post 51 on 165 Wilshire Ave. SW in Concord. The program, which includes a social gathering and refreshments, will last from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is sponsored by the Cabarrus Black Boys Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and The Cabarrus Veterans Coalition. To RSVP, call 703-371-6850 by March 15. A memorial service at Vietnam Veterans Park will be open to the public at 2 p.m. The park is at 760 Orphanage Road in Concord. An RSVP is not required. Friday, April 1 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Heavenly Hot Dogs at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 301 Mount Olivet Road, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free delivery for orders of more than $15, and takeout is available. Homemade desserts and chicken noodle soup are available. For more information, visit www.mtochurch.com or call 704-782-8846. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.. Monday, April 4 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Wednesday, April 6 The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join us on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome. Thursday, April 7 Learn the art of basket weaving, and be ready for Spring and Summer by completing a Spring Flowers Basket! Supplies are provided with several color choices. The basket will be perfect for holding a pot of tulips, ivy or other plants. This beautiful basket is perfect for a beginner or advanced weaver. The class will be held from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at NC Cooperative Extension, 715 Cabarrus Avenue West, Concord, NC 28027 and the cost is $26. Register Online at: go.ncsu.edu/registercabarrus or pay in person at 715 Cabarrus Avenue West, Concord, NC 28027. Checks payable to: Cabarrus County. Class size is limited. For additional details contact 704-920-3310 weekdays. Friday, April 8 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Heavenly Hot Dogs at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 301 Mount Olivet Road, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free delivery for orders of more than $15, and takeout is available. Homemade desserts and chicken noodle soup are available. For more information, visit www.mtochurch.com or call 704-782-8846. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot Dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcome at 704-782-1785. Monday, April 11 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Wednesday, April 13 A 6-week series of "MED Instead of MEDS" for Better Health! begins. Eating the Mediterranean way is not only healthy, it is delicious and satisfying.The class will include weekly food tastings of Med recipes, and you will receive weekly recipes to try at home. The series will meet weekly on Wednesdays beginning on April 13 and concluding on Wednesday, May 18 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at NC Cooperative Extension , Cabarrus County Center, 715 Cabarrus Avenue West, Concord, NC 28027. Cost is $ 18.00 for the series. Register Online at: go.ncsu.edu/registercabarrus or pay by mail or in person at 715 Cabarrus Avenue West, Concord, NC 28027. Checks are payable to: Cabarrus County. Details contact 704-920-3310 weekdays. Friday, April 15 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Heavenly Hot Dogs at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 301 Mount Olivet Road, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free delivery for orders of more than $15, and takeout is available. Homemade desserts and chicken noodle soup are available. For more information, visit www.mtochurch.com or call 704-782-8846. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 16 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Monday, April 18 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Wednesday, April 20 The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome. Thursday, April 28 "Scams and Illegal Jams" is a program offered for the community, hosted by Cabarrus County Extension and Community Association (ECA). The program will feature Cabarrus County Sheriff Vann Shaw and local attorney Jazmin Caldwell and will be held at Cabarrus Arena and Events Center , Cabarrus Rooms, located on Highway 49. Doors will open at 9:15 a.m. for registration and to join the "Win Me Opportunities"! Program will begin at 10 a.m. Door prizes will be included. Please register in advance by calling NC Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus Center at 704-920-3310 weekdays. Friday, April 29 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Heavenly Hot Dogs at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 301 Mount Olivet Road, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free delivery for orders of more than $15, and takeout is available. Homemade desserts and chicken noodle soup are available. For more information, visit www.mtochurch.com or call 704-782-8846. Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 30 The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products. Hot Dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcome at 704-782-1785. Monday, May 2 The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination. Got news or events? Does your community group or nonprofit agency have an upcoming event that would be of interest to the public? Email it to mplemmons@independenttribune.com. CONCORD Former City Council member David W. Phillips is among the newest members of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the most valued and prestigious civilian honors and the states highest award for public service. Phillips received the award in recognition of his more than 20 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Concord and Cabarrus County. Members of City Council, along with Mayor Bill Dusch, surprised Phillips during a special recognition and presentation of the award at the March council meeting. Not too many times in my life have I been at a loss of what to say; Im overwhelmed, said Phillips upon accepting the award. Any contributions Ive made over the last 20-plus years is because I had a lot of good people helping me and working with me. Im extremely humbled and grateful. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is awarded to people for exemplary service to the state of North Carolina and their communities that is above and beyond the call of duty and which has made a significant impact and strengthened North Carolina. I remember when this award was created in 1963, said Phillips. I thought at the time, when I read the qualifications to get it and be a recipient of it, Man, that would be something to have. Never then did I think I would be standing here holding this today. Also present at the meeting were former Council members Jim Ramseur and Ella Mae Small, former Mayor Scott Padgett, former City Manager Brian Hiatt, and former Water and Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County (WSACC) colleague Mark Fowler. Dave is extremely conscientious about his job he takes it very seriously and when I think about somebody that I would want to be a leader, the biggest thing I think about is integrity, and he is a man of integrity, said Padgett. Born and raised in Concord, Phillips retired from Duke Energy Carolinas with 36 years of service. During his 20 years on Concord City Council, from 1995-2015, he served two terms as mayor pro tem. In 2018, the city named a new activity center in his honor, The David W. Phillips Activity Center at 946 Burrage Road NE. The following year, Phillips returned to City Council when he was appointed to fill the District 1 vacancy left by the death of former Council member Sam Leder. Phillips also served on the WSACC board for over 20 years. He is a member and former president and director of the Concord Rotary Club, member of the UNCC Alumni Association, and life member of the National Eagle Scout Association. RALEIGH The following are highlights from last week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in NCDOT Now, the departments weekly newscast. Spring Litter Sweep We can all agree North Carolina is a great place to live and work, and it takes all of us doing our part to keep our state clean, safe and beautiful. NCDOT wants you to join us for this years Spring Litter Sweep from April 16-30. Twice a year, the department asks volunteers to help remove litter from roadsides. No sign up is required; volunteers can request supplies such as trash bags, gloves and safety vests from local NCDOT county maintenance offices. Last year, NCDOT, volunteers and contract workers picked up more than 13 million pounds of litter across the state. We try to educate people to understand, Hey, please dont throw it out, throw it in the right receptacle, so we wont have to spend the money we have to spend to pick it up. We could use that money toward projects, toward anything and everything we have in transportation, Transportation Secretary Eric Boyette said. For more information, go to ncdot.gov/littersweep. Wayne County bridge dedication A Wayne County bridge has been dedicated to a fallen state trooper. Signs honoring Trooper Nolan J. Sanders have been placed at the OBerry Road bridge over U.S. 117 in Mount Olive. Sanders died in March 2020 after he was involved in a single-vehicle crash while he was on patrol. He was 28. Department completes regional DBE meetings The department has completed its third regional meeting for small, women and minority-owned businesses to learn how to compete for state transportation contracts. NCDOT met with firms in Asheville, Raleigh and Atlantic Beach. These are just the latest meetings NCDOT has hosted for small and disadvantaged business enterprises. The department plans to host similar meetings in July. Stay tuned and visit NCDOT website. From left to right: Robert Saint, John Spoehr, Ben Dawson, and Trish Williams The Innovation Central Adelaide, launched virtually by defence industry minister Melissa Price, introduces advanced digital design and visualisation technologies to nurture innovation and growth by solving real business problems for small and medium sized enterprises. The initiative was formed in collaboration with Flinders University and Cisco. Innovation Central Adelaide has been established at Flinders Universitys Digital Transformation Laboratory at the Tonsley Innovation District, also launched by the minister. Flinders University vice-chancellor professor Colin Stirling says the initiative represents the realisation of a national advanced technology network, complementing sister facilities in New South Wales, Western Australia, and Queensland. The partnership between Flinders and Cisco expands the co-innovation footprint of Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane, bringing together researchers and industry to facilitate collaboration and create opportunities to solve real world problems through technology innovation, Stirling says. It further reinforces the world-class expertise that Flinders researchers are contributing to the evolution of advanced manufacturing in South Australia, supporting jobs and the economy, Stirling adds. Flinders pro vice-chancellor of research innovation professor John Spoehr says Innovation Central Adelaide will provide a high-tech treasure chest to South Australian firms, and turbo charge students real-world learning. Innovation Central Adelaide gives them that capacity, supporting them to apply cutting edge design processes, rapid prototyping, simulation, and high-tech visualisation technologies that would otherwise be beyond their reach, claims Spoehr. In addition, companies will be able to use Innovation Central Adelaide to experiment with a range of robotics and automation technologies. Initial trials supported by the new facility will focus on collaboration systems, industrial networking, automation, industrial security, wireless systems and industrial sensor solutions, he says. Professor Spoehr says Innovation Central Adelaide will support product and service development by facilitating the uptake of digital technologies in South Australian companies. This important collaboration is unlocking a treasure chest of technology which will help accelerate advanced manufacturing across our state, Professor Spoehr says. It will equip students to be industry-ready with the digital skills required in the knowledge economy that help to solve real-world industry problems, he adds. The partnership with Flinders University builds on Ciscos commitment to innovation and research and will see Flinders join the National Industry Innovation Network (NIIN), a Cisco-led industry and university alliance to solve industry challenges through adoption of technology solutions, according to Cisco Australia and New Zealand vice president Ben Dawson. The NIIN is co-funded through Ciscos Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, a $61 million investment to accelerate Australias digital capabilities in industries of national significance. The partnership with Flinders University and Innovation Central Adelaide represents new research and innovation opportunities that will transform advanced manufacturing with the application of digital technologies to increase efficiencies and scale across industries, Dawson says. The National Industry Innovation Network is an alliance working on nationally significant projects including securing critical infrastructure, connected education, net zero and sustainability, digital health, and hybrid work, to realise digital opportunities that can benefit the whole country, Dawson adds. Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (IMCRC) CEO and managing director Dave Chuter sees IMCRC and the digital transformation laboratory as significant and important additions to the growing capability and capacity at Tonsley. Tonsley is further building credentials as a leading design and manufacturing hub. Digital technologies are profoundly changing Australias industry sectors. By bringing together researchers and innovators from across the public and private sectors, this creates a space where those digital technologies can be explored, tested and applied to drive commercial opportunities and outcomes, Chuter says. Innovation Central Adelaide strengthens the Universitys partnership with Cisco at Tonsley, which currently supports research on innovative health technologies. WAMAC, Ill. It was almost quitting time for 142 men working 540 feet below ground in Centralia Coal Co.'s Mine No. 5. In operation since 1908, the mine's tentacles ran three or more miles from the elevator shaft into the coal seams. At 3:27 p.m. March 25, 1947, coal dust exploded deep inside. Many miners were killed by fire flashing through tunnels. Others were doomed by accumulating poison gas. Mrs. Alvin Barnes, a miner's wife, arrived at No. 5 to pick him up. "Something's wrong," another wife told her. Down below, men scratched notes to their families. "Dear wife, Goodbye. Forgive me. Take care of all the children." Another wrote, "Tell dad to quit the mine and take care of mom." The 31 survivors reached surface shortly after the blast. An additional 111 miners, including Barnes, were dead or trapped. The last succumbed about 6:30 p.m. At the mine entrance, dozens of family members gathered where miners' off-duty clothes were slung on hooks. Posted on the wall were inspection reports, dating to 1945, warning of excessive dust, bad ventilation and high risk of explosion. One year earlier, leaders of United Mine Workers Local 52 wrote to Illinois Gov. Dwight Green, complaining of conditions in No. 5. "Please save our lives," they wrote. The miners, paid $1.18 1/2 cents an hour, continued producing 3,000 tons a day at No. 5, just south of Centralia and 60 miles east of St. Louis. Of the four who signed the letter, only one survived the disaster. Anger focused on Green and Robert Medill, director of the Illinois Department of Mines and Minerals. Medill, a Republican Party bagman, had been exposed only the week before for soliciting contributions from mining companies. In Chicago, Centralia Coal Co. president Homer F. McDonald was asked about conditions at No. 5. "Hell, I don't know anything about a coal mine," he said. McDonald referred questions to vice president William Young, who was in Wamac, surrounded by state troopers and company guards. Mine inspector Driscoll Scanlan became the whistle-blower, telling of repeated warnings about No. 5. His boss, Medill, tried to kick the blame back, but Green soon forced Medill's resignation. Search crews removed the last 31 bodies on March 30. A week later, Young admitted to visiting U.S. senators that he had disregarded inspection reports. Centralia Coal pleaded no contest of violating mine-safety laws and paid a piddling $1,000 fine. Medill was indicted, but a judge dismissed the charge. The Post-Dispatch won a Pulitzer Prize in 1948 for its reporting of the disaster. Green lost the election later that year to Democrat Adlai Stevenson. The disaster spurred reform. But four years later, 119 miners died in an explosion in a mine near West Frankfort, Ill. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHICAGO - A proposed merger between two major railroads will lead to disruptive delays to Metra service and exacerbate safety issues for passengers, the commuter rail agency said in a recent federal filing. The merger would bring more freight trains to the Chicago area, and Metra said it could mean a 400% increase in delays per 100 miles along its Milwaukee District West and Milwaukee District North lines. Freight trains traveling through stations during busy commuter times could pose safety concerns, blocking access to trains and forcing Metra trains to pick up passengers at platforms opposite the side typically scheduled. Metras filing was part of a merger application under review by the federal Surface Transportation Board, which would combine the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern railroads in a $31 billion deal. In the Chicago area, Canadian Pacific shares tracks with Metras Milwaukee District West and Milwaukee District North lines, and Metra and west suburban communities have raised concerns about the potential increase in freight trains the merger could bring. If approved, the merger would create the only railroad linking Canada, Mexico and the United States. It would be the first major railroad merger since the 1990s. It is also expected to bring more freight trains to parts of the Milwaukee District West line, which runs to Schaumburg and Elgin. Canadian Pacific is projecting the merger could add an average of about eight extra freight trains per day to some parts of the line, bringing the total number to an average of just over 11 per day by 2027. Canadian Pacific is not projecting an increase in freight traffic along the Milwaukee District North line, which runs to Glenview, Deerfield and Lake Forest, though Metra said in its recent filing it fears both Milwaukee District lines could be affected. The (Surface Transportation) Board should consider that CP has a history of noncooperation and contractual breaches with Metra, that CPs poor dispatching leads to regular weekly, and in some cases daily interference with Metras peak and nonpeak train service, endangering and inconveniencing riders, and that the infrastructure on the Metra lines cannot accommodate the trains that the Transaction will bring to Metras lines, Metra said in the filing. The additional freight and Amtrak trains that Applicants propose to bring to Metras lines will degrade the safety and reliability of Metras service. Canadian Pacific also shares tracks with Amtrak trains, including the Hiawatha service to Milwaukee and parts of the long-distance Empire Builder service out of Chicago. Amtrak has supported the proposed merger, saying Canadian Pacific has consistently earned top marks for causing the least delay to Amtrak passengers and has committed to working with Amtrak to expand and extend service. Kansas City Southern doesnt operate in the Chicago area, though it does cross paths with Amtrak near East St. Louis. Canadian Pacific spokesman Andy Cummings touted the Milwaukee District Wests on-time rate from 2016 to 2020, and said the proposed changes do not represent a radical shift in the historic use of the line. The line between Chicago and Elgin is a double track, which will allow more freight trains without affecting Metra service, he said in a statement, adding that freight trains would not run during the busiest commuter hours. CP is keenly aware of the importance of efficient rail passenger services and CP has been a good partner to the passenger service operators that use our lines in the United States and Canada, including in suburban Chicago, he said. Canadian Pacific is talking with Metra officials about their concerns, he said. But in the filing, Metra questioned Canadian Pacifics train modeling, saying it conducted separate modeling that was more rigorous, and showed Canadian Pacifics plan for train traffic could not work. The agency also said a separate stretch of track touted as a bypass to the congested Chicago area likely cannot immediately handle the amount of extra freight traffic proposed, meaning more trains would be shifted onto the Metra lines. The bottom line is that Metras passengers will suffer, the agency said. Serious delays and interference are inevitable. Already, the share of riders on the two Milwaukee District lines experiencing freight train-related delays has risen since 2016, and delays remained the same or got worse even as overall ridership fell during the COVID-19 pandemic, Metra said. And extra-long freight trains make the problem worse, because they hang out of the closest Canadian Pacific train yard and block sections of track. Canadian Pacific will also continue to ignore commuter needs, Metra said. Even as the railroad proposes adding more trains to the tracks, in recent years it denied Metras requests to add or reinstate service, according to the filing. On top of delays, the merger will create safety hazards for passengers, Metra said. The way trains are dispatched now too often require passengers to cross tracks unnecessarily, dodge oncoming freight trains, or circumnavigate idling freight trains at Metra stations. Metra is requesting the board deny the merger application, or at least impose conditions on it. That includes measures like transferring to Metra control over who dispatches trains, track and flyover construction and financial compensation or, if Metra doesnt get dispatching rights, oversight of Canadian Pacifics dispatching of trains to make sure it doesnt interfere with Metra service. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Conventional wisdom is that companies dedicated to cleaning up oil spills and other environmental issues would be located outside of the Midwest perhaps in Texas or along the Gulf Shore. But conventional wisdom would be wrong because the largest manufacturer of environmental response equipment in the world is in Carmi, Illinois, a city of roughly 5,000 along the Little Wabash River in White County. Its a question we get all of the time at trade shows: What are you guys doing in the middle of the United States? Youre not even near a shoreline! explains Brian Cook, creative services manager for Carmi-based Elastec. Our answer is simple. This is home; this is where we are from. Cook said the location is a good thing, despite the conventional wisdom. Most oil spills happen on land as opposed to out in the ocean, he said. Its a fit for us because we fill the niche where most of our products are geared toward inland spill response and remote locations. Thats the places where our equipment is designed to go. Some of our competitors are more geared to open water spills with large seafaring equipment. The equipment Cook refers to is a wide range of products designed to clean up oil spills and other accidents which could be harmful to the environment. The company is known for oil skimmers, dispersant application systems, vacuum systems, pumps, specialized vehicles and even boats designed specifically for environmental response situations. The company started more than 30 years ago when the two owners of a White County oil trucking business serving the areas oil production fields began trying to clean up a small spill. Discovering that oil adhered better to the side of a five-gallon bucket they dropped than to the equipment designed specifically for the purpose, a light bulb went off, Cook said. The two, Donnie Wilson and Jeff Cantrell, set out to invent a sort of a drum oil skimmer, taking the device to other cleanup projects. One that happened, it turned into a response organization. Eventually, they turned it into a fabrication company where they just built the skimmers fulltime for other oil spill responders and oil companies. Over the course of 30 years, growing it to a wide variety of products and solutions now used in more than 165 countries with a network of dealers around the world, Cook outlined. The company now has more than 100 employees working to design and build not only skimmers, but vacuum systems, containment booms and more. As the company has grown, so has the product line. Were also into trash and debris, pollution control, Cook explained, adding that one of the companys products, called an Omni Catamaran, is an aluminum workboat used daily on the Chicago River to collect trash and debris. Cook said the company is expanding more and more into the prevention and control of invasive plant including some particular species of seaweed, turning the company into one aiding areas with tourism, especially in the Caribbean. There is a seaweed that washes up on the shore and it smells terrible; its ugly and it gets in the way of people trying to swim or use the shorelines. Our Beach Bouncer works like a fence out in the ocean that deflects the seaweed to a different are where it can easily be connected, Cook said. This is helping the economy because tourists werent coming to the resorts when the beaches were covered in seaweed and gross. Were helping these businesses. Cook said the company also is looking to the future. The world is kind of gradually phasing away from oil, so we have our ear to the ground on what can be done to solve other problems and thats why we are getting more into things like plastic pollution and waterway pollution, he said. He added that Elastec constantly looks for ways to benefit the environment and its customers. Were problem solvers. Were here to make things better, he said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sen. Cory Booker spoke for millions of Americans Wednesday at the confirmation hearings for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. Booker, D-New Jersey, drained a bit of tension from the air as he praised the Supreme Court candidate, who would become the first Black woman to take a seat on the high court. Booker noted he was only the fourth Black person ever popularly elected to the Senate. He recalled how when he first came to serve, he noticed how Black workers made up a much larger percentage of the Capitols population at nighttime when janitors and other staff take care of the hallways and office rooms. At night when people are in line to come in and clean this place, the percentage of minorities shift a lot, he said. He remembered one Black worker crying and telling him its so good to see you here in the almost all-White Senate. Exchanges like that prove the necessity of making the public faces of our government more closely resemble the makeup of the country. Jackson is not only a quality candidate, she was approved in a unanimous non-partisan vote to the District of Columbia District Court in 2021 and two previous times by the Senate. Jackson was visibly touched by Booker's tribute, along with the mentions of how much of an inspiration she can be to young people who may not see many people on their TVs who look like them. The day we eagerly anticipate is the day when we're talking more about issues and less about the gender and the ethnicity of those appearing in front of Congress. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Wells Fargo & Co. branch in Cape Carteret is the latest in North Carolina to be placed on the closing list by the bank. The branch at 301 WB McLean Drive is one of 12 identified Friday by the bank in its latest closing update to its federal regulator, the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. There have been at least 43 branch closings in North Carolina since July 2020 Wells Fargo disclosed March 11 plans to close its 100 N. Main St. branch in downtown Winston-Salem office by June 1. It already has closed its branch at 720 Coliseum Drive branch in Winston-Salem, as well as two locations in Greensboro and one each in Blowing Rock and Dobson. The latest round of branch closings raises the total to at least 848 nationwide since the initiative began in earnest. Overall, Wells Fargo has dropped from about 6,600 branches in 2009, when it acquired a collapsing Wachovia Corp. and gained an East Coast presence. As of Dec. 31, it was at 4,777 branches. The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Hundred Treasures theme was popular in Chinese art during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911). Many objects of daily life that impart symbolic meaning were incorporated into artwork. A single vase can be a symbol of female fertility, yet this red Chinese porcelain has several small relief vases on its surface to suggest even more meaning. Flowers are not only painted to decorate the small raised vases, but are also painted on the red ground to look like they are floral arrangements in the raised vases. Flowers are eternal symbols of beauty, and the brilliant red color of the vase has many associations to China. The countrys flag is red, which is associated not only with power, but with luck, happiness and celebrations. Traditional Chinese brides wear red for luck, and the Lunar New Year is celebrated with red lanterns and many other red decorations. The blue seal mark on the bottom of the base is like those on Qing dynasty porcelain. Q: Id like to know the value of a set of two deck chairs (possibly teak) from the SS Oceanic. They have their original blue cushions with Home Lines and a logo in gold. What do you think they are worth? A: Home Lines was an Italian company that operated cruise ships and ocean liners. The company was in business from 1946 to 1988, when it merged with Holland America Line. SS Oceanic was one of Home Lines cruise ships from 1965 to 1985, when it was sold to Premier Cruise Line. Most deck chairs dont sell for high prices. Chairs by important makers or those with a connection to an important or historic event do sell for high prices. A deck chair from the Titanic, one of seven known and with a letter of authenticity, sold for almost $150,000 in 2015. The value of your deck chairs depends on condition and the history of the boat. They sell for $100 to $1,000. Q: Id like some information about the company that made a baby doll marked 1964, Royal Doll, 10. Shes made of hard rubber, has a rooted blond wig and has eyes that open and shut. There is a hole in the dolls mouth and another in her lower back. She came with a little bottle. When the bottle is filled with water and put in her mouth, water comes out the bottom. A: Morris Bonet started the Royal Toy Manufacturing Co. in 1914. After Henry and Rose Frankel bought the company, Rose designed the dolls. Dolls were marked Royal Doll or Royal Toy. The company merged with Jolly Toy Company in 1973 and some dolls were marked Jolly Toy and Royal Doll. The company closed in 1977. The marks on your doll indicate it was made in 1964 and is 10 inches long. Dolls like this are sometimes called drink & wet dolls. The first drink & wet dolls were made by Effanbee Doll Co. in 1933. They became one of the companys most popular dolls, and many other companies began making similar dolls. You should be able to find a similar doll for $25. Q: My daughter bought a wicker doll buggy for my birthday. She paid $25 for it. Its in perfect condition. There are wooden spokes in the wheels, and its marked Gendron Wheel Co., Toledo, Ohio, U.S.A. Can you tell me more about it? How old is it and what is it worth? A: Peter Gendron was granted a patent for a wire-spoked wheel for baby carriages in 1874. The Gendron Iron Wheel Co. was incorporated in 1880. It became the Gendron Wheel Co. by 1896. The company made doll carriages, bicycles, tricycles, pedal cars, wagons, wheelchairs and hospital equipment. Childrens toys were not made after 1941. The company became Gendron Inc. in 1975 and was bought by Graham-Field in 2020. The mark shows your doll buggy was made after 1896, and the style suggests 1930. Other similar buggies have sold for about $50. Q: What is a Tiffany ballpoint pen with a felt pouch worth? The pen is 4 1/2 inches long. The brass band in the middle is marked Tiffany & Co. Germany. The pen and pouch are light blue. A: Tiffany can refer to many different things. Louis Comfort Tiffany was the famous designer known for his stained glass lamps and windows. He is also known for iridescent glass, pottery and other artwork. Tiffany & Co. is a store in New York City that sells luxury jewelry, accessories and gift items. It was started by Louis Comforts father, Charles Louis Tiffany, in 1837. It became Tiffany & Co. in 1845. The small pen is called a purse pen. The color is known as Tiffany Blue. The pen and felt pouch originally came in a matching blue Tiffany & Co. box. Several versions of the purse pen have been made, including some in sterling silver with diamond-textured brass and Tiffany Blue lacquer finish. They sell at the store for $250. Your small purse pen sells for $100 to $125 if in the blue bag and box. A used pen without the bag or box sells for about $30. Current prices Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions. Jewelry, pin, porcelain, painted, courting scene, man playing guitar, seated woman with flower basket, multicolor, Limoges, France, 1 inches, $24. Toy, Star Trek model kit, Galileo II Shuttlecraft, The Original Series, 25th Anniversary, box, 1990s, 9-by-10 inches, $50. Royal Doulton figurine, weasel, pine marten, head and front paws raised, porcelain, brown, cream and black glaze, Chatcull range, J. Ledger, HN 2656, 1960s, 4 inches, $113. Furniture, screen, four-panel, silk, watercolor, riverbank scene, fishing boats, water birds, script and seals in upper right corner, brocade border, flower pattern back with black ground, wood frame, brass mounts, Chinese, 35-by-39 inches, $123. Cut glass goblet, Tramore pattern, faceted stem, star cut foot, Waterford, 7 inches, eight pieces, $300. Wood carving, bowl, dough, pine, single board, green painted exterior, dated, 1870, 6-by-33-by-18 inches, $360. Lamp, floodlight projector, kerosene, portable, painted metal tripod, label, instructions, wooden box, Tilley, Hendon, England, WWII era, 26-by-14 inches, lamp, 57 inches, tripod, $420. Furniture, desk, Chippendale, slant front, mahogany, serpentine edge, four graduated drawers, fitted interior, pigeonholes and drawers, ogee bracket feet, c. 1780, 43-by-32 inches, $1,375. Rug, Hariz, geometric flower stems, dark blue field, red border with medallions between two multicolor minor borders, handwoven, wool, Persian, c. 1930, 12 feet 3 inches-by-9 feet, $2,356. Vase, Della Robbia, double gourd shape, wide blue bands, puffins around lower body, decorators initials, Rozane, Frederick Hurten Rhead, c. 1906, 8-by-4 inches, $4,375. Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel answer questions sent to the column. By sending a letter with a question and a picture, you give full permission for use in the column or any other Kovel forum. Names, addresses or email addresses will not be published. We cannot guarantee the return of photographs, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. The amount of mail makes personal answers or appraisals impossible. Write to Kovels, King Features Syndicate, 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, Fla. 32803. A Winston-Salem firefighter taking a meal break and a second person were hit by gunfire Friday afternoon from a vehicle that pulled into the parking lot of Kermits Hot Dog House. The firefighter, Ross Michael Flynt, 29, and Patrick Dawarde Carter, 41, a customer at the restaurant, were both in stable condition Friday night at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem police said. No suspects have been arrested in the shooting. Officers responded at 2:26 p.m. to the restaurant at 2220 Thomasville Road and found Flynt and Carter wounded at the scene. Flynt and a group of his fellow firefighters were having a meal at the outdoor seating area of the restaurant when the shooting happened, police said. The firefighters were on duty at the time. Carter was leaving the restaurant with food that he had bought. A blue car entered the restaurants parking lot, and some of the vehicles occupants opened fire on the patrons of the business, police said. Investigators determined that two guns were fired in the incident. Detectives are working to find out whether Flynt and Carter were the intended targets of the shooting or whether they represent collateral injuries suffered during an attempted assault on another person at the restaurant, police said. Following the shooting, the suspect vehicle and its occupants left the scene, police said. The firefighters who were present immediately administered aid to Flynt and Carter. Many customers were at the restaurant at the time, police said. Investigators are interviewing potential witnesses. The Forsyth County Sheriffs Office posted a message Friday about the shooting on its Facebook page. Join us in praying for the 2 individuals shot at Kermits this afternoon, and for their families and the Fire Department as well, the sheriffs office said. Anyone with more information about the shooting can call Winston-Salem police at 336-773-7700, Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800 or its Spanish line at 336-728-3904. Crime Stoppers of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County is on Facebook. The Text-A-Tip program at 336-276-1717 allows people to text tips, photos and videos to the Winston-Salem police. (tncms-inline)1507459779861655552[0](/tncms-inline) U.S. Marshalls arrested a suspect Thursday who is now charged with murder in the death of a Winston-Salem man. Melvin Lynn Pruitt, 46, was taken into custody in Salisbury by the U.S. Marshalls Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, police said. He was brought to the Forsyth County jail, where he was charged with murder, as well as robbery with a dangerous weapon. Pruitt also faces a charge of possession of a firearm by a felon. He is accused of killing Darryl Wayne Smith, 56, on Feb. 10. Police say they were called to a hospital after Smith was taken there with a gunshot wound. Smith, of the 200 block of Oak Grove Church Road, died of his injuries. Investigators also said Smith could have been in the 700 block of Jonestown Road when he was shot or prior to the shooting. Pruitt was being held without bond at the Forsyth jail. The Winston-Salem Police Department will hold an event Friday to support Special Olympics North Carolina's Polar Plunge fundraiser, the agency said in a news release. The plunge in place will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lowes Hardware located at 935 Hanes Mall Blvd. in WinstonSalem. The first plunge will be at 10:45 a.m. In-person donations are welcomed. Members of the police department will be "Freezin' for a Reason" as they get buckets of ice water poured on them to raise money for Special Olympics North Carolina, the department said. Donations may also be made online at https://give.specialolympicsnc.com/WinstonSalemPD. This event is an effort to raise money to help support the nearly 40,000 Special Olympics athletes in North Carolina, the department said. All proceeds will be donated to Special Olympics North Carolina. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. We've all got stories about our fathers -- some more funny than others. Credit young comics Kenyon Adamcik and Nik Cartwright for finding a way to monetize those stories, which are so relatable, they conjure up memories -- and a good chuckle or two -- within each of us. Their weekly podcast, "F*** You, Dad" originates in Chicago and features different comedians telling their stories of growing up with not-so-ordinary fathers. "We have a good time with it," said the 25-year-old Adamcik, who will make his Lincoln debut when he headlines Sunday's Zoolarious comedy showcase at Zoo Bar. The podcast, which appropriately originates from a comedy club called Lincoln Lodge, has thousands of listeners and is available on most streaming services, but be warned that some of the stories, while true, are seldom Rated G. However, the story of Adamcik's father, David, is suitable for all audiences. David, as the story goes, blew the entirety of his COVID stimulus check to hire a magician for a private show. This was in the middle of the pandemic and his father didn't have the kind of disposable income to justify spending so much money on a whim. But in the midst of a shutdown, if given a choice between the next show to binge on Netflix, why not a magician? "The magician was amazing, but we were awkwardly sitting in the living room," Adamcik said. "I didnt know how to react to a magician killing it. What do you even say? 'Youre a wizard.' What do you even say? "I didnt know how to react to a magician doing his thing." For his grand finale, the magician somehow pulled a capuchin monkey from a box, which proceeded to steal the show with its cuteness. David might have been straddling the poverty line, but he spent his government-created windfall on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "To him, having that monkey there was worth the whole stimie check right there," Adamcik said. "Maybe he should have invested it in something." Maybe, but had he thrown it into a TD Ameritrade account, what kind of story or podcast fodder would that have generated? And really, life -- and the people in them -- is a comic's blank palate. Their daily trials are observed, interpreted and become the stories that are shaped and crafted to become so damn entertaining. Adamcik knew early on that he could make people laugh. He also knew that college wasn't in his future. Growing up in Raleigh, North Carolina, he had no desire to spend four or five years languishing in college classrooms. So he turned to comedy. "I was obsessed with it when I was a kid," he said. "I was drawn to it. Every other job compared to standup comedy just seemed like it kind of sucked." At the age of 17, he wrote a few jokes and then drove out to a rural comedy club that was located in an outlet mall, across the street from a corn field (sounds a lot like Gretna, doesn't it?). With knees shaking and his voice unsteady, the high school senior did a routine that got enough laughs to make him want to keep doing it. Now he tours the country and gets paid to make people laugh. His act is "pretty personal" and at times poignant. "I talk about my life," he said. "I talk about going to therapy. About being a young guy." He also talks openly about the challenges of having a hearing-impaired mother, while mixing in a few drinking stories. "It's pretty observational." And he has a following. He played the Joystick in Iowa City earlier this month and looks forward to his first trip to Lincoln. "I've heard great things about Zoo Bar," he said. "I've heard there have been some great comedians who have played there. "College towns are cool. They are fun. A lot of people sleep on the flyover states. There is a lot of fun to be had." And just in case he needs a little extra oomph, Cartwright, his podcast co-host, will be making the trip to Lincoln, too. That said, don't be surprised if a few dad stories make the rounds. Reach the writer at 402-473-7391 or psangimino@journalstar.com. On Twitter @psangimino Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A 38-year-old Lincoln man who cornered two women and motioned as if he had a weapon in a robbery last year at DeLeon's Taco Rico went to prison for it and an earlier assault. Timothy Washington pleaded guilty to robbery and no contest to third-degree assault. Police say on Sept. 14 he went into the DeLeon's at 27th and Randolph streets and cornered two employees with his hand in his pocket, suggesting he was armed, before taking money from the register. Washington took cash before riding away in a Jeep in an alley a block away, according to police. He was arrested the next day, crashing into an unmarked police car as he tried to drive away, then trying to get away on foot. At the time, Washington was out of jail on bond on a robbery case pleaded down to misdemeanor assault for an incident June 26, 2020, where he approached a man near 42nd Street and Huntington Avenue, asked him for a ride, then forced him into an apartment at knifepoint. The victim in the case said Washington forced him to drive to an ATM to get money from his bank account. He tried but was unsuccessful, then pulled away and struggled with Washington before getting away near his apartment. In court Thursday, Washington said he was embarrassed for the situation and sorry. "My drug addiction is no one else's fault but mine," he said. Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong said she was troubled by the fact the crimes had happened closely together and sentenced him to seven to 11 years in prison. Reach the writer at 402-473-7237 or lpilger@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSpilger Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Tax relief that's centered on property tax reduction, and opposition to vaccine and mask mandates were common themes Thursday night as four Republican gubernatorial candidates met in a debate in Lincoln that was telecast statewide on Nebraska Public Media. Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha zeroed in on his record as a tax-cutter during eight years as a state senator and promised to provide the "next generation leadership and experience" that could help recruit and retain the workforce that Nebraska will need to prosper and grow. Charles Herbster of Falls City pointed to his experience as a successful agri-businessman and promised to "push back against federal government overreach" if he is elected governor this year. Former state Sen. Theresa Thibodeau of Omaha said she would provide "significant property tax relief" and protect Nebraska agriculture by resisting "big corporate farming." Breland Ridenour of Elkhorn said he would support tax reform based on adoption of a consumption tax that would "let you decide how much you pay and when you pay by making personal purchasing decisions." Missing from the event was Jim Pillen of Columbus, one of the perceived front-runners, who said he would decline invitations to debate in order to free time for personal campaigning. Lindstrom seized the occasion to make the case that he is the candidate whose "experience in building coalitions (in the Legislature) would allow us to get big things done" immediately as governor. "I'm the only proven tax-cutter in this race," he said, pointing to his legislative work in gradually eliminating state income taxation of Social Security income, supporting reductions in the state income tax rate and providing local property tax relief. Herbster, who is generally regarded as the front-runner in polling results that appear to be narrowing in the race, said he would take action to "rebuild the entire tax code" to modernize a state tax system essentially constructed in 1967. "America is in trouble," he said. "Our faith is under attack; our families are under attack; our freedoms are under attack." The candidates generally supported protection of Nebraska's water resources, including action to secure the flow of South Platte River water into Nebraska from Colorado by exercising the state's century-old treaty rights to construct a canal and reservoir system. That project has been strongly recommended by Gov. Pete Ricketts. There was some division over proposed construction of a new lake between Lincoln and Omaha. Lindstrom said it would "help make Nebraska be competitive (and) be a very good investment" in the state's future. While supporting proposed improvements at Lake McConaughy near Ogallala, Thibodeau said she would "like to look at" the new lake proposal before endorsing it. Ridenour said he could "potentially support the lake." Job training needs to be part of proposed prison reform, he said in answer to another question. Herbster agreed, suggesting that the state needs to "help (inmates) learn a trade and a skill." Ridenour said he would push for expansion of broadband to serve farmers and ranchers in rural Nebraska and govern as "a constitutionalist." The primary election is May 10. Reach the writer at 402-473-7248 or dwalton@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSdon Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. FREMONT The Dodge County Sheriffs Office is asking anyone with information about a former North Bend Central elementary teacher to contact the office or their local law enforcement agency. On Thursday, the sheriffs office said it is seeking Craig Schmeckpeper, 50, of North Bend on a warrant for child abuse not resulting in serious injury. Schmeckpeper, a former elementary physical education teacher, has been charged after an alleged incident at the North Bend school in February. On Feb. 17, Schmeckpeper, according to the Dodge County Attorneys Office, pulled an elementary student out of line during physical education class, pinned the childs arms behind his back and told the rest of the students in attendance Free hits as you go by and Free punches. Five students lightly hit the child in the stomach, and the child also reported pain while his arms were pinned, according to investigators. Deputies interviewed two witnesses and investigators also reviewed security camera footage from the school, along with documents produced by North Bend Central as part of an internal investigation. Schmeckpeper faces one count of felony child abuse. Deputies obtained an arrest warrant for Schmeckpeper on Tuesday, one day after the North Bend school board accepted his resignation. North Bend Central Public Schools did not comment on the situation. Anyone with information on Schmeckpepers location is asked to call 402-722-2700. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Fortenberry's wife testifies that he can be absent-minded LOS ANGELES Before closing arguments, Jeff Fortenberrys wife, Celeste, took the stand and testified that during a critical June 4, 2018, phone call at the center of the case, her husband suffered from all sorts of distractions: exhaustion from a trip to Finland, stress over a daughters upcoming surgery and the breakfast he was cooking. During that phone call, Los Angeles Dr. Eli Ayoub told Fortenberry that a supporter had funneled $30,000 cash to his campaign, and that the cash probably came from Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury. Replayed the phone call in court Thursday, Celeste Fortenberry identified the sounds. One: Thats him putting water in the teapot. Two: A cast-iron skillet placed on the stove. Three: Sounds like the teapot going onto the stove. Her point: Fortenberry so hated fundraising phone calls that he often distracted himself by doing other things. Fixing raccoon damage to the chimney. Checking on their backyard chickens before the chickens were killed by opossums. Walking the dog. Cooking breakfast. He really hates doing fundraising calls, and doing something else helps him through it, Celeste Fortenberry testified Thursday. He loathes it. Theres a certain amount of autopilot that he goes on where he can have that conversation because he doesnt have to even think about it. The defense was trying to use that testimony to establish that Fortenberry, the nine-term congressman representing Nebraska's 1st District, wasnt paying close attention when Ayoub suggested three times that Fortenberrys campaign had received the $30,000 cash, probably from Chagoury. Celeste Fortenberry also testified that cellphone reception is bad in the Fortenberrys Lincoln home. The Fortenberrys five daughters our tech experts, she said routinely complain about the lack of bars on their AT&T phones. We live in Nebraska, Celeste Fortenberry testified. The state has pretty lousy cellphone service. The defense played a portion of the beginning of the phone call, in which Fortenberrys voice is garbled. The rest of the recording of the call sounded clear, although the defense argues that thats because it was being recorded in California, from Ayoubs phone. What Fortenberry heard on his end is another matter, they suggested. On cross-examination, prosecutor Susan Har played the call again. The recording sounded crisp. One by one, Har went through the sounds. The reception seemed to be so clear that it actually sounded like a teapot, didnt it? Har asked. Yes, it did, Celeste Fortenberry said. A string of tragic events has left a citizen-led campaign to legalize medical marijuana in Nebraska in search of donations. Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana lost two individuals who were expected to make a major contribution to the current legalization campaign. One of those donors, who contributed to the group's 2020 campaign that nearly made it onto the ballot, died in a plane crash, according to state Sen. Anna Wishart of Lincoln, a co-sponsor of the campaign. A second person, who was expected to make a contribution, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The campaign, in an email to supporters Wednesday, described the loss as a "huge setback." Despite the tragedies, Wishart was still confident the group could meet its $500,000 fundraising goal by May 1. She declined to say how much the campaign has raised so far, but as of Feb. 28, the campaign had a cash balance that was less than $30,000. "We have done extraordinary things before," Wishart said. In 2020, the campaign raised about $2.5 million overall, securing more than 182,000 signatures well above the 87,000 signatures needed to put the issue on the ballot. Though it surpassed the requirement, it was disqualified by the Nebraska Supreme Court for containing more than one subject. This time around, the campaign made two petitions, which each require valid signatures from 7% of registered voters by July 7 to get on the ballot. Based on March registration figures, each petition would need nearly 87,000 signatures. The focus of the two petitions is derived from the concerns outlined by the state Supreme Court in 2020. The first petition would require the Legislature to enact new statutes protecting doctors who recommend medical cannabis and patients who possess or use the product from criminal penalty, the Journal Star reported. The second would require lawmakers to pass a bill protecting private entities that produce and supply cannabis for medical purposes. Wishart believes each petition has about 25,000 signatures so far, and said signature gathering is one of the main reasons why donations are so crucial to these campaigns. She said the lion's share of donations are put toward hiring professionals to collect signatures. Without adequate funding, Wishart said it would not be impossible for the campaign to succeed, but it would be extraordinary. She said very few citizen-led campaigns in Nebraska have succeeded without sufficient funding. "It would take every person in this state who cares," Wishart said. Legalization efforts have faced opposition from Gov. Pete Ricketts, who has called marijuana a "dangerous drug." Earlier this year, the governor appeared in an ad sponsored by Smart Approaches to Marijuana Nebraska, a group that opposes legalization. In the ad, Ricketts argued that the only difference between medical and recreational marijuana is the terminology. Wishart said the campaign will increase its fundraising efforts and ramp up volunteering to make up for the lost donations. About half of the campaign's recent contributions came from individuals, including nearly $5,000 in donations of $250 or less, according to its Feb. 28 campaign statement. Counting cash and in-kind contributions, companies including Hergert Oil Company, the Marijuana Policy Project and CBD Remedies also donated nearly $10,000 to the campaign. In terms of cash, the medical marijuana ballot campaign is trailing other high-profile ballot initiatives, including one to raise the minimum wage and another to institute voter ID requirements. The minimum wage campaign reported just more than $129,000 cash on hand at the end of January, while the voter ID group reported nearly $61,000 cash on hand at the end of February. In 2020, the medical marijuana campaign reported $6,774 cash on hand in late February, but it also reported more than $81,000 in year-to-date spending, according to a campaign finance report. At the end of February, the current effort reported a little more than $23,000 in year-to-date expenses. The 2020 campaign received some of its largest contributions in the late stages of the signature gathering effort. Some of the largest donations came from Michigan-based cannabis business Sozo Companies, which contributed a total of $300,000 in June of 2020, according to campaign disclosure documents. An Elkhorn company called AgMed LLC contributed $50,000, and Heartland Strategy Group, a consulting firm with offices in Nebraska and Washington, D.C., contributed more than $969,000 in in-kind contributions that same month. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 OMAHA Growing demand for cryptocurrency, an unregulated marketplace and a public largely unfamiliar with the digital tender have created fruitful conditions for scammers. The Better Business Bureau has observed a marked increase in crypto-related complaints, prompting it to conduct a study that was released Thursday. The BBB found that incidents concerning cryptocurrency submitted to its online Scam Tracker tool exceeded 1,200 in 2021, encompassing almost $8 million in losses. That represents a tripling of reports collected from 2019 to 2021 and a tripling of monetary losses within just two years. The numbers were, frankly, astonishing, said Omaha BBB spokesman Josh Planos. Its an industry right now that is ripe with fraud and con artists. Cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that, through encryption technology, enables anyone to send and receive payments, but because it operates outside of the banking system, it lacks the consequent protections. The most popular cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, was developed in 2009, but many more have been released in the years since. Use has skyrocketed in recent years, leading to innovation and novel investment opportunities, a trend of which Nebraska lawmakers have taken note. Last year, the Legislature passed the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act, which enables the establishment of digital asset depository institutions, which will be supervised by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance. But the introduction of cryptocurrency also has created additional chances that people will fall victim to scams, schemes and fraud. We have this idea that we have this safety net on us at all times, Planos said. There is no safety net. Entities, including the Federal Trade Commission and FBI, have reported findings similar to the BBBs study. Using different methodologies, the FBI recorded a nearly 550% increase in financial losses associated with cryptocurrency crimes from 2020 to 2021, totaling more than $1.6 billion. The FBI identified 97 victims in Nebraska, with losses in excess of $4.2 million, according to the agencys Internet Crime Report. Earlier this year, the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance highlighted cryptocurrencies and other digital assets as the states top investor threats. In one instance, an online crypto-mining investment company was barred from selling securities in Nebraska in 2021 after it obtained $725,000 from an investor and her mother. The company had promised the woman large returns on a cryptocurrency investment, but it required her to submit hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees to withdraw the dividends. Her concerned broker-dealer reported the situation to the state under a law passed earlier in 2021 intended to protect elderly Nebraskans and other vulnerable adults from financial exploitation. It enables broker-dealers and investment advisers to pause transactions and notify state officials. The essence of cryptocurrency its untraceability and the general publics lack of familiarity with it make it attractive for scammers. Most schemes are advertised on social media, but the methods of conning people are tried and true, such as Ponzi schemes, romance scams and ransomware. Its so early in this that folks shouldnt be requesting payment with cryptocurrency for products, Planos said. Most businesses are not asking for any payment in crypto. Planos recommended that people research the reputations of crypto companies before forking over their cash. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 1. Yes. Raising the bar for future developments will boost the citys housing market. 2. Yes. It will help in newer areas, but more needs to be done to change Killeens image. 3. No. The new standards will just slow down homebuilding and drive away developers. 4.No. The ordinance will do little more than drive up the price of new homes in the city. 5. Unsure. Its hard to say what the effect will be until they have been in place for a while. Vote View Results LINCOLN Noah Limbach hasnt even started professional school yet, but he already knows where he wants to work. The University of Nebraska at Kearney senior plans to return to the area after completing the physical therapy doctoral program at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. I keep telling people, if I could sign a contract right now to come back to Kearney, I would. I definitely want to come back here, he said. Thats how big of an impact UNK and his hometown have had on his life. Its been tremendous. I could write a book on it. People from across the University of Nebraska System shared similar stories Wednesday during I Love NU Day, an annual event that brought about 150 students, staff, faculty, alumni and other supporters to the state Capitol in Lincoln. In its fifth year, I Love NU Day is an opportunity to promote the NU System and its importance to the state. We are so fortunate to be in a state that has a university system that makes such a difference, NU System President Ted Carter said during the kickoff ceremony. There is no aspect of Nebraska life not one single thing thats done in this state that is not touched by the University of Nebraska. The teaching, research and outreach activities of the University of Nebraska grow the states economy by $5.8 billion every year, according to an independent analysis unveiled last month, reaching all 93 counties and returning $9 for every $1 the state invests. Its proven that if you put money into the university, youre going to get it back almost tenfold, said Limbach, who serves as UNKs student body president and student regent. And that number is going to continue to increase. That fact isnt lost on lawmakers. State Sens. John Stinner of Gering and Jen Day of Gretna both spoke in support of the university during Wednesdays event. Stinner, chairman of the Appropriations Committee, emphasized the need to provide funding to keep tuition rates low and establish initiatives that address statewide shortages in STEM, health care and other high-skill, high-demand, high-wage jobs. We want affordability and access to higher education, said Stinner, who holds bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Nebraska. With support from the Legislature, the NU System has taken a number of steps to expand access and affordability, including freezing tuition rates through 2022-23 and providing Nebraska Career Scholarships to in-state students pursuing undergraduate degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, health care, information technology and other high-need areas. Additionally, a recently announced expansion of the Nebraska Promise program allows qualified Nebraska students with family incomes of $65,000 or less to attend any of the four NU campuses tuition-free beginning this fall. An advocate for public education, Day attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha as a single mother and earned a bachelors degree in political science. Without accessible, quality education, I wouldnt be here today, she said. The first-term senator is a member of the Education Committee, which introduced a resolution last week aimed at increasing the number of Nebraskans with postsecondary education. Currently, about 58% of residents ages 25 to 34 have a degree, certificate, diploma or other postsecondary or industry credentials with economic value in the workforce, according to the legislation. The resolution proposes a statewide goal of at least 70% by 2030. The reason that matters is because the jobs of the future are going to require that type of education, Carter said. Thats also why the voices of current NU students are more important than ever. Were the future of Nebraska, Limbach said. In addition to the formal program, students had a chance to meet one-on-one with state senators during I Love NU Day. UNK junior Emily Saadi of Kearney viewed the event as an opportunity for students to work together to ensure everyone who attends the University of Nebraska gets the best experience they can. There are so many opportunities and doors that can be opened for students by senators and by legislation thats being discussed in the Capitol right now, so its important for them to hear student voices and really understand how these decisions are going to impact us, said Saadi, who was recently elected student body president and student regent for 2022-23. Although shes a pre-law student, Saadi was promoting the proposed Nebraska Rural Health Education Building, a project that would expand the existing University of Nebraska Medical Center programs offered at UNK and bring new options to campus. The University of Nebraska is requesting $60 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds to help pay for the $85 million building, as well as assistance with operational expenses. These types of investments are crucial for us to be able to keep progressing and keep supplying students with those educational opportunities, Saadi said. April is Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month. This month and throughout the year, Vernon County Department of Human Services encourages all individuals and organizations to support child abuse and neglect prevention efforts in Wisconsin. We believe that every child deserves to grow up in a safe, stable and nurturing environment. Children are the foundation of our society, our community, and our future. When we focus on preventing child abuse and neglect, the results are better childhoods, leading to healthier adults and stronger communities. Vernon County Department of Human Services asks community members to wear blue on April 1 to support the importance of Child Abuse Prevention. Please share your photos of you wearing blue with our Facebook site to show community support for children in our county. Unfortunately, child abuse occurs everywhere, even in our small rural county. In 2021, Vernon County received a total of 244 reports of child abuse and/or neglect. Of those, 112 met the states criteria to investigate to ensure safety of the children and offer services to the families. The 112 reports consisted of: 39 allegations of physical abuse. 63 allegations of neglect. 19 allegations of sexual abuse. 9 allegations of emotional damage. 1 allegation of unborn child abuse. There will be 112 pinwheels located in front of the Erlandson Building during the month of April to represent the 112 reports that were received and investigated during 2021. Children do well when their parents do well. Supporting families and ensuring parents have the knowledge, skills and resources they need are effective ways to protect children from the risk of child abuse and neglect. Community members can support one another by: Taking time to talk to parents in your neighborhood get to know them. Sharing local resources with families. Advocating for legislation and funding which support family programs within your community. Donating new or gently used clothing, toys to programs that support families with children. Bringing a meal or groceries to a family with young children. Organizing a family fun event such as a family story night, game or movie night. There will also be a coloring contest for children in Vernon County. The contest is divided into three different age categories from 0-10 years of age. Coloring sheets can be obtained from Human Services along with local elementary schools. Please have your child complete the coloring sheet and return to Human Services or to their school office by April 25th. Winners in each category will then be chosen and a prize will be given. The winning pictures will also be framed and displayed in the waiting room at Human Services for the year. To learn more about child abuse prevention and for more ideas how to become involved; visit: Vernon County Department of Human Services: vernoncounty.org Prevent Child Abuse Wisconsin: preventchildabusewi.org Department of Children and Families: dcf.wisconsin.gov Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board: preventionboard.wi.gov Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Dr. Mary Steichen Calderone (1904-1998) graduated from Vassar College with a degree in chemistry and married actor W. Lon Martin. The couple had two daughters prior to divorcing in 1933. Following the break-up of her marriage and the death of daughter Nell of pneumonia at age 8, Calderone was ready for a new direction in her life. At age 30 she returned to school, earning an M.D. degree from the University of Rochester followed by a masters degree in public health from Columbia University. She married Dr. Frank Calderone in 1941; they had two daughters. Dr. Mary Calderones first post medical school position was as a school doctor in Long Island. There she saw first-hand the misinformation about reproduction and sexuality among children and adolescents. In 1953 she became medical director of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. In that capacity she convinced the American Public Health Association to include sex education in public schools and the American Medical Association to overturn its long-held policy of forbidding physicians to discuss contraception with their patients. In 1964 Dr. Calderone left Planned Parenthood to cofound the Sex Information and Education Council of the United States and become its first director. She received many awards and honors for her work, including induction into the National Womens Hall of Fame in 1998. Sponsored by AAUW La Crosse; researched by Jan Eriksen. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Tim Weaver Auction Service, of New Holland, conducted a public sale of real estate March 19 for Ted Diem at 5415 Meadville Road, New Holland. A three-bedroom rancher with garage on a 0.5-acre lot sold for $424,000 to Calvin King. H.K. Keller, of Lancaster, conducted a public auction March 10 of military collectibles, action figures, vintage toys and more. There were 178 registered bidders. Several items and prices included: military pins, $37.50 and $25; military pins and button hole buttons, $38.50 and $32.50; military patches, $12.50 to $500; vintage military framed photos, $48; three military helmets, $75; vintage military photos, $27; World War I bacon tin, brass ashtray, $135; plastic Army men, $61; World War I-era lead toy soldier figures, $45 and $40.50; 1987 Hasbro figures, military action figures, $85; and military khaki pants and shirts, $49.50. H.K. Keller, of Lancaster, conducted a public auction March 14 of silver dollar coins and paper currency. There were 22 registered bidders. Several items and prices included: 1878 Morgan silver dollar coin, $30; 1882-O Morgan silver dollar coin, $32.50; three 1886-O Morgan silver dollar coins, $28.50 each; three 1887 Morgan silver dollar coins, $32.50 each; seven 1889-O Morgan silver dollar coins, $27.50 to $32.50; 10 1921 Morgan silver dollar coins, $27.50 to $32.50; three 1921-S Morgan silver dollar coins, $32.50 each; seven 1922 peace silver dollar coins, $30 each. Double E Auction Service, of Bird-in-Hand, conducted a public sale of real estate March 7 for Seth and April Martin at 174 Pencroft Drive North, Holtwood. A three-bedroom, two-bath home with attached two-car garage sold for $425,000 to Timothy and Karlee Rineer. Witman Auctioneers Inc., of Manheim, conducted a public sale of real estate March 12 for Mary Beck at 315 S. Market St., Mount Joy. A three-bedroom, 1 1/2-bath house sold for $244,000 to Maisie Mummert, of York. Beiler-King Auction Service, of Quarryville, conducted a public sale of real estate March 19 for the Vivian M. Danz estate and Kenny Danz at 398 Sawmill Road, New Providence. A three-bedroom, two-bath dwelling with two-car garage on 1.7 acres sold for $341,000 to Jacob King, of New Providence. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, 866-366-3723, uses a risk-based inspection reporting process for restaurants and other food handlers. C Town Mini Market, 451 E. King St., March 18. Fail. Slicer must be cleaned and sanitized. Wet wiping cloths found in food-preparation area, instead of being stored in sanitizer solution. Prepackaged food was not labeled properly with the name of product, ingredient statement, net weight, distributed-by statement and/or nutritional facts. Hand-wash sink was obstructed in food-preparation area. Rear parking lot was not maintained. Litter should be removed. Date and label potentially hazardous food in food-preparation area. Clean non-food contact surfaces in food-preparation area. Hot Box, 928 N. Prince St., opening, March 18. Pass. No violations. Millersville University Dining Services Student Cafe, 40 James St., Millersville, complaint, March 18. Pass. No violations. Mr. G's Corner Store, 629 N. Franklin St., March 18. Pass. No violations. Square One Coffee, 145 N. Duke St., March 18. Pass. No violations. Baron Elementary School, 123 E. Gamby St., Manheim, March 17. Pass. Restroom door was propped open, and not kept closed as required. Cava Mezze Grill, 1569 Fruitville Pike, March 17. Fail. An open employee beverage (twist-cap variety) container was in food serve area, a food-preparation area. Food employees throughout facility, not wearing proper beard covers. Food facility does not have available chlorine test strips to determine appropriate chlorine concentration of the mechanical dishwasher. Raw chicken being stored directly on the floor in kitchen area, rather than six inches off of the floor as required; was corrected. No chemical sanitizer being used on equipment and utensils due to sanitizer solution being less that 100 ppm approximately. Clean food equipment and/or utensils in dish washing area, stored wet in a manner that does not allow for draining and/or air drying (wet nesting). Old food residue, dishes and utensils in the hand-wash sink, indicating uses other than hand-washing. Employee lockers are located in storage area. Motor cycle helmet stored on shelf with food and single-service items; corrected. The person in charge does not have adequate knowledge of food safety in this food facility as evidenced by this non-compliant inspection. Pink and white slime on the ice deflection guard within the ice machine. The food facility does not have the original certificate for the certified food employee posted in public view. Doe Run Elementary School, 281 Doe Run Road, Manheim, March 17. Pass. No violations. Hempfield Church Of The Brethren, 1186 Stevens Road, Manheim, opening, March 17. Pass. No violations. Leola Food Mart, 327 W. Main St., Leola, March 17. Pass. Fan guards, in walk-in cooler area, with an accumulation of black slime and condensation on non-food contact surfaces. CBD gummies and hemp bombs contained an unapproved additive as specified in 21 CFR 170-180 related to food additives. Such products are under Food and Drug Administration regulations and at this time CBD is not recognizable as a safe substance to be added to food. Manufacturer: Global Widget 8419 Sunstate St. Tampa, Florida 33634. Meadowview Jerseys, 172 S. Farmersville Road, Leola, March 17. Pass. Raw eggs stored above ready-to-eat drinks within reach-in cooler. Prepackaged foods do not contain any labeling such as name of manufacturer, address, list of ingredients from most to least and/or allergens. This included lemon grass tea bags, chocolate eggs, peanut butter eggs, whoopi pies and cookies. Bainbridge Elementary School, 416 Second St., Bainbridge, March 16. Pass. No violations. Brothers Food Max, 920 S. Duke St., complaint, March 16. Fail. Date and label all PHF throughout. Food ingredient storage containers, in the food-preparation area, are not labeled with the common name of the food. Deeply scored cutting boards not resurfaced or discarded as required. Non-food contact surfaces not cleaned at a frequency to preclude accumulation of dirt and soil. Employee food found in food-preparation area. Bakery case, meat case and gasket area around meat case not clean. Old food residue, dishes and utensils found in the hand-wash sink, indicating uses other than hand-washing. Cracked floor tiles in meat area need to be repaired. Centerville Middle School, 865 Centerville Road, March 16. Pass. No violations. El Friquitin De Villalba, 243 Green St., follow-up, March 16. Pass. No violations. Mill Road Elementary, 35 Elm Ave., Elizabethtown, March 16. Pass. Area under dishwasher with webbing accumulations and on floor in kitchen accumulation of food and debris. More than 50 trailing ants coming from under the three-compartment sink grease trap and going back to the grease trap under the dishwasher. Mount Everest International Inc, 1621 Columbia Ave., change of owner, March 16. Fail. The fan covers in walk-in cooler had excessive dirt build-up. Cracked floors in the walk-in cooler. Plumbing system not maintained in good repair with water leaking from the pipe beneath the double-bowl sink in the basement. A broken drainage pipe from the double-bowl sink in the basement causing water to be discharged onto the floor. Onions stored directly on the floor in stairwell, rather than six inches off of the floor as required. Prepackaged assorted vegetables were not labeled properly with the name of product, ingredient statement, net weight, and distributed-by statement. Prepackaged goat, fish and chicken meat are not labeled properly with the distributed-by statement. Excessive trash and debris on the ground and down the bank of the creek behind the dumpster, creating possible rodent harborage areas. Rodent droppings on pallets in the basement, however, the facility does have pest control. Food facility was offering packaged goat meat for sale from an unapproved source. Omni Grocery & Deli, 45 New Dorwart St., follow-up, March 16. Pass. No violations. Pizzeria 211, 100 S. Queen St., March 16. Pass. No violations. Ramarn Thai, 2359 Oregon Pike, Suite 104, March 16. Pass. One quart of half-and-half, used for drinks, beyond the sell-by date. Packages of food stored directly on the floor in the walk-in freezer, rather than 6 inches off of the floor as required. An open employee beverage container (cup of tea) was on the food-preparation table. Two packages of ROP (reduced oxygen packaged) tuna thawing in unopened packages. Old food residue on the inner rim of the slicer; repeat violation. Paper towel dispenser empty at the hand-wash sink in the back. Rheems Elementary School, 130 Alida St., Elizabethtown, March 16. Pass. No violations. Ridge Run Tavern, 4620 Ridge Road, Elizabethtown, March 16. Pass. Raw Eggs stored above ready-to-eat foods in walk-in cooler. Soda lines and/or non-integral cold plate device installed in ice bin and in contact with ice used for consumer beverages. Ibuprofen, hand sanitizer and Dawn dish soap stored on food-preparation counter in the kitchen area. Riverside Camping Assoc., 730 E. Strawberry St., follow-up, March 16. Pass. No violations. Our Mother Of Perpetual Help School, 330 Church Ave., Ephrata, March 15. Pass. A maximum irreversible indicating thermometer or thermo-labels are not available to ensure correct operating temperature of hot water sanitizing dishwasher. Two Cousins Pizza Family Restaurant, 4207 Oregon Pike, Ephrata, March 15. Fail. An open employee beverage container (twist-cap variety) was in kitchen area, a food-preparation area. Prepared foods in ready-to-eat form (chicken, ham and sausage) without date marking. Gray and white slime on the ice deflector plate within ice machine. A meat slicer and three knives containing food residue; was corrected. Plumbing system not maintained in food-preparation sink, leaking at the faucet and from a pipe under the sink. Exit back door located in the kitchen area of the food facility has a gap and does not protect against the entry of insects, rodents and other animals. A working container of WD-40 and rust oleum spray paint found; was corrected. Time in lieu of temperature being used in the food facility to control ready-to-eat potentially hazardous foods (pizza) without written procedures or documentation to verify disposition of food. Chipping on a Hobart mixer above mixing bowl. Cleaned and sanitized utensils located in kitchen area were stored with food contact surfaces, food or lip area exposed to hand contact when retrieved by food employees. The person in charge does not have adequate knowledge of food safety in this food facility as evidenced by this noncompliant inspection. Tomato sauce in refrigerator in the kitchen area was stored open with no covering. Ice scoop being stored on top of ice maker which is not a clean and sanitized area; corrected. Onions food stored directly on the floor in storage closet area, rather than 6 inches off of the floor as required; was corrected. Dust accumulation on fan guards in walk-in cooler. Owner/Certified Food Manager preparing food throughout restaurant, not wearing proper hair restraints, such as nets, hats or beard cover. Dumpster lid was open. Two full medication bottles stored on a box of oil; was corrected. Centerville Elementary School, 901 Centerville Road, March 14. Pass. Peeling paint at the wall of the mop sink. Dairy Queen No. 14828, 1935 Columbia Ave., March 14. Pass. Food employee storing clean food equipment while wet, and not allowing time for draining and/or air-drying. Wall at the top of the basement steps is made of drywall and has two holes, which is not a smooth, easily cleanable surface. Food employees not wearing proper hair restraints such as beard covers. Dumpster lid was open; was corrected. Farmdale Elementary School, 695 Prospect Road, Mount Joy, March 14. Pass. No violations. Ginmiya House, 1232 Millersville Pike, March 14. Pass. Two employee beverage containers (twist-cap variety) were on the shelf above food-preparation area in kitchen; was corrected. Food residue on three cleavers; was corrected. Fume hood equipment, in kitchen area, with an accumulation of oil on the non-food contact surfaces. Steve Hurst is no stranger to items of sentimental value. He is the business manager for The Barnyard Boys, a company that salvages and resells antiques, reclaimed lumber, reclaimed flooring, furniture and more. Mountains of it move through the companys Peach Bottom showroom and the Little Britain Township barn where periodic Barnyard Boys sales are held. But Hurst himself holds onto relatively few old items at home. An exception: a pocket watch that once belonged to his grandfather, Paul Hurst, who first checked it for the time as a young teen. The Barnyard Boys Hurst says he researched the watch which he has owned for about a decade and believes it to be from about 1915 or 1916. That would have made it somewhere around 30 years old when his grandfather got it as a gift. I just left it pretty much original, Hurst says. I dont know that I ever cleaned it up. That watch is silver but Hurst isnt overly concerned about its shine. This is one of those cases where its the inside that counts. Why do you keep it? I actually bought it at my grandfathers auction. He had a family auction and he put it up for sale. I think I paid $50 or $55 for it. And it had a little note with it that said his mom gave it to him as a boy. She said shed give him that watch if he didnt smoke. And, from what I understand, it helped. Did you ever meet his mom? No. I remember my great-grandfather just a very little bit. What was your grandfather like? Hes actually still living. (He just turned 90.) He has always been a happy man, very friendly. Always a very big smile. What prompted you to buy his watch? I just thought it was a cool piece. I dont think I knew there was a story behind it when I bought it. ... But an old pocket watch like that? I dont know if you ever took one of those apart. But all the little mechanisms just clicking right along? I dont know. It just fascinated me. Do you wear a watch? No. With cellphones these days you dont need a watch. You must, in your line of work, come across so many items that have stories that most folks will never know. Do you ever wonder about those stories? Yeah. Of course. We get a lot of stuff. We buy it at auction or we get it from other estates. And it does make you wonder sometimes what the stories are behind it. Very rarely does anything have a note attached to it to tell you the story. So is it wrong to assume that someone with your job would have a house full of old items? I dont usually save a whole lot. I dont have hoarding tendencies. Ill buy something and think, Oh, this is really cool. Then I think, I bet I can get money for that. And Ill turn around and sell it. For the business side, you have to be kind of like that. You cant save everything. You need to resell it and make a profit. Thats part of the business. But that watch? Thats from Grandpa. Theres no way Im selling that thing. An Ephrata Borough church is hosting an open to the public fundraising bazaar Saturday to benefit Ukrainian refugees as it continues to support relief efforts for the war-torn country. Bethany Slavic Church, 864 Dawn Ave., will host the event its second for Ukraine since the country was invaded by Russia in February from 1 to 4 p.m. All proceeds will go to the churchs Ukraine Refugee Aid Fund. The event will feature authentic Slavic foods including baked goods, a silent auction with items donated by local businesses, and an activity where people will be able to decorate Pysankas, or Ukrainian Easter eggs. Andrey Teleguz, a bazaar organizer and fund administrator for the churchs Ukraine Refugee Aid Fund, said the churchs fundraising events bring awareness to the situation in Ukraine. We started something very big here, and there are a lot of volunteers that are putting their lives in danger every day, said Teleguz, a Ukrainian refugee who said he came to the United States in 1990 because of the lack of human rights in the former Soviet Union. They are drivers, they are rescuers pulling refugees from basements, feeding and distributing their food We have at least two dozen small groups that are relying on us 100% and we cant stop. Teleguz said Bethany Slavic Church has raised more than $350,000 for its Ukraine Refugee Aid Fund, which launched Feb. 25. As of Thursday, more than $250,000 has been used to transport about 35 tons of food to feed thousands of refugees, help supply a refugee support point in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv and a border crossing point in Romania, and to aid and house more than 150 refugees moving to Poland and Spain. Being a refugee community ourselves, we came from a lot of oppression, pressure, and secrecy. And when we came here to the states, we felt freedom but we never felt like oh, were going to reach out and start telling everybody who we are, Teleguz said. Until this point, we never really opened up, but we feel like we should speak up today. And what we want (the bazaar) to do is to let the community learn a little bit about us, our struggle, where we came from and who we are, let them understand that we understand the Ukrainian people and that we feel like were in a position to help and we want to help; and through us the greater community can help the Ukrainian people, he said. Founded in 1989, Bethany Slavic Church has about 450 members that include immigrants and refugees from Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. The church has a decade of experience with humanitarian aid, as it donates money and ships several containers of food and clothing to different countries like Ukraine, Belarus, Haiti and Moldova every year, according to Teleguz. Vietnam works to foster farm produce exports to US Batches of agro-forestry-aquatic products of Vietnam have been shipped to the US in the first two months, offering chances for the country to accelerate exports to a major but challenging market of the world. A maize processing line in Vietnam (Photo: VNA) Pacific Foods company recently exported 16 tonnes of agricultural products and foodstuff, including fish sauce and instant coffee, to the US, and the shipments are set to arrive on April 10. This is the first time that the company has exported products to the stringent market. Next month, the company is to ship another batch weighing 28 tonnes of farm produce and spices to the US. Statistics of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development showed that the US surpassed China to become the largest agro-forestry-aquatic product export market of Vietnam in the first two months of 2022, with turnover of more than 2.3 billion USD. Last year, Vietnams agricultural sector earned 48.6 billion USD from exports, with shipments to the US worth nearly 12 billion USD, making up 27.5 percent. To help Vietnams farm produce conquer demanding markets, firms are advised to ensure no chemical residue in the items, and fully understand requirements of importers. Bui Huy Son from the Vietnam Trade Office in the US underlined that Vietnams agricultural products have ample room to enter the US, but enterprises need to commit to ensuring the consistent quality to secure a firm foothold in the market. Some staples of Vietnam that the US side has high demand for include vegetables, fruits, coffee, peppercorn, rubber and cashew nuts. Once technical barriers are met, exports to the US are bound to rise in the coming time./. WUZHOU, March 25 -- After the retrieval of the first black box of the China Eastern Airlines' crashed plane on March 23, over 50 members assigned to the People's Armed Police (PAP) Guangxi Corps were dispatched to reinforce the search and rescue at the core crash site on March 24. Due to the persistent rain over the past days, the core crash site has become muddy and slippery. After hours' hard work, the PAP members have searched for about 58,000 square meters and collected more than 1800 pieces of plane wreckage by 6:30 PM on Thursday. As of press time, the rescue and search work was still in progress. Nigerian students who want to escape poverty can learn science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, for the cost of 100 naira, or about 25 cents, a day. Faridat Bakare is a 12-year-old student at Knosk Secondary School in Abuja. She started in the school in 2020, a year after it opened. She wants to be an engineer. In a technical lab at the school, she shows a design for a solar-powered car made from cardboard for her class project. "I want to become an electrical engineer who works with robots and solar panels and all the connections of all the snap circuits and ... things like that," said Bakare. She lives with her mother and four siblings in a poor neighborhood in Abuja. Knosk School runs largely on donations. The school currently has 82 students, but is expanding each year. School officials visit each family to establish whether they can pay for the cost of education. The amount could be as high as $159 for a term. Irene Bangwell, the founder of Knosk, is a former teacher. She said the idea of a science high school for poor children came to her eight years ago. At the time, she took her child to a hospital and heard a cleaner there telling another patient that her young daughter was also a cleaner instead of being in school. Bangwell added, "When we decided to run the Knosk School, we had to ask ourselves what kind of education does (a) poor man's child need to break out of poverty. She says she plans to set up more such schools in Nigeria. At least 10.5 million children in Nigeria do not attend school. The United Nations said in January that is the highest rate in the world. Most affected are girls, children with disabilities and those from poor families. Students at Knosk spend 75 percent of their time studying STEM. When they finish their studies, each student has to develop a design of something they can use or continue to develop after school. For the cost of 25 cents a day, students are given clothes, books and food. Fausat Bakare is Faridats mother. She believes her daughters education at Knosk will help the family. "I believe that she will wipe away my tears, all my suffering will end through her," Bakare said from her home as she selected cassava, a local vegetable, to sell at a market. I'm Susan Shand. Abraham Achirga of Reuters reported this story. Hai Do adapted the story for Learning English. __________________________________________________________________ Words in this Story solar - adj. producing by using the sun's light or heat cardboard - n. stiff and thick kind of paper used for making boxes snap circuits - n. pieces or parts that easily fit together sibling - n. a brother or sister In his speech to the United States Congress, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked for help. His message was short and clear: We need you right now. In recent weeks, Zelenskyy spoke to world leaders in one country after another by video link. His speeches are excellent examples of persuasive speaking. The persuasive speech is one common exercise that teachers give to students in communication or speech classes. Let us look at what makes an effective persuasive speech. Choose a good topic First, you should choose a topic you know something about or have researched well to prepare for your speech. Make sure it is a subject about which people have different opinions. It would not be logical to speak about a fact recognized by everybody. It is also best to choose a subject your listeners care about or can act on. Do you see people in your town littering? You can expect that they care about how the town appears, or that they can change their actions. So, giving a speech about why littering harms your towns appearance might persuade people who do it to stop. Know your audience You should consider your listeners as you plan your speech. What do they value? President Zelenskyy spoke about protecting democracy to everyone. But he changed his speech to world leaders a little depending on the history of each country. For the United States, he compared the Russian invasion with the attack on Pearl Harbor and the September 11 attacks. Both those events were important turning points in U.S. history. In his speech to the leaders of Israel, he spoke of the Holocaust and how Ukrainians helped to save Jews during World War II. Thinking of the things your listeners value will help you form arguments in your speech. If you want them to stop eating unhealthy foods, for example, you may appeal to the value of their appearance. You will talk about how healthy foods result in good-looking skin and an attractive body. Prepare your argument There are three common ways to persuade people of your way of thinking. We use Greek words to describe them because the ancient Greeks developed and appealed to these ideas. They are: Ethos appeal to the listeners ethics or morals Pathos - appeal to the listeners emotions Logos - appeal to the listeners logic or intelligence Again, President Zelenskyys speeches are excellent examples of how to use these three ideas to persuade listeners to act. Representing Ethos, in speaking to the German leaders, he said some German businesses had put more importance on economic gain than on morality. In an appeal to Pathos, Zelenskyy played a video showing injured Ukrainian children to the U.S. Congress to appeal to our emotions. And in his speech to the British Parliament in London, he made an appeal to Logos. He said that like the British in World War II, Ukrainians will never stop fighting, and so they need Britains help to continue. He used words similar to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchills famous words: We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets The English translation of Zelenskyys words is: We will fight in the forests, in the fields, on the shores, in the streets." Organize your speech After you plan the subject, appeal to your listeners, and the arguments you will use, you should make an outline of your speech. Start with an attention-getting statement. Then explain your main idea and give evidence to support your argument. List the points you want to make and think of how to answer arguments against your position. Finish with a call to action what do you want your listeners to do? Finally, practice at home until you need only a note card with your main points on it when you give the speech. Do not plan to read the speech word-for-word from a paper. For more tips on how to give a speech, see our series on public speaking. Im Jill Robbins. Dr. Jill Robbins wrote this lesson for Learning English. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story logical adj. apply reason, or the science of using reason litter v. to drop waste or unwanted objects on the ground ethics n. ideas and beliefs about what type of behavior is morally right and wrong practice n. to do something repeatedly until you improve What topic would you talk about if you gave a persuasive speech? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section. American President Joe Biden and Western allies promised Thursday to order new sanctions against Russia and provide more humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Earlier, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the leaders to provide more military aid so the country can fight Russias invasion. He spoke with the leaders over video links. The unusual series of meetings were organized by NATO, the Group of Seven industrialized nations and the European Union. Western leaders continue the search for ways to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, but avoid anything that could expand military actions. Zelenskky spoke to a NATO gathering by video from Kyiv. He called for military assistance without limitations as Russia is without limits using its entire arsenal. He asked for anti-air and anti-ship weapons. He urged NATO to provide Ukraine with one percent of all its tanks and planes. We cant just buy those, Zelenskyy said. When we will have all this, it will give us, just like you, 100 percent security. Biden, who is attending all three meetings, said more aid was on its way. We are committed to identifying additional equipment, including air defense systems, to help Ukraine, Biden said in a written statement after the NATO meeting. Billions of dollars worth of military equipment have already been provided. An American official said Western nations were discussing the possibility of providing anti-ship weapons. There are concerns that Russia will launch attacks Ukraine from the Black Sea. The Biden administration announced that the U.S. will welcome 100,000 Ukrainian refugees and provide an additional $1 billion in food, medicine, water and other supplies. It also said it will increase sanctions against Russia to include lawmakers and owners of weapon manufacturing companies. As Russias difficulties increase, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned China against coming to its rescue. They should join the rest of the world and clearly condemn the brutal war against Ukraine and not support Russia, he said. The leaders also discussed Russias most dangerous weaponry, including biological, chemical and nuclear arms. Biden has said that possibility is a real threat. Earlier this week, Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told CNN Russia could consider using its nuclear weapons if it felt there was an existential threat for our country. One European diplomat said Western leaders would continue having quiet discussions on what to do if Russia uses what would be the worlds first use of a tactical nuclear weapon. The Russian invasion has caused European nations to reconsider their military spending. Stoltenberg opened the NATO meeting by saying NATO must accept a new security reality in Europe. We are united in condemning the Kremlins unprovoked aggression, Stoltenberg said. There is a worry that unity will be tested as the cost of the war begins to affect the international economy. The increase of forces along NATOs edge will also put financial pressure on its member countries. Im Susan Shand. The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. ___________________________________________________________ Words in This Story sanctions - n. an action that is taken or an order that is given to force a country to obey international laws by limiting or stopping trade with that country, by not allowing economic aid for that country, etc. usually plural arsenal - n. a collection of weapons and military equipment stored by a country, person, or group. amphibious - adj. involving forces landed from the sea. brutal - adj. violent and cruel existential (threat)- adj. a threat to something's very existencewhen the continued being of something is at stake or in danger. It is used to describe threats to actual living things as well to nonliving thing things, such as a country or an ideology provoke - v. anger, irritate, or annoy. accelerate - v. to increase or to go faster We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, and visit our Facebook page. Albany's Riverfront Community Center opened its doors Thursday morning for local seniors looking for face to face fun. The 10,000 square-feet senior center was among the institutions to close during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This week, it's up and running again with amenities which include a new coffee shop. Riverfront is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. According to Riverfront's event coordinator, Lynne Smith, the staff wanted to spruce place up to make it as inviting as possible for new and returning visitors. That meant some new furniture, window coverings and a colorful ambience. "We wanted to to bring as many people in here as possible," Smith said. "To us, that meant making it look more modern." Smith said the center is otherwise the same as it's been and includes space for weddings, birthday parties, movie viewings and business meetings. Mercedes and Willy Rodriguez are among Riverfront's returning visitors and said the building's facelift is just what it needed. "It definitely looks more modern," Mercedes said. "They did a good job." Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Albany Democrat-Herald. Originally from New York City, the couple moved to Oregon to be closer to their daughter who attended Oregon State University in Corvallis. Mercedes and Willy, who worked in the legal field and the United Nations respectively, are enjoying their sunset years and consider the Riverfront Senior Center a fun destination. The two both enjoy long walks around the waterfront, watching movies and attending classes at the center, especially ones about navigating the DMV. Riverfront is intended to be a community space for visitors of all ages and it boasts everything from science classes for kindergarten students to Tai Chi and yoga classes for seniors. Linn-Benton Community College is also offering non-credit classes as part of its extended learning program at Riverfront. Most offer both in-person and virtual options, the latter of which the college has pursued in earnest during the pandemic. Ryan Kinnett, a Community Education Coordinator at Linn-Benton Community College, said the pandemic has encouraged the college to keep its learning options open. "We have instructors come up to us, saying, 'I want to teach this,'" Kinnett said. "We're always learning about what we can offer." For Willy, learning is a lifelong journey he enjoys as much as a long walk in the park. "I like learning a lot of things," Willy said. "I don't want that to change." Tim Gruver covers the city of Albany and Linn County. He can be contacted at 541-812-6114 or Tim.Gruver@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter via @T_TimeForce. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 LEXINGTON Beth Bauer, with 25 years of law enforcement and state government experience, is running for the position of Dawson County Treasurer. Bauer started off her career in law enforcement at the Kearney Police Department where she was a community service officer and later became a dispatcher in Buffalo County. The pull of being a law enforcement officer then led her to become a deputy sheriff under Neil Miller. In 2002, she joined the Nebraska State Patrol academy as an instructor. By 2005, she took part in the Nebraska State Patrol academy herself and become a trooper in 2006 in Lexington. She said the NSP requires new troopers to spend two years at their first station before requesting to transfer if they wish. Bauer said she had met her husband, Tucker Case, during this time and chose to reside in Lexington. She worked with the NSP until 2020 when she secured an early retirement. She then went to work in environmental safety at Lexington Regional Health Center, just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. When asked why she is running for the position of county treasurer, Bauer said she thinks people with leadership, teamwork experience and a deep concern for their community should seek leadership roles. Bauer said when she learned county treasure incumbent Victoria Clements wasnt seeking reelection, she decided to enter the race, stating it is a leadership position in the county that could use someone with her type of background. During her time with the NSP, Bauer said she was responsible for the use of both state and federal funds while working with the task force office and undercover drug investigations, of which she has 10 years of experience. The uses of these funds are highly scrutinized from start to finish, Bauer noted. Bauer also mentioned she volunteered for the Special Olympics Nebraska. Throughout my law enforcement career I raised a lot of money for this organization. I was responsible for gathering donations and properly handling and documenting those donations, she said. Between this large organization for fundraising and my accountability for the use of federal funds as a drug task force officer, I have a lot of experience with handling and accounting for large sums of money, Bauer said. If elected, Bauer said she would lean on the core values her time with the NSP taught her, including honesty, professionalism, self-discipline, attention to detail, sense of urgency, adaptability, performance driven and team oriented behavior. She said she has used these values to not only be successful in her career but her personal life as well. Bauer noted, the value of a sense of urgency, and said people coming to the treasurers office want to get their businesses dealt with quickly and efficiently so they can get on with their day. She said as treasurer she would ensure that would be the experience residents would receive. Bauer also said, Through collaboration with leadership at the state DMV, I have identified some state resources available to make the office more efficient and save tax payer time and money. She noted she would have, a job to learn, but added that adaptability was one of the core values she learned and took on multiple different types of assignments during her time with NSP and will take that mindset into the position of county treasurer. Bauer called back to her choice to remain in Lexington during her time with NSP and said she embraced the community. She said she can take all of her past experience into the office of county treasurer and continue to do the things that are important to the community. Statewide primary elections take place on May 10, the deadline to register to vote is April 22. See the Nebraska Secretary of States website for more information. LEXINGTON Macs Creek Winery & Brewery plans to expand their outdoor venue space and add three cottages along Spring Creek. Max and Barry McFarland, representing McFarland Family Farms, LLC, and Irish Lads, LLC, respectively, appeared during the Lexington city council meeting on Tuesday, March 22. McFarland Family Farms requested $220,000.00 from the city to expand Macs Creeks outdoor venue space. Max McFarland said when the COVID-19 pandemic struck the area in March 2020, Macs Creek had to shut their doors for four months. He said they worked hard to retain their full time employees but had to let their part time staff go during the period, they have since rehired them as restrictions have eased. Max noted a recent study that said the restaurant, winery and tasting room industry is down one million jobs and over 9,000 of these types of businesses shut down permanently during the pandemic. He said as restrictions began to ease up for outdoor spaces, Macs Creek utilized their outdoor patio space as much as they could while indoor regulations were still restrictive. Even after the indoor regulations loosened, Max said they kept some in place for the safety of their patrons and staff. The plan is to tear out the existing wooden deck at Macs Creek and put in a new concrete deck with expanded dimensions. A roof will also be added to cover the space and a plastic drop down cover will be used to make the enclosure resistant against the weather. Max said their current wooden patio space can accommodate around 40 people, this new concrete space should be able to hold around 150 people. He also noted it would expand the use of their outdoor space by three or four months each year. Macs Creek also plans to upgrade their kitchen equipment so they can offer more catering, as their catering space will grow by several times. Max noted their indoor space is limited to around 60 people. Barry McFarland also appeared representing Irish Lads requesting $110,000.00 to assist with adding three cottages along Spring Creek on the winery grounds. Barry said the cottages would be a luxury camp model and would be able to accommodate a queen sized bed, a sitting area and a bathroom. They would overlook both Spring Creek and the winery. Barry offered the description, Creek sized cottages at Macs Creek. These cottages would be open for people to spend the night on the winery grounds. Max said construction should start this spring and be completed sometime by June. Also presented to the council was a loan amendment with McFarland Family Farms under the Lexington Economic Development Program. City Manager Joe Pepplitsch said as McFarland Family Farms adds the new loan, this amendment will help keep payments and debt service level. The city council approved the new loan agreements with McFarland Family Farms and Irish Lads and the loan amendment with the former. The council also considered the proposed Fat Dogs Travel Center redevelopment plan. Mike Bacon, who practices in tax increment financing (TIF) and represents the developer, Wilkinson Development, gave a brief overview of the project. High volume diesel pumps will be added to serve the, significant semi-truck market. As part of the plan, the current building will be remodeled and expanded to provide a new restaurant and travel center. A new canopy, underground piping and new pumps will be installed. Space will be created to the west of the pumps to allow for around 10 semi parking spots. The expanding of the store will add 6,480 square feet to the location, making the total coverage after development 13,820 square feet. Five full-time jobs plan to be added after expansion. Development of the project is anticipated to start in May or June 2022. Wilkinson Development has requested tax increment financing (TIF) assistance in the amount of $700,000, which would go to covering demolition, concrete and pipe and architecture costs. The total cost of the project will be around $5,348,500.00. Bacon noted a question mentioned during the Monday meeting of the Community Development Agency about logistics of semi-trailers accessing the property. Wilkinson Development owns the former Sonic location, just to the south of the lot where the diesel pumps would be added. Access from this location could help alleviate turning traffic off of the parkway. Clarine Erickoff, Chief of Operations with Wilkinson Development, said Wilkinson is involved in a lawsuit with the location since 2019 and will be heard before the Nebraska Supreme Court soon. Erickoff said they have the property deed in hand; they just cant do anything with the property yet. Council member John Salem asked if a tenant for the restaurant space had been found yet, Erickoff said until they had the redevelopment plan approved by the city they had not started negotiations yet. The council approved the redevelopment plan resolution. Another item was a loan agreement with the Greater Lexington Corporation under the Lexington Economic Development Plan. According to the loan agreement, the amount is for $250,000.00. Pepplitsch said this relates to work on the Concord housing, north of Sandoz Elementary. There had been a plan to add 24 units and so far 16 have been constructed. Pepplitsch said the plan is to finish the last two duplexes by the end of 2022 and the loan will help facilitate this. The council approved the agreement. The council approved an ordinance to reappoint Pepplitsch as the City Manager and set his salary at $135,500.00 per year. The council also viewed a resolution approving a preliminary engineering services supplemental agreement relating to the Lexington East Viaduct project. Pepplitsch said this agreement reflects the Nebraska Department of Transportation acquiring right-of-way in the area where the project will take place and they were in need of more consulting services. The agreement was also, absolutely necessary, to ensure federal funds could be used for the project. The council approved. The next item was a resolution approving a conservation easement for the Central Platte Natural Resources District. Pepplitsch said CPNRD is moving the easement outside of the limits of the City of Lexington and they need approval of the council, which they granted. The council also approved project closeout documents and certificates of substantial completion for both Paulsen, Inc. and Van Kirk Bros. Contracting for their work on the East Addition phase one improvement project. During the public comment period, Dawson County Sheriffs candidate, Cozad Police Chief Mark Montgomery and Dawson County Treasurers candidate, Motor Vehicle Supervisor Kaitlyn Woltemath, introduced themselves to the council and asked for their support on Election Day. Lapwai, ID (83501) Today Cloudy with occasional light rain throughout the day. High 61F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%.. Tonight Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. Low 48F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe (L) holds video talks with Turkmen Defense Minister Begench Gundogdyev (R) on March 25, 2022. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Li Xiaowei) Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe held video talks with Turkmen Defense Minister Begench Gundogdyev on March 25, 2022. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Li Xiaowei) BEIJING, March 25 -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe held talks with Turkmen Defense Minister Begench Gundogdyev via video link on Friday. Wei said that under the strategic leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the relationship between China and Turkmenistan has realized the leapfrog development and reached the high level of strategic partnership. He stressed that the China attaches great importance to and actively promotes the relationship with Turkmenistan, and is always Turkmenistan's close friend and reliable partner no matter how the international situation changes. In recent years, the pragmatic military cooperation between China and Turkmenistan has maintained sound development momentum, and the two militaries have expanded cooperation in the fields of high-level exchanges, professional communication and personnel training, Wei added. Speaking of development of bilateral military ties in the future, Wei said that the Chinese military is willing to join hands with Turkmen military to implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, strengthen strategic communication and promote development of pragmatic cooperation in various fields between the two militaries, so as to contribute more to the building of an even closer China-Turkmenistan community with a shared future. Gundogdyev extended congratulations on Chinas successful hosting of the 24th Olympic Winter Games and Paralympic Winter Games. He said that the Turkmen side will continue to firmly pursue the policy of friendship and cooperation with China, enhance economic and trade exchanges and defense cooperation with the Chinese side, and promote the relationship between the two countries and their militaries. A male driver was killed Friday after he was ejected from his vehicle as it overturned along a Highway 101 embankment, just north of Los Alamos. Two men, including a man injured in a 2021 Santa Maria shooting, are accused of possessing a handgun with an obliterated serial number after they were arrested at the San Luis Obispo County Jail parking lot in January, according to an affidavit filed in federal court earlier this month. BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday afternoon held a phone conversation with South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol. Xi once again extended congratulations to Yoon on his election as South Korean president. He pointed out that China and South Korea are permanent close neighbors that cannot move away, and are also inseparable partners, adding that China always attaches importance to its relations with South Korea. With the joint efforts from both sides, bilateral relations have developed rapidly in an all-round way, and the two countries have become strategic partners, Xi said. Facts have proved that the development of China-South Korea relations conforms to the fundamental interests of the two countries and their people, and promotes regional peace and development, he added. Noting that this year marks the 30th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations, Xi said the two sides should take it as an opportunity to uphold mutual respect, strengthen political mutual trust, enhance people-to-people friendship and push for steady and long-term development of China-South Korea relations. Xi stressed that at present, the international community is facing multiple challenges, saying that China and South Korea bear a responsibility in maintaining regional peace and promoting world prosperity. The Chinese side is ready to work with South Korea in strengthening international and regional cooperation, and making active efforts to ensure the stability and smoothness of the global industrial and supply chains, he said. He also called for safeguarding the UN-centered international system and the international order based on international law, and promoting the construction of a more fair and rational global governance system. For his part, Yoon congratulated China on the successful convening of the "two sessions" and on the country's major development achievements made under the leadership of President Xi. South Korea and China enjoy a long history of friendly exchanges, Yoon said, noting that over the 30 years since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties, the two countries have made great achievements in bilateral cooperation in various fields, bringing tangible benefits to people of the two countries. Strengthening cooperation between the two countries is conducive to the realization of their respective development, benefits their people, and will also contribute to regional peace and stability in the Northeast Asia, he continued. South Korea is ready to keep close high-level exchanges with China to enhance mutual trust, promote people-to-people friendship and push bilateral relations to a higher level, Yoon said. A measure voted through the Oklahoma Senate would require parental consent for minors to access birth control or vaccinations. Senate Bill 1225 would give parents more control of health care choices for their children. It would require schools and health professionals to get consent from parents before administering vaccinations and female contraceptives. The bills author, Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, began the discussion of the bill with a story that motivated its existence. The school loaded up a busload of girls, brought them to the (Tulsa) county health office and injected them with three years of contraception, never did tell the parents, he said. Tulsa Health Department officials responded to the comments made by Bullard about the agency serving Tulsa County by saying parental involvement is encouraged. Tulsa Health Department provides services to clients who come to a clinical service location. THD works with multiple community partners to assist clients with transportation needs for services, Preventive Health Division Chief Priscilla Haynes said. Under Title X guidelines, young people of reproductive age can make decisions on their own and may self-consent for family planning services at THD. Bullard said his measure is more about getting parents informed than limiting contraception. Were not banning girls from taking it, Bullard said during discussion on the Senate floor Wednesday. Just banning the health departments and schools from administering it to them. Upon questioning from Sen. Carri Hicks on the language of the measure applying to any health professional, Bullard added hospitals to his list of potential providers. Bullard said the bill has no protection for a minor who doesnt report they are a sexual assault victim. Minors would be able to obtain contraceptive services without parental consent if theyve been pregnant before, he said. Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, began debate on the bill by mentioning how many abortion-restricting measures have already passed in the Senate this session. We cannot pass this bill, Kirt said, and reduce abortion. This bill limits all the reasonable ways to reduce teen pregnancy. Oklahoma remains among the states with the highest teen birth rate, according to a study last year. Compared to the national rate of 16.6 per 1,000 females age 15-19, the teen birth rate in Oklahoma is 27.4. In addition to contraceptive uses, birth control may be prescribed to relieve menstrual irregularities or painful ovulation, both commonly reported by young women. Boys dont need parental consent to buy condoms, but girls do for birth control? Hicks asked Bullard, noting the measure seems to apply only to female health. Some parents may object to contraceptives as a religious belief. The practice has led health care professional organizations to respond that the potential health risks to adolescents if they are unable to obtain reproductive health services are so compelling that legal barriers and deference to parental involvement should not stand in the way of needed health care for patients who request confidentiality. A floor substitute for the measure added vaccines to health care decisions that require parental consent for minors. The COVID-19 pandemic reignited debate on whether minors should be able to obtain vaccinations without parental consent. The bill passed 31-11 and moves to the House for consideration. I dont know about you, but I found enrolling in Medicare a confusing matter. In fact, enrolling in any health insurance can be a confusing matter. Medicare was confusing to the point that I thought Id share my experience with you in the hopes it might help you, especially if you are of a certain age. So off to the races. First up, Im older than 65. Im 74 actually 74 (why do kids always insist on making themselves as old as they can be, and we adults do the opposite?). Ive had health insurance where I work, at the Dean Clinic in Oregon, but since Ive changed status, it was time to switch insurance. So I plotted out what I needed for myself and my lovely wife of 47 years, Penny. We didnt need Part A because everyone signs up for that when theyre 65. We needed Part B and Part D for each of us. Once I figured that out, I was ready to go. Because I was on employee health insurance past the age of 65, I had to get information from my group that I had continuous physician coverage, the things Part B pays, from the month I turned that fine age until now. Then I had to do the same thing for Penny. There were some issues here because our insurance company ownership had changed, but with a few calls back and forth with my employer, I had the necessary information. Then I had to fax, write or call Social Security to get it fixed up. Tip No. 1: If you need to call Social Security, do it at 9:01 a.m., which is when the phone line opens. Thats what I did. I got a wonderful person who told me what to fax and where, explaining that it might just take a bit longer because it was between Christmas and New Years. Tip No. 2.: When youre going to be hitting Medicare, start getting it lined up in advance. The earlier the better. In the end, it all got settled for me, but I was rather nervous it might not be on a timely basis. And its never good to go bare when it comes to health insurance. After getting the initial issues addressed, next I needed to find out which Part D, the drug coverage plan, I should choose for me and work with Penny on what would be best for her. We each had different medications, and we wanted the most cost-effective plans. For that we turned to a Medicare Part D broker. The insurance companies have their own, but I turned to an independent broker to help walk me through the process. I thought that because I had Part B, I would immediately be eligible for Part D. Well, B and D are not on talking terms. The issues I had with B had to be solved with D showing proof that we had continuous drug coverage from the time we turned 65 until the present month. If I didnt, then I would face a penalty for every single month I didnt have coverage, and that penalty would be accrued every month until I died. Wow! Thats a whack in the head. So, Tip No. 3: Dont assume one government program talks to the other. It turned out that my Part D coverage began on Feb. 1 perfect but Pennys Part D coverage began March 1. Why? Im not exactly clear, and because she had extras of her current medications on hand, it wasnt an issue. But had I not planned those extra meds, we would have been, in the vernacular of the day, SOL. My spin: When changing any kind of health insurance get plenty of information and take plenty of time. Even if youre smart in one venue doesnt mean you have smarts in another. P.S.: More on my Medicare Adventure in next weeks column. This column provides general health information. Always consult your personal health care provider about concerns. No ongoing relationship of any sort is implied or offered by Dr. Paster to people submitting questions. Any opinions expressed by Dr. Paster in his columns are personal and are not meant to represent or reflect the views of SSM Health. A man charged with stealing cash from a donation box during a burglary at Vilas Zoo last summer was arrested Wednesday on Madison's North Side, Madison police said. Carlos T. Davis, 37, was arrested in the 2900 block of Dryden Drive on a burglary charge that was filed last month and a state Department of Corrections hold, according to police. According to a criminal complaint filed on Feb. 25, security personnel called police to the zoo, 702 S. Randall Ave., for a burglary near the main gate. An alarm company had notified the security firm about a break-in. A security guard found a broken window and a damaged cash box, then followed a trail of cash and checks to a gate in the zoo's perimeter fence. It appeared the burglar used a rock to break into a concession area. A Plexiglas donation box was shattered on the floor, the complaint states. Security video captured an image of a man entering the concession stand through a window. After that image was released to the media by police, a person who had seen it on Madison.com through Facebook identified the person as Davis. The identity was later confirmed by law enforcement records, the complaint states. Damage to the donation box and window was estimated at $700, while the cash loss was $200 to $300, the complaint states. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A Holmen woman was arrested for OWI after a crash early Sunday morning that damaged a Stoddard tavern, the Vernon County Sheriffs Office reported. Shortly after 2:45 a.m. Sunday, a 911 caller reported that a driver had driven a vehicle into the Thirsty Turtle Tavern, 102 S. Main St. in Stoddard, and was being detained by employees until a deputy could arrive, Sheriff John Spears said in a statement. The investigation determined that Allison M. Thompson, 32, of Holmen, had driven her vehicle into a Southwest Sanitation dumpster, causing the dumpster to slam into the rear of the tavern, Spears said. The vehicles airbags deployed and Thompson was uninjured, but the Thirsty Turtle suffered numerous severed water pipes on the main floor and basement, Spears said. The Stoddard Fire Department was called to the scene to turn the water off to ensure there were no electrical fires, Spears said. The crash remains under investigation by the Vernon County Sheriff's Office and other citations and charges could be issued, Spears said. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Officers were dispatched to the 4500 block of Verona Road at about 2:20 p.m. Thursday, police said. An employee told police that a man had entered the business and demanded money. The employee said a knife was brandished and money was turned over to the suspect, who then fled the scene, police said. A dozen of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers appointees to the boards overseeing Wisconsins higher education systems remain unconfirmed by the Republican-controlled Senate, a status unlikely to change this year now that the legislative session has ended. That sets up a potential scenario where a Republican winning the governors race this fall could appoint their own picks and quickly seize control of the boards instead of following the traditional approach of appointing new individuals as others terms expire. The up-in-the-air political dynamic could also play a role in the UW-Madison chancellor search, experts said. Anyone considering a position in public university leadership understands that the job involves dealing with the ebbs and flows of state government, said Felicia Commodore, an Old Dominion University professor whose expertise is in higher education leadership and board governance. But the confirmation battle could signal challenges ahead between board members and the Legislature. It also communicates a lack of stability. If there seems to be a tug-of-war going on with the state Legislature, someone looking at the chancellorship may not be interested in getting involved, Commodore said. The board being in flux could be challenging. They could select this chancellor and soon be gone. Candidates want to know what board theyre going to be working with because they serve at the pleasure of the board. The structure of the UW Board of Regents was designed with an eye toward stability and avoiding political whiplash by having most of its 18 members serve seven years, with a couple of terms expiring each spring. But the state Senate hasnt confirmed any of the seven individuals Evers has appointed to the Regents since 2020. Serious candidates will definitely be paying attention to that, said Robert Kelchen, a professor of higher education at the University of Tennessee. In an election year, theyre paying attention anyway, but the difference is it could shift much more quickly, in a matter of months instead of two to three years. Kelchen said the situation likely wouldnt deter most candidates from considering the job, but may prompt them to seek more security, such as a multiyear contract with a large payout built into it in the event they are abruptly fired by the board. Many other institutions offer those types of agreements. University of Wisconsin System chancellors, however, are among a number of at-will appointees spelled out in state law that the UW Board of Regents can fire at any time. Applications for the UW-Madison chancellor job were due earlier this month. A committee searching for Chancellor Rebecca Blanks successor expects to interview semifinalists next month and the Regents plan to announce a hire in May. System spokesperson Mark Pitsch declined to comment on whether having so many unconfirmed Regents hurts the boards ability to recruit a UW-Madison chancellor. Evers at a WisPolitics luncheon earlier this month criticized the Senates refusal to confirm his picks. Thats not a way to run a government, and its anti-democracy at its worst, he said. An aide for Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, did not return a request for comment. Technical colleges A similar situation involving unconfirmed appointees is playing out with the 13-member Technical College System Board. Five of Evers picks are unconfirmed. Three of them are unable to even serve on the board because three individuals appointed by former Republican Gov. Scott Walker refuse to vacate their seats despite their terms expiring last May. The holdovers continuing to participate in meetings are Kelly Tourdot, a Waunakee resident who is vice president of Associated Builders and Contractors; Mary Williams, a former GOP state representative from northern Wisconsin; and Becky Levzow, a dairy farmer from Rio. Each of them sent emails to Evers office requesting reappointment last spring, according to records obtained by the Wisconsin State Journal. Levzow even asked an Evers staffer for the name of her successor after being informed that the governor had declined to reappoint her. We had excellent applicants who, in addition to you, deserve time on the board, the staffer wrote back on April 29. A day after Evers office sent out the decision, Technical College System spokesperson Conor Smyth emailed Williams to share his dissatisfaction. We are all disappointed with the decision of the Governors Appointments office not to retain outstanding, dedicated Board members, said Smyth, who has since retired. Technical College System executive vice president Jim Zylstra said Friday that Smyth was speaking for himself and his opinion did not represent the Systems. A couple of weeks after learning they had been replaced, Tourdot, Williams and Levzow decided to continue serving. I would prefer to serve out my term since the governor did not reappoint me to another term, Tourdot said in an email to Technical College System President Morna Foy. I will not be sending a letter to the governor office stepping aside. Williams said earlier this year that some people are making a bigger issue out of it than it needs to be and she would step down once her successor is confirmed by the Senate. Tourdot and Levzow did not respond to requests for comment. Natural resources The refusal of public board members to vacate their seats after their term expires is also playing out on the board that oversees state environmental policies. The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently heard arguments involving a Walker appointee who has refused to step aside from the Natural Resources Board. The board member, Fred Prehn, a Wausau dentist, recently voted to reject regulations of PFAS compounds and dozens of other toxic substances in groundwater. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. An attorney for the former state Supreme Court justice undertaking a review of the 2020 election said decertifying the election is no longer possible, just weeks after his client suggested to the same lawmakers that the Legislature consider the move. James Bopp, who represents GOP special counsel Michael Gableman in a public records lawsuit, said legislators had the authority to intervene between the election and Jan. 6, 2021, the day Congress counted the Electoral College votes. You had the authority in late November, Bopp told the Assembly elections committee. If you felt that the election was so corrupt you could have intervened. But past Jan. 6, 2021, Bopp said, lawmakers had no mechanism, no provision, no anything that would have any practical legal effect. Bopp said the only way for President Joe Biden to leave office would be through his death, resignation, impeachment or disability under the 25th Amendment. His statements come a week after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, who hired Gableman, met with decertification proponents in a closed-door meeting. After his meeting, Vos said the election cant be decertified but nevertheless made the baseless claim that there had been widespread fraud in 2020. Vos on Tuesday said he might rescind subpoenas issued to mayors and election officials as part of Gablemans election review, but only to allow a Republican attorney general, if one is elected in November, to file criminal charges. Three weeks ago, Gableman told the Assembly elections committee that the Legislature ought to take a very hard look at decertifying the states presidential election something that has long been understood to be legally and constitutionally impossible. Gablemans review was the latest to fall short of proving widespread fraud. At the same meeting, Gableman claimed 100% of registered voters in Dane and Milwaukee county nursing homes cast absentee ballots in 2020, suggesting at least some of those votes had to have been cast fraudulently due to some of the voters frailty and impaired cognitive capabilities. But a closer look by the Wisconsin State Journal found only one nursing home where all 12 registered voters cast ballots; turnout among all the others ranged from 42% to 91%. Some have conflated policies or decisions on election administration that they opposed or which werent explicitly authorized in state law with fraud, even though some of the practices were consistent with past elections, were approved by government bodies in open session or were found to be legal by a court. Those include grants from the Mark Zuckerberg-funded Center for Tech and Civic Life to help cover the cost of conducting an election during a pandemic. While the grants went to about 214 municipalities, including many that went for Trump, the bulk of the money went to the states five largest cities, which turned out strongly for Joe Biden. Multiple courts have ruled the grants were legal. The grants were also not denied to any municipalities that requested them. Election deniers also have called for jailing members of the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission for advising local clerks they could fix minor errors on ballot envelopes and use ballot drop boxes, which arent addressed in state law. The measures were approved by both Democratic and Republican members of the commission. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman was one of just eight U.S. House members last week to vote against a measure to suspend normal trade relations with Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, but human rights experts say his justification doesnt make sense. In a statement and telephone interview, the Sheboygan County Republican said the vote had nothing to do with suspending trade relations itself. Indeed, he added, he co-sponsored a separate bill, H.R. 7014, that would suspend normal trade relations with Russia. Rather, Grothman said, his objections were to a provision in the bill to amend an existing law that allows the administration to impose sanctions on foreign actors who engage in corruption or human rights violations. The trade bill would expand that to anyone who is responsible for or complicit in, or has directly or indirectly engaged in, serious human rights abuse, something Grothman said he feared could be used to punish foreign officials who support laws in their home countries opposing abortion rights and same-sex marriage. The revised law, Grothman said, would give the president the ability to threaten other countries to turn on their Christian heritage and change their laws to align with the views of the current White House. But that amendment is identical to wording then-President Donald Trump, whom Grothman supported, used to broaden the law in an executive order. And experts in human rights law say the wording is aimed at combating crimes carried out by particular officials, such as arbitrary detention and murder, not broad social policies. The bill Grothman voted against would replace language in a law first passed in 2012 calling for the U.S. government to sanction Russian citizens who are responsible for gross violations of human rights. In 2016, the law was expanded to apply to all countries. The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act authorized the president to sanction and deny U.S. entry to people identified as having engaged in human rights violations or corruption. The Magnitsky Act gained global attention in 2017 after it was revealed that a Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, lobbied against the law in a meeting with Donald Trump Jr. and others from the Trump campaign at Trump Tower. The meeting was set up ostensibly to share compromising information the Russian government said it had on Trumps Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. After failing to produce evidence against Clinton, the lawyer turned to a critique of the Magnitsky Act and asked the campaign for help getting it removed, according to special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into Russian influence in the 2016 presidential election. That meeting was not unique. According to official documents, from the Mueller report to U.S. Senate reports, the Russian government had long tried to find ways to eliminate the law. Grothman said he was unaware that Russians were lobbying against the Magnitsky Act and said nobody had lobbied him to oppose it. His opposition, he said, is to broadening the law, not the law itself. Originated with Trump The 2016 measure included a provision saying the punitive measures could extend to people responsible for extrajudicial killings, torture, or other gross violations of internationally recognized human rights committed against individuals in any foreign country seeking to blow the whistle on government officials. It also extended to individuals trying to obtain, exercise, defend, or promote internationally recognized human rights and freedoms. In amendments to the trade bill, the ability to seek sanctions was extended to anyone engaged in serious human rights abuse either directly or indirectly. That would permit the president to threaten foreign officials that hold traditional views on life or marriage, Grothman said. But those terms were first used in an executive order Trump signed in 2017 to expand the Magnitsky Act an order Trump continued to renew. Grothman said he didnt agree with the change now, or then. It makes it awkward for us, but Trump shouldnt have done it, he said. The recently proposed amendments are just a means to codify Trumps order, said Marquette University assistant political science professor Mark Berlin, who studies international law, domestic law and human rights. Grothman who in 2011 told a reporter for Isthmus that he regarded homosexuality as a sin said he and his colleagues have heard from foreign diplomats in Latin America, Eastern Europe and Africa that they feel pressured by President Joe Bidens administration to adapt to liberal Americans views on abortion and transgender rights. Grothman would not identify any of his sources, saying they feared retaliation for speaking out against the United States. Nor did he say whether their concerns relate specifically to Magnitsky Act sanctions. At one point, he said a bishop in the Dominican Republic told him the United States was pressuring the country over an LGBTQ+ law, but he couldnt recall the bishops name or the law. I dont like the U.S. using its economic force to force other countries to be more pro-abortion, Grothman said. And this opens up the ability to say, We want you to legalize abortion or legalize late-term abortion in your country. Aimed at individuals Berlin said it wouldnt be plausible for a president to sanction another country because of its prohibitions on same-sex marriage or abortions. Moreover, the Magnitsky Act only allows the president to sanction individuals, not countries. While serious human rights abuse isnt defined in the bill, its generally believed that its bound by common understandings of what are accepted international human rights, or what would be recognized in international law, Berlin said. And the right to abortion or the right to gay marriage arent recognized in international human rights law. Amanda Strayer, an associate attorney at Human Rights First, said there have been around 420 sanction designations under the Magnitsky Act, about 140 of which have been for serious human rights abuses. All of those, Strayer said, were for violence or arbitrary detention. Because the program is aimed at individuals and because the U.S. Treasury Department has interpreted serious human rights abuses to mean violence or arbitrary detention, Strayer said, the United States could not use the law to target an entire country over its abortion laws or prohibitions on same-sex marriage, and it almost certainly wouldnt target an individual proposing those laws. It really is focused on going after the most serious forms of human rights abuses and violence against individuals, she said. Had Grothman known that before he voted, he said, he would maybe have changed his vote, he said. We dont usually talk to lawyers before we take votes, added Grothman, who has a law degree from the University of Wisconsin. The seven other House members voting against the bill were Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Arizona; Dan Bishop, R-North Carolina; Lauren Boebert, R-Colorado; Matt Gaetz, R-Florida; Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Georgia; Thomas Massie, R-Kentucky; and Chip Roy, R-Texas. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The leader of the state veterans policy board is refusing to step down as he fights child pornography charges, creating another appointment headache for Gov. Tony Evers. Prosecutors in Milwaukee charged Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Board Chairman Curtis Schmitt Jr. on Jan. 23 with three felony counts of possession of child pornography. He has pleaded not guilty. According to a criminal complaint, investigators discovered two photos and a video of child pornography had been uploaded to a Dropbox account associated with Schmitt's email in December. Schmitt told police that he was addicted to adult pornography and sometimes received and downloaded child pornography. A judge last month bound him over for trial. He's due back in court Tuesday for a scheduling conference. The veterans board works with the WDVA secretary to shape benefit programs for Wisconsin veterans by adopting administrative rules. It also approves resolutions and recommendations from state veterans organizations. The nine members serve four-year terms with no pay. Evers appointed Schmitt to board in 2019. The state Senate confirmed Schmitt unanimously in October of that year. The governor's office said Thursday that administration officials sent Schmitt a letter the day after he was charged asking him to immediately resign "in the best interest" of the board. Schmitt and his representatives haven't responded to the letter as well as subsequent attempts to contact them, according to the administration. WDVA's website still listed him as board chairman as of Thursday. Since the Senate confirmed Schmitt, the governor can't simply rescind the appointment. According to state law, Evers could remove him for cause, defined as "inefficiency, neglect of duty, official misconduct or malfeasance in office." But to start that process a taxpayer would have to file a complaint against Schmitt and the governor would have to hold a hearing. Schmitt's attorney, Christopher Hartley, didn't respond to an email asking why Schmitt has decided to remain on the board. A home listing for Schmitt was disconnected Thursday. Sen. Eric Wimberger, chairman of the Senate veterans committee, didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment on the situation. Wimberger was elected in 2020, more than a year after Schmitt was confirmed. Schmitt's refusal to quit comes as Evers has been working to remove conservative Fred Prehn off the state Department of Natural Resources board because Prehn's term has expired. Former Republican Gov. Scott Walker appointed Prehn in 2015. His term ended in May 2020. Evers appointed Sandra Naas to replace him but Prehn has refused to step down, arguing he doesn't have to go until the Senate confirms Naas. The Republican-controlled body has made no moves toward a vote on her. As a result, conservatives maintain a majority on a key board that decides environmental and hunting regulations, much to the ire of Democrats and conservation organizations. Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has sued to force Prehn out. The state Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case earlier this month and could issue a ruling any time. With gasoline prices trending over US$4 per gallon nationwide, politicians are feeling the heat. In response, Maryland and Georgia have temporarily waived their state gasoline taxes to reduce the burden on consumers. Other states are considering similar actions, and some members of Congress have called for suspending the federal gas tax. The Conversation asked four experts whether gas tax waivers are an effective way to provide economic relief to U.S. households, and what other impacts these measures could have. Not a windfall Jay Zagorsky, Senior Lecturer in Markets, Public Policy and Law, Boston University As an economist who has studied gasoline prices, I doubt that waiving gas taxes will meaningfully lower prices at the pump. Russias invasion of Ukraine boosted gasoline prices dramatically, and politicians feel a need to show voters they are doing something. Cutting gas taxes makes great political theater, but as a few numbers show, it is an ineffective policy. According to the American Automobile Association, the average price of gasoline in Maryland just before the states gas tax holiday was $4.25 per gallon. Two days after the state stopped charging the gas tax, prices were $3.81. A 44-cent drop may look significant, but its not that simple. First, not all of that decrease happened because of eliminating the gas tax. Neither Delaware nor the District of Columbia, both of which border Maryland, had waived their gas taxes. However, over the same time period, Delaware gas prices declined by 19 cents per gallon and D.C. prices fell by almost 16 cents. These drops are partly due to falling oil prices. Florida, which is far from Maryland, saw a 16-cent drop per gallon over this same time period. The latest U.S. government statistics show that Maryland consumes 4.5 million gallons of gasoline per day. That sounds like a lot, but Maryland has 6 million people. That means the average person consumes about 22 gallons per month. Doing the math, we find that cutting gasoline prices by 44 cents per gallon saves the average person in Maryland about $10 monthly the price of an average cheese pizza. Less money to fix roads Theodore J. Kury, Director of Energy Studies, Public Utility Research Center, University of Florida Federal highway maintenance is primarily paid for with gas tax revenues that flow into the Highway Trust Fund. The federal levy of 18.4 cents per gallon, unchanged for almost 30 years, is a major component of these revenues, along with taxes on diesel fuel, gasohol, methanol, liquefied gases and compressed natural gas. The federal government collects roughly $37 billion to $38 billion per year in revenues from the gas tax. These revenues have remained fairly consistent over the past five years, even through the heart of the pandemic. Other highway-related fines and fees also go into the Highway Trust Fund, but their magnitude is comparatively small. In 2020, the latest year for which numbers are available, the federal government spent roughly $46 billion on highway projects. This figure does not include the subsidies that the federal government extends to state and local governments to reduce the cost of borrowing for highway projects. But if the government collected $38 billion in gas taxes, where did the other $8 billion come from? Since most politicians strongly resist raising gas taxes, even to pay for much-needed repairs, the government has turned to less transparent alternatives. Several times in the past decade, officials have shored up the balance in the Highway Trust Fund with intragovernmental transfers from other accounts. Most recently, the Fund received $10 billion this way in October 2020 and $90 billion in December 2021. That represents $100 billion that was not spent providing other services. If the Highway Trust Fund faces more shortfalls, program managers will either greenlight fewer infrastructure maintenance projects or transfer money from other programs. This would be the most likely outcome if Congress opts to suspend the federal gas tax. Ultimately, taxpayers pay for everything that the government does. Policymakers simply decide how and when that will happen. Americans drive far more today than they did 30 years ago, but highway construction funding hasnt kept up. Waivers only help drivers Erich J. Muehlegger, Associate Professor of Economics, University of California, Davis Research shows that for decades, lower-income households have spent a larger fraction of their budgets on gasoline than higher-income households. The growing transition to electric vehicles has contributed to this pattern because high-income households in the U.S. have been more likely to go electric and, as a result, pay less in gasoline taxes. This means that a gas tax holiday tends to benefit lower-income households relatively more than higher-income households but there are two important caveats. First, not everyone benefits from a gas tax holiday. The very poor who lack cars, urban households who rely on public transit, and the elderly, who tend to drive less, benefit less from a tax holiday because they consume less gasoline. A gas tax holiday can soften the blow of high gasoline prices for commuters, but it provides little direct benefit to households that do not drive. Second, even optimistic estimates suggest that gas tax holidays produce relatively modest savings for households. Thats because gasoline taxes are a small component of the price of gasoline in the U.S., especially relative to crude oil prices. Even if savings from a waiver of the 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax were entirely passed on to consumers, a typical motorist who drives 10,000 miles per year in a 20 miles-per-gallon Ford F-150 would see about $7.70 in savings per month from a federal gas tax holiday. Drivers of more fuel-efficient vehicles would save even less. Consider aid for heating and cooling Sanya Carley, Professor of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University Millions of Americans face material hardship on a daily basis, and energy costs are a primary contributor. A gas tax waiver could temporarily help relieve people who have to rely on gasoline for transportation and who live in energy poverty. Current gasoline price spikes are happening at an especially hard time for many households. The winter of 2021-2022 brought frigid temperatures in some regions of the country, and natural gas prices were high. In a recent study, colleagues and I found that 28% of all low-income households struggled to pay their energy bills this past winter, from November through January, and 38% carried debt on their utility accounts. Now, with higher gasoline prices, filling a 12-gallon tank can cost about $51, up from about $26 in 2020. That increase may prevent households with limited budgets from covering all of their expenses, including basic needs such as food and health care. Households with vulnerable members, such as small children or people with chronic health issues, are especially burdened by energy expenses than other groups. Temporary relief can be especially helpful for these consumers. But a gas tax holiday may not be the most effective way to deliver that relief, especially since these waivers are temporary. Direct assistance to households for food and energy spending, or investments in weatherizing homes to reduce their heating and cooling bills, could provide larger and more lasting benefits. [Youre smart and curious about the world. So are The Conversations authors and editors. You can read us daily by subscribing to our newsletter.] Erich Muehlegger receives funding from the National Science Foundation and has received funding from the State of California Public Transportation Account and the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (Senate Bill 1) via the University of California Institute of Transportation Studies. Sanya Carley receives funding from the National Science Foundation, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, and the Indiana University Office of the Vice president for Research. Theodore J. Kury is the Director of Energy Studies at the University of Floridas Public Utility Research Center, which is sponsored in part by the Florida electric and gas utilities and the Florida Public Service Commission, none of which has editorial control of any of the content the Center produces. Jay L. Zagorsky does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. PRAIRIE DU CHIEN My friend and I have an amicable argument going as to whether George Mallory and Andrew Irvine actually summited Mount Everest in their 1924 attempt. He has sent me articles that cite evidence that they may have reached the top and I counter with opinions from expert mountaineers that it is unlikely they succeeded. The verdict is still out, but to me, its more important that they tried. I have always been fascinated by mountain and wilderness adventures and what they tell us about the human spirit. I have read many books and watched many documentaries on the subject, some of which I have chronicled in this space. I have read Jon Krakauers Into Thin Air, which details a fatal 1996 expedition to the top of Everest. And I have watched Free Solo, which captures Alex Honnolds amazing climb of El Capitan at Yosemite National Park without the aid of a rope. The chances of finding me on the top of Everest or clinging to El Capitan are well short of winning the lottery and equally remote. I dont play the lottery. And I dont plan on climbing Everest. Yet, I have stood on the top of more accessible summits, places of stunning beauty that are within my physical and mental capabilities. Lets call them poor mans summits, not for their financial accessibility but for their availability to those of us with an aversion to falling to our deaths. As a child I stood atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River Valley. I went to visit the gravesite of Michael Brisbois, who, according to legend, asked to be buried there so he could look down upon Joseph Rolette [his business rival] in death as he did in life. The accuracy of this myth is suspect, but I like the sentiment it illustrates the value of a superior vantage point. One of my columns readers, originally from my hometown, asked that I guide him to the grave to recall his own childhood memories. He stood at the top of the bluff, took in the expansive view, and cried. Now I know why eagles linger in the updrafts above the bluffs. I have hiked the cliffs overlooking Lake Superior in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with my aforementioned friend. I have also stood at the top of a summit only about a 462-foot rise in the Grand Tetons overlooking Two Ocean Lake. When my wife and I reached the top, we celebrated the view with a newlywed couple. Perhaps they found in the view the excitement of their pending life together the mysteries looming over the horizon. Summits are equal parts achievement and perspective. Theres an indelible sense of accomplishment at having achieved a peak regardless of its height under your own means and without the aid of an elevator. And theres the remarkable perspective of holding the world in the palm of your hand held at arms length. On a recent trip to Sedona, Arizona, my family and I hiked to Devils Bridge, the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. Its only about a 400-foot ascent, but the trail follows a rugged path through the Sedona desert. Young people sprint the path without much effort. For older people like me with a hip that feels and sounds like my 1963 Corvair 4-speed missing a gear it takes a little more effort. We reached a plateau about 50 feet below the arch, where I stopped and looked at the steep rocky incline and decided to wait for the rest of my party to pick me up on the way back down. I sat down and looked up at that boulder-strewn staircase. I looked again. Against my better judgment, I ascended. I would not be denied that superior vantage point within my reach. Scores of people waited at the top for a chance to have their picture taken on the bridge. They took turns walking across the narrow arch hovering above the Sedona landscape as if they were waiting for a rollercoaster ride at Disney World. Except this ride stood still while their spirits soared. We need not summit Mount Everest or El Capitan to feel the exhilaration and beauty of the world. We only need to climb our own poor mans summits. Frydenlund lives in Prairie du Chien: epfrydenlund@gmail.com. A man is known by the company he keeps. The origin of that well-worn line is a fable by Aesop called, fittingly, The Ass and His Purchaser. As it goes, a man brings a new donkey home, and when he sees that it chooses to sidle up next to the laziest and greediest beast in the stable, the man tries to return the donkey, saying, I could see what sort of beast he is from the companion he chose for himself. The Bible is replete with similar riffs on this theme. Proverbs 13:20: Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Im personally partial to the words of the famed Oklahoma sage Garth Brooks, who said proudly, Ive got friends in low places. Well, if the new resident scholars of the American far-right are to be known by the company they keep, theyre not only associating with fools theyve got friends in the lowest of places. The Kremlin, to be exact. From Fox News personalities to members of the U.S. Congress, right-wing Russian apologists here in America are being cheerfully boosted by Vladimir Putins state TV, Russian agitprop Twitter accounts, Russian diplomats and even Moscow officials. It is a chilling sight to see. Fox News primetime star Tucker Carlsons clips are played regularly on Russian TV networks. In one, sounding an awful lot like Putin but with a St. Georges accent, he asks, Is Ukraine really a sovereign country? Back in February, Carlson called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a dictator, and hes argued that Putin whos senseless and criminal war has already killed at least a thousand Ukrainians and more than 7,000 of his own Russian troops isnt all that bad, really. Carlsons been such an effective Putin booster, in fact, that the regime reportedly distributed instructions to Russian media to use more of his clips. According to a document obtained by Mother Jones, outlets were reportedly told, It is essential to use as much as possible fragments of broadcasts of the popular Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who sharply criticises [sic] the actions of the United States [and] NATO, [and] their negative role in unleashing the conflict in Ukraine... Foxs light touch on Putin isnt limited to Carlson. Other hosts and guests have parroted Russian talking points either to slam President Biden or push baseless conspiracy theories. And all to Putins delight, presumably. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had nothing but kind words for Fox News, calling it the lone American media outlet trying to represent some alternative points of view. Russian state media has some other useful idiots here in America, too. Outlets there have been running clips of Madison Cawthorn, the Trump Youth congressman from North Carolina who bragged about his trip to the vacation house of the Fuhrer, in which he tells a townhall audience: Remember that Zelenskyy is a thug. Remember that the Ukrainian government is incredibly corrupt, and it is incredibly evil, and it has been pushing woke ideologies. Not to be left out, a cadre of right-wing women are vying for Putins affections too. Former Fox News castoff Lara Logan, who has the unenviable distinction of being condemned by the Auschwitz Memorial, has been boosted by Kremlin Twitter accounts for her utterly bizarre assertions that Ukrainian soldiers are mostly Nazis and occultists, among others. In what can only be described as a Muscovite fever dream, she also called Zelenskyy a puppet, insisted Russias invasion is going great, spread Russian propaganda about Ukrainian bioweapon labs, and sympathized with the suffering of wait for it Putins family during World War II. So, of course Russias deputy permanent representative to the UN Alexander Alimov tweeted out her interview. The Kremlin couldnt have scripted it better. Candace Owens, whos sad girls arent taught how to make their husbands a sandwich anymore, shared with her Twitter followers that Ukraine wasnt a thing until 1989. Ukraine is indeed older than Taylor Swift, but Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum was all of us when she retorted, Behold the face of pure ignorance. Owens also insists WE are at fault for Putins war of aggression in Ukraine, so just STOP talking about Russia and invade Canada instead. But it was her Russian Lives Matter tweet that got her a retweet from the Russian Embassy. She hasnt made the club yet, but Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., is working hard at it. Speaking from the House floor last week, the Jewish space laser aficionado regaled the crowd with a story about how Putin and Trump just want to get the bioweapons out of Ukraine. Her star turn on Russian TV is just one conspiracy theory away. When a ruthless Russian dictator is a big fan, youre definitely doing it wrong. Just imagine the ignominy of being Hitlers favorite cable news host, or Saddams favorite political analyst, or Pol Pots favorite pol. Imagine being used for propaganda thats helping to invade a sovereign nation and murder thousands of innocent people. Imagine being this wrong about the world. Cupp writes for Tribune Content Agency and is host of S.E. Cupp Unfiltered on CNN: secuppdailynews@yahoo.com. BURLEY A nearly 100-year-old Magic Valley oil company has sold to Parkland USA and joins a division of the company operating in Idaho. The acquisition of Lynch Energy Inc. strengths Parkland USA across the Pacific Northwest and complements its existing retail, wholesale and commercial business in Idaho. The deal with Lynch Energy included five Mr. Gas convenience stores, a rail storage terminal in Jerome, two car washes and two travel centers. The deal closed in December, Laura Varn, a Parkland USA vice president, said in an email to the Times-News. Lynch Energy is Parklands latest acquisition and is now a part of Conrad & Bischoff, Varn said. As part of the acquisition arrangement, the Lynch brothers are remaining with the company and we couldnt be more pleased, Varn said. Both Nick and Scott bring a wealth of expertise and local knowledge to the market. The cultures are very similar as well, focused on employees and excellent customer service. The brothers father, Jim Lynch Jr., retired, she said. So we are only about three months into the integration phase. We are getting to better know their employees and customers, and they are getting to know us and our systems and processes, Varn said. Nick, Scott and their (chief financial officer), Todd Murdock, are all on the Conrad & Bischoff leadership team, which provides a sense of how much we value them. Lynch family members did not respond to interview requests from the Times-News. Our company legacy has been the way our family, starting with my grandfather who started our business, has treated our employees and customers for the past 100 years, Jim Lynch Jr. wrote in a Parkland USA press release. Our culture is phenomenal, and we looked for a company that aligned with our values when we looked to sell. We found it in Parkland. Parklands values of product, delivery and family atmosphere, coupled with their ambitious growth opportunities, confirmed our legacy will not only continue but thrive in the future. Joseph Charles Lynch started Lynch Energy in 1923 when he moved out West to launch a home heating oil company called. J.C. Lynch & Sons, according to the Lynch Energy website. He drove an iconic delivery truck to serve customers throughout the Magic Valley. Joseph Lynchs son, James Lynch, served in the Navy during WWII and joined his fathers business afterward. James Lynch transformed the business into a wholesale gasoline and diesel supplier and added several car washes and convenience stores to the business in the 1960s and 70s. James Lynch Jr. became the third generation owner after he came to help his father grow the business after Jim Jr. earned a doctorate degree in economics from the University of Utah. Jim Jr. headed Lynch Energy in the 1980s and expanded the companys operations outside of the Magic Valley. Scott and Nick Lynch became the companys fourth generation of owners after they moved back to Idaho after college. This acquisition advances our strategy by strengthening our retail convenience network and supply advantage in a growing market where we already have a significant presence, said Doug Haugh, president of Parkland USA. We are excited to welcome the Lynch team to Parkland and look forward to growing our customer base and providing them with the quality products and exceptional service they expect. Parkland also operates in Canada, the Caribbean region, and the Americas. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 3 Sad 0 Angry 0 TWIN FALLS A Baptist pastor is running for the Idaho Senate. Paul Thompson has filed to run as Constitution Party candidate for District 25, which is mostly within Twin Falls city limits. He will face Republican Rep. Linda Wright Hartgen in the November general election. Originally from Colorado, Thompson has pastored in Idaho since the late 1990s, when he worked at a ministry in Fairfield. In 2001, Thompson moved to Twin Falls, where he leads the Eastside Baptist Church. He was a frequent contributor to the Faith Corner column in the Times-News for about 11 years. Thompson ran for state representative in 2020, gaining 26% of votes in a general election against incumbent Republican Rep. Lance Clow. If elected, Thompson said he would address family issues, try to reform the foster care and adoption system, secure parental rights regarding education, and push for property tax relief. In recent years Thompson has advocated his pro-life stance, and he asked City Council to sign a proclamation in opposition to abortion in 2021, and again in 2020. Individual members of the council have signed the symbolic proclamations, but have largely deferred to national and state laws in the matter. Thompson had previously pursued a city-wide ban on abortion when he presented and ordinance to the council in 2019. It did not pass. This week, Gov. Brad Little signed legislation effectively banning abortion after six weeks of gestation, but Thompson said he didnt think it went far enough, and he would continue to push for an outright ban on abortion. I think its a good step in the right direction, he said. I think the state has an obligation to defend life at all stages, not just at certain gestational stages. Thompson has also been a vocal opponent of LGBTQ+ rights. We have done a disservice in our state by giving marriage licenses to those that God doesnt ordain as male and female unions, he said. If elected, Thompson said he would push for Idaho to create its own definition of marriage, rather than accepting the definition provided from the federal government. Right now, the people of Idaho have not been given an opportunity to say what we believe family or marriage is, Thompson said. Weve been told this is what the Supreme Court says it is and so you have to abide by it. The Idaho Constitution says marriage between a man and a woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or recognized in this state, but the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled such language is in violation of the U.S. Constitution. Thompson favors school choice, and would work for legislation to allow school funding to follow students to private schools or other options. He said he didnt believe parents who chose homeschooling or private schools should have to pay for the public schooling they do not use. Property tax relief is another priority for Thompson, he said. Recent legislative discussions of a property tax exemption for homeowners are more of a tax shift than a tax reduction, Thompson said, and he would like to see tax relief in a broader way. That conversation obviously takes place on a regular basis, but it doesnt appear that we ever conclude a legislative session with real tax relief on the property taxes, Thompson said. This would be his first publicly elected position, but said his experience serving on boards and committees for various nonprofits has has given him experience negotiating, coming to conclusions and moving organizations forward through committee processes, and is very similar to how legislative bodies work. Another qualification, Thompson said, is he is a taxpayer, not a professional politician. Im a tax-paying, God-fearing, country-loving citizen, and I want the best for my people, Thompson said. Thompson garnered some national attention in 2010 when he was imprisoned in Haiti for three weeks with a church group under suspicion of kidnapping and trafficking children. The group said it was trying to provide relief to orphaned earthquake victims. They were released by authorities and returned to the U.S. Thompsons church has since created a refuge for Haitian girls. Love 7 Funny 3 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 1 BOISE The Idaho Senate on Thursday approved a bill that, if signed into law by Idaho Gov. Brad Little, will require major changes to the composition of Idahos judicial council and give the governor more authority over the judicial appointment process. The House quickly passed House Bill 782 after it was introduced last Wednesday, sending it to the Senate amid reported pressure from leadership. The Senate on Thursday voted 26-9 to approve the bill, which now moves to the governors desk. The bill expands the judicial council from seven to 11 members, including one district judge, one magistrate judge and four members of the Idaho State Bar. Instead of appointments from the Idaho State Bar, the Idaho Supreme Court would nominate members for appointment by the governor, with consent from the Idaho Senate which requires a vote by the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee, and then a full vote in the Senate. Non-attorney members would be selected the same way. The bill also prescribes the areas of law each attorney on the council would predominantly practice, including civil litigation and criminal prosecution. Proponents of the bill, including sponsor Sen. Abby Lee, R-Fruitland, say it will add transparency to the process because comments and feedback around nominees would become matters of public record. Opponents of the bill say the changes are unnecessary when Idaho already has a process that works well and produces high-quality nominees. Attorneys and former judges from across Idaho have also expressed concerns about making comments and feedback public, saying it could have a chilling effect on honest feedback about potential appointments, especially among attorneys whose future cases may end up in front of a nominee. Lee said on Thursday that Idaho has good judges and the bill was a policy decision, not a representation of any feelings about the independence of the states judiciary. Lee said the bill puts the councils process in line with the legislative process and how vacancies are filled when a legislator resigns or otherwise leaves office. And the expansion of the council members would increase diversity of thought, she said. I think its really important that we expand that and be able to have additional perspectives when were dealing with such weighty matters, Lee said. I think by expanding the members who are on the council, were also going to get great ambassadors. Were going to get people who will go out and help encourage others to submit their names for this office, and we will continue to encourage and support a great judiciary in the state of Idaho. Idaho Supreme Court says committee to study judicial issues will move forward The bill is not the only effort underway to evaluate whether Idahos judiciary needs a revamp or what that revamp should be. The Idaho Supreme Court says it will move forward with a special committee to examine issues around the judicial recruitment process and the council itself. Spokesman Nate Poppino said applications for the committee will be open soon. Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan sent a letter to Gov. Brad Little, Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder and Speaker of the House Scott Bedke at the end of February proposing a committee with all three branches of government to study issues of concern. Bevan cited the process that took place in the 1960s, when the judicial council was formed, saying it involved study, collaboration and public input. Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan was appointed to the Court in 2017 and assumed his leadership role on Jan. 1, 2021. The resulting constitutional amendments and statues that created the Idaho Judicial Council were recommendations from that committee, Bevan noted. We want to avoid piecemeal changes, which could inadvertently create unintended consequences on our recruitment and judicial selection process, he wrote, cautioning against rushed proposals. Bevan met with a lobbyist in early February to discuss a previous version of the bill, House Bill 600, and did not raise many concerns, according to an email exchange provided by Poppino. Bevan again stressed the committee as the best way to find solutions and included his full letter proposing the committee. That version of the bill did not change the number of council members or the Idaho State Bars role in selecting the members. If its not broke, we should not try to fix it, Boise senator says During debate, Sen. Julie VanOrden, R-Pingree, said she couldnt support the bill without more collaboration from the judiciary. Sen. Patti Anne Lodge, R-Huston, agreed, saying the judicial council has worked well for decades and she felt it was unfair that judicial salaries were included in the bill. Lodge has been married to former chief district judge Edward Lodge for more than 50 years. They are the third branch of government and should, at least, have the courtesy of having their salaries placed in a separate piece of legislation, Lodge said during debate. To tie those two together, to me, is disrespectful to our judiciary. We do have good judges in this state, and we have good judges because of this judicial council. Lodge also said requirements around the type of law attorneys must practice would eliminate many attorneys who operate as general practitioners and dont fit into specific categories. Sen. Grant Burgoyne, D-Boise, said he was once a candidate for judicial appointment himself and thought it was a transparent process. In the end, Burgoyne said he was confident the person who was selected was well qualified. I think this is a situation where, if it is not broke, we should not try to fix it, Burgoyne said. I absolutely do think that we should study it. This law was put into effect in 1967, and it is definitely time that we take a hard look at it, (but) I dont think this legislation is going to improve our judiciary. The bill now heads to Littles desk for a signature or veto. If he signs it, the act goes into effect on July 1, but current members of the council could finish their terms, according to the bill text. All subsequent appointments would be subject to the new requirements. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The speed cameras that were installed on Interstate 83 to help reduce crashes on one of Baltimores busiest thruways arent up to speed just yet, officials said. The city is still putting the pieces in place before activating the cameras and launching a 90-day grace period for drivers before issuing tickets, said Marly Cardona-Moz, spokeswoman for the Baltimore Department of Transportation. This includes installing signage, speed sensors and testing. Advertisement Two cameras will monitor drivers at various points along the roughly 8-mile stretch of the Jones Falls Expressway in Baltimore City. The installation of signage indicates we are getting closer to launch, and might contribute to speculation about the cameras being live, Cardona-Moz said in an email, adding but thats not true. Advertisement Traffic on I-83 whizzes by technicians installing a speed camera near 41st Street, south the Cold Spring Lane exits, in February. (Amy Davis/Amy Davis) The transportation department will issue a public notice at least 24 hours in advance of when the warning period starts, Cardona-Moz said. An accompanying media campaign should help inform motorists, she said. Significant public outreach will occur during and after the warning period to ensure that motorists are aware of the program, she said. In the meantime, drivers should begin slowing down. We have one billboard up encouraging drivers to do so. The cameras originally were slated to be activated last month, starting a 90-day warning period during which motorists caught exceeding the speed limit would get warning notices in the mail. The notice clearly states that, following the warning period, citations will be issued, Cardona-Moz said. This will give motorists the opportunity to modify their driving behavior. Breaking News Alerts As it happens Be informed of breaking news as it happens and notified about other don't-miss content with our free news alerts. > After the warning period, drivers who go 12 mph over the speed limit will get $40 citations in the mail for each violation, the city said. Speed limits on Baltimores I-83 vary from 40 mph to 55 mph as the roadway spills into downtown. Crash data in recent years show a quarter of vehicles drive at least 15 mph over the limit. The fastest car was clocked at 173 mph. Last year, Baltimores Board of Estimates approved a $6.6 million contract extension to pay for the first six months of the cameras deployment. While the goal is to get drivers to slow down, the cameras also will collect revenue. Funds will pay first for the cameras. The money then will be used to clean the road, remove graffiti and make repairs to the highway, and more. Advertisement The price of the cameras for the first six months is based on an estimate of 150,000 citations being issued per month. The city will reset how much it pays in monthly fees to vendor American Traffic Solutions based on the number of citations after six months. Officials expect citations to drop as people slow down because they know the cameras are in place. Baltimore Sun reporter Emily Opilo contributed to this article. The National Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day Act was passed by Congress in 2017 to recognize those who served in that ill-fated war. Because of the heated controversy about the war in the U.S., many service personnel came home to an indifferent, even-hostile reception. The 2017 Act was designed to demonstrate the belated thanks of the nation for their servicekind of a better-late-than-never gesture. In August 1969, when I was headed home from serving with a heavy artillery unit in Vietnams Tay Ninh Province, we were warned that there might be unfriendly war demonstrators present to meet our plane at Travis Air Force Base in California. There were a few folks there, but it was not a big deal. I did not encounter many folks who really wanted to talk about Vietnam when I got back to Idaho that September, but found it was best not to bring up the subject. My first job back in the States was working for Idahos former U.S. Senator Len Jordan. Our office was deluged with war protesters in 1970-1972 and it was my job to hear them out. There were lots of claims about U.S. troops being baby killers or worse, which resulted in some heated conversations. The U.S. concluded its withdrawal from Vietnam on March 29, 1973, which is why Congress chose to commemorate the Recognition Day on the 29th of March. Idaho independently recognizes the Day. It will be commemorated at Julius M. Kleiner Park in Meridian, starting at noon on March 29, and perhaps at other locations in Idaho. When Vietnam fell to the Communists on April 30, 1975, it broke my heart and it continues to gnaw at me today, as it does for so many others who served there. I think of the 58,220 Americans who died in the conflict, about 251 of whom had Idaho connections. On one day alone, January 31, 1968, during the Tet Offensive, 246 Americans died. Over 300,000 were wounded and many more have suffered from PTSD, drug or alcohol abuse, suicide or Agent Orange. Yet, it took years for the country to recognize the fact that so many faithfully served their country, regardless of whether they volunteered or were drafted. The recognition by Congress is appreciated, but what would have been so much more beneficial to the veterans would have been a recognition of the limits of our power. Recognizing the folly of getting involved in protracted wars without knowing what our objectives were or how to achieve them and at what cost. Had we heeded the lessons that were obvious from our disastrous Vietnam experience, we most certainly would have avoided the war of choice in Iraq. We would not have gotten mired down in Afghanistan for two decades. Recently, a regular reader of my columns asked, whats with Jim Jones constantly alluding to his Vietnam service? He obviously thought I was patting myself on the back by describing myself as a Vietnam combat veteran in the tagline of my columns. Most writers have descriptive information at the end of an opinion piece to let readers know who they are. As with every other veteran, my war experience was one of the most important formative influences of my entire life. It speaks to who we are and how we view the world. I wrote a book, titled, VietnamCant get you out of my mind. I could not separate myself from my Vietnam experience if I wanted to and I most certainly dont. Obituaries of veterans generally mention their service experience because it was often one of the most important things that occurred during their lifetime, for better or worse. All veterans, and their loved ones, are entitled, especially on Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day, to reflect on their service to their country. All of their fellow Americans can use the day to express appreciation for that service. Jim Jones is a Vietnam combat veteran who served eight years as Idaho attorney general (1983-1991) and 12 years as justice of the Idaho Supreme Court (2005-2017). He is currently a regular contributor to The Hill online news. He blogs at JJCommonTater. Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson confirmed on Thursday that his wife had an abortion before they were married, saying the couple made the decision together. In a video posted on Facebook, Robinson said the decision he and his wife made to terminate her pregnancy was the hardest decision we have ever made, and sadly, we made the wrong one. This decision has been with us ever since, Robinson said while sitting next to his wife, Yolanda Robinson, who did not speak in the video. Robinson, who is serving his first term as lieutenant governor after being elected in 2020, is known for his socially conservative stances, including opposition to abortion. The abortion took place in 1989, a year before he and his wife got married. Robinson mentioned it in a Facebook comment in August 2012. The comment surfaced this week after a screenshot of it was shared by an unnamed Twitter user. Im not saying abortion is wrong cause I said so its wrong cause God says so. Its wrong when others do it and it was wrong when I paid for it to be done to my unborn child in 1989, the comment, posted from Robinsons personal account, said. In the video Thursday, Robinson did not say what led he and his wife to end her pregnancy, or how far along her pregnancy was when they decided to have the abortion. Its because of this experience and our spiritual journey, that we are so adamantly pro-life, Robinson said. We know what its like to be in that situation, and we know the pain that an abortion causes. For everyone that has had this experience, and carries that burden, we want you to know, you are not alone. Robinsons staunch views against abortion As lieutenant governor and as a candidate, Robinson has repeatedly spoken out against abortion. In January 2021, soon after taking office, Robinson spoke at an annual anti-abortion rally organized by North Carolina Right to Life in downtown Raleigh. There is no greater mission on earth than standing up for the most defenseless among us, Robinson said at the time. We cannot say we believe in equality, we cannot say that Black lives matter or all lives matter or blue lives matter until we say unborn lives matter, because that is where it all starts. Earlier this month, Robinson was a keynote speaker at the Wake County GOP convention in Raleigh. Robinson said that in order for them to continue winning elections, Republicans would need to have a clear vision. As part of that, Robinson mentioned a future in which babies in the womb in North Carolina will be safe from the abortion clinics knives, and the safest place for an unborn child will be in his mothers womb. Thats a vision that we as Republicans have in this state, and hope to see one day in this state, Robinson said. Response from Democrats and Republicans Several Democrats, including Sen. Jay Chaudhuri and Rep. Julie von Haefen (both of whom represent Wake County in the legislature) said the recently surfaced Facebook comments from Robinson showed that everyone needs access to abortion, even the lieutenant governor. Rep. Deborah Ross, who represents Wake County in Congress, said on Twitter that Robinson supports a womans right to choose for somebut not for all. Ross, a first-term Democrat, voted in favor of the Womens Health Protection Act, a bill that would prohibit states from restricting access to abortion. The bill passed the U.S. House in September but stalled in the Senate in February when Democrats were unable to reach the 60-vote threshold to hold a vote on the legislation. We need to trust women to make their own healthcare decisionsnot politicians, Ross added in her tweet on Thursday. Former U.S. Rep. Mark Walker, a Republican and close ally of Robinsons who is running for an open U.S. Senate seat from North Carolina, expressed support for Robinson after the lieutenant governor addressed the abortion on Thursday. Lt. Gov., what others meant for harm, you allowed God to use for good, reminding us of Gods abundant grace, Walker said on Twitter. Your humility empowers people whove experienced brokenness, youve showed us that all life is precious. Couldnt be more proud of you and Yolanda. Chad Slotta, a former pastor from Cary and a Republican who is running in North Carolinas newly redrawn 13th Congressional District, also expressed support for Robinson. I didnt know Lt. Gov. Robinson 33 years ago, Slotta said in a tweet. But I know him now as a man of faith strong, sincere, and unafraid in his convictions. A future land bridge under study to connect the western and eastern parts of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia will cost $26 billion, reports say, citing the Gulf countrys minister of Transport and Logistics. The land bridge project is considered the most important project in Saudi Arabia, and it will be a quantum leap in the logistics sector after its completion. The final costs will include infrastructure and trains, Saleh Al Jasser indicated. We have been working with an international coalition led by a Chinese company and including national companies for two years, stated the minister. A complete project plan was drawn up, cost and locations were determined. It will include 7 logistic centers and raise the level of the existing road from Riyadh to the Eastern Province, he added. The project will take 5 to 7 years and the contract is expected to be signed within a year, Al Jasser reportedly told Rotana Khalejia in an interview. The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has signed a loan agreement with GCC Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) for 35 million dinars ($115 million), Zawya reports citing Kuwaiti state agency, KUNA. The purpose of the loan has been revealed however GCCIA is a joint stock exchange company subscribed by the six Gulf states. The Saudi Arabia-based company aims to become a global hub in grid interconnections focusing on innovation, sustainability and creating a dynamic electricity market for the region and beyond. Kuwait Fund is Kuwaits agency for the provision and administration of financial and technical assistance to developing countries. It extends loans on concessionary terms to finance development projects in the developing countries. The Court of Justice of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) on Thursday ordered the suspension of sanctions taken in January against Mali because of the militarys transgression of their commitment to a return to civilian rule soon. The Court of Justice of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), seized by the lawyers of the Malian State, ordered the suspension of execution of the sanctions decided on January 9 by the heads of state and government of the member countries of this organization. This decision was handed down on the eve of the summit of another regional organization, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), devoted to Mali. It is a rare success for the junta in dealing with regional organizations, but adds an unknown to the ongoing diplomatic confrontation. ECOWAS has invited Colonel Goita to take part in the summit. But Colonel Maiga will not be able to participate, says a letter from the Malian Foreign Affairs. He expresses however his availability to interact with West African leaders by video conference, says the letter sent to ECOWAS. Mali will send a delegation of four ministers, including the head of diplomacy Abdoulaye Diop. The Ethiopian government declared an indefinite humanitarian truce in its conflict with rebels in Tigray on Thursday, to allow the free flow of humanitarian aid to those in need of assistance in this far northern region of the country, threatened by famine. The truce is effective immediately, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmeds government said in a statement, explaining its decision by the need to take extraordinary measures to save lives. However, the commitment made by the government of Ethiopia can only have the desired effect () if the other party does the same, it continued, calling on the tiger rebels to refrain from any further acts of aggression and to withdraw from the areas they occupy in the neighboring regions of Tigray. There was no immediate reaction from the Tigrayan rebels to the announcement. Pro-government forces and Tigrayan rebels have clashed in northern Ethiopia since November 2020, when Abiy Ahmed, who won the Nobel Peace Prize the previous year, sent the federal army to dislodge the authorities in the region, which was then governed by the Tigrayan Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), which had been contesting its authority for months. In Tigray, the WFP estimated in January that 4.6 million people, or 83 percent of the regions estimated six million inhabitants, were food insecure, while two million suffered from extreme food shortages. Since mid-February, humanitarian operations in Tigray where more than 400,000 people have been displaced by the conflict have been virtually halted by fuel and cash shortages, according to the UN. No aid convoys have been able to enter Tigray since Dec. 15 because of fighting in the Afar region, which prevents their passage on the only operational land route between Semera, the capital of Afar, and Mekele, the capital of Tigray. The UN has long denounced a de facto humanitarian blockade of Tigray, for which the government and the rebels have blamed each other. Eight investment agreements in the automotive sector were signed, Thursday in Rabat. Worth 1.7 billion dirhams, the deals will create 12,000 jobs. Initialed by the Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, and international automotive suppliers Yazaki, Sumitomo, Lear, Stahlschmidt and TE Connectivity, these agreements are part of the development of deep integration and upscale wiring ecosystem. The agreements cover, in particular, the sourcing of connectors, terminals, cables for electric vehicles, plastic parts, and other precision engineering and automation activities. Three agreements were signed with the Yazaki Group for the establishment of a production plant of automotive wiring in Meknes and the extension of its units in Kenitra and Tangier, totaling an investment of 751 million dirhams (6,300 jobs). The agreement with the Sumitomo Group concerns the extension of its production unit of electrical harnesses in Casablanca for an investment of 146 million dirhams (2,000 jobs). Two agreements signed with the Lear Group involve the establishment of two plants, one in Tangier and another in Meknes, for a total amount of 346 million dirhams (2,162 jobs). The two remaining agreements provide for the construction of a molding and assembly of connectors plant by TE Connectivity in Tangier (MAD 202 Mln) and of a Bowden cable plant by Stahlschmidt in Tangier (MAD 107 Mln). Speaking at the signing of these agreements, Mezzour said these projects are a strong indicator of the attractiveness and resilience of the Moroccan automotive platform which has managed, despite the difficult global context, to maintain its competitiveness and to retain the world leaders in the sector. The automotive ecosystem is Moroccos leading exporting sector with $8.6 billion in 2021, that is a 16% increase compared to 2020. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has signed a memorandum of understanding with the African Development Bank (AfDB) on a project to support the development of the pharmaceutical industry in the region. The signing ceremony, which took in Abuja, was attended by representatives of both institutions, said Thursday ECOWAS in a statement. On this occasion, Lamin Barrow, Director General of the AfDB Country Office for Nigeria, said the agreement covers the provision of a $3.56 million grant to support the West African pharmaceutical industry, the statement continued. Barrow said the bank has been a key partner of the ECOWAS Commission, providing financial and technical assistance to member states to support the implementation of the ECOWAS regional integration agenda. He noted that the banks active portfolio in West Africa consists of 350 projects with a total commitment worth $15.5 billion. Highlighting the importance of the agreement, he said that this intervention aims to reduce the heavy dependence on imported pharmaceuticals from Southeast Asia, which account for about 70%, and local production of vaccines representing about 1% of domestic demand. While reaffirming the banks continued support to ECOWAS, he urged the West African Health Organization (WAHO), as the implementing agency for the grant, to ensure judicious use of the fund to build a resilient health system in the region. For his part, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Industry and the Private Sector, Mamadou Traore, voiced appreciation for the cooperation between the AfDB and the various ECOWAS institutions, saying the signing of the new agreement will strengthen the solid relationship between the two institutions, especially for the development of the automotive and pharmaceutical industries in the region. Credit: CC0 Public Domain In mid-December, a woman in her early 40s with severe abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss was referred to a gastroenterologist at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. The specialist said she would have to wait two and a half months for an appointment. Then she learned she'd have to wait another two and a half months for an MRI scan of her intestines. And four months for a colonoscopy. The news was frustrating but not a shock the county hospital system had recently kept her waiting two years for a mammogram, she said. Her experience mirrors those of thousands of other patients who for years have faced delays to see specialists at Los Angeles' county-run hospitalswaits that have cost some patients their lives. After a scathing report earlier this month accused the county's publicly run health insurance plan, L.A. Care, of failing to adequately monitor waits for appointments at the county's hospitals, local lawmakers are demanding action, including an independent review. "The safety, health and protection of the residents who rely on L.A. Care shouldn't be jeopardized," said Holly Mitchell, chairwoman of the county Board of Supervisors, which is ultimately responsible for the care patients receive at the safety-net hospitals. Mitchell, who is also on the Board of Governors for L.A. Care, said the panel agreed with her suggestion to "immediately hire" outside consultants to determine why the problems occur and how they can be prevented. An L.A. Care spokesman could not immediately confirm details. Supervisor Hilda Solis, whose district includes County-USC in Boyle Heights, said she would ask county health officials, and the county counsel, to address the issue. And she said she's working with the hospitals to "enhance their abilities to recruit and retain more providers, to help address workforce shortages" that can create delays. "My heart breaks when I hear stories of county residents not being able to access essential health services when they need it," Solis wrote in an email. She acknowledged obstacles faced by county hospitals, including the pandemic, but said, "it ultimately does not matter. Our residents need to be able to access quality care whenever and wherever they need it." Advocates for the poor, though, accused leaders of the L.A. County Department of Health Services, which runs the county's hospitals, of acting too slowly on a crisis that has plagued patients for years. "These kind of delays are unacceptable, and the fact that they continue to go on says that LA County DHS has not taken seriously the need to address (them)," said Beth Capell, a policy advocate with Health Access California who helped push for a state regulation that requires health insurers to provide specialist appointments for their enrollees within 15 business days. The time limit, which went into effect more than a decade ago, appears to have been openly ignored by county health officials for years. While those officials place much of the recent blame for long waits on the pandemic and staff shortages, patients at county-run hospitals, including County-USC in Boyle Heights, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance and Olive View-UCLA Medical Center in Sylmar, have long endured agonizing, sometimes deadly delays. In 2020, a Times investigation found the average wait for patients to see specialists after a request from a primary care provider was nearly three months. Even patients waiting to see specialists whose prompt care can mean the difference between life and deathneurologists, kidney specialists, cardiologistsroutinely fell victim to delays that stretched for months, according to a Times data analysis of more than 860,000 requests for specialty care from 2016 through 2019. Spurred by The Times' investigation, state regulators began looking at failures in the county's health safety-net system. Among other things, their report accused L.A. Care of failing to track how long it takes to get appointments with specialists at the county hospitals, which treat more than 2 million of the region's poorest and most vulnerable residents. That failure, and allegations of the hospital system's poor communication with patients about the reasons for delays and denials for specialty care, contributed to regulators levying historic fines totaling $55 million against L.A. Care this month. Regulators found that L.A. Care does not take into account the date on which a primary care provider first requests a specialist for their patient. More than 300,000 L.A. Care enrollees get care at county hospitals, according to the health plan. "Without proper tracking," the regulators wrote, it's impossible to monitor whether patients are getting "timely access." Coral Itzcalli, a spokeswoman for the county hospital system, said the health plan did not ask for data on wait times. Regulators also said documents they reviewed during the course of their investigation suggest the health services department's internal messaging system, eConsult, doesn't provide patients timely decisions on access to care, doesn't provide them notification of the reasons for denying care and doesn't give them the opportunity to file grievances and request hearingsall required by state law. Itzcalli pointed to the regulators' use of the word "suggests" and argued the "judicious phrasing only proves that they are unsure what the documents actually say and, more importantly, are unsure how eConsult actually works." Instead of filling out a paper referral, the county's primary care doctors use eConsult, a system much like email, to confer with specialists about their patient's condition and to set up a face-to-face appointment. County health officials credit the system with helping primary care doctors get quick advice and reducing the number of face-to-face appointments with specialistswho are in short supply across the U.S., but particularly in health systems that cater to the poor. But in interviews with The Times, some county primary care doctors and nurses complained that eConsult seems designed to prevent and delay specialist appointments and circumvent the state-mandated time limits. In their formal accusation this month, state investigators echoed that concern. They said documents they reviewed suggest, "there are no built-in timeframes for the various stages of the eConsult process" and no notification for the patients of the status of an appointment request. The regulators also noted that the health services department instructs doctors using eConsult, "Do NOT tell your patient they are getting a 'referral,'" an instruction some county doctors interviewed by the Times believe is designed to prevent the clock from starting on the time limit. "That is not the reason for the instruction," Itzcalli wrote in an email to The Times. "It is because eConsult is not a referral system." It's a "communication and collaboration platform," she said. For The Times' 2020 story on the long delays, county heath officials made a similar argument, that they simply don't do referrals. Instead, they allow doctors to determine the best timing for an appointment based on the patient's medical needsnot "some bureaucratic regulation," as one high-ranking county medical officer put it. Because the 15-day limit applies to insurers and not doctors and hospitals directly, they said they viewed it as "guidance" as opposed to a hard-and-fast rule. "We don't see the state regulation as our goal or our target," Dr. Christina Ghaly, the county Department of Health Services director, told reporters at the time. In emails following the imposition of the fines earlier this month, Itzcalli said county officials are working with the health plan to improve tracking requests for specialty care and notifying patients. A spokesman for L.A. Care said the plan intends to contest the $55 million in fines, which are the biggest such penalties in state history. The previous record was $10 million. Since much of L.A. Care's funding comes from the state, the fines would amount to returning a chunk of the money. A spokeswoman for the California Department of Managed Health Care, one of the two regulatory agencies that fined L.A. Care, said the first $1 million in fines her department collects each year goes to repay student loans for doctors who agree to work in rural areas. The rest goes to support Medi-Cal, the state program that provides health insurance for the poor. While state regulators and county officials debate the definition of "referral" and argue over potentially enormous sums of taxpayer dollars, many patients depending on the county system are left waiting. The woman who recently waited two years for a mammogram and is still waiting for an MRI asked that her name not be used because she's revealing sensitive health information. In February she wrote to county supervisorswho are ultimately in charge of the safety-net hospital systemreminding them that "care delayed is care denied" and begging them to do something to relieve the suffering of millions of "vulnerable patients." "The county isn't taking any action to improve these things," she told a reporter. "It doesn't seem like anyone on the Board of Supervisors is offering a meaningful response." Explore further Electronic system lowers wait times for access to specialists 2022 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. RZESZOW, Poland President Joe Biden visited U.S. troops stationed near Polands border with Ukraine on Friday and was getting a first hand look at the growing humanitarian response to the millions of Ukrainians who are fleeing to Poland to escape Russias assault on their homeland. Bidens first stop was with members of the U.S. Armys 82nd Airborne Division, visiting a barber shop and dining facility set up for the troops, where he invited himself to sit down and share some pizza. The Americans are serving alongside Polish troops. Advertisement He arrived Friday afternoon at the airport in Rzeszow, the largest city in southeastern Poland, where some U.S. troops are based. With the troops, he shared an anecdote about visiting his late son, Beau Biden, while he was deployed in Baghdad and going by his mothers maiden name so as not to draw attention to himself. The president jokingly razzed one service member about his standard-issue short haircut and seriously praised the troops, too. Advertisement You are the finest fighting force in the world and thats not hyperbole, Biden said before sitting down on a folding chair to eat with the group. President Joe Biden visits with members of the 82nd Airborne Division at the G2A Arena, March 25, 2022, in Jasionka, Poland. (Evan Vucci/AP) He later addressed a group of soldiers in more formal remarks, telling them the nation owes you big. Biden also borrowed the words of the late Secretary of State Madeline Albright to underscore their place in a fragile moment for the U.S. and its European allies. The secretary of state used to have an expression. She said, We are the essential nation, Biden told the troops. I dont want to sound philosophical here, but you are in midst of a fight between democracy and an an oligarch. He will be in Warsaw on Saturday for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and others. The Polish leader was to welcome Biden at the airport on Friday, but his plane was delayed by a technical problem. The European Union says some 3.5 million Ukrainians half of them children have fled the country, with more than 2.2 million ending up in Poland. The U.S. Congress this month approved spending more than $13 billion on humanitarian and military assistance for Ukraine. The administration has begun allocating those funds. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden will hear directly from the American troops and humanitarian experts about the situation on the ground and what further steps need to be taken to make sure that were investing U.S. dollars in the right place. Biden, who spent Thursday lobbying U.S. allies to stay united against Russia, speculated that what he sees in Poland will reinforce my commitment to have the United States make sure we are a major piece of dealing with the relocation of all those folks, as well as humanitarian assistance needed both inside Ukraine and outside Ukraine. Advertisement Speaking in Brussels after meetings with other world leaders, Biden said he had visited many war zones and refugee camps during his political career and its devastating to see young children without parents or men and women with blank looks on their faces wondering, My God, where am I? Whats going to happen to me? He said Poland, Romania and Germany shouldnt be left on their own to deal with the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. This is an international responsibility, Biden said shortly after he announced $1 billion in additional assistance to help Ukrainian refugees. He also announced that the United States would take in up to 100,000 of those refugees. The White House has said most Ukrainian refugees eventually want to return home. Biden said the United States is obligated to be engaged and do all we can to ease the suffering and pain of innocent women and children and men who make it across the border. He said, I plan on attempting to see those folks ... I hope I get to see a lot of people. Breaking News Alerts As it happens Be informed of breaking news as it happens and notified about other don't-miss content with our free news alerts. > Some refugees interviewed Friday at the train station in Przemysl, Poland, said they hoped to eventually return to Ukraine. They also werent very hopeful about Bidens visit. Advertisement For sure I do not have any expectations about Biden, said a tearful Ira Satula, 32, from Kremenchug. Satula was grateful for all the support and Polands warm reception. But home is home, and I hope well be there soon, Satula said. Olga Antonovna, 68, from Chernigov, said its really 50-50 that Biden will help enough. I think that we needed help a long time ago, long before, she said. Sullivan said Biden will give a speech Saturday on the stakes of this moment, the urgency of the challenge that lies ahead, what the conflict in Ukraine means for the world. Superville reported from Washington. Associated Press video journalist Srdjan Nedeljkovic in Przemysl, Poland, contributed to this report. The amygdala (in red) grows too rapidly in babies (6-12 months) who later develop autism as toddlers. Credit: CIDD at UNC-CH The amygdala is a small structure deep in the brain important for interpreting the social and emotional meaning of sensory inputfrom recognizing emotion in faces to interpreting fearful images that inform us about potential dangers in our surroundings. Historically the amygdala has been thought to play a prominent role in the difficulties with social behavior that are central to autism. Researchers have long known the amygdala is abnormally large in school-age children with autism, but it was unknown precisely when that enlargement occurs. Now, for the first time, researchers from the Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS) Network, used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to demonstrate that the amygdala grows too rapidly in infancy. Overgrowth begins between six and 12 months of age, prior to the age when the hallmark behaviors of autism fully emerge, enabling the earliest diagnosis of this condition. Increased growth of the amygdala in infants who were later diagnosed with autism differed markedly from brain-growth patterns in babies with another neurodevelopmental disorder, fragile X syndrome, where no differences in amygdala growth were observed. Published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, the official journal of the American Psychiatric Association, this research demonstrated that infants with fragile X syndrome already exhibit cognitive delays at six months of age, whereas infants who will later be diagnosed with autism do not show any deficits in cognitive ability at six months of age, but have a gradual decline in cognitive ability between six and 24 months of age, the age when they were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in this study. Babies who go on to develop autism show no difference in the size of their amygdala at six months. However, their amygdala begins growing faster than other babies (including those with fragile X syndrome and those who do not develop autism), between six and 12 months of age, and is significantly enlarged by 12 months. This amygdala enlargement continues through 24 months, an age when behaviors are often sufficiently evident to warrant a diagnosis of autism. "We also found that the rate of amygdala overgrowth in the first year is linked to the child's social deficits at age two," said first author Mark Shen, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at UNC Chapel Hill and faculty of the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities (CIDD). "The faster the amygdala grew in infancy, the more social difficulties the child showed when diagnosed with autism a year later." This researchthe first to document amygdala overgrowth before symptoms of autism appearwas conducted through The Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS) Network, a consortium of 10 universities in the United States and Canada funded through a National Sleeping baby prior to MRI. Credit: CIDD at UNC-CH The researchers enrolled a total of 408 infants, including 58 infants at increased likelihood of developing autism (due to having an older sibling with autism) who were later diagnosed with autism, 212 infants at increased likelihood of autism but who did not develop autism, 109 typically developing controls, and 29 infants with fragile X syndrome. More than 1,000 MRI scans were obtained during natural sleep at six, 12, and 24 months of age. So, what might be happening in the brains of these children to trigger this overgrowth and then the later development of autism? Scientists are starting to fit the pieces of that puzzle together. Earlier studies by the IBIS team and others have revealed that while the social deficits that are a hallmark of autism are not present at six months of age, infants who go on to develop autism have problems as babies with how they attend to visual stimuli in their surroundings. The authors hypothesize that these early problems with processing visual and sensory information may place increased stress on the amygdala, leading to overgrowth of the amygdala. Amygdala overgrowth has been linked to chronic stress in studies of other psychiatric conditions (e.g., depression and anxiety) and may provide a clue to understanding this observation in infants who later develop autism. Senior author Joseph Piven, MD, Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill added, "Our research suggests an optimal time to start interventions and support children who are at highest likelihood of developing autism may be during the first year of life. The focus of a pre-symptomatic intervention might be to improve visual and other sensory processing in babies before social symptoms even appear." Explore further Amygdala changes in autistic individuals linked to anxiety More information: Mark D. Shen et al, Subcortical Brain Development in Autism and Fragile X Syndrome: Evidence for Dynamic, Age- and Disorder-Specific Trajectories in Infancy, American Journal of Psychiatry (2022). Journal information: American Journal of Psychiatry Mark D. Shen et al, Subcortical Brain Development in Autism and Fragile X Syndrome: Evidence for Dynamic, Age- and Disorder-Specific Trajectories in Infancy,(2022). DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.21090896 While the patients interacted with the virtual objects, their brains were stimulated via electrodes on the scalp. Credit: MPI CBS Persistent paralysis and coordination problems are among the most common consequences of a stroke. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in Leipzig, the University Medical Center Halle, and the Charite -Universitatsmedizin in Berlin have discovered that brain stimulation helps. Direct current, applied via electrodes attached to the head, led to significant improvement of patients' impaired movements. In addition to showing pronounced effects after a single application, the study suggests that the therapy may need to be individually tailored to specific patients for optimal benefit. Arm paralysis is one of the most common consequences of brain damage, for example, after a stroke. Those affected are often unable to use their arm at all or only to a very limited extent. The deficits are based on pronounced changes in both the physiology and structure of the brain. These changes result first from the direct damage caused by the stroke itself, but also extend to other regions due to how the brain is organized. "The basis of these changes are both reparative brain processes and behavioral patterns of everyday activities after the stroke. With the help of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), one can influence these changes in the brain. The currents penetrate the brain tissue, where they have a local excitatory or inhibitory effect," explains Bernhard Sehm, research group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in Leipzig and senior physician at the University Clinic and Polyclinic for Neurology at the University Medical Centre Halle. He and Toni Muffel of the Charite in Berlin investigated how this method impacts the rehabilitation of stroke patients and recently published their results in the journal Brain Stimulation. "Our study involved 24 patients who were very limited in their mobility due to the stroke. In the lab we have a robotic system that can be individually adapted to each patient, a kind of exoskeleton that enables them to move their paralyzed arm and perform tasks in a virtual environment," explains Muffel, first author of the study. While the patients interacted with the virtual objects, their brains were stimulated via electrodes on the scalp. "In parallel, we measured how well, or how poorly, the brain stimulation helped the participants to perform the tasks." A robotic system that can be individually adapted to each patient, a kind of exoskeleton, enables them to move their paralysed arm. Credit: MPI CBS The results? Brain stimulation had a clear impact on the brain areas affected by the stroke. "Our robotic system allows us to measure various motor functions simultaneously and thus gain a comprehensive picture of the stimulation effects. The data show that sensorimotor functions of the paralyzed arm are clearly influenced by tDCS," explains Bernhard Sehm. "However, we could not identify a uniform beneficial pattern across different patients. Instead, the changes in the brain areas varied depending on the task and the electrode placement. This means that in the future, patients will need to be closely examined before brain stimulation treatment in order to develop a targeted and individualized approach to their deficits. This simple but promising method of brain stimulation will then have a future in patient care," concludes Bernhard Sehm. Explore further Electrical brain stimulation used to treat stroke patients with aphasia More information: Toni Muffel et al, Differential effects of anodal and dual tDCS on sensorimotor functions in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients, Brain Stimulation (2022). Toni Muffel et al, Differential effects of anodal and dual tDCS on sensorimotor functions in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.02.013 A worker takes a swab from a passenger for a COVID-19 test at the Guangzhou train station on Friday, March 25, 2022, in southern China's Guangzhou province. China continues to battle its worst COVID-19 outbreak, driven by the omicron variant, with officials on Friday calling the situation "severe and complex." Credit: AP Photo/Ng Han Guan China continues to battle its worst COVID-19 outbreak, driven by the omicron variant, with health officials on Friday calling the situation "severe and complex." The country has counted more than 56,000 cases since March 1, according to national health officials, who gave a press briefing Friday. More than half of those cases have been recorded in northeastern Jilin province and include asymptomatic cases as well. The numbers do not include Hong Kong, which tracks its COVID-19 data separately. China continues striving to "achieve dynamic zero-COVID in the short term, as it is still the most economical and most effective prevention strategy against COVID-19," said Wu Zunyou, an infectious disease expert at China's Center for Disease Control. "Only by doing dynamic zero-COVID can we eliminate the hidden dangers of the epidemic, avoid the run on medical resources that may be caused by large-scale infections and prevent a large number of possible deaths of the elderly or those with underlying diseases," Wu added. The "zero-COVID" strategy relies on lockdowns and mass testing, with close contacts often being quarantined at home or in a central government facility. The strategy focuses on eradicating community transmission of the virus as quickly as possible, sometimes by locking down entire cities. A woman reacts to having a sample taken for a COVID-19 test at the Guangzhou train station on Friday, March 25, 2022, in southern China's Guangzhou province. China continues to battle its worst COVID-19 outbreak, driven by the omicron variant, with officials on Friday calling the situation "severe and complex." Credit: AP Photo/Ng Han Guan Last week, Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged the toll of the stringent measures, saying China should seek "maximum effect" with "minimum cost" in controlling the virus. Since then, officials have emphasized that they will ensure their approach and restrictions are targeted. For example, authorities adjusted mass testing measures so they don't involve entire cities and are targeted instead at specific neighborhoods or areas, in line with where the virus turns up, Jiao Yahui, a senior official with the National Health Commission, said at a press briefing Tuesday. Health officials are especially concerned about people aged 60 and older and spent much of Friday's press briefing urging people to get vaccinated. National data released last week showed that over 52 million people aged 60 and older have yet to be vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine. I man has a swab sample taken for a COVID-19 test at the Guangzhou train station on Friday, March 25, 2022, in southern China's Guangzhou province. China continues to battle its worst COVID-19 outbreak, driven by the omicron variant, with officials on Friday calling the situation "severe and complex." Credit: AP Photo/Ng Han Guan Booster rates are also low, with only 56.4% of people between 60-69 having received a booster shot, and 48.4% of people between 70-79 having received one. The situation in Hong Kong has highlighted the importance of vaccinating the elderly people. The daily death toll in the semi-autonomous region remains above 200, according to Wu, the CDC official. A vast majority of Hong Kong's COVID-19 deaths have been among those who are not fully vaccinated, with many in the elderly population. The city reported 10,401 new cases Friday, continuing a downward trend, although social distancing measures have yet to be rolled back. The city has recorded over 1 million cases in the latest surge. Explore further China reports first COVID-19 deaths in more than a year 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. For patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colonoscopy within three years prior to colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis is associated with early tumor stage at diagnosis, according to a study published online Feb. 27 in Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology. Hyun-seok Kim, M.D., M.P.H., from the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, and colleagues conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with confirmed CRC within a cohort of 77,824 IBD patients in the National Veterans Health Administration during 2000 to 2015. The association between colonoscopy surveillance intervals and CRC stage, treatment, and all-cause and cancer-specific mortality was examined. The interval between colonoscopy and CRC diagnosis was classified as within less than one year, one to three years, three to five years, or none within five years. The researchers found that of the 566 patients with CRC, 69.4 percent did not have colonoscopy within five years prior to CRC diagnosis, while 9.7, 17.7, and 3.1 percent had colonoscopy within one, one to three, and three to five years, respectively. Those with colonoscopy within one year and one to three years were less likely to be diagnosed at later stage compared to those with no surveillance (adjusted odds ratios, 0.40 and 0.56, respectively). Colonoscopy within one year was associated with lower all-cause mortality, regardless of IBD type and duration (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.56). "Our findings support the use of surveillance colonoscopy to improve CRC outcomes in IBD patients to reduce late-stage CRC and all-cause mortality," the authors write. Several authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry. Explore further Adding surveillance to FIT screening cuts CRC mortality Copyright 2021 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Buprenorphine. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain States, cities, counties and tribal governments across the nation will soon receive a windfall through several major opioid settlements. Drug distributors and manufacturers, including Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family members who own it, will relinquish a total of about US$32 billion for their role in the overdose crisis. Other litigation could yield more funds. I am a sociologist who studies how the overdose crisis affects patient care. My research shows why these funds cannot come quickly enough for the communities poised to receive them. Opioid overdoses soared 28.5% to a record high of 100,306 in the 12 months ending in April 2021according to the most recent data available. But, two decades after this crisis began, only 6.5% of Americans with substance use disorders receive any kind of treatment. And only 30% of those who get help receive medications that are effective at treating opioid use disorders. In my view, money spent increasing access to methadone and buprenorphine, drugs backed with strong evidence, would significantly narrow this treatment gap. More treatment funding The settlements could help because they recommend that at least some of those billions fund treatment. However, state legislatures will ultimately decide where most of this money goes. If settlements lead to a significant increase in treatment, it would mark an improvement over what happened to the Big Tobacco settlements reached in 1998. Most of the funds from those deals that were supposed to support smoking cessation and prevention have instead padded state budgets and funded unrelated projects. Three drugs are prescribed for opioid use disorder Ensuring that the settlement funds support what they're supposed to pay for is only one hurdle. A separate challenge is defining what counts as treatmentincluding who can provide it. The field is vast and varied. Treatment can come in a pill or consist of talk therapy. It can require a residential rehab stint or outpatient programs. Anyone from physicians to peers can provide this care, and it's hard to determine what will work for a specific person. While no approach works for everyone, clear evidence suggests that more people should have access to medications for opioid use disorder. It might seem strange that the best treatment for people hooked on drugs is another drug. However, providing methadone and buprenorphine isn't just substituting one drug for another. These medications interrupt chaotic drug use and remove the highs and lows of addiction. They regulate the body just as antidepressants or insulin do. The FDA has approved three drugs: methadone, a solution taken by mouth dispensed in specialized clinics; buprenorphine, a tablet or film taken in doctors' offices; and naltrexone, a pill or injection physicians may administer. Their costs vary. Buprenorphine and methadone, which reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms, cost an average $6,250 per year. Naltrexone, which blocks the feelings of euphoria opioids create, costs about $14,000 annually. These costs include related services like office visits and counseling. People treated for opioid use disorder take these drugs for a year or longer. A study found that patients on methadone or buprenorphine were significantly less likely to die by overdose than patients who didn't take them. Methadone was associated with a 53% reduction in overdose risk, and buprenorphine was associated with a 37% decline. In contrast, people who took naltrexone were just as likely to overdose as those taking no medication. More research is needed to determine whether naltrexone makes a difference. Evidence for detox and inpatient programs Research suggests that residential programs, which can cost as much as $60,000 for 90 days of inpatient rehab, and other nonmedical approaches are less effective at treating opioid use disorder than drugs. A study that reviewed different kinds of treatments found that patients who got detoxification or intensive behavioral health therapy were as likely to overdose or need acute care as those who received no treatment at all. Sadly, some people enrolled inpatient, abstinence-based programs may even experience harm, because someone with an opioid use disorder is vulnerable to relapse right after treatment ends. Since abstaining from drugs altogether lowers tolerance, taking the the same amount of a substance as before rehab increases overdose risks. Cost isn't the only obstacle If medication works well for treating opioid use disorders, why is it so hard for people who need help to get these drugs? I see four main barriers. First, federal laws tightly restrict distribution. Methadone, used to treat opioid use disorders in the U.S. since 1972, can be provided only in federally certified opioid treatment programs, and physicians who prescribe it must register annually with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Patients getting methadone must attend counseling and visit a clinic daily to receive a single dose. People on methadone call it "liquid handcuffs" because of the strict rules they must follow to get it. Some restrictions have relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal government now allows states to apply for an exemption that permits treatment programs to provide up to a month's supply to take home. Many patients say they like not having to make daily trips to a clinic. A second barrier is that physicians are reluctant to prescribe buprenorphine, which the FDA approved to treat opioid use disorders in 2002. Physicians can prescribe buprenorphine from their offices as long as they get a Drug Enforcement Administration waiver. Until 2021, doctors had to complete eight hours of training to obtain waivers, but as of 2021 they can treat up to 30 patients without it. Still, fewer than 10% of general practitioners prescribe buprenorphine, and those who do see an average of only eight patients each month. Physicians say more education and resources would make them more likely to prescribe it. Pharmacists could also take on this task. Pilot studies have shown that they can effectively treat patients with buprenorphine through collaboration with physicians. If scaled up, pharmacy-based programs could significantly expand access. Pharmacists in Canada, England and elsewhere already provide methadone, and pharmacy organizations in the U.S. have called for similar programs. However, some pharmacists shy away from dispensing buprenorphine because they fear being targeted by law enforcement. The third barrier is that although patients run a high risk of dying after surviving an overdose, most emergency departments send them away without helping them find long-term treatment. Emergency medicine physicians I have interviewed tell me they don't have ways to make these referrals, so they revive patients from overdose and discharge them without additional care. Some hospitals see this as a missed opportunity. Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, Texas, and Boston's Massachusetts General Hospital have developed programs to put people on buprenorphine after an overdose and to connect them to physicians authorized to prescribe it long-term. Expanding access to treatment based in emergency departments would reduce the risk of overdose death. Finally, studies show that harm reduction organizations such as syringe exchange programs and overdose prevention centers, along with efforts to distribute and administer the drug naloxone to quickly reverse an opioid overdose, can expedite the start of treatment for opioid use disorders. However, political opposition to these programs persists, even in West Virginia and the other places hardest hit by the overdose crisis. When programs manage to take root, they are underfunded. Making the settlement money count Many kinds of programs will compete for the funds made available through the settlements. But the research is clear: Medications for opioid use disorder offer a substantial return on investment. To be sure, these are chronic, relapsing conditions. People struggling with them need an array of services to get their lives on track. Still, medications are a critical tool. Americans have lost more than 1 million loved ones to overdoses since 1999. I believe that states would save lives if they used money from legal settlements to make medications that treat opioid use disorders more widely available. Explore further New study identifies gaps in treatment for opioid use disorder as overdose emergencies soar This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. A man wears a face mask as he walks on a bridge over the river Main as the sun sets in Frankfurt, Germany, Thursday, March 24, 2022. Credit: AP Photo/Michael Probst Germany's health minister said Friday that it's too soon to declare a 'freedom day' from COVID-19 as the virus continues to run rampant, claiming hundreds of lives each day. The country's disease control agency reported 296,498 newly confirmed coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, and 288 deaths. German lawmakers voted last week to let most federal rules on wearing masks and testing expire. But Health Minister Karl Lauterbach urged the country's 16 states to use their powers to ensure social distancing and other safety measures in virus hotspots. "The pandemic isn't over by a long shot," Lauterbach told reporters in Berlin. "There can be no talk of a 'freedom day.' Quite the contrary." He said the real number of daily infections wasn't known but could be twice that currently reported. Hospitals in particular were having to cancel procedures due to large numbers of sick staff, he added. Germany has had fewer deaths per capita than comparable European countries since the start of the outbreak, but officials are concerned that the low vaccination rate of under 76% could result in many more severe cases in future, particularly among the older population. Kidney dishes with mounted syringes containing vaccines, from top, Novavax, Biontech and Moderna sit in a refrigerator in a vaccination center ready for vaccination in Prisdorf, Germany, Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022. Even with vaccine supplies improving, some officials were eagerly awaiting the Novavax vaccine in particular because it is easier to transport and store than some other coronavirus shots. Credit: Georg Wendt/dpa via AP, File Explore further Coronavirus pandemic not over, German health minister warns 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. U.S. airline companies want an end to mask and COVID testing rules for air traveland many top infectious disease and public health experts agree with them. The chief executives of the country's largest airlines asked President Joe Biden in a letter this week to let federal mask mandates at airports and on planes lapse next month, along with COVID-19 testing requirements for international travelers. The American Public Health Association (APHA) is "supportive of this request," said its executive director, Dr. Georges Benjamin. "We think that as you look at the trajectory of the disease in the United States, it's on a downward slope," he said. "There's no question that they can lift the mask mandate." Experts also see little reason to keep testing international travelers for COVID. Right now, they must show proof they tested negative no more than one day before their trip or recovered from a COVID infection no more than 90 days earlier. "For highly transmissible respiratory viruses, international transportation restrictions don't work very well," said Dr. William Schaffner, medical director of the Bethesda, Md.-based National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. "These viruses are too highly transmissible, and they can come in with people during the incubation period when the individual is perfectly well and cannot be detected." Experts noted that rising vaccination rates, combined with high infection rates from Omicron, mean that many Americans have enough immunity against COVID to keep them out of the hospital. In addition, COVID risks from air travel simply haven't been as dire as once thought. "Outbreaks based on airplanes have been essentially nil," Benjamin said. "There are people who have gotten infected, but in general there have not been large outbreaks, which was the big fear." Schaffner considers the airlines' request "entirely reasonable." "I'm cautious usually, but I've been a little puzzled why this remnant has remained," Schaffner said. "For many other interactions indoors, the recommendations now are that people can remove their masks and get back to a new normal way of interacting. I haven't quite understood why transportationairlines, railroads, busses and the likehaven't fit into that same mode of thinking." In their letter, the airline executives noted there has been a "persistent and steady decline" in COVID hospitalizations and death rates. A federal requirement that people wear masks on airplanes, busses, ferries and other types of public transportation had been set to expire this month but was recently extended until April 18. "It makes no sense that people are still required to wear masks on airplanes, yet are allowed to congregate in crowded restaurants, schools and at sporting events without masks, despite none of these venues having the protective air filtration system that aircraft do," the airline executives' letter said. Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar with the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security in Baltimore, agrees. "I think that air travel is probably one of the lower-risk COVID-19 activities to people engage in," he said. "Masks and testing aren't requiredor even recommendedfor many more activities that have a higher risk of COVID-19 transmission than riding on a highly air filtered airplane." COVID testing for international travelers also hasn't seemed to pan out, Schaffner noted, given that variants from other countries inevitably end up here. It was never a perfect system anyway, said Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside, N.Y. "There really is no way to make it perfect unless you make it very stringent," Glatt said. "And we were never that stringent." At the same time, the experts support and encourage people who want to continue masking on planes, particularly if they are at high risk for severe COVID. "Individuals may choose to hold a higher personal standard," Glatt said. "Certainly people that are immunocompromised, that should give them additional concern or thought as to whether they should make that trip." Adalja agreed. "If people want to continue to voluntarily wear masks, they can," Adalja said. "One-way masking, with high-quality masks, is effective and people can similarly self-test as they wish. The government should not be forcing these measures on airline companies." Explore further US extends mask rule for travel while weighing new approach More information: The U.S. Transportation Security Administration has more about its The U.S. Transportation Security Administration has more about its COVID-19 response Copyright 2021 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Moderna announced Wednesday it would seek emergency authorization of its COVID-19 vaccine in children five years old and younger, citing its vaccine was approximately 44% effective at preventing milder infections in babies up to age 2, and nearly 38% effective in the preschoolers. Northwestern University pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Bill Muller, who heads up the clinical trial of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine in children under age 12 at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, answered some questions about the news. Muller is an associate professor of pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the scientific director of clinical and community trials at Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, which is part of Lurie Children's. These efficacy rates seem low compared to the adult efficacy rates we saw in the original adult COVID-19 vaccines. Are they? Muller: The efficacy in preventing infections may sound modest, but it is actually in the range of what was seen in adults for the omicron variant. I think it is worth reminding people that the intent of the vaccines is prevention of severe diseasewe are trying to keep people from getting so sick that they need to be in the hospital or progress to needing ICU-level care. Prevention of symptomatic illness is a very high bar to satisfy, and the ability to demonstrate this in these young children is an important finding. We should remember that the benefits of the vaccine likely go beyond what we are studying: In addition to decreasing the risk of severe disease substantially and of symptomatic disease modestly, there are likely benefits in decreasing spread of the virus within the community and within families, and any prevention of spread will also result in children being able to stay in school and daycarewhich correspondingly means their parents arent scrambling for child care or missing work themselves. How does the antibody response in kids compare to adults? And what does that mean for the likelihood of them needing a booster? Muller: Regarding the response of the children to the vaccine, the antibody response was comparable to that seen in adults, which suggests as good of a response to the vaccine as we have observed in adults. That said, I think most people in the field are expecting there to eventually be a third dose in all age groups. How did the emergence of the omicron variant affect the results of this Moderna under-6 trial? Muller: It is very possibly the case that a vaccine that uses the mRNA sequence matched to omicron would provide improved protection than the one that is being used. There would need to be more trials to investigate this, but two things to keep in mind are that the current vaccine is very good already, and that any omicron-specific vaccine would not be guaranteed to provide better protection than the current vaccine against any future variants. What about safety? Muller: One point I have been trying to remember to emphasize in discussing these trials is the excellent safety profile we have seen with the vaccine. I think when parents ask themselves the question of whether or not they should get the vaccine for their younger children, they are appropriately assessing their own comfort with the risk of the infection versus any risk that could be associated with the vaccine. These vaccines are very safe, with side effects in children that are comparable to other childhood vaccines. Even in children, the infection is worse than any side effects from the vaccine. Explore further Moderna says its low-dose COVID shots work for kids under 6 The stroke patient performing upper limb robotic therapy with tailor-made assistance from a robotic device with feedback displayed on the screen. Credit: Takashi Takebayashi , Osaka Prefecture University The Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Japan conducted exploratory research to examine the impact of robotic assistance in the upper limb rehabilitation of stroke survivors. Upper limb motor recovery is always a big challenge for rehabilitation professionals and also for the patient. In the past, there have been numerous theories proposed by many pioneers in stroke management; however, many of these theories failed. Currently, functional rehabilitation has been proven to be most effective in upper limb rehabilitation as it emphasizes meaningful task-specific training and practice-based learning. Advances in technology like robotics have made therapists' work easier by assisting patients in doing guided limb movements and practicing the same with more repetition. However, there are contradictory opinions regarding the level of assistance that is ideal for a better prognosis. Researcher Takashi Takebayashi says that whether "robotic therapy can produce better upper extremity recovery compared to conventional rehabilitation remains unclear." To answer this controversy a retrospective sub-analysis of a previous study was conducted. Takashi Takebayashi and colleagues selected an experimental study performed with 60 participants who were selected from 715 stroke patients of a wide age range using specific selection criteria, from six rehabilitation hospitals in Japan, during November 2008 to April 2010. The researchers randomly allocated the selected patients into two groups, one receiving maximally guided robotic therapy and the other self-guided minimally assisted robotic exercises. In addition to collecting a detailed history of individual patients, performance-based impairment; upper limb motor functions and temporal performance of upper limb were also measured using standard outcome measures before and after 6 weeks of intervention. Past research has suggested that maximal assistance using robotics may hamper the voluntary efforts generated by the patients and hence the assistance level should be within a tailor-made limit. As this claim is also contradicted by a few researchers, Takashi Takebayashi and colleagues wanted to solve the puzzle. So, they categorized the patients into high robotic assistance and little robotic assistance, based on the amount of external support and guidance offered by the robot. The amount of assistance by the robot should be increased for subjects with severe-to moderate UE impairment, and the amount of assistance by the robot should be reduced for subjects with moderate-to-mild UE impairment. Credit: Takashi Takebayashi, Osaka Prefecture University Both the groups underwent intervention for a 6-week period, and for avoiding bias a specialized person, who was blinded to the study, was used to conduct all the outcome parameters. The subjects were divided into many clusters among which the severity of stroke manifestation was the predominant one. The subjects were divided into mild to moderate groups and moderate to severe groups to understand whether there was a difference in the contribution of robotics among them. The findings in their study demonstrated that the intervention group comprising stroke survivors with severe-to-moderate stroke severity (FMA < 30) showed significantly better improvement in UE function and performance than the control group with the same severity. Interestingly, the stroke survivors with moderate-to-mild stroke severity (FMA 30) in the control group showed significantly better improvement using the same outcome tools compared to the intervention group. The researchers quoted from the study results that "to maximize the improvements of the affected UE function in sub-acute stroke survivors, the robotic assistance may need to be increased in patients with severe-to-moderate paralysis and decreased in patients with moderate-to-mild paralysis, to improve the performance of voluntary movements as much as possible." Hence, the research highlighted that selecting the level of intensity and assistance level offered by robotics is highly technical and professional, and hence using robotics needs more expertise and patient assessment. The researchers also bring to light the varied results produced by the end-effector and exoskeleton-type robotics, however, the researcher employed the end-effector type of robotics for his research and have produced this novel result. The researchers draw support from previous studies that have stated that robotics can enhance the activation of the sensorimotor cortex during the intervention period and thereby improve motor performance significantly. The authors hypothesize that the changes that have happened among the participants might be because of the Hebbian plasticity. Having said this the researcher also advises future results to concentrate on proving the same using more objective tools like functional magnetic resonance imaging using larger samples. To summarize, the researchers have clearly stated that "an optimal amount of robotic assistance was found to be a key to maximize improvement in post-stroke UE paralysis." The study is published in Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation. Explore further Movement recovery after stroke depends on the integrity of connections between the cerebral cortex and the spinal cord More information: Takashi Takebayashi et al, Impact of the robotic-assistance level on upper extremity function in stroke patients receiving adjunct robotic rehabilitation: sub-analysis of a randomized clinical trial, Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation (2022). Takashi Takebayashi et al, Impact of the robotic-assistance level on upper extremity function in stroke patients receiving adjunct robotic rehabilitation: sub-analysis of a randomized clinical trial,(2022). DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-00986-9 Provided by Osaka Prefecture University Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles isolated from a patient. Credit: NIAID New research to be presented at this year's European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) in Lisbon, Portugal (2326 April), suggests that the symptoms connected to long COVID could be different in people who are infected with different variants. The study is by Dr. Michele Spinicci and colleagues from the University of Florence and Careggi University Hospital in Italy. Estimates suggest that over half of survivors of SARS-CoV-2 infection experience post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), more commonly known as long COVID. The condition can affect anyoneold and young, otherwise healthy, and those with underlying conditions. It has been seen in people who were hospitalized with COVID-19 and those with mild symptoms. But despite an increasing body of literature, long COVID remains poorly understood. In this study, researchers did a retrospective observational study of 428 patients254 (59%) men and 174 (41%) womentreated at the Careggi University Hospital's post-COVID outpatient service between June 2020 and June 2021, when the original form of SARS-CoV-2 and the Alpha variant were circulating in the population. The patients had been hospitalized with COVID-19 and discharged 412 weeks before attending a clinical visit at the outpatient service and completing a questionnaire on persistent symptoms (an average [median] of 53 days after hospital discharge). In addition, data on medical history, microbiological and clinical COVID-19 course, and patient demographics were obtained from electronic medical records. At least three-quarters 325/428 (76%) of patients reported at least one persistent symptom. The most common reported symptoms were shortness of breath (157/428; 37%) and chronic fatigue (156/428; 36%) followed by sleep problems (68/428; 16%), visual problems (55/428; 13%), and brain fog (54/428; 13%). Analyses suggest that people with more severe forms, who required immunosuppressant drugs such as tocilizumab, were six times as likely to report long COVID symptoms, while those who received high flow oxygen support were 40% more likely to experience ongoing problems. Women were almost twice as likely to report symptoms of long COVID compared with men. However, patients with type 2 diabetes seemed to have a lower risk of developing long COVID symptoms. The authors say that further studies are needed to better understand this unexpected finding. Researchers performed a more detailed evaluation comparing the symptoms reported by patients infected between March and December 2020 (when the original SARS-COV-2 was dominant) with those reported by patients infected between January and April 2021 (when Alpha was the dominant variant) and discovered a substantial change in the pattern of neurological and cognitive/emotional problems. They found that when the Alpha variant was the dominant strain, the prevalence of myalgia (muscle aches and pain), insomnia, brain fog and anxiety/depression significantly increased, while anosmia (loss of smell), dysgeusia (difficulty in swallowing), ad impaired hearing were less common. "Many of the symptoms reported in this study have been measured, but this is the first time they have been linked to different COVID-19 variants," says Dr. Spinicci. "The long duration and broad range of symptoms reminds us that the problem is not going away, and we need to do more to support and protect these patients in the long term. Future research should focus on the potential impacts of variants of concern and vaccination status on ongoing symptoms." The authors acknowledge that the study was observational and does not prove cause and effect, and they could not confirm which variant of the virus caused the infection in different patientswhich may limit the conclusions that can be drawn. Explore further Can you get long COVID after an infection with omicron? More information: European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) in Lisbon, Portugal (2326 April): European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) in Lisbon, Portugal (2326 April): www.eccmid.org/ Provided by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Some of the Baltimore Museum of Art security guards who curated Guarding the Art, an exhibition of art selected by 17 of the guards from the museums collection, gather for a group portrait during the press preview. From left, they are Elise Tensley, Chris Koo, Bret Click, Ricardo Castro, Joan Smith, Kellen Johnson, Traci Archable, and Michael Jones. The exhibition, in two galleries, runs from March 27 to July 10, 2022. (Amy Davis/Amy Davis) Over the past several years the Baltimore Museum of Art has been at the forefront of activating groundbreaking initiatives that inspire people to think differently about art and its impact, and the exhibit Guarding the Art, opening Sunday, is a clear example of this. I sat in Director Chris Bedfords office two years ago and explained I had an idea that I felt was in this groundbreaking category, and I was prepared to stay in his office until he agreed to pursue it. I felt confident that he would see the idea captures the essence of everything the BMA can and should be. And he did. Guarding the Art became official as of that conversation. The idea itself was born a few days earlier, after I had dinner with the Asma Naeem, the BMAs chief curator. Dr. Naeem was considering the paradoxical work of the museum guard to be a constant presence and yet barely noticed by museum goers. I went home that night and continued to think about our conversation and how interesting it would be to hear from the security guards as to what works of art were meaningful and special to them. It occurred to me that others might find the guards perspectives compelling as well. After all, during their workdays, the guards live with the art. Advertisement Consider this: For every profound encounter a visitor might have with a work of art, somewhere in the background of the gallery is a security guard, quietly observing both visitor and art. Day after day and week after week, there are no other museum employees who spend more time with the works of art on view than the guards. Their perspectives are born out of countless times theyve spent watching over the galleries and interacting with visitors on weekends, when the museum is bustling with families, tourists, groups of college students, and neighborhood residents dropping in for a quick stroll through a favorite wing. And, on the occasion when the galleries are quiet, they have the time to shift their undivided attention to the art. In essence, the BMAs collection is a constant for the guards, shifting between backdrop and focal point. The show is more personal than a typical museum exhibition in which a single curatorial voice educates audiences about a body of work and how it fits into the context of art history. In Guarding the Art, the works have been selected by the 17 guest curators (the security officers) and illuminate the personal histories and motivations of those who selected them. Advertisement Take, for example, Ricardo Castro. A three-year veteran of the BMAs security team, Mr. Castro is Puerto Rican and wanted to find works by Puerto Rican artists in the BMAs collection. When works by Puerto Rican artists were not available, he instead selected works from the Indigenous cultures of nearby countries. He also asked that one display case in the exhibition remain vacant for Puerto Rico. While Mr. Castro looked to his roots, his colleague Kellen Johnson, a classical voice performance major at Towson University, found inspiration in his professional ambitions. He selected works that connected to music, both pictorially and historically. Michael Jones, on the other hand, let his work as a guard inspire the presentation of the object he selected. After observing visitors attempt to touch sculptural works while roaming the galleries, Mr. Jones a practicing artist himself designed a custom case for Head of Medusa (Door Knocker). There are guards like Rob Kempton, who selected pieces he has been drawn to in the galleries over the years. Abstract works by Grace Hartigan, Alma Thomas and Helen Frankenthaler that have brought him peace and joy at work are what he sought to bring to the show. And there is Joan Smith, who wanted to highlight works she thought beautifully married form and function. In these ways, the exhibition opens a door for how a visitor might feel about the art or relate to the art, rather than just provide frameworks for how to think about the art. My hope is that Guarding the Art offers visitors a newfound understanding of the personal ways we all can connect to art and a pathway to empathy with the people around us. Amy Elias (amy@profilespr.com) is vice president of the Baltimore Museum of Art Board of Trustees and founder and CEO of Profiles Inc. Reported cases of tuberculosis (TB) dropped significantly across the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, but delayed or missed diagnoses may have contributed to the decline. "Delayed or missed tuberculosis disease diagnoses are threatening the health of people with TB disease and the communities where they live," said Dr. Philip LoBue, director of the division of tuberculosis elimination at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "A delayed or missed TB diagnosis leads to TB disease progression and can result in hospitalization or deathand the risk of transmitting TB to others," LoBue explained in a CDC news release. According to preliminary data published March 24 by the CDC, reported TB cases plunged 20% in 2020 and stayed 13% lower in 2021 than before the pandemic. Pre-pandemic, TB cases typically fell between 1% and 2% a year, the CDC said. The report offered several possible reasons for the larger declines in 2020 and 2021. For one, COVID-19 prevention measures such as mask use and social distancing may have helped reduce the spread of TB. And widespread disruptions to health care during the pandemic may have delayed TB diagnoses. The pandemic also put significant strain on public health services, including TB prevention and control services. In addition, similarities in COVID-19 and TB symptoms may have resulted in missed TB diagnoses. TB is caused by a bacteria that usually attacks the lung, but TB germs can attack any part of the body, including the kidney, spine or brain, according to the CDC. Case reports show that some people eventually diagnosed with TB were evaluated for COVID-19but not tested for TBduring multiple health care visits. As a result, some TB may have been missed or gone undiagnosed until it was more advanced. "The nation must ensure that health care providers understand how to diagnose and distinguish TB disease from potential cases of COVID-19," LoBue said. The CDC recently launched a campaign called "Think. Test. Treat TB." It aims to raise awareness about the disease and the importance of prevention. Talking with your doctor is the first step to protecting your family, friends and community from TB, the CDC said. More information: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a campaign to fight tuberculosis Copyright 2021 HealthDay. All rights reserved. A lone leopard tortoise, native to eastern and southern Africa, was found ambling across the busy Highway 93 near Arlee north of Missoula recently, showing signs of abuse and no owner to be found. A family spotted the animal, rescued it from the pavement and brought it to Zootown Exotics in Missoula, where it now happily munches grass and strolls around comfortably under a lamp. Wyatt Wildey and Kadie Lovrien started their exotic animal rescue operation three years ago, and now theyve got about 100 animals. From rosy boas to Chinese pond turtles to blue iguanas to frogs, they work diligently every day to care for and feed the creatures. Toto, the aforementioned leopard tortoise, was a special rescue. When they found him he had stickers all over him and they had to scrape sticker residue off, Lovrien explained. Clearly from his condition he wasnt cared for very well. And even if an owner stepped up he wasnt going to back to him. His spine was all curved. Hes just a super shy guy. Their animals are mostly rescues, and come to them in a variety of ways. An elderly woman died in Helena, so they took in a blue-and-yellow macaw named Sissy. Sometimes kids cant take care of snakes or lizards or a parent gets too busy or gets ill. Once, the Bitterroot Humane Society found a tortoise in an abandoned home. A friend of Wildeys asked him to take care of a large clown knifefish. The other day, someone found rabbits that appeared to be 4-H project releases wandering around the Kelly Island area. Were really gearing up for summer, Lovrien explained. Theres literally like hardly ever a day we can go without getting an animal. The duo work with local veterinarian Dr. Mark Klietz to make sure the animals have the proper care. Theyve had people offer donations but many of those offers have been rescinded because theyre not a nonprofit. So recently, they raised over $1,000 on GoFundMe to hire a lawyer to try to convert to a 501(c)(3) organization. Theyve also had trouble paying their power bill lately due to an influx of rescues and vet visits. We steadily pay around $200 to $400 monthly on the power bill, Wildey said. Lovrien said theyre really the only commercial exotic animal rescue in Montana, although theres a variety of small organizations that do similar work. Wildey has a large bus that he uses to take some of the more well-adjusted animals to show to kids for educational purposes. They offer animals up for adoption, but the couple says they try not to offer any animals to people who dont appear able to take long-term care of a pet. We really dont adopt to kids in general, he said. These are adult pets. Some boas can live for 25 to 30 years, he noted, as do some types of turtles and other reptiles. So a kid that graduates high school and goes off to college would have no way to take care of a pet. Both Wildey and Lovrien say they donate a ton of their personal time and finances to the project, and they hope to be able to grow into a bigger space eventually and continue with their mission. We really think theres a need, Wildey said. You know, theres an insectarium. There needs to be something for reptiles and little small mammals too, you know? You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 11 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 1 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The high demand for treatment for children with behavioral and substance abuse problems has led Montana health officials to spend Medicaid funds to send kids, including those who are foster children and wards of the state, to residential programs in other states with less stringent oversight. Some of those children have been sent to out-of-state programs that have been accused of abuse and mistreatment, according to documents from state agencies and media reports. Shipping those kids out of state for treatment for behavioral and substance use disorders comes with a high price tag, and often the children's issues are not resolved or are even worse, said Michael Chavers, CEO of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. "When they return to us, they return with worse outcomes and for higher cost," Chavers told Montana lawmakers last fall. In 2019, Montana increased its oversight of private alternative treatment programs for young people, abolishing an industry-controlled oversight board and making the programs subject to Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services' regulations and inspections. By the end of 2020, 11 of the 19 programs operating in Montana had closed. This month, approximately 90 children from Montana were attending facilities approved by Montana's Medicaid program in 10 other states, according to state officials. The facilities were in Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, and Wyoming. By comparison, Medicaid paid for 171 Montana children to be treated at in-state psychiatric residential facilities and 407 kids to live in in-state therapeutic group homes during the state's previous fiscal year, which ended June 30, according to health department officials. Nearly all the out-of-state programs that have been approved by Montana's Medicaid program and are currently housing kids from Montana have faced allegations of abuse or have histories of noncompliance with state regulations, according to state documents, inspection reports, and investigations by news organizations. Jon Ebelt, a Montana health department spokesperson, confirmed that there have been reports of abuse or neglect of young people from Montana at out-of-state facilities during the past two years, although he did not specify which facilities or how many reports. In some cases, Montana has moved young people from out-of-state programs because of concerns about facilities, he added, without providing details. The state where an allegation of abuse or neglect of a Montana child occurs is responsible for investigating it, Ebelt said. Why out of state? The majority of children attending out-of-state Medicaid-funded treatment facilities are sent by their parents or guardians, although some are referred by the state health department's Child and Family Services Division or by the state's juvenile justice system as wards of the state, Ebelt said. Kids are sent to programs out of state because of a lack of available beds at in-state facilities stemming from the state's low rate of reimbursement and staffing shortages, said program administrators of Montana's psychiatric residential treatment facilities and therapeutic group homes. In-state providers are reimbursed an average of $405 per day per child, while out-of-state providers are reimbursed an average of $615 per day per child. For the fiscal year that ended June 30, Montana spent a total of $12.6 million for out-of-state psychiatric residential treatment facility stays and $4.7 million for out-of-state therapeutic group home stays, Ebelt said. "It is always our preference to serve youth with serious emotional disturbances in or near their home communities," Ebelt said. "However, sometimes, due to a variety of factors, including acuity of symptoms, need for specialized care, or in-state bed availability, youth are referred to out-of-state providers." Among the programs eligible for Montana Medicaid and that are currently housing kids from Montana is Provo Canyon School in Utah, where Paris Hilton and hundreds of other students have alleged they were abused, according to lawsuits, former students who have shared accusations about abuse at the program, news organizations' investigations, and state documents. Those allegations led Utah to increase oversight of residential youth programs. When reached for comment, Provo Canyon School sent a statement, last updated in August 2021, that says Provo does not "condone or promote any form of abuse" and that the program is "committed to providing high-quality care to youth with special, and often complex, emotional, behavioral and psychiatric needs." Montana is also sending kids to another Utah facility, Falcon Ridge Ranch, an employee of which was arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual battery and distributing harmful material to minors in March 2021, according to the St. George Spectrum & Daily News. The employee pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor counts of sexual battery in a plea agreement with prosecutors in January, said Cade Stubbs, the clerk of court for Utah's 5th District Court. Falcon Ridge Ranch was owned by Sequel Youth and Family Services at the time, and is now owned by Rite of Passage. Minnesota, Oregon, and Maryland stopped sending children to Sequel programs after the May 2020 death of a 16-year-old student at a Michigan facility. Cornelius Frederick died after staff members restrained him at Sequel's now-closed Lakeside Academy, according to an investigation report by Michigan child welfare officials. California and Washington also severed ties with Sequel after an article published by APM Reports in September 2020 detailed abuse and noncompliance with state regulations at Sequel facilities across the country. An investigation by The Imprint and the San Francisco Chronicle found that of the hundreds of alleged violations or deficiencies at Sequel facilities that child welfare officials in California and other states have investigated, more than 75% resulted in confirmation by state authorities that violations had occurred. Officials from Sequel did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Regulatory confusion A January report from the federal Government Accountability Office found that monitoring out-of-state youth treatment facilities is difficult because of "state challenges in collecting and reporting facility-level information." It also found that different definitions of maltreatment, fear of retaliation, and the inability of the residents to communicate with others outside the program posed challenges for reporting maltreatment and data collection. The report found that federal agencies have been inconsistent in addressing state and federal program noncompliance and recommended improved state oversight and stronger enforcement to hold facilities accountable. Oregon state Sen. Sara Gelser Blouin, a Democrat from Corvallis, experienced those regulatory problems firsthand when she was investigating reports that Oregon children had been mistreated at Sequel's Northern Illinois Academy in 2019. Gelser Blouin said she contacted Oregon's abuse investigator and the state health department but found no agency officials able to investigate the matter. Gelser Blouin then contacted officials in Illinois she thought might have the authority to investigate Northern Illinois Academy, with the same result. "Nobody thought they had the authority to investigate," Gelser Blouin said. "They just kept saying, 'Well they're accredited by the Joint Commission.' So I called the Joint Commission, and the Joint Commission told me that they are not a 'Betty Crocker seal of approval' for child safety." The Joint Commission is a private organization that accredits health care organizations and programs in the United States and is funded primarily by the fees it charges facilities for accreditation. In some states, accreditation from the Joint Commission can relieve treatment facilities of oversight from most other organizations. At Gelser Blouin's request, the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services initiated an unannounced survey of Northern Illinois Academy. CMS surveyors declared all the kids at Northern Illinois Academy at immediate risk of serious injury or death. One month earlier, in November 2019, the Joint Commission had reaccredited all Sequel facilities, including Northern Illinois Academy, in a pilot systemwide accreditation. Northern Illinois Academy closed last year after a state-funded report by a disability-rights organization documented allegations of abuse and neglect, leading the state to remove all the kids in its care. Oregon and California lead with bans Oregon and California are the only states that have passed legislation to prevent young people from being placed in facilities that are not overseen by a youth's home state. California banned the practice of sending foster children charged with crimes to out-of-state programs in July 2021. That same month, Oregon, driven largely by the work of Gelser Blouin, became the first and only state to require any out-of-state facility housing Oregon children to comply with Oregon regulations and be licensed by the Oregon Department of Human Services. Gelser Blouin is now working with other youth rights advocates, including Paris Hilton, to champion a federal bill called the Accountability for Congregate Care Act. It would establish standard regulations and common definitions for abuse and treatment across the states and identify the rights of children in institutional settings. The bill would also create a federal database to track placements of young people, critical incident reports, and complaints, among other information. Currently, complaints against programs are funneled through various state agencies and accrediting bodies. In Montana, for example, Ebelt said complaints about out-of-state programs housing Montana's young people can be filed in various ways "due to the various people and entities who interact with or have oversight of out-of-state programs." The bill would also define different types of programs, which Caroline Lorson, an advocate working on the federal legislation, said is at the heart of the need for change. "They all have different requirements, they all have different standards, and they all have different agencies that interact with them, and that's why they've been hard to regulate," Lorson said. KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 4 According to U.S. Census Bureau data, people have come from near and far for employment opportunities in Missoula. AWARE Inc. is hoping to build eight homes on property it owns along the Farrell Street stretch of Continental Drive in Butte to serve more people with mental health and/or developmental disabilities. The Butte-Silver Bow Planning Board liked the plans and is recommending the Council of Commissioners approve them, but there are issues over curbs and sidewalks that need to be resolved and some standard permit hurdles to clear. But if the project stays on track, AWARE hopes construction can start sometime this year with at least one town home completed this fall. A lot of work and planning already has taken place. We have been going through the process for about 18 months to this point, AWARE operations lead Steve Francisco told The Montana Standard. Its been a fairly lengthy process. AWARE is a statewide, nonprofit organization that offers community-based support for individuals and families with disabilities in all 56 counties in Montana. It is based in Anaconda but has an office, day center and eight group homes in Butte. Among other things, it provides staffing and support that allows people with disabilities to live in homes and helps adults find employment through AWARE or community programs. Under the plans, four townhomes would be built on a 3.3-acre tract along Farrell Street/Continental Drive between Pine Street and Adams Avenue. The site sits across from Montana Resources mine operations a little east of the Berkeley Pit. Each townhome would include two single-family, two-bedroom homes, each sharing a common wall. They would be homes for people with disabilities and staffed by AWARE. The area is already zoned for mobile home and other residential use but because the proposal is considered a new subdivision, it required a review by Butte-Silver Bow planning staff and the Planning Board. Its not a typical subdivision, Francisco told the board Thursday night. We arent developers. We are in the business of trying to provide people with mental health disabilities and developmental disabilities with a safe, comfortable, quality home. AWARE owns the property and has a facility on it that oversees all of AWAREs transportation services in Montana. But the rest of the tract is vacant except for two large billboard platforms. The townhomes would all be served by current roads and existing city water and sewer services and all vehicle access would be from Pine Street. Planning Director Dylan Pipinich and his staff analyzed the proposal and recommended the board give it a nod with a few conditions, including installing curbs along the Continental side of the property. Pipinich said curbs and gutters are required in all new subdivisions in residential zones, but AWARE was seeking a variance from the requirement. Curbs serve numerous purposes but a key one is controlling stormwater. AWARE says there are no curbs along most of Continental, the project includes a retention pond and drainage plans to accommodate runoff, and curbs would not benefit the public. As a nonprofit, it is also concerned about the added costs. After a half-hour of discussion on the issue Thursday night, the planning board struck a compromise deal of sorts. They said a variance for curbs along Continental was OK if AWARE put curbs and sidewalks along the Pine Street portion of the property instead. So in the end, they recommended that commissioners approve the subdivision contingent on that curb-sidewalk swap out. AWARE has time to consider that condition before commissioners review and act on the proposal. One resident, Larry Winstel, spoke against the project Thursday night. He said he owns two houses on Pine, including one near the property, and he and others in a longstanding Greeley neighborhood group were never consulted about anything. You claim this is good for the public but you never talk to the public, he said. Winstel listed several other concerns, including unhealthy dust from mine operations hitting the area, inadequate parking and creating more low-income housing in a neighborhood with other pressing needs. We dont want low-income apartments in our neighborhood, he said. We want people who want to stay and be part of our community. We want to improve the community. Commissioner John Sorich, whose district includes the project site, said he supported the proposal. I think AWARE is a quality outfit and I think theyll do a good job, he said. AWARE has more than 800 employees in Montana and also has early childhood programs in Butte, Billings, Bozeman and Helena. It provides services to adults and kids that include home visits, help in school, psychiatric assessments and outpatient counseling. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Montana Technological University undergraduate Baylie Phillips has been awarded the 2022 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, the school announced Friday in a press release. The award is the most prestigious undergraduate scholarship awarded in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering in America. On behalf of the Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Department, I congratulate Baylie Phillips on receiving the highly prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for 2022, said Jerry Downey, professor and department head of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering. I cannot imagine a worthier or more deserving candidate for this honor. Baylie is an exceptional student and we are extremely proud and fortunate to have her in our department, he added. Phillips, a junior majoring in metallurgical and materials engineering, is mentored by Downey, as well as Avimanyu Das, associate professor in metallurgical and materials engineering; and Zach Cordero, assistant professor in the department of Aeronautics and Astronautics in the School of Engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Her research has encompassed a broad array of disciplines but is focused on exploring the complete life cycle of material, from fabrication, testing and evaluation, secondary processing techniques, and ultimately removing materials from environmental systems. After completing her degree programs, Phillips plans to pursue a doctorate in materials science. I am extremely honored and grateful to receive this award. I want to thank everyone who supported my endeavors as a Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship applicant, noted Phillips. The Goldwater scholarship committee and Montana Tech helped make this opportunity possible. I would also like to thank my research mentors Jerry Downey, Avimanyu Das, and Zachary Cordero for planting the seed of my interests in material science research. Additionally, I want to thank my family and friends who continuously support all of my goals. Chancellor Les Cook added, "Earning a Goldwater Scholarship is an enormous accomplishment that brings pride and distinction to our entire campus. Baylie and her team of faculty mentors represent the best of Montana Tech. I look forward following Baylies journey and seeing the many ways she will make an impact on our campus and beyond. She is the epitome of all that is good about working in higher education and this recognition is well deserved." The Goldwater Board's trustees increased the number of Goldwater scholarships for the 2022 -2023 academic year to 417 college students from across the United States. The one and two-year scholarships will cover the cost of tuition, fees, books and room and board up to a maximum of $7,500 per year. For details, visit https://goldwater.scholarsapply.org/. Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 I grew up in Billings and lived in Montana much of my life. My dad, Bill Sampsel, was a Billings geologist for 51 years. My family knew oil and natural gas (i.e. methane). It was our livelihood. While being an oil man, Dad was also a conservationist. My first lesson was when he stopped the car on the highway so I could go pick up the orange peel I had blithely tossed out the window. I explained it would disintegrate. He wasnt impressed. Repeatedly, Dad told us that in the end we would not be looking for oil or methane, we would be looking for clean water and air. During his career, Dads work transitioned from oil to methane. Today, we face a transition from methane to wind and solar to meet the demands of the 21st century. Despite the strategic need for this transition, politicians are pressured by industry to expand oil and methane exploration. The push is to open the gates, the earth and its creatures be damned. And they will, indeed, be damned given what scientists ranging from NASA to our local universities tell us about the grave consequences of increased climate pollution for upcoming generations. However, we have a choice. We can meet the crisis of our day by making energy and conservation equal priorities. If our state treated this crisis with the urgency it demands, we would be prioritizing homegrown energy innovation through wind and solar while also striving to make energy more efficient. Unfortunately, a barrier stands in our way. In Laurel, Northwestern Energy provides our electricity. This corporation continues to make clear they are not interested in what we, the public, want, despite enjoying their monopoly utility status. They are prioritizing profits over the public good. Montanans are fed up overpaying for expensive, polluting, retrograde energy sources. I am appalled by NorthWesterns reckless decision to build a methane plant in a flood plain on the shores of the Yellowstone River bordering Laurel. This is the first of eight methane plants NorthWestern wants to build in Montana. Despite efforts to evade public input, Montanans are not silent. We dont want this methane plant. As citizens demand more affordable, reliable, cleaner energy resources, NorthWestern is spending huge sums on a slick, misleading marketing campaign, Net Zero by 2050. It promises carbon neutrality in three decades. While NorthWestern acknowledges it must reduce its carbon pollution and provide affordable energy, it is doubling down on climate-degrading resources, a repeated pattern. The Montana Supreme Court has repeatedly admonished NorthWestern for the unlawful thwarting of solar projects, as well as its false claims regarding solar costs. How can carbon neutrality by 2050 possibly be reached by blocking renewables while building eight new carbon-polluting plants? Each proposed methane plant will cost close to $300 million to build. Methane is already up 50% from last year. Given international conflicts, it will likely go up even more. Why would NorthWestern willingly tie Montanas future to pollution and fluctuating global markets? Because the corporation is guaranteed, by law, an 11% return on building, operations, and maintenance costs for its power plants. These expenses keep stockholders happy, but do not serve consumers. The better choice is homegrown energies from Montana using wind, solar, and storage. Such local resources cannot be manipulated by Wall Street or political maneuvering. Given the devastating climate-fueled Montana wildfire disasters which are growing more frequent and more intense; given the homes, farms, ranches, crops, and grasslands destroyed annually; given the damaged livelihoods of victims; how can another carbon-based fuel be the answer? If not stopped, generations of Montanans will be paying for the construction costs, inflated electric bills, and disaster relief. Tell NorthWestern Energy, city and county commissioners, and planning boards: no more methane. Challenge them to create new partnerships that are conservation-friendly, local, and effective. This is the only way to provide true security and prosperity for Montana. Priscilla Bell is a Laurel resident and member of Northern Plains Resource Council, a grassroots conservation and family agriculture group. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 ARCHIVED - Petrol prices in Spain drop for first time this year Fuel prices in Spain have still fallen considerably less than in the rest of Europe The cost of petrol and diesel fell on Monday March 21 for the first time since the last week in December after registering staggering increases for eight consecutive weeks , and breaking all records. According to the latest data from the European Union Oil Bulletin, which monitors fuel prices in the 27 member states, petrol in Spain fell by 1.7% this week and diesel by 1.1%. Although its certainly a welcome move in the right direction, the decrease is so slight that most drivers wont even have noticed the saving at the pumps. On Monday, filling an average 55-litre unleaded tank would have cost around 99.7 euros (1.813 euros per litre); thats just 1.70 euros less than the previous week. In the case of diesel, the savings are even more scant, dropping one euro to 98.90 per fill. With these prices, petrol is now 24% more expensive than it was this time last year, and diesel has jumped a wallet-busting 50.75%, one of the many reasons why the transport sector has declared a national strike in Spain and has this Thursday (March 24) rejected the governments deal of a 20 cent per litre fuel discount. The tiny reduction in fuel costs is as a result of the price of Brent oil falling below 100 dollars, but this saving in raw materials has only barely been reflected at the pumps, and the rest of Europe has decreased far more than Spain. For example, in Italy, petrol dropped by 2.2% on Monday, while a reduction of 5.1% was registered in Germany. Despite these discrepancies, everything points to a Europe-wide rebound in fuel prices next week. Image: Archive As the Russian-Ukraine conflict turns into a stalemated slog, the surprisingly inept Russian military is left with a strategy of indiscriminate bombarding of Ukrainian cities (How Marylanders can help Ukrainians fleeing Russian brutality, March 9). This cowardly and criminal slaughtering of civilians is barbaric and desperate. That the soulless Vladimir Putin ordered these terrorist tactics is not surprising; that the Russian military is following his orders will bring shame to their ranks forever. The United States, along with Russia and Great Britain, convinced Ukraine to give up their nuclear arsenal in 1994 in exchange for guarantees of Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity. As Ukrainian men, women and children die in relentless bombardment and Russia land grabs much of the country, the emptiness of those guarantees is stark. Advertisement There can be little doubt that, had Ukraine retained some or all of their nuclear weapons, the Russian military would now not be laying waste to Ukraine. The lesson for other wannabe nuclear powers is clear: Better nuke up to protect yourselves because you cannot count on anybodys security guarantees. At the end of this terrible episode, nuclear nonproliferation may well be the wars worst casualty and nuclear proliferation the wars most dangerous consequence. Jon Ketzner, Cumberland Advertisement Add your voice: Respond to this piece or other Sun content by submitting your own letter. ARCHIVED - Russian mother and daughter arrested in Alicante, Spain for exploiting Ukrainian refugees The two women, official translators in Alicante, allegedly defrauded fleeing Ukrainians into paying for Spanish residency papers A Russian mother and daughter have been arrested in Alicante accused of swindling Ukrainian refugees out of thousands of euros by claiming they could fast track temporary residency procedures. The pair allegedly targeted their victims in queues at police stations offering to speed up residency applications in exchange for money. Desperate Ukrainians fleeing their war-torn home were conned out of around 5,000 euros, according to police sources. Despicably, the women allegedly told their victims that they worked for the police and threatened that, if the scam came to light or they reported them, they would cancel their status as displaced persons. The investigation began after Alicante National Police learned that Ukrainian citizens visiting the main offices in the city were being approached by two women who offered them help in exchange for money, speaking to them in their own language. It transpires the mother and daughter have worked as interpreters through a local company for years and knew "perfectly" the official procedures that need to be carried out, giving "greater credibility" to the deception. Also read: Around 25,000 Ukranian refugees have already arrived in Spain According to the police, the suspects "took advantage of the lack of knowledge of the displaced people who had recently arrived in the city and who were going to the police station to obtain the documents that would allow them to reside legally in Spain". "They led them to believe that if they paid certain amounts of money up to 250 euros per adult and 150 euros per minor the procedures would be much quicker." Given the threats that were made, most of the victims opted not to file a complaint, but investigators have so far established that the arrested women pocketed at least 5,000 euros, and have been charged with crimes of fraud, threats and coercion. The General Directorate of the Police has established a protocol of action through Instruction 02/2022 of the General Commissariat of Foreigners and Borders, which defines the guidelines to be carried out by the Brigades of Foreigners and Borders to attend to displaced persons. In the case of Alicante, at the Ciudad de la Luz Reception Centre , refugees are documented and issued with a temporary residence and work permit. Image: Archive MUSCATINE The Salvation Armys Emergency Disaster Service responded to aid firefighters Monday morning during a four-alarm fire at a century farm in the 2900 block of New Era Road, just outside Muscatine. A barn was destroyed by the blaze, and nearby buildings were damaged from the heat of the fire. Lt. Greg Bock of the Salvation Army of Muscatine County said the firefighters were happy to see the relief team on the scene to provide food and water. Bock said Blimpies donated a case of water for the firefighters. Bock also said it was a windy day. He did not know the cause of the fire. The National Weather Service provides fire weather updates at weather.gov/dvn/fire. MUSCATINE The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) believes a downtown or commercial district represents a communitys history and helps define the community. Hoping to give city planners a better understanding of the unique qualities of Muscatines downtown district, the city is partnering with IEDA on the first step to create strategies for a stronger community by assessing the downtown area. The first step of the assessment is a pre-visit online survey that will be followed by an intense, on-site survey of the downtown area. The survey is open to the public and can be found at surveymonkey.com/r/Muscatine_Survey and will close on April 15. The goal is to have 100 residents and businesses complete the survey to give the assessment team an understanding of Muscatine before they arrive. This partnership will assist us in defining the importance of downtown development and specifically, how we can implement strategies to make the downtown more viable, Jodi Royal-Goodwin, community development director, said. Downtown revitalization is a key ingredient in growing our community and a city priority. The city has contracted with IEDAs Downtown Resource Center to have the assessment completed. It will be performed by an experienced team of professionals who identify local strengths and weaknesses creating the basis for recommendations on how to attract people to the area. A downtown assessment, which costs $2,500, includes resource center staff and downtown professional consultants performing the on-site study. The assessment includes a public presentation and a written report that can be used for planning. The team will interview stakeholders as well as tour the community and visit local businesses. The team will also provide short-term and long-term recommendations. Downtown Resource Center director Jim Engle said that in initial discussions with the city, a focus on the buildings in the downtown area was requested. He said that the five-person team will include a couple of design experts. We probably do six to 10 of these downtown assessments every year, he said. Each community is a little different and they all have different needs. We do the preliminary survey and it isnt a scientific survey to help the team coming to Muscatine to ask the right questions and know the issues. It helps us to know the challenges and even the strengths the community has in the downtown. He said the visits are comprehensive and may include anything from increasing foot traffic with promotional events to doing market analysis to find out what kinds of business can work. They have also gotten involved with historic preservation and business recruitment. During the March 17 meeting, the Muscatine City Council also set a public hearing for its April 7 meeting on the community needs assessment and on proposed uses of Community Development Block Grant funding. The summary from the agenda says IEDA has a number of funding opportunities the city staff is considering applying for to further community goals. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The city of Napas Community Development Block Grant Committee voted this week to allocate roughly $730,000 in annual federal funds to various local organizations that help support Napas housing needs and community development. CDBG funds, assigned by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are generally intended to help improve community housing and expand economic opportunities for low- to moderate- income people. About $453,000 of the citys estimated allocation which will change somewhat based on actual funding given by HUD and will still need to be approved by the Napa City Council was approved by the committee to go to the citys housing rehabilitation program. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. About $53,000 of those funds were originally recommended by staff for a Napa Valley Community Housing reroofing project for Schoolhouse Court, a community of low-income rental units on Shurtleff Avenue. But Erica Roteman Sklar, president of NVCH, said at the meeting that the organization has found another funding source that will work better for the project. The citys housing rehab program provides loans and grants to low-income homeowners and landlords who provide affordable housing to Napas residents, said Hernando Guillem, the programs manager. According to the citys application, the program has been around since 1991. The city revamped the rental segment of the program in August 2021, upping loan maximums and opening up some flexibility in the loan agreements for landlords. The application says the city approved 10 rehabilitation applications and is reviewing seven more this fiscal year. The average rehab cost, the application says, is about $50,000 per project, which means the 17 projects in the pipeline would cost roughly $850,000. CDBG funds also pay for CDBG program planning and administration, at a cost of roughly $135,000. Beyond the citys own programs, the committee approved a roughly $76,000 allocation for Fair Housing Napa Valley to support the nonprofits landlord/tenant support program. Pablo Zatarain, FHNV executive director, said the organization is dedicated to eliminating housing discrimination and maximizing housing opportunities for all of Napas residents. Much of the work that we ultimately end up doing falls a bit outside of the fair housing scope and falls more so into the housing opportunities area, which comes in the form of our landlord/tenant program, Zatarain said at the meeting. Thats the vast majority of cases that we get, and those cases are the ones that dont involve an allegation of discrimination. FHNV has opened up over 700 houses cases since January 2021, Zatarain said, and 61% of those cases were landlord/tenant. The nonprofit is mostly funded by the federal Fair Housing Initiatives Program and contributions from Napa Countys local government agencies, according to the FHVN application. Stephanie Gaul, assistant housing manager, said at the meeting that FHNV was allocated about twice as much in CDBG funding for the next fiscal year compared to the $34,333 it received in the current fiscal year because Abode Services Napa Countys homeless services provider wanted to stop receiving funding through the CDBG process because of onerous reporting and invoicing requirements. Abode, which is primarily funded through direct contributions from the city of Napa and Napa County, will instead be receiving increased funding from the citys general fund to make up for the loss of CDBG funding, Gaul said. And FHNV, she added, will receive more money from CDBG, but less from the citys general fund. Staff also originally recommended that $30,000 be allocated to a potential newcomer known as TMC Community Capital, an Oakland-based community development financial institution that was proposing providing direct assistance loans to small business owners and requested $50,000. But no representative from TMC showed up at the meeting, so the committee decided to allocate the $30,000 elsewhere. It will be split, instead, with 75% going to NEWS, Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Services, originally allocated $27,130, and 25% going to Catholic Charities, which was allocated about $9,000 to run the Rainbow House Emergency Family Shelter. There is, however, a cap on how much CDBG public service funding can be given out each year. Gaul said in an email that HUD stipulates that total public service funding cant exceed 20% of the sum given from the current year allocations plus the prior year program income. The cap isnt yet known because the official funding allocation isnt known yet. So, she said, any funding that cant go to NEWS or Catholic Charities will instead be held until next year. NEWS uses the CDBG funds they receive to supplement the cost of a full-time bilingual advocate position, said executive director Tracy Lamb at the meeting. Lamb added that the nonprofit which provides services for domestic violence survivors served 33 adults and 23 children last year. Our bilingual case manager who makes sure that those clients, even if theyre in a shelter or in a hotel, that they have all the things that they need, Lamb said. And in those last years that included not only food and clothing but also making sure that they had technology so their kids could remain in school. A portion of previously unspent CARES Act CDBG funds has also been going to NEWS. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was a $2.2 trillion economic stimulus sent out by the federal government to local agencies, specifically for them to help handle the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The city received about $1.1 million in CARES CDBG funds, and successfully allocated most of it to public services. But a significant chunk of at least $200,000 from funds originally allocated to a microenterprise business grant program went unused and is now being reallocated. About $63,000 of that funding still needs to be given out, Gaul said. Gaul added that, unlike what she previously believed, the city has a few years to spend all of the CARES CDBG funding. But, she said, she doesnt want to sit on the money because the citys returning to a degree of normalcy and the funding is earmarked to address the continuing needs of the pandemic. I want to make sure were deploying that money fast, Gaul said. You can reach Edward Booth at (707) 256-2213. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Gov. Gavin Newsom held a roundtable discussion at Napa State Hospital on Thursday and met with health care clients, service providers and local officials to discuss a policy proposal aimed to tackle Californias mental health crisis, one aspect of the states homelessness crisis. Newsoms CARE (Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment) Court proposal was unveiled last week; it essentially would give courts a policy framework to compel people suffering from serious mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders into treatment. At the same time, the framework would give participants access to wrap-around services and supportive housing. CARE Court is about meeting people where they are and acting with compassion to support the thousands of Californians living on our streets with severe mental health and substance use disorders, said Newsom in a press release. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. Specific details about the plan will be unveiled in April, Newsom said. And the proposal will need to be approved by the state legislature. The proposal builds upon a $12 billion allocation from the state last year specifically to address homelessness, and another $2 billion proposed this year, according to Newsom. The proposal differs from Lauras Law, which also involves the court-ordered treatment, in that it will require all 58 California counties to participate in the program, according to reporting from CalMatters. Counties may face penalties for not participating. An assortment of state and local officials two mayors, two state assemblymembers, two state senators and Newsom, among others held a press conference following the roundtable discussion. Kate Warburton, medical director of the California Department of State Hospitals and a forensic psychologist, said people living with psychotic brain diseases are being criminalized by society. She said these patients are treatable, that they deserve to be treated, and that they arent currently treated until theyre institutionalized. What were doing today is were arresting those folks as they drift in conditions of unsheltered homeless and untreated psychotic symptoms, Warburton said. I believe we can do better, and Ive devoted my career to that, starting here on this campus as a provider. Napa County Supervisor Belia Ramos said all counties are facing the challenge of coexisting homelessness and behavioral health. Napa Mayor Scott Sedgley added that the program would help catch people with untreated mental illness who currently fall through the cracks of the current system. The CARE Court plan addresses the core problem: the untreated, Sedgley said. Sacramento Mayor Derrell Steinberg said Newsoms CARE Court proposal is now saying that the government must be held accountable for delivering mental health services. Right now weve got, if were honest about it, kind of a scattershot, fragmented system, where many people of good intentions help as many people as possible. But its not a system that delivers fast enough, on behalf of enough people and responsive to the suffering that we all know exists out on our streets, Steinberg said. We all need to come to a place where we say loud and clear that bringing people indoors, giving them the help they need, even if it isnt perfect, is essential. Newsom said the cause, he thinks, that unites 90% of people in the state is what the hell are we doing about those that are struggling on our streets and our sidewalks. Newsom said Lauras Law, even with reform, only served 218 people last year, which he noted is nowhere near the estimated 14,000 individuals recorded as having a serious mental illness and the 15,000 recorded having a substance disorder in a 2020 Greater Los Angeles count of homeless individuals that recorded roughly 63,000 people experiencing homelessness in the area. Building more institutions like the Napa State Hospital also wont work, he said. And both efforts, he said, are an expression of our failure to go up stream, to help people before they enter the criminal justice system, before theyre incompetent to stand trial, before they commit crimes and assaults on others and often provide harm to themselves. You can reach Edward Booth at (707) 256-2213. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Fried chicken lovers, youre out of luck. The north Napa Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) will close, be remodeled and reopen as a Starbucks cafe, according to an application submitted to the citys planning department. A Kentfield company named "Napa Land TIC" has requested a design review permit for the space, located at 3246 Jefferson St., between Petco and Golden Bagel Cafe. The property owner is listed as Sanguinetti Norman H TR ETA in Novato. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. A representative for the Sanguinetti trust could not be immediately reached early this week. However, some details about the Starbucks plan were provided. No changes to the site or overall general plan are planned, read the Starbucks project description. Previous tenant Kentucky Fried Chicken leaves behind a strong shell of a building with an existing drive-through, it said. Even though the application implies that the KFC has closed, as of Wednesday, the fast-food eatery on Jefferson remained open, but for drive-through service only. An employee working at the KFC drive-through window said she had heard changes were coming. But I dont know about Starbucks, she said. What did she think about Starbucks coming to the spot? She shrugged, I mean, theres a lot of Starbucks around here." A woman leaving the KFC drive-through on Wednesdays morning was also surprised to hear of the Starbucks plan. I dont drink coffee, but I love chicken, so Im bummed, said the woman as she drove off. The Napa Land TIC application said that Starbucks are rebranding the external appearance of the building with their signature paint colors, finishes and material aesthetic. More importantly the driving lane, speaker location, menu board location will not change. Inside equipment will be switched like for like, since the current equipment has normal wear and tear. Starbucks also proposes extending the bump out at the drive through to help accommodate the stacking of vehicles to provide a better car flow, said the application. As part of the scope of the project, a patio area and an accessible path of travel to the public right of way will be incorporated, it said. The finishes and design are all of high quality clean approach and integrate well with the surrounding businesses. In 2020 the KFC parcel at 3246 Jefferson St. was listed for sale, without a price. The building is 2,945 square feet and was built in 1975, according to the listing. The KFC closure doesnt mean the end for all local KFC fans. Napa has another KFC, located at 295 Soscol Ave. According to Starbucks.com, there are at least nine Starbucks cafes in Napa, including a few inside grocery stores. According to the Associated Press, Starbucks has an estimated 9,000 company-owned stores in the U.S. and had annual revenue of $29 billion last year. Starbucks said the company opened 484 net new stores in the first quarter of fiscal 2022, ending the period with a record 34,317 stores globally. You can reach reporter Jennifer Huffman at 256-2218 or jhuffman@napanews.com Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Pikeville, KY (41501) Today Sunshine and clouds mixed. High around 80F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Cloudy skies this evening followed by thunderstorms late. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. A Maryland judge on Friday rejected a General Assembly-approved map of the states congressional districts that had been challenged by Republicans, calling it a product of extreme partisan gerrymandering. Two GOP groups contended the map was unfairly drawn to favor Democrats and doesnt abide by Maryland constitutional guidelines. Advertisement In her decision, Lynne A. Battaglia, a retired state appeals court judge assigned to the Anne Arundel Circuit Court case, sided with the Republican challengers who had argued the map was drawn with partisanship as a predominant interest. She agreed with testimony stating Republican voters and candidates are substantially adversely impacted by the 2021 plan. Battaglia gave state legislators five days until March 30 to develop a new congressional plan that abides by the state constitution. Advertisement State Attorney General Brian Frosh, who defended the map, can appeal. Raquel Combs, a spokeswoman for Frosh, said no decision has been made about whether an appeal will be filed. Gov. Larry Hogan, an outspoken critic of partisan gerrymandering who backed an unsuccessful legal challenge to Marylands previous congressional maps, called Fridays ruling an historic milestone. Hogan had pitched letting an independent commission draw Marylands maps instead, something the Democrat-controlled General Assembly rejected. Last year, Hogan appointed a panel of Republicans, Democrats and independents to draw an alternate set of proposed electoral maps, which the governor submitted to the legislature. In response to Battaglias ruling on Friday, Hogan again urged state lawmakers to adopt the map drawn by his commission. For nearly eight years, we have been fighting to end the gerrymandering monopoly that has for too long been a shameful legacy of our state, the Republican governor said in a statement. This ruling is a monumental victory for every Marylander who cares about protecting our democracy, bringing fairness to our elections and putting the people back in charge. It puts in plain view the partisan, secretive and rigged process that led to the legislatures illegal and unconstitutional maps. In two lawsuits considered by the judge together, Republicans argued that partisan gerrymandering of the congressional districts by Democratic state lawmakers violated provisions in the state constitution. One suit was filed by Fair Maps Maryland, an anti-gerrymandering advocacy group tied to Hogan. The other was brought by the national conservative activist group Judicial Watch on behalf of 10 Republican voters in the state, including two Republican congressional candidates, state Del. Neil Parrott and Jeff Werner. interactive_content A 1972 amendment to the section of the constitution on the state legislature decrees that its legislative districts shall consist of adjoining territory, be compact in form and of substantially equal population and that lawmakers must consider natural boundaries and the borders of political subdivisions like counties and cities. Advertisement Lawyers for Frosh defended the map, arguing the Maryland Constitution doesnt specifically apply the same rules for congressional districts. But the Republican plaintiffs argued that the constitutions allusion to legislative districts was meant to be generic and to cover congressional districts as well as state legislative maps. Battaglia found the map violated the state constitutions equal protection and free speech clauses as well as a clause that protects participation in elections. Battaglia appeared to be persuaded by the testimony of Sean Trende, an election analyst for RealClearPolitics, who testified on behalf of the Republican plaintiffs. The retired judge repeatedly quoted Trendes arguments and analysis in her order. It is clear from Mr. Trendes testimony that Republican voters and candidates are substantially adversely impacted by the 2021 plan, Battaglia wrote. Fair Maps Maryland, one of the plaintiffs, heralded the decision as a win for democracy. Advertisement Judge Battaglias ruling confirms what we have all known for years Maryland is ground zero for gerrymandering, our districts and political reality reek of it, and there is abundant proof that it is occurring, the group said in a statement. In Maryland, where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-1 and Democrats hold a strong majority in both chambers of the legislature, the GOP has long criticized the states congressional map as one of the most gerrymandered in the nation. The map Battaglia struck down was drawn by a commission made up of leaders from the General Assembly, four Democrats and two Republicans. The commission was chaired by Karl Aro, the retired former head of the nonpartisan Bureau of Legislative Services who played a key role in redistricting in Maryland over several decades. Democratic leaders have said the map creates more compact districts and makes six of the eight districts at least somewhat more competitive. The maps must be redrawn every 10 years to account for population shifts determined by the national census. Democrats currently hold a 7-1 advantage over the GOP in the states eight U.S. House seats. The states lone Republican congressman, U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, represents the 1st Congressional District that includes the Eastern Shore and a portion of Baltimore County. In the now overturned congressional map, the 1st District was altered to remove some Republican areas and extended into Democratic areas of Anne Arundel County, potentially making the seat more competitive, according to some analysis. Advertisement Maryland Policy & Politics Weekdays Keep up to date with Maryland politics, elections and important decisions made by federal, state and local government officials. > If the case comes before the Maryland Court of Appeals, the states highest court, all but one of the serving judges have been appointed by Hogan. Chief Judge Joseph Getty last week delayed the states primary from June 28 to July 19 amid all the map challenges. State Senate President Bill Ferguson and Speaker Adrienne A. Jones released a joint statement saying they were disappointed by the decision. Additionally, it is not representative of the historic and long-standing legal requirements and precedent which the Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission took seriously when drawing Marylands new congressional map, the pair said. It was too soon Friday to know what a new map might look like or how much it might benefit Harris and other GOP candidates. Courts around the country have been dealing this year with complaints of alleged gerrymandering. Gerrymandering commonly involves stacking large numbers of the opposite partys voters into a limited number of districts, leaving that party with too few voters to compete elsewhere. So far courts have intervened to block maps they found to be GOP gerrymanders in North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania, infuriating Republicans and leading conservatives to push for the U.S. Supreme Court to limit the power of state courts to overturn maps drawn by state legislatures. Advertisement Baltimore Sun reporter Bryn Stole and The Associated Press contributed to this report. YEREVAN. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan of Armenia on Thursday had a phone conversation with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia informed Armenian News-NEWS.am. The parties touched upon the issues of regional security. The Foreign Minister of Armenia briefed on the situation created as a result of Azerbaijan's violation of the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) contact line and the infiltration to the Parukh village of Artsakh. The Minister stressed that Azerbaijan grossly violates its obligations of the Trilateral Statements, endangering regional stability and peace. Ararat Mirzoyan also touched upon the actions of Azerbaijan towards targeting civilian population and exerting psychological pressure, deliberately disrupting the normal operation of vital infrastructure in order to create a humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh. Minister Mirzoyan stressed that the above-mentioned actions are vivid manifestations of Azerbaijan's policy of ethnic cleansing and Armenophobia. In this regard, the Minister stressed the need for a targeted and clear response from the international community, including the United States. Both sides highlighted the importance of undertaking steps aimed at de-escalation of the situation. During the phone conversation, the Foreign Minister of Armenia presented the position of the Armenian side regarding the launch of negotiations on the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Interlocutors touched upon the process of dialogue between Armenia and Turkey. Todays infiltration of Azerbaijani military forces into the village of Pharukh of Askeran region of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) is the logical continuation of criminal policy of Azerbaijan. The Human Rights Defender (Ombudsperson) of Armenia, Kristine Grigoryan, noted this in a statement released Thursday night. The statement continues as follows: In breach of all well-known norms of international law this behavior continues weeks and months through the various acts of intimidation, terrorization and creation of unbearable conditions for normal life of people of Artsakh. This penetration is yet another proof of the fact that the weeks-long targeting of the population of Khramort village didnt bring the desired result people didnt leave their homeland, so Azerbaijan applied to its well-proven behavior which is the provocation. It is a shameful fact that the ethnic cleansing policy of Artsakh is the state priority of Azerbaijan which undermines the fulfillment of the obligations of international law and infringes the signatures of that country put under its legally binding commitments. The uncomfortable silence of international community about voicing out the human rights violations is not being remedied by real actions to address the situation. Meanwhile the people of Artsakh have same rights as humans in any other part of the world. I strongly condemn criminal behavior of Azerbaijan and call to international human rights organizations and actors to ACT to STOP this genocidal policy towards people of Artsakh. On March 24, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, grossly violating the ceasefire regime, crossed the Line of Contact with the Republic of Artsakh and invaded the village of Parukh in the Askeran region of Artsakh. The enemy has undertaken provocations also in the direction of the settlement of Khramort of the same region. The Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) noted this in a statement it issued Friday. Moreover, on the night of March 25, Azerbaijani Armed Forces opened fire on the units of the Artsakh Defense Army, using both firearms of different calibers and attack drones (UCAV). The above actions are the logical continuation of the recent terrorist campaign initiated by the Azerbaijani authorities, which manifests itself in the exertion of psychological pressure on the civilian population, periodic violations of the ceasefire regime, disruption of the operation of the only gas pipeline feeding Artsakh, resulting in a dire humanitarian situation in the Republic of Artsakh. All these actions carried out by Azerbaijan are nothing but a state-orchestrated policy of ethnic cleansing aimed at the complete eviction of Armenians from Artsakh. Azerbaijan's geopolitical goals are obvious: to intimidate the people of Artsakh, to strike at the Russian peacekeeping mission, to make the Transcaucasus a platform of pan-Turkism and extremism for the implementation of far-fetching programs in the future. The international community and specialized international organizations should assess Azerbaijans anti-Armenian policy in the strictest terms. Indifference and inaction will have the most severe consequences for the entire civilized world. The people of Artsakh continue to stand firmly on their land. They will never give up their homeland and will never retreat to the vileness and insidious tricks of the enemy, also reads the statement by the Artsakh MFA. The authorities of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Republic are in active dialogue with the command staff of the Russian peacekeeping troops deployed in the republic, Armenian News-NEWS.am has learned from the Artsakh Info Center. No effort is spared for the Russian party to take relevant measures at all levels within its mission to return the Azeri troops that invaded the village of Parukh of Askeran region on March 24, to their starting positions. At the same time, the Artsakh Armed Forces are taking additional measures to ensure the security of nearby villages. We anticipate that as a result of the sustainable work, the Russian peacekeeping mission will be able to resolve the issues that have arisen in its sphere of control. After the withdrawal of the Azerbaijani troops, the civilian population will return to their homes with additional security guarantees, the Artsakh Info Center added in its statement. The representative of Armenia on international legal matters on Thursday submitted to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) a request for an urgent interim measure against Azerbaijanand in connection with its recent violations against the people of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). The official Facebook page of the representative of Armenia on international legal matters informs about this. The representative of Armenia on international legal matters stated that Azerbaijan's actions directly endanger the Artsakh peoples fundamental rights that are protected by the European Convention on Human Rights, and pose a threat of irreversible loss. The ECHR was asked to take an urgent interim measure against Azerbaijan and obligate the latter to cease its threats and shootings, and resume natural gas supply to Artsakh. And on Friday, the representative of Armenia on international legal matters appealed to the International Court of Justice, drawing attention to these violations of Azerbaijan.